Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) got hit with Obamacare sticker shock for coverage for a single man when he decided to join his state’s healthcare exchange.
As a 58-year old male living in Oconee County, SC my insurance costs are going up about $400 a month, more than 200%, under Obamacare.
— Lindsey Graham (@GrahamBlog) December 9, 2013
Graham was entitled to a special exemption issued by the Office of Personnel Management under which members of Congress and congressional staff may enroll in the DC Health Link exchange. The government would have continued subsidizing about 75 percent of his healthcare premium.
Many members are foregoing the exchange and signing up for Obamacare in solidarity with constituents. Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas) has vowed to not take the subsidy and not enroll in Obamacare, and just pay the fine that will amount to $1,740 under a congressional salary.
“I don’t think members of Congress should get a special deal,” said Graham. “Obamacare is being pushed on the American people and we should live under it just like everyone else.”
Lawmakers are reporting a clunky system during the signup process, as well.
Graham said his benefits were also slashed in addition to the cost hike.
“My health care coverage will be a fraction of what it used to be. Sadly, I’m not the only one who will feel the negative effects of Obamacare. It’s happening all over South Carolina,” the senator said.
“The worst is yet to come, but I will continue my fight to repeal, replace, defund and allow Americans to opt-out of this horrible government program.”
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