Now’s the time for the GOP to lead an overhaul of Big Pharma

Political trifectas — when one party controls the Senate, House and presidency or governorship — offer a rare chance to enact sweeping reforms. Last session, at the state level, the DFL took full advantage of its trifecta to pass landmark legislation, from paid family leave to tax credits that directly benefit working families. Now, Republicans at the federal level find themselves in a similar position to deliver on long-promised reforms — starting with reining in Big Pharma.

Republican or Democrat, young or old, nearly all Americans agree that Big Pharma’s predatory practices are bankrupting patients in need of life-saving medications. From everyday asthma inhalers to critical cancer drugs, pharmaceutical companies hike prices year after year, often without clinical justification. In December, Big Pharma raised the price of nearly 250 prescription drugs. Some increases have exceeded a shocking 5,000%.

This crisis is unique to the United States. Research from the RAND Institute found that Americans pay up to three times more for prescription drugs than people in other wealthier countries. Take GLP-1 medications, used for diabetes and weight loss, as an example. While these drugs cost less than $5 per month to manufacture, Americans pay close to $1,000 monthly in some instances — a glaring example of profits over patients.

This issue is not just about affordability; it’s about fairness. While Big Pharma rakes in billions, they reinvest little to benefit everyday Americans. In 2022, pharmaceutical companies spent $36 billion more on advertising than on research and development. On top of this, they exploit tax loopholes, paying approximately 10% in taxes while hardworking families struggle to afford everyday essentials.

Prescription drugs aren’t a luxury; they are a necessity for millions of Americans. When 55% of Americans share that they are worried about affording prescription drugs for them and their families, it’s time to overhaul Big Pharma.

Big Pharma’s influence doesn’t stop at the pharmacy counter. These companies spend millions lobbying against legislation that could lower drug costs. The revolving door between pharmaceutical companies and federal agencies allows Big Pharma to operate unchecked, prioritizing profits over public health.

Now, the new administration with Republican majorities in either chamber whether you supported it or not has a chance to make meaningful changes for Americans when it comes to pharmaceutical drug prices. President Trump campaigned on “Making America Healthy Again”; now, he has the opportunity to fulfill this pledge by reigning in Big Pharma’s abuses. When high costs prevent roughly a quarter of Americans from taking their prescription drugs as prescribed, America can’t be healthy again. Reform is needed and overdue.

At the federal level, with narrow Republican control of Congress, Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., will play a critical role in shaping and advancing reforms. As majority whip, he has the influence to guide legislation that holds pharmaceutical companies accountable and puts patients first.

Emmer should ensure that Big Pharma’s predatory practices are halted, and reform is a part of the GOP’s agenda. Capping drug prices, making them pay their fair share and ending the revolving door between Big Pharma and the government will save everyday Americans from financial ruin.

Americans are counting on bold action to fix our broken healthcare system. Whether you personally did or not, our nation has voted for a GOP trifecta. It’s well past time for Congress to put people over profits and ensure that no American must choose between their health and their livelihood — and Emmer and the trifecta has the chance to do just that.

Bridget Klosterman is a health advocate and professional for nonprofit organizations that offer services related to child development, healthy lifestyle and well-being.

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