House Republican leaders are grappling with the future of health care legislation as key provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) approach expiration on December 31, 2023. During a closed-door conference on Tuesday, Speaker Mike Johnson presented a list of ten potential policies to party members, but no definitive plan emerged. With uncertainty looming, anxiety is rising within the GOP regarding the implications of failing to extend critical Obamacare subsidies.
The discussion at the meeting highlighted divisions within the party, with some members expressing frustration over the lack of a cohesive strategy. Among the proposals discussed were more concrete initiatives, such as an expansion of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and enhanced oversight of pharmaceutical benefit managers. However, other suggestions were less defined, with one point simply labeled “Innovation.” Notably absent from the list were plans to extend the expiring tax credits that support millions of Americans.
The urgency of the situation was underscored by comments from vulnerable members, including Rep. Jen Kiggans of Virginia, who cautioned colleagues about the political repercussions of inaction. “There was a general uneasiness because nothing is coming together,” remarked one House Republican who requested anonymity to discuss the private meeting candidly. Another conservative representative lamented the wasted time, particularly with only seven legislative days remaining in the year.
The lack of consensus was evident as more than 20 GOP members voiced their opinions at the meeting. Hard-line conservatives expressed opposition to extending subsidies unless they were tied to further restrictions on abortion coverage, a stance that could alienate Republicans in competitive districts ahead of the elections next fall. Rep. Ralph Norman from South Carolina confirmed that “there was no consensus” during the discussions.
Despite the internal strife, GOP leaders remain optimistic about advancing some health care-related bills next week. These include measures that are considered less contentious, such as the HSA expansion and funding initiatives aimed at reducing out-of-pocket costs for Obamacare enrollees. However, sources indicate that an extension of the expiring tax credits is unlikely to be included in the forthcoming legislative agenda.
In the meeting, Johnson suggested that discussions around health care might extend into the first half of 2024, just before the midterm elections. As the House GOP navigates these challenges, the stakes remain high, with potential impacts on both the party’s electoral prospects and the health care coverage of millions of Americans.
Contributions to this report were made by Mia McCarthy and Benjamin Guggenheim.
