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Version 6 Version 7
Obama: 'The Affordable Care Act is here to stay' – live Obama: 'The Affordable Care Act is here to stay' – live
(35 minutes later)
2.15pm ET19:15
The Oval Office circa 10.10am ET, as seen by White House photographer Pete Souza.
Hugs in the Oval after today's Supreme Court ruling on ACA pic.twitter.com/8HdXpagAnl
2.11pm ET19:11
Reporters continue to press Earnest for some comment about John Roberts, the conservative judge chief justice who has twice defended Obama’s healthcare law. Earnest keeps dodging.
“I’m sure he would appreciate the kind words,” Earnest says, but all he’ll add is that Roberts “looked carefully at the law and rendered a judgment that he believed was consistent with the law.”
Asked about the phrase on which the decision turned – “established by the state” – and which Roberts criticized as “inartful drafting” on the part of Congress and the administration, Earnest takes issue.
“The supreme court’s decision today makes clear that that wasn’t an error, and that the reading of the law and the reading of the law in the context … was quite clear.”
“There might have been style points that were awarded but we’re not concerned with that.”
Earnest is more forthcoming when asked about the administration’s feelings about the ruling.
"Pleased, relieved and not particularly surprised by the outcome," said @PressSec of WH reaction to today's SCOTUS ObamaCare decision.
.@PressSec says Obama called Solicitor General Don Verrilli to congratulate him on the SCOTUS decisions
2.04pm ET19:04
Obama isn’t thinking about his legacy, Earnest tells a reporter who asks. He is thinking about the legacy of the law in Americans’ lives, he says, blurring the question into his answer.
“He is keenly focused on and aware of the impact that this decision will have on the lives of millions of Americans.”
Earnest echoes comments made during the president’s speech, about the six million Americans whose subsidies are secured, the “millions more who got their insurance from the Affordable Care Act, and millions more who benefit” by new protections provided by the law, including for discrimination against pre-existing conditions.
He again says that the administration was confident throughout the process despite “substantial contingency planning”. “I wasn’t aware of anybody here who was losing sleep over this.”
A reporter asks about chief justice John Roberts, against whom Obama voted against as a senator. Would Obama still vote against Roberts, considering that the justice has now saved the signature healthcare law twice? What does Obama make of Roberts now?
Earnest says “I’m going to reserve comment on that.”
Updated at 2.04pm ET
1.57pm ET18:57
Obama had no advance knowledge of the supreme court’s decision, Earnest says.
“The supreme court is obviously very wedded to the process of informing the public of their decisions.”
He says that “we’re not that surprised” by the decision in the government’s favor. But he concedes that the administration had thought about contingency plans in case the ruling was not so amenable – something that the administration had heretofore not admitted.
“There were a range of contingencies that we were mindful, and we certainly aware” that the justices might rule against the government, Earnest says.
1.54pm ET18:54
White House press secretary Josh Earnest is giving his daily briefing, and begins by hailing the “illustrative and interesting confluence of events” of the day.
He says the supreme court decision and passage of the president’s trade bill “illustarte some interesting things about this president and this presidency.”
Earnest then says that Obama “aggressively pursued” these policies with “laserlike focus” concentrated on advancing “the interests of middle-class families”.
“That is why he is so gratified today to see this progress.”
Earnest’s next point is that the events show Obama’s “willingness to work with whomever is willing to work with him”. He gives a shout to Democrats over the ferocious resistance of Republicans to the healthcare law, and then a shout to Republicans for getting over their distaste for him and helping step over rebellious Democrats to pass the trade bills.
Finally Earnest says the decision and the trade bill’s passage prove that Obama doesn’t give up (Earnest is visibly pleased with how his Wednesday has so far gone).
“If the president had spent a lot of time willing to spend the reading of obituaries” or “the columns relating to the impending death of the Affordable Care Act we probably wouldn’t have made as much progress as we have.”
1.47pm ET18:471.47pm ET18:47
More from Cruz’s Senate speech, from Cox Radio’s Jamie Dupree and Politico’s Manu Raju.More from Cruz’s Senate speech, from Cox Radio’s Jamie Dupree and Politico’s Manu Raju.
Cruz rips on Roberts: "If Chief Justice Rehnquist could see this court today, he would be filled with sorrow"Cruz rips on Roberts: "If Chief Justice Rehnquist could see this court today, he would be filled with sorrow"
Cruz accuses "far too many" Republicans in Washington who are "quietly celebrating" the Supreme Court ruling on ObamacareCruz accuses "far too many" Republicans in Washington who are "quietly celebrating" the Supreme Court ruling on Obamacare
1.39pm ET18:391.39pm ET18:39
Cruz also rails against Republicans crying “crocodile tears” over the decision.Cruz also rails against Republicans crying “crocodile tears” over the decision.
One day of faux outrage from the Washington Cartel won’t fool the millions of courageous conservatives across our country. They know the Republican leadership in Washington is quietly celebrating the Court’s decision. If they believe this issue is now settled so they don’t have to address it, they are sorely mistaken.One day of faux outrage from the Washington Cartel won’t fool the millions of courageous conservatives across our country. They know the Republican leadership in Washington is quietly celebrating the Court’s decision. If they believe this issue is now settled so they don’t have to address it, they are sorely mistaken.
Every GOP candidate for the Republican nomination should know that this decision makes the 2016 election a referendum on the full repeal of Obamacare.Every GOP candidate for the Republican nomination should know that this decision makes the 2016 election a referendum on the full repeal of Obamacare.
Cruz has himself argued before the court as an attorney, with more wins than losses, and he spearheaded a quixotic campaign to shut down the government in 2013 as a means of somehow undermining the healthcare law.Cruz has himself argued before the court as an attorney, with more wins than losses, and he spearheaded a quixotic campaign to shut down the government in 2013 as a means of somehow undermining the healthcare law.
His argument may sting Republicans who want to maintain the appearance of conservative crusaders but who may have actually been dreading today’s decision. A ruling against the government would have meant that millions of Americans, most in southern, Republican states and a huge number in Texas and swing-state Florida, would have lost financial assistance for healthcare.His argument may sting Republicans who want to maintain the appearance of conservative crusaders but who may have actually been dreading today’s decision. A ruling against the government would have meant that millions of Americans, most in southern, Republican states and a huge number in Texas and swing-state Florida, would have lost financial assistance for healthcare.
The Washington Post’s Karen Tumulty has more on the Republicans who feared what a “death spiral” of the healthcare system:The Washington Post’s Karen Tumulty has more on the Republicans who feared what a “death spiral” of the healthcare system:
Former Republican National Committee chairman Ed Gillespie called it “a bad legal outcome, but a good political outcome” for Republicans. But he added that it will increase pressure on his party to come up with a specific alternative to the law ahead of the 2016 elections.Former Republican National Committee chairman Ed Gillespie called it “a bad legal outcome, but a good political outcome” for Republicans. But he added that it will increase pressure on his party to come up with a specific alternative to the law ahead of the 2016 elections.
