Bernie Sanders Criticizes Recent Congressional Action, Proposes Medicare for All to Address Rising Healthcare Costs

WASHINGTON — November 21, 2025 — Senator Bernie Sanders said Congress has worsened the nation’s healthcare system by allowing premiums to soar, affecting millions of Americans as the recent government shutdown ended. Sanders highlighted the sharp increase in healthcare costs and coverage losses, calling for comprehensive reform through a Medicare for All program.

According to officials, healthcare premiums are expected to quadruple for a significant portion of the population following the resolution of the government shutdown. This surge in costs threatens to make insurance unaffordable for many, exacerbating existing challenges in the healthcare market.

Sanders criticized Congress for failing to protect consumers and for passing measures that he said undermine access to affordable healthcare. He pointed to the rising premiums and shrinking coverage options as evidence that the current system is unsustainable and in urgent need of overhaul.

In response to the escalating crisis, Sanders proposed a Medicare for All plan aimed at expanding government-provided health insurance to all Americans. The plan would eliminate private insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses by establishing a single-payer system funded through taxes. Sanders argued that such a system would reduce administrative costs, increase bargaining power for prescription drugs, and ensure universal coverage.

Healthcare analysts note that the increase in premiums is linked to a combination of factors, including legislative decisions during the shutdown, market instability, and rising medical costs. The government shutdown disrupted regulatory oversight and delayed subsidies that help lower-income individuals afford insurance, contributing to the premium hike.

Critics of Medicare for All argue that the plan could lead to higher taxes and government spending, while supporters contend it would ultimately reduce overall healthcare expenditures by streamlining the system and improving preventive care.

The healthcare debate continues to be a central issue in Congress, with lawmakers divided over the best approach to control costs and expand access. Sanders’ proposal adds to the ongoing discussion about how to address systemic problems in the U.S. healthcare system.

As millions face increased financial burdens due to rising premiums, the pressure mounts on policymakers to find solutions that balance affordability, coverage, and quality of care. Sanders’ call for Medicare for All represents one of the more ambitious efforts to reshape healthcare policy in response to these challenges.