Four Million Americans Drop ACA Coverage After Subsidies Expire

Four million Americans dropped their Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace health insurance plans during the first month of 2026 coverage, marking a much steeper decline than in previous years.

Democrats are expected to cite the figures as evidence that Republicans increased health care costs by allowing the enhanced subsidies to expire. (Photo: Will O'Neill Flickr)

The drop followed the expiration of enhanced pandemic-era subsidies, which left many enrollees facing higher monthly premiums and unable or unwilling to continue paying for coverage.

Although marketplace enrollment remains above pre-pandemic levels, Democrats are expected to cite the figures as evidence that Republicans increased health care costs by allowing the enhanced subsidies to expire.

The Trump administration, meanwhile, said part of the decline may reflect efforts to eliminate fraudulent or improper enrollments.

Separately, President Donald Trump's 16-day Great American State Fair on the National Mall has encountered a difficult start, with at least eight Democratic-led states boycotting the event over participation costs and what they described as its partisan nature.

While private organizations stepped in to represent some states, North Carolina's pavilion drew criticism before organizers removed Confederate flag imagery.

Opening day also featured sparse attendance, power outages that disrupted vendors, complaints over food prices, and the arrest of a MAGA livestreamer dressed as Uncle Sam for allegedly committing lewd acts during a performance.

Despite serving as a centerpiece of the Freedom 250 celebration, the event has been overshadowed by logistical challenges and political controversy.