SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Terri Sewell has been selected to help lead a major House Democratic effort aimed at reducing health care costs and expanding access to affordable medical care for families across the country.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced Monday that Sewell will serve as co-convener of the Cost of Living Health Care Working Group alongside Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The group is one of five new working groups established by House Democratic leadership to develop policy proposals addressing the rising cost of living for Americans.
The health care panel will focus on lowering medical expenses, improving access to care, and strengthening programs that millions of Americans rely upon. Other working groups will address issues including housing affordability, grocery prices, gas and utility costs, and caregiving expenses.
In a joint statement, Sewell and Ocasio-Cortez said health care remains one of the most significant financial burdens facing working families.
“Health care costs remain one of the biggest challenges facing working families, and ensuring every American has access to quality, affordable health care has never been more important,” the lawmakers said.
The representatives also criticized efforts by Republicans and the Trump administration to reduce federal spending on health care programs, arguing that Democrats must present an alternative vision focused on affordability and access.
“As Republicans and the Trump administration pursue devastating cuts to health care programs that millions rely on, Democrats must put forward a bold vision that lowers costs, expands access, and strengthens care for future generations,” they said.
Sewell brings extensive health policy experience to the leadership role. She serves on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, which oversees Medicare, Social Security, and other major federal programs. She also chairs the health care working group of the New Democrat Coalition.
Since first being elected to Congress in 2010, Sewell has advocated for protecting and expanding access to health care, supporting Medicare and Medicaid, defending the Affordable Care Act, reducing prescription drug costs, and addressing health disparities in underserved communities.
According to Sewell’s office, the Health Care Working Group will collaborate with Democratic leaders and committee members to develop policy recommendations aimed at lowering costs while improving the quality and availability of care nationwide.
The initiative reflects a broader Democratic effort to address everyday economic concerns and develop legislative solutions focused on helping working families manage rising expenses. House Democratic leaders say the recommendations produced by the working groups will help shape the party’s policy agenda heading into future legislative battles over health care and affordability.