LAS VEGAS (FOX5) -
The United States Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act will most certainly have some effect on the upcoming presidential election. And with Nevada serving as a battleground state, the issue is sure to be discussed over the next few months.
"I'm glad they did that. That does make my day," said Henderson resident Rebecca Burnside, upon learning of the Supreme Court's decision Thursday.
Burnside said she has been searching for a job the past two years. Like many Nevadans, she is also trying to support a family - in this case, a daughter who is racking up student loans.
"We've been without health insurance for a while, so I'm hoping when all the things are in place, that our family will actually have some," she said.
Her mind is made up as to who she's voting for this November, and a similar sentiment is felt by many others.
"I'd already made my decision, so I don't think (the Supreme Court) really affected it," said Heather Crews.
Nevada is a key battleground state that went to President Barack Obama in 2008. Four years later, there are plenty of issues on the table outside of healthcare, including housing and jobs.
"(Healthcare) is an important issue, but it's never going to be overshadowed by the state of the economy," said FOX5 political analyst Mitch Fox, who adds that the trouble for Nevadans, and Americans in general, is that few understand exactly what the Affordable Care Act means to them.
Those who are passionate said it means a lot.
"I think jobs just took a second seat to healthcare," said valley resident Bob Orgill. "This will be one issue on either side. I think it will make a lot of people's mind up on who they're going to vote for."
Orgill, who proudly described himself as a Republican, said he was more surprised that Chief Justice John Roberts sided with the legislation.
Fox, meanwhile, points out that regardless of the issue, Nevada voters may be more inclined to head to the polls this time around.
"Many people think that the presidential race will be decided in Nevada," he said. "Voters here in the Silver State definitely believe that jobs, housing, the unemployment picture, the economy - all that trumps Obamacare and healthcare."
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