David Winston, who advises the GOP congressional leadership, said, “Ultimately, the challenge for Republicans is not just how to deal with this law, but where’s the direction? Where are the alternatives?”David Winston, who advises the GOP congressional leadership, said, “Ultimately, the challenge for Republicans is not just how to deal with this law, but where’s the direction? Where are the alternatives?”
Rick Wilson, a Florida-based strategist for Republican statewide candidates nationwide, said he was “relieved by the decision,” which has given his party of reprieve from having to navigate those straits.Rick Wilson, a Florida-based strategist for Republican statewide candidates nationwide, said he was “relieved by the decision,” which has given his party of reprieve from having to navigate those straits.
“I’ve been telling clients for about a month now, listen, this is probably going to be passed, they’ll approve it, and you should not be freaked out by it, because otherwise you’re going to spend the next year and a half getting ads run against you where a weeping Hispanic woman looks at the camera and says ‘They took away my son’s health care. Now he’s dead,’” Wilson said.“I’ve been telling clients for about a month now, listen, this is probably going to be passed, they’ll approve it, and you should not be freaked out by it, because otherwise you’re going to spend the next year and a half getting ads run against you where a weeping Hispanic woman looks at the camera and says ‘They took away my son’s health care. Now he’s dead,’” Wilson said.
You can read the full piece here.You can read the full piece here.
1.34pm ET18:341.34pm ET18:34
Republican presidential Ted Cruz has taken to the Senate floor to decry the supreme court justices, accusing them of being “lawless”.Republican presidential Ted Cruz has taken to the Senate floor to decry the supreme court justices, accusing them of being “lawless”.
In a statement, he accuses the court of “judicial activism” and rails against the “handful of unelected judges” in motley language that might make justice Antonin Scalia proud.In a statement, he accuses the court of “judicial activism” and rails against the “handful of unelected judges” in motley language that might make justice Antonin Scalia proud.
The first time, the Court ignored federal law and magically transformed a statutory ‘penalty’ into a ‘tax.’ Today, these robed Houdinis transmogrified a ‘federal exchange’ into an exchange ‘established by the State.’The first time, the Court ignored federal law and magically transformed a statutory ‘penalty’ into a ‘tax.’ Today, these robed Houdinis transmogrified a ‘federal exchange’ into an exchange ‘established by the State.’
As Justice Scalia rightfully put it, ‘Words no longer have meaning if an Exchange that is not established by a State is ‘established by the State.” He also said, ‘We should start calling this law SCOTUSCare’ – I agree.As Justice Scalia rightfully put it, ‘Words no longer have meaning if an Exchange that is not established by a State is ‘established by the State.” He also said, ‘We should start calling this law SCOTUSCare’ – I agree.
For nakedly political reasons, the Supreme Court willfully ignored the words that Congress wrote, and instead read into the law their preferred policy outcome. These judges have joined with President Obama in harming millions of Americans. Unelected judges have once again become legislators, and bad ones at that. They are lawless, and they hide their prevarication in legalese. Our government was designed to be one of laws, not of men, and this transparent distortion is disgraceful.For nakedly political reasons, the Supreme Court willfully ignored the words that Congress wrote, and instead read into the law their preferred policy outcome. These judges have joined with President Obama in harming millions of Americans. Unelected judges have once again become legislators, and bad ones at that. They are lawless, and they hide their prevarication in legalese. Our government was designed to be one of laws, not of men, and this transparent distortion is disgraceful.
On Senate floor, Sen Ted Cruz denounces majority in SCOTUS health ruling: "They are lawless" pic.twitter.com/oXvPGznsXFOn Senate floor, Sen Ted Cruz denounces majority in SCOTUS health ruling: "They are lawless" pic.twitter.com/oXvPGznsXF
1.27pm ET18:271.27pm ET18:27
Barack Obama’s very good day has kept improving: with his legacy in healthcare reform vindicated and ensured by the supreme court’s decision, he’s now won a bonus as another signature bill easily passes through the Republican-led House of Representatives.Barack Obama’s very good day has kept improving: with his legacy in healthcare reform vindicated and ensured by the supreme court’s decision, he’s now won a bonus as another signature bill easily passes through the Republican-led House of Representatives.
Per Politico’s Manu Raju:Per Politico’s Manu Raju:
Probably few better days for Obama during his six years in office: His trade bills clear Congress and Supreme Court saves his signature lawProbably few better days for Obama during his six years in office: His trade bills clear Congress and Supreme Court saves his signature law
While White House communications director Jen Psaki describes the atmosphere.While White House communications director Jen Psaki describes the atmosphere.
.@Psaki44 on @CNN: "There may have been some happy dances" after #ACA ruling..@Psaki44 on @CNN: "There may have been some happy dances" after #ACA ruling.
1.09pm ET18:091.09pm ET18:09
An unintended consequence of the Obama administration’s victory in court is that a number of states may be feeling buyer’s remorse for having set up expensive, troublesome state-run exchanges. The decision means that states will still get the massive benefit of federal subsidies without having to go through the trouble of a program – meaning some states may revert to the federal program.An unintended consequence of the Obama administration’s victory in court is that a number of states may be feeling buyer’s remorse for having set up expensive, troublesome state-run exchanges. The decision means that states will still get the massive benefit of federal subsidies without having to go through the trouble of a program – meaning some states may revert to the federal program.
The New York Times’ Margot Sanger-Katz reports.The New York Times’ Margot Sanger-Katz reports.
“There may be a little bit of buyers’ remorse going on in some state capitals right now,” said Sabrina Corlette, the director of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University. She said states underestimated the difficulty and expense of building and maintaining state marketplaces. Now, she said, many officials are asking: “What did we get ourselves into?”“There may be a little bit of buyers’ remorse going on in some state capitals right now,” said Sabrina Corlette, the director of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University. She said states underestimated the difficulty and expense of building and maintaining state marketplaces. Now, she said, many officials are asking: “What did we get ourselves into?”
As the law envisioned, state exchanges would provide an opportunity for state insurance regulators to oversee their markets, a role they have long performed. The state exchange system would also allow a greater degree of policy flexibility and control, so state officials could customize the marketplaces for local conditions. What few people grasped was the technical and logistical challenge of building a complex website and customer service operation from scratch.As the law envisioned, state exchanges would provide an opportunity for state insurance regulators to oversee their markets, a role they have long performed. The state exchange system would also allow a greater degree of policy flexibility and control, so state officials could customize the marketplaces for local conditions. What few people grasped was the technical and logistical challenge of building a complex website and customer service operation from scratch.
