State Policy · AZ
Arizona GOP Gubernatorial Nominee Proposed Medicaid Elimination as State Senator in 2011
Andy Biggs, the Republican nominee for Arizona governor, introduced legislation as a state senator in 2011 to abolish Arizona's Medicaid program, citing unsustainable costs to taxpayers. The proposal sought to end state participation in Medicaid entirely rather than provide health coverage for low-income residents. As a gubernatorial candidate, Biggs' previous position on Medicaid elimination is resurfacing as voters and stakeholders assess his stance on the program. Arizona's Medicaid program currently covers approximately 2.4 million residents, including expansion populations adopted under the Affordable Care Act.
Why it mattersA gubernatorial candidate who previously proposed eliminating Medicaid entirely would have significant authority over waiver negotiations, eligibility policies, provider rates, and managed care contracting if elected.