"Speaker Mike Johnson had a ready-made refrain when asked why Republicans weren't moving to extend federal health care subsidies: their party wanted to help 100% of Americans with their costs, not just the 7% of Americans enrolled in Affordable Care Act plans. But not 100% of his conference agreed. A rare revolt from the moderate wing of the party has upended Johnson's plans."
"For Democrats, it was vindication of a months-long strategy, starting with the government shutdown in the fall, that pushed the expiration of the ACA support to the forefront of politics. Republicans from competitive districts most at risk of losing their seats in next year's midterms felt the political pressure as they heard from constituents about their skyrocketing premiums. 'Nothing has changed with House Republican leadership, but something has changed within their own ranks,' said Rep. Pete Aguilar, chair of the House Democratic Caucus."
"The impasse left lawmakers with a cliffhanger as they headed home for the holiday break. Flanked by his caucus Thursday on the Capitol steps, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries demanded that Johnson allow a vote on the three-year extension of ACA subsidies before lawmakers leave for the holidays: 'Not tomorrow. Not next week. Not next year. Today.' Johnson refused, saying it will 'be on the floor that first week of January when we return.'"
A group of moderate Republicans signed a Democratic discharge petition guaranteeing a House vote in January on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies for three years. The move countered Speaker Mike Johnson's stance that Republicans prioritize helping all Americans rather than only ACA enrollees. Months of Democratic pressure, including focus during the government shutdown, and constituent complaints about soaring premiums drove vulnerable Republicans to act. House Democratic leaders pressed for an immediate vote, while Republican leadership deferred to the first week of January. The dispute leaves lawmakers in limbo and transfers the battle to the Senate.
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