Rick Scott

Medicaid Expansion Talk Key in Fla. Governor Race

Expanding Medicaid to an additional 1 million Floridians under President Obama's new health law is turning into one of the biggest issues of this year's gubernatorial race.

Former governor Charlie Crist brings up the topic on most campaign stops and says one of the first things he'll do if elected is call a special session to expand Medicaid. His opponent, incumbent Republican Gov. Rick Scott, seems to be waning in his support.

Scott told The Miami Herald he's open to taking roughly $51 billion over the next decade from the federal government, but only as long as Florida taxpayers aren't left with the bill.

In a surprise move two years ago, Scott said Medicaid expansion was a compassionate, common-sense choice, but he never made it a priority. He has since backed away from his position, saying he wouldn't stand in the way if the Legislature wants to do more.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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