US Congress Faces Funding Bill Deadlock Over Health Care Subsidies

The U.S. House of Representatives, led by Republicans, is working on a stopgap funding bill intended to prevent a government shutdown by funding federal agencies through November 21 and increasing security appropriations for government officials. The legislation faces opposition from House Democrats, who are unlikely to support it due to its exclusion of expanded health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which are at risk if Congress does not act before the September 30 deadline.

House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed confidence that the bill would pass in the House despite some Republican members indicating hesitation or opposition. The support of at least two GOP lawmakers can be lost while still allowing passage. Former President Donald Trump has publicly encouraged Republicans to unite and pass the clean continuing resolution.

In the Senate, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer warned that Democrats will not support the Republican bill, citing concerns over its impact on health care access and costs. Senate Democrats introduced a competing bill extending funding through October 31, which includes provisions to reverse recent Medicaid changes and extend ACA subsidies, along with increased funding for security of lawmakers, executives, and judiciary members.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune criticized the Democratic proposal as overly partisan and a reversal of previous strategies. The divide over health care subsidies creates tension among Republicans, some of whom acknowledge the popularity of ACA subsidies and the need to support working-class Americans' health care coverage.

The standoff reflects broader partisan challenges in passing funding legislation and navigating policy issues such as health care coverage and government security funding. Senate leadership has indicated willingness to allow votes on both Republican and Democratic proposals, underscoring the uncertainty around final passage and the ongoing negotiations to avert a government shutdown.