THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

Following is the statement of Frederick Isasi, executive director of Families USA:

"Today's news means that the rate of uninsured people in America has increased for the first time since the Affordable Care Act was fully implemented in 2014. This is heartbreaking. Particularly disturbing is that increases were highest among young adults, African Americans, Latinos, and families making less than $36,000 annually—people who have been disadvantaged by our patchwork health care system for far too long. More than three million people have lost the health benefits and financial security that comes with health insurance. This early evidence of sabotage by the Trump administration is shameful and moving our nation in absolutely the wrong direction.

"The 2017 increase in the number of uninsured people likely is the result of the relentless attack on affordable health care by the Trump administration and Republican leadership in Congress, creating national uncertainty for families most in need of reliable health insurance and peace of mind. And, all this comes before implementation of new regulations undermining core insurance protections, before approval of potential new destructive Medicaid waivers, and before the repeal of the individual mandate takes effect.

"Enough is enough. Congressional leaders and the Trump administration need to stop their legislative and administrative attacks on Americans' health coverage, and instead work to protect and improve the health and well-being of our nation's families."

Families USA, a leading national voice for health care consumers, is dedicated to the achievement of high-quality, affordable health care and improved health for all.