TR: What are some of the things you’re paying particular attention to this year, especially given that it’s an election year?
Adam: From this point on, a lot of what will be further accomplished this year in Congress will be taking place in the lame-duck session after the election. How many rheumatology priorities will we manage to get included in any large, year-end legislative package in Congress? There are major opportunities here, but the list of potential issues to address keeps growing, too.
Colby: I’m curious about what Congress is going to do with Medicare reimbursement. Also, many of the telehealth flexibilities that were put in place during the pandemic will expire at the end of the year unless legislative or regulatory actions are taken to extend the waivers or make them permanent.
Joseph: Because most state legislatures are out of session already, I am thinking about the potential impacts of the upcoming elections. Although most of the attention will be paid to the two candidates at the top of the presidential ticket, I think the most interesting thing to watch will be the impacts of the presidential nominees on the down-ballot candidates. If enthusiasm is low for either candidate, we could have some surprises on Election Day that could shake up leadership at the state level. That could open up some opportunities or create difficulties for our priorities at the state level next year. I also like to watch voter trends. One trend we have seen over the past few presidential cycles is an increase in split-ticket voting. I think this year that trend may reverse, and we may see dissatisfied voters just stay home.
Ashley: I’ll be paying particular attention to congressional races during election season. The makeup of the House and Senate chambers impacts the landscape in which legislation, and our priorities, move through Congress. I also have my eyes on the lame-duck season after the election because it presents a unique environment to move policy through Congress in potential end-of-year packages.
TR: What’s something you’re looking forward to this summer outside work?
Paige: I’m looking forward to enjoying summer produce and time on my front porch.
Adam: Definitely looking forward to travel and exploring new hiking trails.
Joseph: I’m a big DIYer. I am currently working on an extensive backyard renovation project, and I’m really looking forward to getting that completed. After that is done, I’m looking forward to doing some traveling with my wife and three daughters later in the summer.
