Marjorie Taylor Greene Breaks Ranks on Obamacare Subsidies
WASHINGTON – In a surprising move, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., diverged from her party’s stance on Monday by advocating for the continuation of Obamacare subsidies to prevent a surge in insurance premiums. This aligns her with a cause primarily championed by Democrats.
Greene’s Personal Stake in the Debate
In a detailed post on X, Greene, known for her far-right views, emphasized that she was not in Congress when the Affordable Care Act was enacted in 2010. “I’m not a fan,” she admitted. “However, I’m opposing my party on this because if the tax credits lapse, my own children’s insurance costs will double, affecting many families in my district.”
Standing Firm on Her Principles
Greene declared, “I’m not following the party line or engaging in loyalty games. As a Republican, I oppose taxpayer-funded healthcare for undocumented immigrants. My focus is solely on America!”
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Democrats’ Key Demand Amid Shutdown
Extending the expiring Obamacare funding is a primary demand from Democrats during the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. The current funding is set to expire at the year’s end.
Republican Division on the Issue
The Republican Party is split, with several swing-district representatives and some senators advocating for an extension. However, many conservatives prefer allowing the funds to expire, and party leaders remain undecided on the matter.
Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., have stated that discussions will not proceed until Democrats agree to reopen the government.
Greene’s Independent Stance
Greene expressed frustration, stating, “I’m forging my own path. It’s appalling that premiums will double if the credits expire. I believe all insurance is a scam! No Republican leader has addressed this or provided a plan to prevent these hikes!”
Democratic Response
Her comments caught the attention of Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas, chair of the Progressive Caucus, who noted on X: “I rarely quote MTG, but… ‘Not a single Republican leader has offered a plan to prevent insurance premiums from doubling!'”
Sahil Kapur is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.
