Khanna Advocates for Bipartisan Drug Price Reform

In a surprising move, D-Calif Rep. Ro Khanna, who has been critical of President Donald Trump’s policies on tariffs and deportations, is now calling for collaboration on drug pricing reforms due to Trump’s recent executive order aimed at lowering prescription drug prices. This shift indicates a willingness among some lawmakers in Silicon Valley to set aside political differences for the sake of beneficial policy.

On Wednesday, Khanna proposed legislation to formally adopt Trump’s executive order. He urged his fellow Democrats to reach out to Republicans in a collective effort to alleviate costs for Americans.

“Trump’s order indicates that Americans should not bear unnecessarily high costs compared to people in other countries,” Khanna remarked in an exclusive discussion with Fox News Digital. His rationale emphasizes that the president’s initiative allows Cabinet Secretaries to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for pricing practices. Khanna recalled similar attempts made during Trump’s first term, which sought Republican support.

Despite the divisive political climate after Democrats lost the White House and failed to regain the House last year, Khanna insists he’s open to Trump’s proposals if they genuinely benefit the public. “If it helps Americans, I won’t block it just to score political points,” he stated.

2028 Aspirations and Competition

Khanna is positioning himself as a potential presidential candidate for 2028, engaging actively with the public to share his vision. He notes that others like D-Mich Gov. Gretchen Whitmer share similar ambitions and face their own challenges in navigating party dynamics to confront Trump.

“For me, the question is simple. If a proposal from Trump can help the American people, we should pursue it,” Khanna explained. “Political victories shouldn’t overshadow what ultimately serves the public good.” He acknowledged no direct dialogue with Trump regarding the order but mentioned his recent speech on the House floor, encouraging bipartisan action to tackle drug prices.

Khanna questions why Republicans wouldn’t back this initiative. Previously, he highlighted his similar objectives alongside Senator Bernie Sanders, aimed specifically at lowering drug costs for Americans. “Why are we letting lobbyists dictate prices when other countries pay far less?” he pondered.

Having previously represented Biden’s reelection efforts in 2024, Khanna is now critical of the current administration’s direction, suggesting a need for accountability. “I think we need to be transparent about where we’re heading,” he remarked. “Perhaps there should have been a more open primary discussion.” He expressed concerns about Biden’s viability going forward, stating, “We must be honest as a party; not doing so is a mistake.”