Viewers of ABC World News Tonight reacted strongly during the show’s broadcast on December 18, 2023, as host David Muir shared a troubling update regarding health care premiums. Muir addressed the audience directly, revealing that President Trump acknowledged that health care costs are set to increase significantly for over 20 million Americans.
Muir stated, “At the White House tonight, President Trump acknowledging health care premiums are about to skyrocket for more than 20 million Americans.” He added that when questioned about the administration’s plans to address the rising costs before the holiday break, Trump mentioned a controversial renaming of the Kennedy Center to the “Trump Kennedy Center.”
The report transitioned to ABC correspondent Mary Bruce, who provided further details from the White House. Bruce explained that Trump does not intend to extend the expiring subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. “In just two weeks, insurance premiums for millions of Americans will soar,” she stated, emphasizing the potential impact on households.
A clip played of reporters pressing Trump about the impending price hikes, where he deflected responsibility, claiming, “They will skyrocket because it was never any good.” Bruce noted that while the President suggested a direct payment system to citizens, he has yet to explain how this would function or present a comprehensive health care plan. During his campaign, Trump had promised a detailed plan but, as Bruce pointed out, nearly eleven months into his presidency, no such plan has emerged.
The segment shifted back to Bruce, who reported on the Kennedy Center’s new name. She stated, “The board of the Kennedy Center, hand-picked by the President, had voted to rename the performing arts institution the Trump Kennedy Center.” However, experts have indicated that such a name change likely requires Congressional approval. Bruce concluded, “Legal experts we’ve talked to say the board can’t actually make this name change.”
Following the broadcast, ABC World News Tonight shared the segment on their Instagram page, where viewer reactions were swift and passionate. Comments ranged from expressions of frustration, with one user stating, “Every day it gets worse,” to others expressing their discontent with Trump’s presidency.
One viewer expressed, “I AM SO SICK OF TRUMP!! OMG!” while another said, “Worst president ever! When will this end?!!!” Such reactions reflect the ongoing divide in public opinion regarding Trump’s policies and leadership style.
The reports on health care premiums and the Kennedy Center’s renaming highlight significant political developments as the administration heads into the holiday season. As millions prepare for potential financial strain due to rising health care costs, the effectiveness of the current administration’s plans remains under scrutiny.
