Polls Reveal Bad News for President, ACA

Healthcare.gov may be mostly working, but that doesn’t mean it’s smooth sailing for President Obama. A series of recent polls reveal some bad news for the president and his health law.

A new survey by InsuranceQuotes.com and Princeton Survey Research Associates International revealed that 38% of Americans would rather pay the penalty than purchase health insurance.

As InsuranceQuotes.com pointed out, a 45-year-old earning $50,000 could either choose a health plan that could cost $3,000 a year or pay the $400 fine for the year. For most Americans it may be a no brainer, Kevin Flynn, president of Health Care Advocates, told the site.

Surprisingly, though, the survey did find that young people will buy insurance, with 65% of Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 saying they will purchase health insurance. However, only 57% of those 30 and older said the same.

And if they can’t avoid buying insurance, then Americans might consider a move, according to a Bankrate.com survey. More than a quarter of Americans said they would relocate to another county or state for better or cheaper coverage. Although, of the 28% who said health insurance would be a reason to move, only 9% said it would be a major reason and 19% admitted it was a minor one.

Meanwhile a Consumer Reports survey found that Americans actually understand the law even less now. Overall, 38% feel less informed over the past month, and many had incorrect beliefs. Nearly half though the Affordable Care Act established a government-run health plan and 36% believe the law lets the government control the population’s selection of doctors.

"The American health insurance system has long been the world's most complicated, and now consumers are being asked to understand an entirely new set of rules and procedures in addition," Nancy Metcalf, who covers health insurance and the new health law as a Consumer Reports senior editor, said in a statement. "No wonder they feel confused and unsure where to turn for reliable information. But with open enrollment underway and HealthCare.gov working more smoothly, consumers need help so they don't miss out on getting the right coverage for themselves and their families."

Although of this has negatively affected Obama, with disapproval of his job performance at an all-time high at 54%, according to a Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll. In particular, the country is unhappy with the promises that were made and broken. According to the poll, adults reported a sharp erosion in attributes like honesty, leadership and ability to handle a crisis. Almost 60% cited the ACA as a key factor shaping their view of the president.