The race for Governor in Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Maine and Wisconsin could determine whether Medicaid is expanded in those states, according to a recent report from Avalere Health.
An Independent gubernatorial candidate in Alaska could pursue expansion, while Democratic candidates in the other five states may also expand the program if elected.
"This is a key election for the future of the Medicaid program," said Dan Medelson, CEO of Avalere Health. "Expansion will depend on both the outcomes of the governors' races, as well as state legislative balance as state legislatures often hold the keys."
Florida, Georgia and Kansas all have Republican legislatures that could prevent newly elected governors from expanding. In addition, Georgia and Kansas have laws in place that require legislative approval to expand Medicaid, according to the report.
Although the governors' races could have a significant impact on some states' decision to expand, for those that have already expanded, little change is expected. "It's incredibly difficult to take benefits away from state residents once they have been granted," said Caroline Pearson, vice president of Avalere.
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