The Republican Party’s plan to let Obamacare subsidies expire is facing fierce opposition from lawmakers who fear severe political repercussions, despite President Trump’s promise to “give the money to the people.” Senate Republicans have proposed a vote on Thursday that would allow the subsidies to lapse, while House GOP leaders scramble to cobble together a health care framework. Despite internal divisions, many lawmakers are pushing for an extension of the tax credits, which can cut premiums by $1,000 a year or more. The party’s leadership is under pressure from Trump and his advisors to reject the idea, but some are warning that it would harm Americans and make for political disaster.
With the Dec. 31 expiration of the tax credits looming, lawmakers are racing against time to come up with an alternative plan. Some propose short-term patches or extensions, while others advocate for a complete overhaul of the health care system. The White House remains divided on the issue, with some officials supporting an extension and others pushing for it to expire.
Despite the internal divisions, many Republicans fear that voting to upend the health care system would be a major liability in upcoming elections. “We can agree that the current construct is flawed,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), “but letting them expire is not acceptable.” Fitzpatrick’s bill would extend the tax credits for two years while imposing an income cap and other eligibility restrictions.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has announced plans to unveil a GOP health plan, but it remains unclear whether it will include an extension of the subsidies. Senior House Republicans have expressed concerns about the leadership style and the lack of clear guidance from the White House on this issue. The party’s internal divisions are putting pressure on lawmakers to take action before the end of next week.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/12/09/gop-obamacare-subsidies-expire-00684115?font_scale=1.0