Liberal groups come out swinging against the drug industry 

Progressive activists are holding protests and events in 32 states today for what they’re calling a “People Over Pharma Profits Day of Action.” It’s the biggest action to date by a nascent coalition called “Lower Drug Prices Now,” which includes labor unions like the AFL-CIO, health care groups like Families USA and liberal political groups like MoveOn and Other 98%. 

The activists are aiming big. “Tweaks, work-arounds, and half-measures aren’t enough ... we need an overhaul that ends drug companies’ monopoly power to set prices,” reads an online guide for those taking part in today’s protests. They’re also pushing for Congress to reject President Trump’s renegotiated trade deal with Canada and Mexico over concerns that it would lock in long exclusivity protections for biologic drugs.

Among the events scheduled today: a press conference with Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wis.) and a rally with Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.).