President Biden on Tuesday highlighted his administration's efforts to lower prescription drug costs as he looks to cement his legacy in the final months of his term.
At an event in New Hampshire with Sen. Bernie Sanders (R-Vt.) and other Democrats, Mr. IRA).
Biden called it an important victory for the pharmaceutical industry.
“It was a hell of a fight,” Biden said. “We defeated special interests and served the American people.”
The administration announced new negotiated prices for the 10 most expensive drugs this year, but they are not expected to take effect until 2026. Biden also touted the cost of insulin for Medicare recipients, which is currently capped at $35 a month.
Both Biden and Vice President Harris support expanding this cap to everyone.
Tuesday's event comes two weeks before Election Day and less than three months until Biden leaves office.
Mr. Biden went off script in his remarks, praising the efforts of Mr. Harris, his Democratic nominee and potential successor, to pass the IRA.
“By the way, Mr. Kamala, please cast the tie-breaking vote,” Biden said. “Don't tell me your vote means nothing.”
During the event, Biden also criticized former President Trump for claiming he had a “vision for a plan” to replace the Affordable Care Act.
“I've been hearing the concept of that plan for almost eight years. The concept of the plan. What the hell is a concept? He has no concept. There's no plan,” Biden said.
Biden said President Trump could cut health insurance for tens of millions of people “if we don't elect Kamala.”
Biden also called on Congress to permanently expand tax credits to help tens of millions of Obamacare enrollees pay their premiums.
The subsidy was scheduled to expire in 2022, but was extended until 2025 as part of the IRA. Whoever controls Congress after the November election will be able to decide whether to let it expire or seek a permanent extension.
