As organizations dedicated to protecting and advancing access to health coverage and care, we collectively congratulate the winners of the recent election. During this election cycle, we saw health care access front and center in campaigns and across the state. This is a promising sign of the work to come, and assures us that the leaders elected last week are deeply committed to ensuring our health care coverage system works for all Georgians.

The work ahead for these leaders will not be easy—they will be sworn in amid a dire reality for many in Georgia facing health coverage challenges. Georgia has one of the highest uninsured rates in the nation, with over 1.3 million people estimated to be without health care coverage. Coverage for those who have it is becoming increasingly expensive because of recent federal policy changes.

Our organizations stand ready to work with the incoming Governor, executive branch officials, the state Senate, the state House of Representatives, and all of their staff as they design and execute plans for a brighter future for Georgia. We look forward to working with these leaders to build a system in which all Georgians get the care they need to thrive.