RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - This week's groundswell of political change in Virginia has improved the odds of Medicaid expansion becoming law there. The long-stalled liberal priority gained new life after Democrats nearly wiped out Republicans' overwhelming majority in the House of Delegates.
It had repeatedly failed when Republicans controlled two-thirds of the chamber.
Control of the House is still up in the air, with a couple of close races yet to be called. Democrats say they believe they can get Medicaid expansion passed even if Republicans retain a slim majority. Gov.-elect Ralph Northam said he's going to make it a top priority.
Republican leaders say they still oppose expanding the health care program for the poor, saying its long-term costs are too high.
Meanwhile, Medicaid expansion also won voter approval in a Maine referendum.