Biden and Harris announce lower drug costs

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) – At their first joint event since President Biden withdrew his candidacy for re-election, the President and Vice President Kamala Harris touted their efforts to lower prescription drug costs for seniors.

Biden and Harris traveled to a Maryland suburb to announce what they called a “historic” deal to lower the prices of 10 drugs for seniors.

The White House says seniors will save about $1.5 billion in out-of-pocket costs when new prices for 10 commonly prescribed drugs – including Eliquis – used to treat blood clots go into effect next year. Jardiance and Farxiga – two drugs used to treat diabetes – are also on the list.

“Overall, our reform has not only saved lives,” Biden said. “It is saving taxpayers billions of dollars.”

Vice President Harris also made a lap of honor today and greeted President Biden.

“I could talk all afternoon about the person I'm standing on this stage with,” Harris said, standing next to Biden.

Harris argued that millions of older Americans and people on fixed incomes benefited from the first Medicare drug price negotiations authorized by the Inflation Reduction Act.

“And now Medicare can use its collective bargaining power, thanks, Joe,” Harris said.

The White House said cost-cutting measures, such as capping insulin costs, would resonate with voters. Harris is expected to detail her economic agenda on Friday in the swing state of North Carolina.

On Wednesday, former President Trump also spoke about the economy, which remains the most important issue for most voters.

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