“Certainly, one of the lessons learned was that it is much more difficult than was expected,” said Joel Ario, who ran the office in the Department of Health and Human Services devoted to building the exchanges after the law passed.“Certainly, one of the lessons learned was that it is much more difficult than was expected,” said Joel Ario, who ran the office in the Department of Health and Human Services devoted to building the exchanges after the law passed.
Sanger-Katz notes that three states, Oregon, New Mexico and Nevada, had so much trouble implementing their costly state-run exchanges that they gave up, and that Massachusetts and Maryland had to try it twice before making a system work.Sanger-Katz notes that three states, Oregon, New Mexico and Nevada, had so much trouble implementing their costly state-run exchanges that they gave up, and that Massachusetts and Maryland had to try it twice before making a system work.
You can check out the rest of that piece here.You can check out the rest of that piece here.
12.51pm ET17:5112.51pm ET17:51
Fallout from the supreme court’s decision continues to drift down from Congress, where the healthcare law’s opponents and supporters have thrown mud at each other for more than five years on the issue.Fallout from the supreme court’s decision continues to drift down from Congress, where the healthcare law’s opponents and supporters have thrown mud at each other for more than five years on the issue.
Republican and House majority leader John Boehner: “Obamacare is fundamentally broken, increasing healthcare costs for millions of Americans. Today’s ruling doesn’t change that fact. Republicans will continue to listen to American families and work to protect them from the consequences of Obamacare. Republican and House speaker John Boehner: “Obamacare is fundamentally broken, increasing healthcare costs for millions of Americans. Today’s ruling doesn’t change that fact. Republicans will continue to listen to American families and work to protect them from the consequences of Obamacare.
“And we will continue our efforts to repeal the law and replace it with patient-centered solutions that meet the needs of seniors, small-business owners, and middle-class families.”“And we will continue our efforts to repeal the law and replace it with patient-centered solutions that meet the needs of seniors, small-business owners, and middle-class families.”
Democrat and House minority leader Nancy Pelosi meanwhile says opponents to the law look increasingly “ridiculous”: “The more time goes by the more people benefit from the Affordable Care Act and the more ridiculous, I think, they look.” Democrat and House minority leader Nancy Pelosi meanwhile says opponents to the law look increasingly “ridiculous”.
In a statement she added: “This is a victory for common sense and for all American families. It is long past time for Republicans to abandon their assault on the newfound health security that the Affordable Care Act is providing.In a statement she added: “This is a victory for common sense and for all American families. It is long past time for Republicans to abandon their assault on the newfound health security that the Affordable Care Act is providing.
And Hillary Clinton, Obama’s former secretary of state and Democratic candidate for president, “applaud[s]” the decision but also offers a curious qualification in her statement, perhaps suggesting that as president she would be willing to negotiate over its terms.And Hillary Clinton, Obama’s former secretary of state and Democratic candidate for president, “applaud[s]” the decision but also offers a curious qualification in her statement, perhaps suggesting that as president she would be willing to negotiate over its terms.
“I applaud the supreme court’s decision to affirm what the authors of the Affordable Care Act clearly intended and wrote into law: that health insurance should be affordable and available in every state across the country.“I applaud the supreme court’s decision to affirm what the authors of the Affordable Care Act clearly intended and wrote into law: that health insurance should be affordable and available in every state across the country.
“Republicans have waged a sustained attack against this promise … Now that the supreme court has once again re-affirmed the ACA as the law of the land, it’s time for the Republican attacks to end. It’s time to move on.“Republicans have waged a sustained attack against this promise … Now that the supreme court has once again re-affirmed the ACA as the law of the land, it’s time for the Republican attacks to end. It’s time to move on.
“The Affordable Care Act isn’t perfect, but the evidence is clear: it’s working. ““The Affordable Care Act isn’t perfect, but the evidence is clear: it’s working. “
Updated at 1.38pm ET Updated at 1.58pm ET
12.35pm ET17:3512.35pm ET17:35
New York Times photographer Stephen Crowley caught the P and VP just after the good news started to sink in.New York Times photographer Stephen Crowley caught the P and VP just after the good news started to sink in.
The clock in the Oval Office stopped at 10:10 AM, moments after President Obama was informed of SCOTUS ACA ruling. pic.twitter.com/wxKsSidRxCThe clock in the Oval Office stopped at 10:10 AM, moments after President Obama was informed of SCOTUS ACA ruling. pic.twitter.com/wxKsSidRxC
Today's decision is a victory for every hardworking American. Access to quality, affordable health care is a right, not a privilege.Today's decision is a victory for every hardworking American. Access to quality, affordable health care is a right, not a privilege.
12.31pm ET17:3112.31pm ET17:31
Princeton health policy expert Galen Benshoof echoes the point that states can develop a variety of systems to match their means with the government’s ends.Princeton health policy expert Galen Benshoof echoes the point that states can develop a variety of systems to match their means with the government’s ends.
The ACA is here to stay. With 1332 innovation waivers, states can refine their coverage systems while still achieving the goals of the law.The ACA is here to stay. With 1332 innovation waivers, states can refine their coverage systems while still achieving the goals of the law.
12.20pm ET17:2012.20pm ET17:20
Florida governor Rick Scott has announced that his state will drop a lawsuit against the government over the healthcare law, the AP’s Gary Fineout reports.Florida governor Rick Scott has announced that his state will drop a lawsuit against the government over the healthcare law, the AP’s Gary Fineout reports.
Saying Fla. got a "great victory," @FLGovScott says Fla. is dropping lawsuit that contended feds were coercing state to expand MedicaidSaying Fla. got a "great victory," @FLGovScott says Fla. is dropping lawsuit that contended feds were coercing state to expand Medicaid
Florida has one of the largest populations of Americans who receive federal subsidies despite the fact that their governor has opted out of creating a state-run marketplace.Florida has one of the largest populations of Americans who receive federal subsidies despite the fact that their governor has opted out of creating a state-run marketplace.
With the president’s victory in court comes a new campaign for his signature healthcare law: convincing governors to get with the program and set up state-run marketplaces.With the president’s victory in court comes a new campaign for his signature healthcare law: convincing governors to get with the program and set up state-run marketplaces.
Obama hopes to convince at least a few undecided states to create their own exchanges, but Scott, a Republican, is unlikely to be a willing partner. Some states have pursued middle paths: Illinois and Michigan have set up split-management programs with the government; Pennsylvania and Delaware have a “conditional” nod to create exchanges; and Oregon and New Mexico’s could try to set up new exchanges after having failed the first time around.Obama hopes to convince at least a few undecided states to create their own exchanges, but Scott, a Republican, is unlikely to be a willing partner. Some states have pursued middle paths: Illinois and Michigan have set up split-management programs with the government; Pennsylvania and Delaware have a “conditional” nod to create exchanges; and Oregon and New Mexico’s could try to set up new exchanges after having failed the first time around.
