Throughout the shutdown, Republicans insisted they’d be willing to discuss expiring Obamacare subsidies just as soon as Democrats reopened government.
Republicans return to the Capitol Monday with their first real chance to prove they’re serious. With open enrollment already underway and new rates taking effect in 45 days, Republicans and Democrats have little time to find a solution to premiums that are doubling or even tripling for some Obamacare enrollees. And so far, the GOP has yet to coalesce around a plan.
Vulnerable Republicans have signaled support for a solution like a temporary extension, knowing that coming up with a broader response could take months — or even years — and still leave Obamacare enrollees with higher prices. Trump and other Republicans have floated a number of different proposals, from smaller changes like adding income caps to the Affordable Care Act subsidies to more extensive overhauls like reintroducing high-risk pools or sending money directly to Americans. And plenty of Republicans like the idea of sending funding to Americans, arguing that the current enhanced tax credits aren’t working.
At the moment, Democrats can point the finger at Republicans for the premium increases and argue it’s all a result of the GOP's unwillingness to extend the subsidies.
This is a preview of Kevin Frey and Mychael Schnell's latest article. Read the full article here.
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