Xavier Becerra Backpedals on Single Payer as He Woos Powerful Doctors' Lobby | KQED

"The California Medical Association, a powerful doctors' group, officially endorsed Becerra, despite its long-standing opposition to single-payer health care, citing economic feasibility and physician autonomy concerns."

"Legislative analysts estimated that the cost of operating a single-payer system in California could exceed $391 billion annually, necessitating new taxes on residents and businesses."

"Becerra emphasized the importance of aligning on how H.R.1 would impact California's health care system and ensuring funding mechanisms for access to care."

"Becerra indicated to the doctors that making progress on single-payer health care while President Trump is in office was unrealistic, reflecting a shift in his campaign strategy."

Xavier Becerra, a Democratic candidate for California governor, has softened his support for single-payer health care as he gains endorsements, notably from the California Medical Association. This influential group has historically opposed single-payer systems, citing economic concerns and potential impacts on physician autonomy. Legislative attempts to establish such a system have failed, with cost estimates exceeding $391 billion annually. Becerra's rising popularity and need for campaign financing have prompted him to clarify his policy positions, indicating that now is not the time for single-payer health care.

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