House Votes on Funding Bill Amid Health Care Tensions

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans are pushing a funding bill to avoid a government shutdown as the September 30 deadline approaches. The bill, which funds federal agencies through November 21, includes increased security funding for lawmakers in light of recent violent incidents.

Despite Republican confidence, few Democrats are expected to support the measure. They demand a plan to renew expiring health care subsidies that help millions afford coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed optimism on Thursday, stating, “We’re going to get this government funded.” He emphasized that extending government funding is crucial for appropriators to do their work.

Democratic leaders argue that the stakes are higher this time. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York declared, “We will not support a partisan spending bill that continues to gut healthcare.” He warned that without an extension of the ACA subsidies, millions face losing their health care coverage.

This funding debate is complicated by internal divisions within the Republican Party. Some GOP members, including Representatives Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene, have expressed hesitance regarding the bill. Massie said, “I think they’ll get it passed… there’ll be some squabbles.” Former President Donald Trump has voiced support for the short-term funding bill, urging Republicans to unify against Democratic opposition.

On the Senate side, Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that Democrats will not provide the necessary votes to advance the funding bill, emphasizing the need for negotiations on health care. He remarked, “Americans are tired of the failed, chaotic, high-cost status quo,” criticizing the GOP for not including health provisions sought by Democrats.

Additionally, both chambers are under pressure from their respective bases. Some centrist Democrats might be willing to support a funding bill if concrete healthcare provisions are discussed. Schumer accused Republicans of refusing to negotiate, saying, “If one side refuses to negotiate, they are the ones causing the shutdown.”

As negotiations continue, the fate of government funding hangs in the balance. The Senate is preparing to consider both the Republican bill and a contrasting proposal from Democrats that seeks to extend health care subsidies and maintain current funding levels through October 31.

Speaker Johnson has not ruled out addressing the ACA subsidies later but believes it should not be part of this funding debate.