In a revealing look at senior voters’ opinions, a recent AMAC Action-sponsored poll conducted by ProMark Research underscores widespread concern over the Inflation Reduction Act’s impact on seniors. Surveying 800 registered voters aged 55 and older, the poll captured insights from a diverse group of participants: 46% men and 54% women, with political affiliations spanning 39% Republican, 33% Democrat, and 25% Independent. Despite this broad representation, seniors overwhelmingly aligned on key issues, expressing deep concern over the Act’s impact on Medicare costs, drug access, and green energy subsidies.
Seniors Reject Green Energy Favoritism
One of the most striking findings revolves around taxpayer-funded green energy subsidies. The poll reveals that 83% of respondents are either “very concerned” or “somewhat concerned” about billions of taxpayer dollars benefiting a small, wealthier segment of Americans. Seniors are skeptical of these funds being diverted from critical Medicare programs toward green energy initiatives, such as electric vehicle tax credits.
Seniors voiced frustration over what they perceive as a misallocation of taxpayer funds. Instead of addressing pressing issues such as rising healthcare costs or improving Medicare, these resources are being funneled into green energy programs that primarily benefit higher-income households. This sentiment reflects broader dissatisfaction with policies that seem disconnected from the everyday struggles of average Americans, particularly seniors living on fixed incomes.
The critique becomes sharper when considering how these subsidies are tied to cuts or diversions from programs like Medicare. For seniors, Medicare represents a lifeline, and any policy that weakens its funding is viewed as a direct threat to their well-being.
Medicare Cost Spike: A Major Worry
The IRA’s changes to Medicare Part D have drawn significant ire. 83% expressed concern about rising premiums, some reportedly increasing by over 400% within two years. Furthermore, 78% of respondents opposed ongoing government subsidies to insurance companies under the Act. This alarming trend has left many feeling that the IRA places unnecessary financial strain on those who rely most on Medicare.
For seniors on fixed incomes, even small increases in healthcare costs can be devastating. Respondents frequently cited fears of being priced out of their plans and losing access to critical medications. The narrowing of prescription drug plan options—down 11% in 2024 and projected to drop another 26% in 2025—compounds their concerns.
Adding to their frustration, respondents viewed subsidies to insurance companies as a misuse of taxpayer money, benefitting corporations at seniors’ expense. The poll reflects a growing demand for reforms that stabilize costs and expand choices for seniors.
Drug Price Controls: Coercion Over Fairness?
The poll revealed widespread skepticism about the IRA’s drug price negotiation process. 57% of respondents characterized it as “unfair,” “coerced,” or “price-fixing.” Many seniors objected to the heavy penalties imposed on pharmaceutical companies for rejecting government-set prices or opting out of negotiations, which they viewed as overly punitive.
Respondents also expressed alarm over the long-term consequences of the policy, including a 36% decline in new drug trials since the Act’s passage. These changes raise concerns about delayed or lost advancements in life-saving treatments and cures.
Seniors showed broad support for reforming the system to ensure lower drug prices without stifling innovation or limiting access to medications.
Pharmacies Under Pressure
The IRA’s drug price negotiations may have unintended consequences for independent pharmacies, which make up a third of U.S. retail pharmacies. 86% of seniors agreed that efforts to reduce costs should not hinder access to essential medications.
Many independent pharmacies warn that the IRA’s compensation policies are unsustainable, potentially forcing them to stop covering certain drugs. This is especially concerning for seniors in rural or underserved areas, where these pharmacies are often the only accessible healthcare providers.
Losing access to independent pharmacies would not only create logistical challenges but also a health crisis for seniors who depend on these trusted providers. The poll reflects a clear demand for balanced solutions that reduce costs while maintaining accessibility to local pharmacies.
Seniors Advocate Returning IRA Funds to Medicare
One of the strongest takeaways from the AMAC Action poll is the overwhelming support for reallocating IRA funds back to Medicare. 85% of respondents agreed that Congress should redirect funds currently used for green energy subsidies and other initiatives to reduce Medicare costs for seniors.
Seniors viewed the use of Medicare funds for unrelated programs, such as electric vehicle tax credits, as a betrayal of the program’s purpose. Many argued that these funds should be used to lower premiums, reduce out-of-pocket expenses, and expand coverage options—critical priorities for their financial and physical well-being.
This sentiment resonated across political affiliations, with seniors united in calling for the realignment of federal spending priorities to better serve their healthcare needs.
Call for a Policy Pause
A decisive 70% of respondents supported pausing or suspending the IRA’s implementation to address its flaws or consider a repeal. Seniors expressed deep concern about the law’s long-term effects, including reduced access to medications, higher premiums, and its chilling impact on pharmaceutical innovation.
This broad-based demand for accountability reflects a shared belief that the IRA requires significant revision to better align with the needs of seniors. Pausing its execution would provide an opportunity to gather feedback and implement targeted reforms to mitigate its unintended consequences.
A Unifying Voice for Reform
Across political affiliations, seniors expressed a clear and urgent demand for reform. They seek policies that stabilize Medicare costs, expand access to affordable care, and prioritize their financial well-being over corporate interests. The AMAC Action poll underscores the growing consensus that the current trajectory of Medicare under the Inflation Reduction Act is unsustainable and requires immediate attention.
AMAC Action remains dedicated to standing up for America’s seniors, fighting for commonsense reforms that ensure affordable healthcare, protect access to critical medications, and prioritize the needs of those who rely on Medicare. Through tireless advocacy and action, AMAC continues to be a trusted voice for seniors across the nation.
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