ACA Stands Following Supreme Court Case Dismissal
Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court dismissed a case challenging the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, thereby leaving the sweeping healthcare law intact. In the 7-2 decision, a majority of the justices determined that the challengers – which consisted of several Republican-controlled states and the former Trump administration – did not have the legal standing to bring forth the case. According to a CNN report the justices noted, “there is no harm to opponents from the provisions that they are challenging because Congress has reduced the penalty for failing to buy health insurance to zero.”
Biden, Putin Face Off at Geneva Summit
International diplomacy was at the forefront of President Biden’s agenda last week. Following meetings with the G-7, NATO and European Union, the president flew to Switzerland for a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. While tensions between the two countries have long-been simmering (especially when it comes to Russia’s cybersecurity threats), there appears to have been little to no movement on a number of outstanding issues. However, both leaders called the conversation “productive” and “constructive.” You can read some broad take-aways from the meeting here.
Former Gov. Ridge Hospitalized Following Stroke
Former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge is in critical, but stable condition following an apparent stroke. Ridge, 75, was rushed to a hospital in the Washington, D.C. area last week, where, according to sources, he “underwent a successful procedure to remove a blood clot.” As news of his condition spread, well wishes and hopes for a quick recovery poured in from former and current elected officials representing both sides of the political aisle. Ridge was elected to serve two terms as Pennsylvania’s governor. He stepped down in 2001 when then President George W. Bush tapped him to lead the newly formed Department of Homeland Security.
Congresswoman Madeleine Dean Won’t Run for Senate
The pool of Democrats considered possible candidate for Pennsylvania’s open Senate seat has gotten a little smaller. U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean, D-Montgomery, will seek re-election to Pennsylvania’s 4th Congressional District, and has decided she won’t be running for Senate “for now.” Dean was one of several potential candidates talked about in Democratic circles. She joins several of her congressional colleagues – including Reps. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Chester, Brendan Boyle, D-Philadelphia and Susan Wild, D-Lehigh – in ruling out a run for the statewide office. Cong. Conor Lamb, D-Allegheny, is said to be considering a potential run for the party’s nomination.