12.10pm ET17:1012.10pm ET17:10
The number of uninsured adult Americans is dropping at a record rate, according to federal data released on Tuesday, just in time for the supreme court to tell many of those Americans they would still be able to afford that insurance. My colleague Jana Kasperkevic reports on the CDC data:The number of uninsured adult Americans is dropping at a record rate, according to federal data released on Tuesday, just in time for the supreme court to tell many of those Americans they would still be able to afford that insurance. My colleague Jana Kasperkevic reports on the CDC data:
Last year, the number of uninsured adult Americans – those 18 to 64 years old – dropped to 16.3% from 20.4% in 2013. The survey of 111,682 people did not track coverage among those 65 and older as most of them are covered through Medicare.Last year, the number of uninsured adult Americans – those 18 to 64 years old – dropped to 16.3% from 20.4% in 2013. The survey of 111,682 people did not track coverage among those 65 and older as most of them are covered through Medicare.
The drop in the number of uninsured Americans has come across the economic and racial spectrum, which can be partially attributed to the expansion in Medicaid. States that expanded their Medicaid coverage had 13.3% of uninsured adults under 65 while the states that did not expand their coverage had 19.6% of uninsured adults.The drop in the number of uninsured Americans has come across the economic and racial spectrum, which can be partially attributed to the expansion in Medicaid. States that expanded their Medicaid coverage had 13.3% of uninsured adults under 65 while the states that did not expand their coverage had 19.6% of uninsured adults.
Texas and Oklahoma had two of the highest rates of uninsured adults at 25.7% and 26.6%, respectively.Texas and Oklahoma had two of the highest rates of uninsured adults at 25.7% and 26.6%, respectively.
You can read the full piece here.You can read the full piece here.
You can also check out a longer piece about Antonin Scalia’s furious dissent with the court’s decision and what he called its “somersaults of statutory interpretation”, by my colleague Ben Jacobs.You can also check out a longer piece about Antonin Scalia’s furious dissent with the court’s decision and what he called its “somersaults of statutory interpretation”, by my colleague Ben Jacobs.
Opponents of the Affordable Care Act insisted that such a setup could not apply to exchanges set up by the federal government in states which did not create their own healthcare exchange – and that mass uncertainty might follow.Opponents of the Affordable Care Act insisted that such a setup could not apply to exchanges set up by the federal government in states which did not create their own healthcare exchange – and that mass uncertainty might follow.
Scalia echoed these arguments and insisted the court was reading in such an absurd way that “words no longer have meaning”.Scalia echoed these arguments and insisted the court was reading in such an absurd way that “words no longer have meaning”.
You can read that piece here.You can read that piece here.
12.02pm ET17:0212.02pm ET17:02
Borchelt also liked the way the court read the decision – establishing a bulwark against certain very literal readings of law:Borchelt also liked the way the court read the decision – establishing a bulwark against certain very literal readings of law:
“It’s great that the court decided that even though the statute was a little unclear that they could read it in context of the entire law and recognize that, of course, the Congress meant for the tax credits to go to the exchanges set up by the Federal government.“It’s great that the court decided that even though the statute was a little unclear that they could read it in context of the entire law and recognize that, of course, the Congress meant for the tax credits to go to the exchanges set up by the Federal government.
“Otherwise, it would make no sense. It would not make sense for one type of an exchange to help make insurance affordable and for the other type to not – for people on federal exchanges to lose that important financial help.”“Otherwise, it would make no sense. It would not make sense for one type of an exchange to help make insurance affordable and for the other type to not – for people on federal exchanges to lose that important financial help.”
11.56am ET16:5611.56am ET16:56
The president is not the only figure who has taken a victory lap to celebrate the supreme court’s decision. My colleague Jana Kasperkevic reports:The president is not the only figure who has taken a victory lap to celebrate the supreme court’s decision. My colleague Jana Kasperkevic reports:
“This ruling is a huge victory for women and their families,” said Gretchen Borchelt, vice-president for health and reproductive rights at the National Women’s Law Center.“This ruling is a huge victory for women and their families,” said Gretchen Borchelt, vice-president for health and reproductive rights at the National Women’s Law Center.
“If [the court] took insurance coverage away, if they took the tax credits away, the insurance market would apart and people would lose the coverage that they are finally getting.“If [the court] took insurance coverage away, if they took the tax credits away, the insurance market would apart and people would lose the coverage that they are finally getting.
“We are hearing from women all the time about what difference Obamacare has made for them. They are finally able to afford insurance for the first time with the help of the tax credits.“We are hearing from women all the time about what difference Obamacare has made for them. They are finally able to afford insurance for the first time with the help of the tax credits.
“They are finally getting the care they need and for the supreme court to take that away from them would have rocked the nation. It’s really so important that the court has stepped in. It would hopefully put an end to all these challenges to the Affordable Care Act and let the law stand.”“They are finally getting the care they need and for the supreme court to take that away from them would have rocked the nation. It’s really so important that the court has stepped in. It would hopefully put an end to all these challenges to the Affordable Care Act and let the law stand.”
Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, offered a statement also praising the decision.Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, offered a statement also praising the decision.
“Our health care system only really works if it works for everybody. Everyone – no matter where they live or how much money they have – should have access to basic health care. That’s why we fought so hard for the Affordable Care Act in the first place.”“Our health care system only really works if it works for everybody. Everyone – no matter where they live or how much money they have – should have access to basic health care. That’s why we fought so hard for the Affordable Care Act in the first place.”
11.47am ET16:4711.47am ET16:47
He says “the whole point of public service” is to look after each other and improve the lot of fellow Americans. “So this was a good day for America. Let’s get back to work.”He says “the whole point of public service” is to look after each other and improve the lot of fellow Americans. “So this was a good day for America. Let’s get back to work.”
With that he shakes vice-president Joe Biden’s hand with a grin and they depart from the garden.With that he shakes vice-president Joe Biden’s hand with a grin and they depart from the garden.
Updated at 11.48am ETUpdated at 11.48am ET
11.46am ET16:4611.46am ET16:46
Obama says he’s going to work as hard as he can to convince governors to create state-run marketplaces.Obama says he’s going to work as hard as he can to convince governors to create state-run marketplaces.
“So we’ve got more work to do but what we’re not goin gto do is unravel what has been woven into the fabric of America. And my greatest hope is rather than to keep refighting battles that have been fought again and again and again, I can work with Republicans and Democrats to move forward. Let’s join together.”“So we’ve got more work to do but what we’re not goin gto do is unravel what has been woven into the fabric of America. And my greatest hope is rather than to keep refighting battles that have been fought again and again and again, I can work with Republicans and Democrats to move forward. Let’s join together.”
He now compares the legislation to the passage of social security to help senior citizens decades ago. He then compares it to Medicare, which also helped millions of people. “We decided to to finish” the battle, he says.He now compares the legislation to the passage of social security to help senior citizens decades ago. He then compares it to Medicare, which also helped millions of people. “We decided to to finish” the battle, he says.
