Connect For Health Colorado, the state’s official health insurance marketplace, named Nina Schwartz as its new chief policy and external affairs officer.

Schwartz’ appointment comes amidst congressional debate over federal spending cuts which might jeopardize Medicaid. The U.S. House budget resolution calls for $880 billion in deficit reduction over 10 years from the section of the budget overseen by the Energy and Commerce Committee. House Republicans have maintained that the word “Medicaid” does not appear in the resolution, but they would need to cut the program in order to achieve the targeted deficit.

The GOP is weighing policy options, such as work requirements and Medicaid provider taxes, that would cut federal funding for the program without disrupting enrollee benefits. Democrats, meanwhile, have emphasized defense of Medicaid as their chief health policy position.

In her new role, Schwartz will be in charge of organization-wide policy, communication, marketing, government relations, enrollment assistance, and community engagement, according to a Wednesday news release. Schwartz has worked for Connect for Health Colorado since 2020, previously serving in other administrative roles to develop policy and marketing strategy.

“Nina is an intelligent, thoughtful, strategic leader. She leads with integrity; has a deep understanding of policy; and has a tremendous ability to cultivate relationships in government, community, media and beyond,” said Kevin Patterson, the CEO of Connect for Health Colorado.

The nonprofit’s mission is to increase access and affordability for individuals who don’t receive health coverage through Medicaid, Medicare, or an employer.