The DSR Network The Daily Blast: Mike Johnson Rattled by New Revolt as MAGA-GOP Fury Boils: “Bullshit!”
Dec 18, 2025
Grace Seegers, a staff writer at The New Republic, delves into the tumultuous world of House Republicans as they face a revolt over Affordable Care Act subsidies. She discusses how infighting threatens Speaker Mike Johnson’s control, with factions clashing over strategy. Grace highlights the likely political fallout from subsidy cuts, including rising premiums and increased uninsured rates. The conversation reveals the human toll on voters and examines how health care issues are becoming crucial for upcoming elections.
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Symbolic Vote With Limited Policy Impact
- Four House Republicans joined Democrats to force a 2026 vote on extending ACA subsidies that are expiring.
- That move is symbolic because the subsidies will likely have already expired and the Senate has filibuster hurdles.
Moderates Break Ranks To Protect Seats
- Vulnerable Republicans like Brian Fitzpatrick and Mike Lawler backed the discharge petition to shield themselves in competitive districts.
- Lawler reacted to Speaker Mike Johnson's blocking as "bullshit" and urged serving constituents.
Speaker's Tightrope Between Ideology And Majorities
- Mike Johnson insists he "has not lost control" despite a razor-thin majority and factional pressures.
- His ideological opposition to the ACA and the need to appease hardliners explains his blocking strategy.