Polls & Research

U.S. Divided on Health Care Bill Passed in House

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - People in the United States are evenly divided in their opinion about a health care reform bill recently approved by the House of Representatives, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 41 per cent of respondents support the bill, whereas 39 per cent oppose it.

Health care in the U.S. is based on a system of benefits provided by employers, as well as the Medicare and Medicaid programs which allocate health insurance for the elderly, disabled and poor. Around 47 million Americans are uninsured.

In American presidential elections, candidates require 270 votes in the Electoral College to win the White House. In November 2008, Democratic nominee Barack Obama secured a majority of electoral votes, defeating Republican candidate John McCain. Obama became the first African American president in U.S. history when he took over from George W. Bush—who served two four-year terms—in January.

One of Obama’s main campaign pledges was to increase access to health care for all Americans. The U.S. Congress is currently studying a proposal that would create a state-owned medical insurance company that would compete with similar private companies.

On Nov. 7, lawmakers in the lower house of Congress approved the bill—known as the Affordable Health Care for America Act—in a 220-215 vote. The proposal is now being reviewed by the Senate and could be amended before gaining final approval.

On Nov. 19, Obama commented on the health care issue, saying, "Opponents of reform and their defenders, I think, they can see the handwriting on the wall.  America is serious about reforming health care. For the first time since [former president] Harry Truman, we are going to be able to do that."

Polling Data

As you may know, the House of Representatives passed a health care bill last week. From what you have seen, read or heard, do you support or oppose this bill?