“We chose to write a new chapter where in a new economy, Americans are free to change their jobs or start a business, chase a new idea, free from fear. Secure in the knowledge that portable, affordable healthcare will always be there.“We chose to write a new chapter where in a new economy, Americans are free to change their jobs or start a business, chase a new idea, free from fear. Secure in the knowledge that portable, affordable healthcare will always be there.
“And if we get sick, we’re not going to lose our home, and if we get sick we’re still going to be able to look after our families. That’s when America soars, when we look out for one another.”“And if we get sick, we’re not going to lose our home, and if we get sick we’re still going to be able to look after our families. That’s when America soars, when we look out for one another.”
11.43am ET16:4311.43am ET16:43
Despite “misinformation” and “talk of death panels”, Obama continues, the law is helping “tens of millions of Americans”.Despite “misinformation” and “talk of death panels”, Obama continues, the law is helping “tens of millions of Americans”.
“This law is working, and it’s going to keep doing just that. Five yearse in this is no logner about a law this is not about the Affordable Care Act as legislation or Obamacare as a political football, this is healthcare in America.“This law is working, and it’s going to keep doing just that. Five yearse in this is no logner about a law this is not about the Affordable Care Act as legislation or Obamacare as a political football, this is healthcare in America.
“A lot like social security and Medicaid,” Obama says, “there are lots of people who are directly benefitting from the law and don’t know it. And that’s OK.”“A lot like social security and Medicaid,” Obama says, “there are lots of people who are directly benefitting from the law and don’t know it. And that’s OK.”
“This has never been a goevrnment takeover,” but rather “a set of fairer rules and better protections that make healthcare in America” more affordable and stronger, he says.“This has never been a goevrnment takeover,” but rather “a set of fairer rules and better protections that make healthcare in America” more affordable and stronger, he says.
11.40am ET16:4011.40am ET16:40
Because of this law and because of this decision, millions of Americans will continue to receive” thousands in healthcare financial help, he continues.Because of this law and because of this decision, millions of Americans will continue to receive” thousands in healthcare financial help, he continues.
Obama “that is something this law has ended for good, that affects everybody who gets health insurance, not just folks who get their care through the ACA”Obama “that is something this law has ended for good, that affects everybody who gets health insurance, not just folks who get their care through the ACA”
He says those are protections “Americans didn’t have before.”He says those are protections “Americans didn’t have before.”
He says the increased spending and new system improve the economy.He says the increased spending and new system improve the economy.
“This is not an abstract thing anymore, this is not a set of political talking points, this is reality, we can see how it is working. This law is workign exactly as it’s supposed to. In many ways it’s working better than it was supposed to.”“This is not an abstract thing anymore, this is not a set of political talking points, this is reality, we can see how it is working. This law is workign exactly as it’s supposed to. In many ways it’s working better than it was supposed to.”
11.37am ET16:3711.37am ET16:37
Obama: 'the ACA is here to stay'Obama: 'the ACA is here to stay'
President Obama is speaking from the Rose Garden of the White House:President Obama is speaking from the Rose Garden of the White House:
“As the dust has settled there can be no doubt that this law is working.”“As the dust has settled there can be no doubt that this law is working.”
“The Affordable Care Act is here to stay. This morning the court upheld a critical part of this law … if the partisan challenge to this law had succeeded, millions of Americans would lost” tax credits and financial assistance, he says.“The Affordable Care Act is here to stay. This morning the court upheld a critical part of this law … if the partisan challenge to this law had succeeded, millions of Americans would lost” tax credits and financial assistance, he says.
“Insurance would have become unaffordable again, millions would have become uninsured again, everyone’s premiums would have gone up. That’s not what we do, that’s not what America does. We go forward.”“Insurance would have become unaffordable again, millions would have become uninsured again, everyone’s premiums would have gone up. That’s not what we do, that’s not what America does. We go forward.”
Updated at 11.54am ETUpdated at 11.54am ET
11.29am ET16:2911.29am ET16:29
Looking back to the court’s majority decision, MSNBC’s Irin Carmon notes that chief justice John Roberts has called out his fellow conservatives – the ones who dissented in both this and the 2012 victory for the law.Looking back to the court’s majority decision, MSNBC’s Irin Carmon notes that chief justice John Roberts has called out his fellow conservatives – the ones who dissented in both this and the 2012 victory for the law.
Roberts trolls the dissenters by pointing out their own words in Sebelius pic.twitter.com/lWoLbYwsouRoberts trolls the dissenters by pointing out their own words in Sebelius pic.twitter.com/lWoLbYwsou
11.21am ET16:2111.21am ET16:21
Yet more prominent Republicans vying for the country’s top job say they are “disappointed” by the decisions of the supreme court.Yet more prominent Republicans vying for the country’s top job say they are “disappointed” by the decisions of the supreme court.
“This decision is not the end of the fight against Obamacare,” said Republican presidential candidate and former Florida governor Jeb Bush in a statement.“This decision is not the end of the fight against Obamacare,” said Republican presidential candidate and former Florida governor Jeb Bush in a statement.
“This fatally-flawed law imposes job-killing mandates, causes spending in Washington to skyrocket by $1.7 trillion, raises taxes by $1 trillion and drives up healthcare costs. Instead of fixing our healthcare system, it made the problems worse.”“This fatally-flawed law imposes job-killing mandates, causes spending in Washington to skyrocket by $1.7 trillion, raises taxes by $1 trillion and drives up healthcare costs. Instead of fixing our healthcare system, it made the problems worse.”
Bush then says that he would “make fixing our broken healthcare system one of [his] top priorities” as president.Bush then says that he would “make fixing our broken healthcare system one of [his] top priorities” as president.
Wisconsin governor Scott Walker meanwhile has called for the wholesale “repeal and replace[ment]” of the law, and doesn’t comment on the decision at all in a statement.Wisconsin governor Scott Walker meanwhile has called for the wholesale “repeal and replace[ment]” of the law, and doesn’t comment on the decision at all in a statement.
Instead, he says “Republicans in the House and Senate must redouble their efforts to repeal this destructive and costly law.”Instead, he says “Republicans in the House and Senate must redouble their efforts to repeal this destructive and costly law.”
11.17am ET16:1711.17am ET16:17
Labor unions are also celebrating today’s decision, my colleague Jana Kasperkevic reports on the statements pouring in to applaud the ruling.Labor unions are also celebrating today’s decision, my colleague Jana Kasperkevic reports on the statements pouring in to applaud the ruling.
“Millions of Americans regardless of political party are benefiting from the Affordable Care Act and it’s time for congressional Republicans to stop trying to take away health and financial peace of mind the law brings to our country’s working families,” said Mary Kay Henry, president of SEIU International labor union.“Millions of Americans regardless of political party are benefiting from the Affordable Care Act and it’s time for congressional Republicans to stop trying to take away health and financial peace of mind the law brings to our country’s working families,” said Mary Kay Henry, president of SEIU International labor union.
