GOP Talks Obamacare

Republicans Push Back as Democrats Use Health Subsidies to Score Political Points

Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), a longtime physician and champion of President Trump’s “Make America Healthy Again” movement, is calling out Democrats for what he describes as a political hostage situation over ObamaCare.

Speaking at The Hill’s Health Next Summit, Marshall blasted Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and far-left lawmakers like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) for demanding the extension of pandemic-era health subsidies — a move Marshall says has “nothing to do with health care and everything to do with politics.”

“This isn’t about helping patients. It’s about power,” Marshall said. “Democrats are trying to use COVID subsidies to score political points against President Trump. It’s pure manipulation.”

💰 ObamaCare Subsidies Become the New Political Weapon

The Kansas Republican said Democrats are refusing to reopen the government unless Republicans agree to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits that were expanded during the pandemic.

“These handouts were temporary emergency measures — not permanent entitlements,” Marshall explained. “Schumer and his allies are using them to appease the AOC-Biden base while ignoring real reform.”

Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), say Democrats are holding American taxpayers hostage until they get their way.

📊 Polls Tell One Story — But Are They Asking the Right Questions?

Corporate media outlets claim most voters support keeping the subsidies. But Marshall isn’t convinced.

“Ask Americans if they want to stop waste, fraud, and abuse — and you’ll get a completely different answer,” he said.

Marshall argues that mainstream pollsters frame questions to favor Democrats. “If voters knew how much fraud exists in the ObamaCare marketplace, they’d demand accountability — not more spending,” he added.

⚠️ Premiums Could Double If Congress Doesn’t Act Soon

Without congressional action, millions could face skyrocketing insurance premiums as insurers set their 2026 rates. Open enrollment for most states begins November 1, and uncertainty about the subsidies could send prices soaring.

“The Affordable Care Act isn’t affordable,” Marshall said. “We need competition and patient-driven care — not Washington bailouts.”

Even some conservatives share concern. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) said she’s “disgusted” by the thought of premiums doubling but still rejects any expansion of the failed ObamaCare system.

🩺 Marshall’s Message to Americans: Trust Your Doctor, Not Bureaucrats

When asked about the Trump administration’s health advisories and vaccine guidance, Marshall gave straightforward advice: “Talk to your doctor — not politicians, not pundits, and not social media.”

“Your doctor knows your history, your risks, and your lifestyle,” he said. “That’s who you should trust — not some bureaucrat in D.C.”

Marshall also noted that there’s “too much noise” online and that Americans should focus on personalized, professional care rather than one-size-fits-all government mandates.

🌱 Looking Ahead: Reform Over Handouts

As the founder of the Senate’s Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus, Marshall said real reform means tackling the root causes of high costs — including pharmaceutical monopolies, insurance bureaucracy, and federal waste.

He offered measured praise for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., saying the administration’s second MAHA Report was “an improvement” but that the first one “missed the mark” on addressing agricultural health.

“We need healthy soil, healthy food, and a healthy America,” Marshall said. “That’s what MAHA is all about.”

🔔 Bottom Line

Sen. Marshall’s warning comes at a critical time: Democrats are doubling down on ObamaCare, Republicans are pushing for fiscal sanity, and President Trump’s team is focused on rebuilding a truly affordable, patient-first health care system.

As the government shutdown drags on, Americans are left asking: 👉 Will Washington fix the system — or keep pouring billions into another failed liberal experiment?