By: Jenna Rehnstrom, Anchor
jrehnstrom@kcautv.com
Thursday's Supreme Court decision is being hailed as a huge election year victory for President Obama. It may be the signature legislation of his presidency, but it may not be the hot button issue of the November election.
"Whatever the politics, today's decision was a victory for people all over this country, whose lives will be more secure because of this law and the Supreme Court's decision to uphold it," said President Obama on Thursday.
But, while this may be a win for the President heading into the general election, it's also fodder for his challenger, Republican Mitt Romney.
"What the Court did not do on its last day in session, I will do on my first day if elected President of the United States and that is I will act to repeal ObamaCare," said Romney.
But are American voters as divided? Patrick MckKinlay, who chairs the political science department at Morningside College, doesn't think so.
"When you look at polling, the healthcare law doesn't look very popular. But when you break down it's elements – they're very popular, both on the left and on the right," said McKinlay.
The Supreme Court decision might be enough to bring some to the polls come November, but McKinlay's not sure it will have the momentum to keep the attention of voters this election cycle.
"Now what makes this more complex is – how much do you want to focus on this now that it's already been resolved by the courts. Do you want to hear more about this in the campaign or are they [voters] going to want to hear what the candidates have to say about the economy," he said.
That may be the real motivator in getting people to the polls. And only time will tell who this landmark decision will favor this fall.
"What's a win today can be a liability tomorrow... because it's American politics," added McKinlay.
McKinlay encourages people to do their own research about the healthcare law and how it will affect your family. Especially before election day.
