Trump mails $500 checks to nearly 1 million ACA enrollees before midterms

The Trump administration started mailing one-time $500 checks in early October 2026 to nearly one million Affordable Care Act marketplace enrollees in 30 states. The checks tout healthcare wins ahead of November 2026 midterms. Health costs are tied with gas as voters' top concerns. Whether temporary rebates ease longer-term affordability remains to be seen.