WASHINGTON— A new ad from AARP highlights the historic opportunity before Congress to finally bring down prescription drug prices. Nearly nine out of ten voters (87%) support the central pillar of this legislation, which will finally allow Medicare to negotiate the prices of prescription medicines. AARP’s ad says:

“For too long, Big Pharma has been squeezing Americans for every penny. And inflation has only added to the pain. But Congress has a historic opportunity to deliver relief by passing a bill to let Medicare negotiate lower drug prices and put money back in the pockets of seniors. Eighty-seven percent of Americans support the plan and applaud the senators who are standing up to Big Pharma. Let’s make history. Vote yes to let Medicare negotiate lower drug prices.”

The ads will air on DC area cable channels July 21 through August 5. This $1M buy is the latest in AARP’s long-standing Fair Rx Prices Now campaign. In addition to advertising, AARP’s 38 million members have been calling and emailing Congress to urge action. Many shared their stories in a recent People’s Hearing hosted by AARP, talking about how high prescription drug prices force them to skip needed medications or cut back on other essentials like housing and food.

“Seniors are hurting from the rising cost of groceries and gas – and they’ve already suffered for years at the pharmacy counter,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer. “Congress is on the verge of passing reforms that will finally allow Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and put a cap on seniors’ out-of-pocket spending for prescriptions. We urge the Senate to stand up to Big Pharma and their army of lobbyists and pass this historic legislation.”

AARP research has shown that the prices of brand name prescription drugs rose faster than inflation in every year from 2006 to 2020, even during the pandemic. Americans pay three times more for their drugs than people in other countries. The Congressional Budget Office reports the provisions in the bill will save nearly $288 billion over 10 years, highlighting the extent to which drug company pricing practices have been gouging American consumers and taxpayers.

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About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org, www.aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.