The small town of Blanchard, Oklahoma has recently been rocked by tragedy, with a murder, suicide, and an officer-involved shooting leaving two people dead and an officer in the hospital. But beyond the headlines, what is the current state of healthcare in Blanchard and how has it been affected by politics?The political landscape of Oklahoma has been changing for some time. The chart below shows the colors of senators elected in Oklahoma over time, depending on their political party. This shift has had a direct impact on healthcare in Blanchard and across the state.
Oklahoma Congressional Delegation
The Oklahoma Congressional Delegation is composed of five members of the U.S. House of Representatives and two U. Senators. The delegation is currently divided between Republicans and Democrats, with three Republicans and two Democrats in the House and one Republican and one Democrat in the Senate. This split has had a direct effect on healthcare in Blanchard and across Oklahoma.
The Republican-controlled Congress has been pushing for repeal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) since its passage in 2010. This has resulted in cuts to Medicaid funding, which has had a direct impact on access to healthcare for many Oklahomans.
Oklahoma State Executives
The Governor of Oklahoma is currently Republican Kevin Stitt, who was elected in 2018. Stitt has been a vocal opponent of the ACA and has pushed for cuts to Medicaid funding. He has also proposed changes to the state's Medicaid program that would limit access to care for many Oklahomans.Oklahoma State Legislature
The Oklahoma State Legislature is currently controlled by Republicans, who hold a majority in both chambers. This has resulted in legislation that has limited access to healthcare for many Oklahomans, including cuts to Medicaid funding.Oklahoma Statewide Electoral Measures
In 2018, Oklahoma voters approved a ballot measure that expanded Medicaid coverage to low-income adults. This measure was opposed by many Republicans, including Governor Stitt, but was ultimately approved by voters.Oklahoma Courts
The Oklahoma Supreme Court recently ruled that Governor Stitt's proposed changes to the state's Medicaid program were unconstitutional.This ruling was seen as a victory for those who support expanded access to healthcare. The current state of healthcare in Blanchard, Oklahoma is one that is heavily influenced by politics. The Republican-controlled Congress and state legislature have pushed for cuts to Medicaid funding, while Governor Stitt has proposed changes that would limit access to care for many Oklahomans. However, there have been some victories for those who support expanded access to healthcare, such as the recent Supreme Court ruling that struck down Governor Stitt's proposed changes.
It remains to be seen how politics will continue to shape healthcare in Blanchard and across Oklahoma, but it is clear that it will continue to be an important factor.
