Article Summary –
The U.S. House of Representatives voted 230-196 to restore the advance premium tax credit, which previously helped 22 million Americans afford health insurance premiums, for 2026 through 2028, despite opposition from President Trump and some Republican House leaders. The bill, authored by Democratic Rep. James McGovern, received unanimous support from Democratic representatives and backing from 17 Republicans, but is unlikely to pass in the Senate due to a Republican filibuster blocking a similar proposal. A KFF Health Tracking Poll indicates that 74% of Americans support extending these tax credits, highlighting the political pressure Republicans face, as health insurance premiums have risen significantly in states like Michigan.
The U.S. House of Representatives voted 230-196 on Jan. 8 to reinstate a popular tax credit aiding 22 million Americans with health insurance costs. The vote counters President Donald Trump and Republican House leaders’ opposition.
The legislation by Massachusetts Rep. James McGovern revives the advance premium tax credit for Affordable Care Act marketplace buyers from 2026 to 2028. All 213 Democrats and 17 Republicans supported it.
The bill proceeds to the Senate, where its passage is doubtful.
“For over a year, Congress ignored the financial crisis forcing mid-Michigan families to choose between health insurance and mortgages,” said Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet in a statement. “Despite months of Speaker obstruction, some Republicans joined Democrats to extend tax credits, saving families thousands annually.”
Republicans Tom Barrett, Jack Bergman, Bill Huizenga, John James, Lisa McClain, John Moolenaar, and Tim Walberg opposed the bill, while all Michigan Democrats supported it.
President Trump rejects extending these credits, stating in a Nov. 18 Truth Social post he supports direct financial returns to people instead of insurance companies.
On Dec. 16, House Speaker Mike Johnson declared no vote would occur to prolong the subsidies, saying some members wanted to vote on this Obamacare subsidy but couldn’t, as reported by NBC News.
On Dec. 17, four Republicans backed a Democratic discharge petition to bring the bill to the floor despite leadership objections.
The Senate is unlikely to pass the legislation. On Dec. 11, Republicans used a filibuster to block a similar proposal, lacking nine votes for a 60-vote supermajority.
Democratic Senators Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin supported the bill.
In Michigan, marketplace insurance buyers experienced a premium hike of over 20% on Jan. 1.
A November KFF Health Tracking Poll indicated 74% of Americans want the tax credits extended. Leslie Dach of Protect Our Care stated that the GOP can still change course before more harm occurs. The decision rests with Senator Thune and President Trump.
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