Final answer:
The ACA significantly reduced the uninsured rate in the U.S., but has faced challenges and political opposition due to increased costs and taxes. Despite reducing the uninsured population, political efforts to repeal or alter the ACA create uncertainties regarding its long-term impact and legacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been significant regarding the increase in the number of Americans with health insurance coverage. Before the ACA's implementation, about 16% of the US population was uninsured, but by 2016, only about 8.8% had no insurance coverage. Nevertheless, the Act has faced notable challenges, including an increased cost for premium health insurance plans, higher Medicare taxes on the wealthy, and increased deficit spending, leading to substantial political opposition. The previous administration under Donald Trump had vowed to repeal the ACA; however, no alternative plan was established. The successes and failures of the ACA continue to be debated, and with America still grappling with uninsured and underinsured individuals, the final outcome of the Act remains uncertain.