She went on to warn that American people are unlikely to forget who fought to dismantle the 2010 healthcare law.She went on to warn that American people are unlikely to forget who fought to dismantle the 2010 healthcare law.
“Working families will remember who fought against the ACA, who greased the gears for attacks against it in the courts, and which politicians have voted to repeal the law without offering a single plausible plan as a replacement. In 2016, the extremists who are risking the healthcare of millions of people will be held responsible,” she said.“Working families will remember who fought against the ACA, who greased the gears for attacks against it in the courts, and which politicians have voted to repeal the law without offering a single plausible plan as a replacement. In 2016, the extremists who are risking the healthcare of millions of people will be held responsible,” she said.
Richard Trumka, president of the AFL-CIO, largest federation of labor unions, called the decision an “important victory” for millions of Americans.Richard Trumka, president of the AFL-CIO, largest federation of labor unions, called the decision an “important victory” for millions of Americans.
Others are urging the expansion of Medicaid as a step beyond the continued successes (or at least survival) of the healthcare law.Others are urging the expansion of Medicaid as a step beyond the continued successes (or at least survival) of the healthcare law.
“The Affordable Care Act was an important step to expand coverage, but much more needs to be done if we are to achieve quality, affordable health care for all,” said Trumka.“The Affordable Care Act was an important step to expand coverage, but much more needs to be done if we are to achieve quality, affordable health care for all,” said Trumka.
“We can start by expanding Medicaid for low-income workers in every state and making changes that will protect and strengthen the health coverage workers have fought for on the job. It’s also past time for Republicans—whether in Congress or the state capitals—to end their repetitive efforts to repeal or damage the Affordable Care Act.”“We can start by expanding Medicaid for low-income workers in every state and making changes that will protect and strengthen the health coverage workers have fought for on the job. It’s also past time for Republicans—whether in Congress or the state capitals—to end their repetitive efforts to repeal or damage the Affordable Care Act.”
The Medicaid expansion is important. A report released earlier this week based on Census data found that states that expanded their Medicaid coverage had 13.3% of uninsured adults under 65 while the states that did not expand their coverage had 19.6% of uninsured adults.The Medicaid expansion is important. A report released earlier this week based on Census data found that states that expanded their Medicaid coverage had 13.3% of uninsured adults under 65 while the states that did not expand their coverage had 19.6% of uninsured adults.
Related: Rate of uninsured Americans drops among poor and minority groupsRelated: Rate of uninsured Americans drops among poor and minority groups
11.08am ET16:0811.08am ET16:08
Justice Antonin Scalia, a man who appreciates words, has written a colorful and withering dissent of the majority decision that context in this case overcomes the plain and literal language of the law. “Pure applesauce,” Scalia says.Justice Antonin Scalia, a man who appreciates words, has written a colorful and withering dissent of the majority decision that context in this case overcomes the plain and literal language of the law. “Pure applesauce,” Scalia says.
Imagine that a university sends around a bulletin reminding every professor to take the “interests of graduate students” into account when setting office hours, but that some professors teach only undergraduates. Would anybody reason that the bulletin implicitly presupposes that every professor has “graduate students,” so that “graduate students” must really mean “graduate or undergraduate students”? Surely not.Imagine that a university sends around a bulletin reminding every professor to take the “interests of graduate students” into account when setting office hours, but that some professors teach only undergraduates. Would anybody reason that the bulletin implicitly presupposes that every professor has “graduate students,” so that “graduate students” must really mean “graduate or undergraduate students”? Surely not.
Scalia then accuses his colleagues of “interpretive jiggery-pokery”.Scalia then accuses his colleagues of “interpretive jiggery-pokery”.
It is curious that the Court is willing to subordinate the express words of the section that grants tax credits to the mere implications of other provisions with only tangential connections to tax credits. One would think that interpretation would work the other way around.It is curious that the Court is willing to subordinate the express words of the section that grants tax credits to the mere implications of other provisions with only tangential connections to tax credits. One would think that interpretation would work the other way around.
(Jiggery-pokery is real, by the way – Scalia almost never acts without precedent, after all.)(Jiggery-pokery is real, by the way – Scalia almost never acts without precedent, after all.)
Today, I learned that Justice Scalia did not invent the phrase "interpretive jiggery-pokery.” http://t.co/hpKdpr0AEH #SCOTUSToday, I learned that Justice Scalia did not invent the phrase "interpretive jiggery-pokery.” http://t.co/hpKdpr0AEH #SCOTUS
11.00am ET16:0011.00am ET16:00
Senator and presidential candidate Rand Paul has joined the chorus of Republicans saying they’re “disappointed” by chief justice Roberts and justice Kennedy.Senator and presidential candidate Rand Paul has joined the chorus of Republicans saying they’re “disappointed” by chief justice Roberts and justice Kennedy.
The justices “missed an opportunity here” and “made a mistake”, Paul told CNN. He added that they had not “hewed and adhered to the literal nature of the law” and “had a chance to take up Obamacare again and make it less bad.”The justices “missed an opportunity here” and “made a mistake”, Paul told CNN. He added that they had not “hewed and adhered to the literal nature of the law” and “had a chance to take up Obamacare again and make it less bad.”
“I really think Obamacare is making all insurance more expensive and taking away choice,” he said, touching on a salient criticism that the law has driven up the costs of healthcare premiums.“I really think Obamacare is making all insurance more expensive and taking away choice,” he said, touching on a salient criticism that the law has driven up the costs of healthcare premiums.
But Paul does not even mention the notion of repealing the law, as was the popular idea for years among members of his party. Instead he says “we’ve lost that leverage” to negotiate with the Democrats in changing aspects of the law.But Paul does not even mention the notion of repealing the law, as was the popular idea for years among members of his party. Instead he says “we’ve lost that leverage” to negotiate with the Democrats in changing aspects of the law.
10.50am ET15:5010.50am ET15:50
Outside the supreme court in Washington, reporters witness the rare sight of crowds getting rowdy over health insurance tax credit law.Outside the supreme court in Washington, reporters witness the rare sight of crowds getting rowdy over health insurance tax credit law.
Crowd chants "ACA is here to stay" as people emerge from #SCOTUS pic.twitter.com/Tb0Ck9VOb1Crowd chants "ACA is here to stay" as people emerge from #SCOTUS pic.twitter.com/Tb0Ck9VOb1
"Still coveted" is the latest chant #KingvBurwell pic.twitter.com/N3VN4Yyl5v"Still coveted" is the latest chant #KingvBurwell pic.twitter.com/N3VN4Yyl5v
We presume he means “still covered”.We presume he means “still covered”.
