Sen. Gallego Clashes with CNBC Host Over Obamacare Subsidies

PHOENIX, Arizona — Democratic Senator Ruben Gallego confronted CNBC host Joe Kernen on Monday over a question regarding the party’s push for an extension of Obamacare subsidies.

During an appearance on Squawk Box, Kernen questioned Gallego about the Democratic demand for $1.5 trillion to reopen the government. “But what’s the $1.5 trillion, Senator?” Kernen asked. “You could extend those for one year, you could extend the Obamacare subsidies for $40 billion. For 10 years, you can do it for [$340] billion.”

In response, Gallego challenged Kernen’s line of questioning. “I’m sorry, are you an insurance broker?” he asked, as Kernen pressed for clarity on the $1.5 trillion figure. Kernen countered, insisting, “That’s not germane to this, Senator,” prompting Gallego to question his expertise.

As the conversation escalated, Gallego emphasized the importance of extending the Affordable Care Act‘s provisions to prevent average Americans from facing higher premiums. “We’re not demanding anything,” he said, labeling Kernen’s inquiry as a Republican talking point. “All I want is for the Affordable Care Act to be extended for Americans so 24 million people do not get their premiums doubled.”

The interview also touched on the refusal of Senate Democrats to vote on House Speaker Mike Johnson‘s bill concerning government funding. Gallego criticized the proposal, stating, “Let’s be honest, this president is quite temperamental. He acts like a child.”

In a statement released after the interview, Gallego’s press secretary Jacques Petit said, “Senator Gallego will not back down at Republicans allowing health insurance premiums to skyrocket for 24 million Americans.” Open enrollment for Obamacare begins on Nov. 1, and Democrats are warning that without an extension of enhanced subsidies, many Americans will see their healthcare costs rise significantly.

The dispute arises as the government shutdown now enters its fourth week, with Democrats firmly opposing any spending bills that do not continue funding for the subsidies in question.