15 years ago today

Hi The,

With everything going on right now, it’s easy to feel like regular folks can’t change this country for the better. But if it could happen 15 years ago, it can happen again.

Today is the 15th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act. Nearly 50 million people have received quality, affordable health care through the ACA. That’s almost one in seven Americans. 

When the Obama Presidential Center opens next year, we’ll be highlighting the advocates and everyday Americans from across the country whose stories helped make the ACA a reality. To mark this milestone, I’d like to give you a behind-the-scenes look at this exhibit. Please take a look:

The ACA taught us that some things are bigger than politics – and making sure people don’t lose their livelihoods when a family member gets sick is one of those things. That’s why we worked so hard to make it happen – and we're not finished yet.

I’ve always said that the ACA is like a starter house: it was a big step forward, but still just a first step. There’s no question that we still have work to do to make sure health care is a right and not a privilege in America. 

When you visit the Obama Presidential Center in 2026, I hope you leave ready to do the work and make a difference. We look forward to seeing you next year, and in the meantime, take a sneak peek at the Museum exhibition.

–Barack