10.48am ET15:4810.48am ET15:48
Presidential candidates weigh in with predictable results. Former secretary of state Hillary Clinton celebrates a victory for her old comrades in the Obama administration.Presidential candidates weigh in with predictable results. Former secretary of state Hillary Clinton celebrates a victory for her old comrades in the Obama administration.
Yes! SCOTUS affirms what we know is true in our hearts & under the law: Health insurance should be affordable & available to all. -HYes! SCOTUS affirms what we know is true in our hearts & under the law: Health insurance should be affordable & available to all. -H
Florida senator Marco Rubio – whose state has hundreds of thousands of people who almost lost healthcare assistance this morning – is less enthused.Florida senator Marco Rubio – whose state has hundreds of thousands of people who almost lost healthcare assistance this morning – is less enthused.
Despite the Court’s decision, ObamaCare is still a bad law that is having a negative impact on our country and on millions of Americans.Despite the Court’s decision, ObamaCare is still a bad law that is having a negative impact on our country and on millions of Americans.
And former Texas governor Rick Perry, another candidate who has a huge number of constituents who rely on the subsidies, also demands repeal (an ambition most other Republicans have largely abandoned as not feasible for the foreseeable future).And former Texas governor Rick Perry, another candidate who has a huge number of constituents who rely on the subsidies, also demands repeal (an ambition most other Republicans have largely abandoned as not feasible for the foreseeable future).
Americans deserve better than what we’re getting with Obamacare. It’s time we repealed and replaced it! http://t.co/1EHfbVKBMaAmericans deserve better than what we’re getting with Obamacare. It’s time we repealed and replaced it! http://t.co/1EHfbVKBMa
10.41am ET15:4110.41am ET15:41
Millions of Americans in need of healthcare are breathing easy that they will continue to receive financial assistance unabated. Today at least one (and likely more than six million others) are celebrating around the country. My colleague Jana Kasperkevic reports:Millions of Americans in need of healthcare are breathing easy that they will continue to receive financial assistance unabated. Today at least one (and likely more than six million others) are celebrating around the country. My colleague Jana Kasperkevic reports:
Over a year ago, LaDonna Appelbaum was diagnosed with breast cancer.Over a year ago, LaDonna Appelbaum was diagnosed with breast cancer.
When the Supreme Court first heard the King v Burwell case on 4 March, she was on the way to one of her chemotherapy appointments. At that time, she had four more chemotherapy appointments to go that were to be followed by radiation.When the Supreme Court first heard the King v Burwell case on 4 March, she was on the way to one of her chemotherapy appointments. At that time, she had four more chemotherapy appointments to go that were to be followed by radiation.
“I am petrified, to be quite honest, of what can happen. I am more scared right now that the Republicans and the supreme court might kill me rather than my cancer,” she said then, crying.“I am petrified, to be quite honest, of what can happen. I am more scared right now that the Republicans and the supreme court might kill me rather than my cancer,” she said then, crying.
“I know that’s horrible to say, but I feel like I am getting the treatment that I need. My doctors are wonderful. And then I get scared whenever I hear that they might take the subsidies away or they might repeal it. I honestly don’t know how we would pay for this.”“I know that’s horrible to say, but I feel like I am getting the treatment that I need. My doctors are wonderful. And then I get scared whenever I hear that they might take the subsidies away or they might repeal it. I honestly don’t know how we would pay for this.”
Today, Appelbaum found out that she gets to keep her subsidies. I just spoke to her over the phone and she was crying with joy.Today, Appelbaum found out that she gets to keep her subsidies. I just spoke to her over the phone and she was crying with joy.
“We are celebrating. We are just hugging and crying right now. I was just telling Tom [her husband] yesterday that I just can’t imagine how many people are on pins and needles right now and how many people just this week were diagnosed with some horrible disease. I am just so relieved.”“We are celebrating. We are just hugging and crying right now. I was just telling Tom [her husband] yesterday that I just can’t imagine how many people are on pins and needles right now and how many people just this week were diagnosed with some horrible disease. I am just so relieved.”
Last week, as she finished her radiation treatment, Appelbaum took a photo with her radiation therapists. In it, she is holding a sign that reads: “The ACA is working!”Last week, as she finished her radiation treatment, Appelbaum took a photo with her radiation therapists. In it, she is holding a sign that reads: “The ACA is working!”
10.38am ET15:3810.38am ET15:38
Importantly, the majority’s ruling does not defer to the decisions of regulators (in this case the IRS) but rather centers around a reading of the law itself.Importantly, the majority’s ruling does not defer to the decisions of regulators (in this case the IRS) but rather centers around a reading of the law itself.
This would make it much harder for a Republican president to change how the law is enforced, since he or she would be unable to simply direct the IRS to change its policies.This would make it much harder for a Republican president to change how the law is enforced, since he or she would be unable to simply direct the IRS to change its policies.
From a political perspective, it's key that the Court says the ACA's tax credits are not just permissible but required.From a political perspective, it's key that the Court says the ACA's tax credits are not just permissible but required.
10.33am ET15:3310.33am ET15:33
Roberts accepted the government’s argument that the “plain” reading of the law would have sent the bulk of it into a “death spiral”.Roberts accepted the government’s argument that the “plain” reading of the law would have sent the bulk of it into a “death spiral”.
From his majority:From his majority:
Given that the text is ambiguous, we must turn to the broader structure of the Act to determine the meaning of Section 36B. “A provision that may seem ambiguous in isolation is often clarified by the remainder of the statutory scheme … because only one of the permissible meanings produces a substantive effect that is compatible with the rest of the law.” …Given that the text is ambiguous, we must turn to the broader structure of the Act to determine the meaning of Section 36B. “A provision that may seem ambiguous in isolation is often clarified by the remainder of the statutory scheme … because only one of the permissible meanings produces a substantive effect that is compatible with the rest of the law.” …
Here, the statutory scheme compels us to reject petitioners’ interpretation because it would destabilize the individual insurance market in any State with a Federal Exchange, and likely create the very “death spirals” that Congress designed the Act to avoid.Here, the statutory scheme compels us to reject petitioners’ interpretation because it would destabilize the individual insurance market in any State with a Federal Exchange, and likely create the very “death spirals” that Congress designed the Act to avoid.
He cites a 1973 decision that reads: “We cannot interpret federal statutes to negate their own stated purposes.”He cites a 1973 decision that reads: “We cannot interpret federal statutes to negate their own stated purposes.”
Updated at 10.34am ETUpdated at 10.34am ET
10.30am ET15:3010.30am ET15:30
Scalia is reading his written statement from the bench.Scalia is reading his written statement from the bench.
In dissent, Scalia says answer in King is “so obvious there would hardly be a need for #SCOTUS to hear a case about it.”In dissent, Scalia says answer in King is “so obvious there would hardly be a need for #SCOTUS to hear a case about it.”
