Why one nurse is running for Congress

It’s no secret that health care has been a key election issue — Democrats are promising to defend the Affordable Care Act and expand coverage, while Republicans are warning that Medicare for All puts seniors at risk. So where do we stand a month away from the midterms? First, POLITICO's Adam Cancryn joins Dan Diamond to break down the latest campaign messaging on health care and several key battles. (Starts at the 1:45 mark.) Then, Lauren Underwood — a nurse, a former HHS staffer and a first-time candidate for the House of Representatives — explains why she's running for Congress, in a competitive Illinois race. (Starts at the 16:45 mark.) (Note: POLITICO reached out to Underwood's opponent, Rep. Randy Hultgren, but has been unable to book him on the show.) It's not too early to cast a vote for PULSE CHECK: Please rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email [email protected]. MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Writing in POLITICO, Adam's story on Republicans using misleading health care ads to attack Democrats. POLITICO's Alice Miranda Ollstein wrote about congressional candidates — including Lauren Underwood — campaigning on their own pre-existing conditions. The New York Times/Siena College poll of Lauren Underwood's race against Rep. Randy Hultgren. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices