Healthcare Impasse

After last month's shutdown, Senate Democrats debated health care subsidies. Instead of a bipartisan deal, the Senate will consider partisan proposals: Democrats want a three-year extension of ACA subsidies, while Republicans propose direct payments to health savings accounts. Neither plan is expected to pass the 60-vote threshold, and ongoing talks are unlikely to produce a compromise. The issue will likely be a major topic in the midterm elections amid rising health insurance costs.