Scalia (written statement): "Today's decision changes the usual rules of statutory interpretation for the sake of the Affordable Care Act."Scalia (written statement): "Today's decision changes the usual rules of statutory interpretation for the sake of the Affordable Care Act."
10.28am ET15:2810.28am ET15:28
Antonin Scalia is one of the three justices who dissents – he writes that the majority opinion is “absurd” and overreaches into the lawmaking authority of Congress. “We should start calling this law SCOTUScare.”Antonin Scalia is one of the three justices who dissents – he writes that the majority opinion is “absurd” and overreaches into the lawmaking authority of Congress. “We should start calling this law SCOTUScare.”
Scalia contends that his colleagues have chosen to “rewrite” the law. He writes that the phrase “established by the state” is a limitation that should be respected, and that the court has gone past its powers in interpreting Congress’ intentions.Scalia contends that his colleagues have chosen to “rewrite” the law. He writes that the phrase “established by the state” is a limitation that should be respected, and that the court has gone past its powers in interpreting Congress’ intentions.
This Court, however, concludes that this limitation would prevent the rest of the act from working as well as hoped. So it rewrites the law to make tax credits available everywhere. We should start calling this law SCOTUScare.This Court, however, concludes that this limitation would prevent the rest of the act from working as well as hoped. So it rewrites the law to make tax credits available everywhere. We should start calling this law SCOTUScare.
10.24am ET15:2410.24am ET15:24
In the majority opinion Roberts also notes the strong argument by conservatives against the law, but says “in this instance” pragmatism and context win out.In the majority opinion Roberts also notes the strong argument by conservatives against the law, but says “in this instance” pragmatism and context win out.
“The context and structure of the Act compel us to depart from what would otherwise be the most natural reading of the pertinent statutory phrase,” he wrote.“The context and structure of the Act compel us to depart from what would otherwise be the most natural reading of the pertinent statutory phrase,” he wrote.
Argument hinged around one line in the law, which says that subsidies should go to customers “through an exchange established by the state”.Argument hinged around one line in the law, which says that subsidies should go to customers “through an exchange established by the state”.
The plaintiffs argued that this is “clear language” and explicitly bars tax subsidies in states who have not set up marketplaces.The plaintiffs argued that this is “clear language” and explicitly bars tax subsidies in states who have not set up marketplaces.
10.21am ET15:2110.21am ET15:21
In the majority opinion, Roberts has sided with the government’s argument that the contentious phrase “established by the State” – is a “term of art” and that the law has to be interpreted through context, rather than the plain language of its statutes.In the majority opinion, Roberts has sided with the government’s argument that the contentious phrase “established by the State” – is a “term of art” and that the law has to be interpreted through context, rather than the plain language of its statutes.
Roberts’ opinion of Congress skills writing laws? “The Affordable Care Act contains more than a few examples of inartful drafting.”Roberts’ opinion of Congress skills writing laws? “The Affordable Care Act contains more than a few examples of inartful drafting.”
10.19am ET15:1910.19am ET15:19
Roberts and Kennedy have defended the healthcare reforms from conservative assault – two years after Roberts narrowly saved the law in a 5-4 decision in 2012. The Guardian’s DC bureau chief Dan Roberts has filed a quick dispatch from the court:Roberts and Kennedy have defended the healthcare reforms from conservative assault – two years after Roberts narrowly saved the law in a 5-4 decision in 2012. The Guardian’s DC bureau chief Dan Roberts has filed a quick dispatch from the court:
The decision in the high stakes case of King vs Burwell all but guarantees that Obamacare will survive intact until at least the next election, giving its supporters hope that it will become impossible to reverse even if a Republican is elected to the White House.The decision in the high stakes case of King vs Burwell all but guarantees that Obamacare will survive intact until at least the next election, giving its supporters hope that it will become impossible to reverse even if a Republican is elected to the White House.
The case, which turned on the meaning of four words “established by the state”, was brought by Virginia limousine driver David King who sued the then health secretary, Sylvia Burwell, on the grounds that insurance subsidies erroneously paid to those on low to middle incomes forced him to take out cover against his will by pushing him above an affordabilty threshold.The case, which turned on the meaning of four words “established by the state”, was brought by Virginia limousine driver David King who sued the then health secretary, Sylvia Burwell, on the grounds that insurance subsidies erroneously paid to those on low to middle incomes forced him to take out cover against his will by pushing him above an affordabilty threshold.
King’s lawyer argued that states like Virginia which chose not to set up their own Obamacare exchanges and rely on a federal system instead were not meant to receive such subsidies under a precise reading of the legislation which suggested it only applied in states that had their own exchanges.King’s lawyer argued that states like Virginia which chose not to set up their own Obamacare exchanges and rely on a federal system instead were not meant to receive such subsidies under a precise reading of the legislation which suggested it only applied in states that had their own exchanges.
But six of the nine justices, including chief Justice Roberts, sided with the government in agreeing that other parts of the legislation made the broader meaning clear and allowed subsidies to be paid to exchanges run by states or the federal government.But six of the nine justices, including chief Justice Roberts, sided with the government in agreeing that other parts of the legislation made the broader meaning clear and allowed subsidies to be paid to exchanges run by states or the federal government.
10.14am ET15:1410.14am ET15:14
Chief justice John Roberts wrote the 6-3 majority opinion that ruled in favor of allowing the federal government to provide subsidies in states that have not set up their own marketplaces for healthcare.Chief justice John Roberts wrote the 6-3 majority opinion that ruled in favor of allowing the federal government to provide subsidies in states that have not set up their own marketplaces for healthcare.
The ruling means that some six million Americans will still be able to afford health insurance thanks to the subsidies provided by their governments, even though their states opted not to create marketplaces. Roberts and fellow conservative Anthony Kennedy joined the four liberal justices of the court in favor of the Obama administration.The ruling means that some six million Americans will still be able to afford health insurance thanks to the subsidies provided by their governments, even though their states opted not to create marketplaces. Roberts and fellow conservative Anthony Kennedy joined the four liberal justices of the court in favor of the Obama administration.
10.12am ET15:1210.12am ET15:12
Supreme court rules for government in healthcare lawSupreme court rules for government in healthcare law
The US supreme court has ruled for the Obama administration in a decision that upholds federal subsidies of Barack Obama’s signature healthcare plan, a major victory for the president.The US supreme court has ruled for the Obama administration in a decision that upholds federal subsidies of Barack Obama’s signature healthcare plan, a major victory for the president.
We’ll continue to update the blog with the fallout from the decision, analysis of the ruling’s consequences and dispatches from our colleagues in Washington DC, including bureau chief Dan Roberts.We’ll continue to update the blog with the fallout from the decision, analysis of the ruling’s consequences and dispatches from our colleagues in Washington DC, including bureau chief Dan Roberts.
Updated at 11.06am ETUpdated at 11.06am ET