LOMA LINDA, CA - Today, Rep. Jay Olbernolte (CA-23) voted to block debate on legislation that would lower surging healthcare costs by extending expired healthcare subsidies that helped families afford their insurance premiums. By allowing these subsidies to expire, Rep. Olbernolte caused premiums to rise sharply, forcing families across California’s 23rd Congressional District to pay $500, $800, or even $1,000 more each month. This has caused many to make painful choices between healthcare, rent, and groceries. Following his vote today, Dr. Karen Matthews, Independent candidate for Congress, released the following statement:

“Congressman Obernolte today voted to stop Congress from even talking about lowering healthcare costs for families across the twenty-third district.

“I have seen what happens when healthcare gets too expensive. People take less medicine. Parents skip doctor visits. Families in our district could see their monthly costs go up by $500, $800, or even $1,000.

“That is rent money. That is grocery money. That is whether a child can stay in sports.

“The worst part is that this did not have to be a party fight. Some Republicans were ready to vote yes, but Congressman Obernolte voted with the most extreme members of his party, not with families here.

“Congressman Obernolte may be a nice guy, but that does not pay medical bills. What matters is how he votes - and his votes hurt families here.

“I am tired of Congress playing games while people struggle. If you send me to Washington, I will work with anyone who wants to lower healthcare costs and make life more affordable.”

Born in Loma Linda, Karen Matthews earned her degree in physical therapy, became a doctor, and joined the U.S. Navy, serving for 22 years. She rose through the ranks as a radiologist, preventive medicine specialist, data systems innovator, global health leader, and senior policy advisor at the Department of Health and Human Services, working at the Pentagon helping lead the Navy’s health tech modernization deliver care more efficiently and save taxpayer dollars. After leaving the Navy, Dr. Matthews started a small business to help veterans get the benefits they deserve. Dr. Matthews is now running for Congress to fix the broken status quo that has caused rising rent, higher costs, and paychecks that aren’t keeping up for families across California’s 23rd Congressional district. To learn more, visit www.MatthewsforCongress.com.  

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