Internet Explorer 11 is not supported

For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers.

Romney Concedes His Healthcare Plan Didn't Reduce Costs As Expected

Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney conceded during Tuesday's GOP presidential debate that his healthcare plan for the state had failed to lower costs.

Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, the presumed frontrunner for the GOP presidential nomination, admitted during Tuesday's debate in Las Vegas that his healthcare reform plan didn't lower costs as expected, The Hill reports.

Romney responded to jabs from former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum that Massachusetts officials were searching for new ways to cut healthcare costs, five years after Romney signed his signature plan to reform the state's health care system.

"It's absolutely right that there's a lot that needs to be done -- and I didn't get the job done in Massachusetts -- and getting the healthcare costs down in this country is something I think we've got to do at the national level, and I intend to do that," Romney said.

Earlier this year, current Gov. Deval Patrick signed legislation that aims to control the costs for small businesses and individuals. According to the governor's office, the plan will save $100 million annually. An official state study conducted this summer concluded that healthcare costs in the state continue to outpace economic growth.

Romney has consistently stated during debates that his plan was right for his state, but the Affordable Care Act, which bears many similarities, was the wrong approach for the nation, according to The Hill.

Dylan Scott is a GOVERNING staff writer.
Special Projects