TrumpRx & Drug Costs: Poll Shows Doubt, Worry & Demand for Regulation
Public Concern Over Drug Costs Persists Despite New Initiatives
A recent KFF poll reveals a growing unease among U.S. Adults regarding the affordability of prescription medications, with 59% expressing worry about covering costs for themselves and their families – the highest percentage since KFF began tracking this metric in 2018. This concern is particularly acute for those with lower incomes (under $40,000 annually, where 67% are worried) and individuals taking four or more prescription drugs (64% worried). The findings come amid renewed efforts by the Trump administration to lower drug prices, including the launch of TrumpRx, a website offering discounts on select medications.
Partisan Divide and Limited Impact of TrumpRx
While the Trump administration aims to alleviate the financial burden of prescription drugs, public confidence in its policies is sharply divided along partisan lines. Approximately 41% of U.S. Adults believe the administration’s efforts will lower their drug costs, but this sentiment is largely concentrated among Republicans (79%) and supporters of the “Make America Great Again” movement (88%). Independents (35%) and Democrats (11%) are far less optimistic. Despite this skepticism, a significant majority of Americans – across party lines – agree on the need for increased government regulation of prescription drug pricing. Around 72% believe there isn’t enough regulation in place to limit costs, with at least two-thirds of Republicans, Democrats, and independents sharing this view.
Awareness of TrumpRx itself is growing, but remains limited. Currently, 35% of those who take prescription medication have heard “a lot” or “some” about the website, up from 18% in November 2025. However, actual usage is still low, with only 7% having visited the site to compare prices. Interest is slightly higher among those who take or have taken GLP-1 medications – a class of drugs gaining prominence for weight loss and chronic conditions – with 16% having explored TrumpRx for potential discounts. The website currently lists at least four major GLP-1 medications among its 43 available drugs. 1
Cost-Saving Measures and Growing Financial Strain
Even before the launch of TrumpRx, many Americans were actively seeking ways to reduce their prescription drug expenses. Approximately 42% have used discount coupons or cards (like those offered by GoodRx or SingleCare), and 39% have compared prices online. However, a substantial number are resorting to more drastic measures due to cost concerns. Roughly 43% of U.S. Adults report having altered their medication regimen in the past year due to financial constraints, including taking over-the-counter alternatives (31%), skipping prescriptions altogether (27%), or cutting pills in half or skipping doses (19%). These measures are disproportionately common among lower-income, uninsured, Black, and Hispanic adults.
These figures represent an increase from KFF polls conducted three years ago, indicating a worsening trend in medication affordability. The situation is particularly concerning for those taking multiple medications, with 64% of individuals on four or more prescriptions expressing worry about costs. While Medicare beneficiaries generally have prescription drug coverage through Part D, a significant portion still express concern, with rates remaining consistent since 2018. Recent policy changes within the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 aim to improve Medicare Part D coverage, but the full impact of these changes is still unfolding.
The Role of Regulation and the Path Forward
The widespread desire for greater government regulation of prescription drug prices underscores a growing public frustration with the current system. The KFF poll highlights a broad consensus that the market is not adequately controlling costs. This sentiment extends to those currently taking medication, with over three-quarters (77%) believing more regulation is needed. This demand for intervention comes as the 2026 midterm elections approach, and the Democratic Party currently holds a slight advantage in voter trust when it comes to addressing healthcare and prescription drug costs. Nearly 38% of voters trust the Democratic Party more on this issue, compared to 28% who favor the Republican Party. However, a significant 27% express distrust in both parties, suggesting a widespread desire for meaningful change.
Beyond direct price controls, potential solutions include negotiating drug prices through Medicare, increasing transparency in pharmaceutical pricing, and promoting competition among drug manufacturers. The effectiveness of these approaches remains a subject of ongoing debate among economists and policymakers. TrumpRx represents one attempt to address affordability, but its long-term impact remains to be seen.
Looking ahead, continued monitoring of prescription drug costs, public opinion, and the effectiveness of various policy interventions will be crucial. Further research is needed to understand the complex factors driving drug prices and to identify sustainable solutions that ensure access to affordable medications for all Americans. Individuals struggling to afford their medications are encouraged to explore available resources, such as patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies and discount cards from third-party platforms. It’s too essential to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss potential alternatives or strategies for managing medication costs.