The U.S. House voted 221–205 on Wednesday to move legislation forward that would restore enhanced Obamacare premium subsidies. Nine Republicans joined Democrats, breaking with party leadership and clearing the way for a final vote expected Thursday.
If approved, the bill would extend the Affordable Care Act’s expanded tax credits for three more years. Those subsidies expired at the end of 2025 and helped lower monthly insurance costs for millions of Americans.
Republicans Defy Party Leadership
All Democrats supported the measure. Nine Republicans crossed party lines: Brian Fitzpatrick, Rob Bresnahan, and Ryan Mackenzie of Pennsylvania; Mike Lawler and Nick LaLota of New York; Maria Elvira Salazar of Florida; David Valadao of California; Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey; and Max Miller of Ohio.
Their votes overrode resistance from House Speaker Mike Johnson. He had repeatedly refused to bring the bill to the floor, pointing to GOP divisions and voicing opposition to the subsidy program.
What the Legislation Changes
Supporters say the bill would help keep health insurance affordable as costs continue to rise. Democrats argue the enhanced tax credits prevent coverage losses and stabilize the insurance market.
Critics disagree. They say the subsidies funnel billions to insurance companies and add to federal spending. Similar proposals stalled in the Senate last year after lawmakers failed to agree on a long-term fix.
Senate Outlook and Trump’s Stance
Despite advancing in the House, the bill faces long odds in the Senate. Republican leaders there have shown little interest in reviving the subsidies in their current form.
President Donald Trump has offered a different solution. He has called for healthcare subsidies to go directly to consumers, not insurers. In a recent Truth Social post, Trump said Americans should control the money themselves and choose their own coverage.
Why This Vote Matters
The vote marks the first time this Congress that House Republicans have gone on record over Obamacare’s enhanced subsidies. With healthcare costs front and center for voters, the issue is shaping up as a major political battleground in the months ahead.
About The Author
