Republicans defy Speaker MIKE JOHNSON to force House vote on extending ACA subsidies

Friday, December 19, 2025 -In a dramatic break with party leadership, four centrist House Republicans have joined a Democratic-led effort to force a vote on extending enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies that are set to expire at the end of the year. 

The move comes after Speaker Mike Johnson and GOP leaders advanced a separate health care package that excludes an extension of the pandemic-era tax credits that have helped keep insurance premiums lower for millions of Americans. By reaching the required number of signatures under House rules, the bipartisan group has secured a floor vote expected early next year.

The lawmakers backing the move—Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick, Mike Lawler, Rob Bresnahan, and Ryan Mackenzie, all from competitive districts—argue that allowing the subsidies to lapse would trigger sharp premium increases and put health coverage at risk for millions of marketplace enrollees. 

Their decision underscores growing internal divisions within the Republican Conference, with moderates prioritizing constituent impact over leadership strategy. Speaker Johnson has defended his position, insisting the House remains under his control and promoting an alternative GOP health plan that focuses on cost reductions without extending the subsidies.

The forced vote sets up a high-stakes confrontation in Congress as the deadline approaches. Even if the House approves an extension, the outcome in the Senate remains uncertain after a previous attempt fell short of sufficient support. 

With millions of Americans facing potential premium hikes if no action is taken, pressure is mounting on both parties to reach a bipartisan compromise as the political and economic consequences grow more immediate.