Health Care Reform...Becoming More Popular?

In March, health care reform was finally achieved after months of debate between Democrats and Republicans. As the debate continued, month by month; the view of the legislation began to sour. Part of it was misinformation and part of it was uncertainty of what the bill might entail. Public perception up to the day legislation became law was more negative than positive. However, popularity of the health care reform might be turning more positive.

Over the last month, new polling show popularity is gaining. President Obama and the White House's promotion of the bill might be finally paying off.

The Kaiser Family Foundation poll shows that 48% of the public had a favorable view of the law compared to 41% of the public having an unfavorable view. Just last month, those numbers were 41% in favor to 44% against.

In the wake of the legislation becoming law, both parties have been trying to shape their arguments to the public in anticipation for the fall elections. The administration has worked to highlight policies that take affect this year, which includes 26 year olds being allowed on the parents' plans as well closing a gap in the Medicare prescription drug coverage.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation; roughly 1/3 of voters say that they will vote for a candidate who voted for the bill, 1/3 of voters say the opposite, and 1/3 will vote based on other factors.

Despite, what Republicans and even some Democrats might say; the economy will still dominate this year's midterm elections. Most will hardly remember the health care legislation debate. Economic issues top what matters most to voters with 29%. Only 12% say that health care reform is their top issue concern. Dissatisfaction with government falls in between the two issues with 13%.

Many of the major parts of the health care bill do not take affect until after the 2012 election. It will not be until the next midterm elections that health care legislation might be more of a major issue to voters as they see tangible results and evidence from the legislation.

Included in those parts in 2014 are an end to discrimination by insurers based on preexisting conditions and a requirement that everyone carry health insurance.

So, maybe after all; health care legislation was not such a bad idea. Popular perception seems to agree as they begin to feel and see bits and pieces start to take affect. And they start to get clearer information. The spin has slowed down and the public has had more time to digest the matter. Time will tell if popularity grows or worsens throughout 2010 and into next year.