Healthcare as a Human Right Why Medicare for All Must Prevail in California's 26th District

Liam Oneill
Feb 4
3 min read

Health care should never be a privilege reserved for those who can afford it. It must be a right for every person, regardless of income, background, or health status. My name is Liam Hernandez, and I am running for Congress in California’s 26th District because I have lived this reality. I come from an immigrant, working-class family that struggled daily to make ends meet while fearing what would happen if illness struck. This fear is why I stand firmly behind Medicare for All.

Eye-level view of a hospital emergency room entrance with an ambulance parked outside — Emergency room entrance with ambulance parked outside

Growing Up with Real Health Care Fears

My story is not unique in our district. Many families worry about rent, groceries, and what happens if someone gets sick. My family did not have wealth or political connections. We relied on SNAP and SSI to survive. I live with autism and bipolar disorder, so I know firsthand how fragmented and expensive health care can be. The system often feels dehumanizing, especially for people with disabilities or limited income.

One family member suffered a massive “widow-maker” heart attack. They couldn’t afford an ambulance and had to take an Uber to the emergency room. Imagine facing a life-threatening emergency and having to think about cost before calling for help. This is unacceptable. No one should have to gamble with their life because of deductibles, copays, or lack of coverage.

What Medicare for All Means for Our Community

Medicare for All guarantees care for everyone. It eliminates surprise medical bills and removes the impossible choice between health and survival. Mental health care becomes essential care, not an afterthought. Seniors, workers, people with disabilities, and families finally get the dignity they deserve.

Small businesses also benefit. Many struggle under crushing insurance costs that make hiring and growth difficult. Medicare for All frees them from this burden, allowing them to invest in their employees and communities.

Personal Experience Drives My Commitment

Living with autism and bipolar disorder has shown me the gaps in our health care system. It’s not just about access but about quality and respect. People with chronic conditions often face barriers that others do not. The system can be confusing, slow, and expensive. This is why I am committed to changing it from the inside.

I have seen how government programs like SNAP and SSI provide vital support, but they are not enough. Health care must be comprehensive and universal. It must cover physical and mental health equally. It must be affordable and accessible for everyone.

Close-up view of a prescription medication bottle and pills on a table — Prescription medication bottle and pills on table

The Stakes in the 2026 Election

The California Democratic Primary for the 26th Congressional District is on June 2, 2026. This election is a chance to choose leadership that understands health care as a lived reality, not just a talking point. The Democratic nominee will move on to the general election on November 3, 2026.

Our community deserves a representative who will fight for Medicare for All and ensure that health care is a right, not a privilege. This election is about more than politics—it’s about the health and dignity of every person in our district.

What Medicare for All Will Change

Guaranteed care for everyone without worrying about coverage gaps
No surprise medical bills that can ruin families financially
Mental health care treated as essential alongside physical health
Support for seniors, workers, and people with disabilities to live with dignity
Relief for small businesses from high insurance costs, helping local economies grow

These changes are not just policy ideas. They are solutions that will improve lives immediately and for generations.

High angle view of a community health clinic with people waiting outside — Community health clinic with people waiting outside

Moving Forward Together

Our health care system should reflect our values. It should protect the most vulnerable and support everyone’s right to live healthy lives. I bring my personal experience and commitment to this fight because I know what is at stake.

I invite you to join me in making Medicare for All a reality in California’s 26th District. Together, we can build a future where no one fears illness because of cost. Where health care is a right, not a privilege.

Your voice matters in the upcoming primary. Let’s choose leadership that puts people first and ensures health care for all.