More insurers joining ObamaCare

A growing number of insurers say they intend to offer coverage on the ObamaCare exchanges next year.

Insurance plans in New Hampshire, Michigan and Illinois are planning to enter into the federal marketplaces after deciding not to participate during ObamaCare’s first enrollment period, according to news reports.

In New Hampshire, the number of ObamaCare insurers is set to rise from one to five next year; from 13 to 18 in Michigan; and from six to 10 in Illinois.

The White House seized on the growing participation in ObamaCare to argue the law is succeeding.

nope. RT: @charlesornstein Insurers flocking to offer ACA coverage in MI next yr. I guess they're not fleeing market. http://t.co/YOXsZ5Ox3G

— Eric Schultz (@Schultz44) June 12, 2014

Democrats are particularly keen to tout the news from New Hampshire and Michigan, which are important states in the battle for the Senate

HealthPocket, a consumer research group, says many insurers who initially held back from joining the new exchanges are angling to get involved after the first year’s enrollment total surpassed expectations.

However, insurers have been charging higher premiums off the exchanges, which means they will likely have to lower their prices after they join to stay competitive with other health plans.

The White House also highlighted that several states, including Washington and Kentucky, have reported significant drops in the number of uninsured.

Truly amazing ACA news. Kentucky cuts uninsured rate in half!! Congratulations to @GovSteveBeshear and @kynectky! http://t.co/e52KF7NN72

— David Simas (@Simas44) June 12, 2014

Republicans have vowed to use the healthcare law against Democrats in the midterm elections, and they argue the system has not lived up to President Obama’s promise of providing affordable coverage.