President Donald Trump announced that major reductions in prescription drug prices will be a key focus ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. Describing the initiative as a “shock to the system,” Trump said the effort is intended to provide relief for millions of Americans who face high medication costs each year. He emphasized that lowering prices is a top priority and a long-standing goal of his administration.
As part of the plan, Trump revealed that Pfizer has agreed to offer state Medicaid programs access to its drugs at “most-favored-nation” prices. This approach ensures that the U.S. will pay prices similar to the lowest costs available in other developed countries. Specific examples include an 80 percent reduction for the dermatitis treatment Eucrisa, a 40 percent cut for Xeljanz, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, and a 50 percent discount for the migraine medicine Zavzpret.
Trump noted that this agreement marks the beginning of a broader effort to reduce drug costs nationwide. He added that another major pharmaceutical company is expected to announce similar agreements soon, promising further price reductions for patients. The President framed the initiative as a step toward ending what he called “global freeloading,” where the U.S. historically paid higher prices while other nations benefited from lower costs.
The President also connected the policy to voters’ everyday lives, highlighting its potential influence in the midterm elections. He stressed that Americans will see tangible financial benefits from these price cuts, which could directly affect household budgets. According to Trump, the plan balances fair profits for pharmaceutical companies with more affordable access for U.S. consumers.
