Obamacare Premiums Surge 26% Ahead of Open Enrollment

UPDATE: The U.S. federal government has just announced a staggering 26% increase in average health insurance premiums for Obamacare coverage next year. This alarming development is set to impact approximately 24 million Americans who rely on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) as open enrollment approaches, starting on November 1, 2025, and lasting until January 15, 2026.

The Kaiser Family Foundation reports that consumers will face sharply rising costs when purchasing health insurance through ACA Marketplaces. One example highlighted by The New York Times features a 61-year-old woman from Oregon, whose monthly premium skyrocketed from $439 in 2025 to a staggering $1,059 for 2026, alongside a hefty deductible of $7,100.

In an urgent press release on Tuesday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, led by Dr. Mehmet Oz, attempted to mitigate concerns over these rising costs. Oz claimed that many consumers could still find plans for $50 or less per month, though these options typically come with high deductibles.

During a press conference on Wednesday, Oz raised eyebrows with controversial comments, suggesting that nearly half of those on Obamacare may not be using their insurance legitimately. “If I had insurance, why would I never use it?” he questioned, pointing to the 12 million people who reportedly didn’t file any claims last year.

The ongoing federal government shutdown, which began on October 1, is complicating matters. As Congress remains deadlocked—Democrats pushing for an extension of COVID-era tax credits while Republicans refuse to negotiate—many experts fear that without intervention, premium costs will remain unmanageable for countless Americans.

As the clock ticks down to open enrollment, consumers are urged to begin their “window shopping” on Healthcare.gov, which opened this week to allow potential buyers to preview their options. This initial glimpse into next year’s plans reveals just how much financial strain many will experience.

The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. With rising premiums, high deductibles, and legislative inertia, millions of Americans face critical decisions about their health coverage in the coming months. Watch for further updates as the open enrollment period nears, and stay informed about potential changes in the political landscape that could impact these crucial healthcare costs.