Bus tour and ‘blackout’ rally for ACA ahead of Trump visit to Philly

When President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a Republican retreat in Philadelphia, he will get an earful from protesters trying to prevent him from repealing the Affordable Care Act. Both people using the Affordable Care Act for coverage and providers spoke at the “Save My Care” bus tour that pulled into town Wednesday.

Antoinette Kraus, executive director of the Pennsylvania Health Access Network says thousands will be without coverage if Obamacare is scrapped.

“We could lose $36.9 billion in federal funds that’s money going to our local hospitals, our health clinics, it’s tax credits going to hard working families in Pennsylvania who now have the peace of mind that comes with having access to care,” she said.

Tahira Sanders takes care of six children and relatives and says having access to affordable health care is important because she has a blood clot disease.

“People who have money and healthcare are deciding the fate of millions who can’t afford healthcare any other way,” she said.  “We live check to check.  What do they know about having to choose between food or a bill.”

Alyssa Posoff of South Philadelphia says without the financial help she gets under the ACA, she couldn’t afford health insurance.

“Without the subsidy from the government this health insurance plan I believe is upwards of 380 to 400 dollars a month which  is not something I would be able to afford at all on what I make,” she said.

Posoff says if the price goes up she will go back to not having have health insurance, despite needing medication daily.  She works on commission and doesn’t have a consistent paycheck.

“[It’s] not something I would be able to afford at all on what I make, especially since what I make is scattered.”

Posoff is one of many people wearing black and organizing via social media under the hashtag “blackoutforhealthcare.” Those participating also plan in-person protests.

President Trump has vowed to replace the ACA with something that is better for everyone, but has yet to provide specifics. It’s also unclear what the timing will be in terms of repealing the ACA and enacting a replacement.