The Daily Punch Inside new House health care drama
Dec 15, 2025
Tensions rise on Capitol Hill as the GOP's health care bill faces challenges, with moderates threatening to go rogue. Speaker Mike Johnson is taking a risky gamble by pushing health care into the spotlight. Meanwhile, Senator Ruben Gallego stirs the pot with a new war powers push linked to U.S.-Venezuela relations. The looming funding deadlines increases speculation about government shutdowns. Redistricting woes could mean Republicans might not gain any seats at all in the upcoming elections.
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Narrow GOP Health Bill Faces Doubt
- House Republicans produced a very narrow health bill focused on PBM transparency and limited cost-sharing reductions.
- Jake Sherman thinks the measure likely won't pass the House given the amendment impasse with moderates.
Moderates Hold Key Vote Leverage
- Moderates expected an amendment vote on extending enhanced Obamacare subsidies and are threatening to become free agents.
- If leadership blocks the amendment, moderates could sign the Jeffries discharge petition and force a separate three-year subsidy extension vote.
Passage Won't Solve Short-Term Pain
- Even a passed Republican bill would likely do little short-term to help Americans facing unaffordable coverage.
- Anna Palmer warns health care will remain a dominant issue into the first half of 2026 and beyond.