Washington, Oct 2(HS): The US government remains shut down after Democrats refused to back a Republican stopgap funding bill, insisting that any agreement must include an extension of health subsidies and a rollback of recent Medicaid cuts.

At stake are Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits that have helped millions afford insurance since the pandemic. These subsidies are due to expire at year’s end, triggering premium hikes of more than 100% in 2026, according to new projections.

Democrats argue that rising costs are already reflected in notices going out to households, warning Americans could soon face unaffordable coverage.House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries accused Republicans of raising costs “in an environment where the cost of living is already too high.”

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said President Trump appeared “not aware” of how badly families would be hit.Republicans, led by Senate Majority Leader John Thune, countered that Democrats are blocking efforts to reopen the government over partisan demands. They argue negotiations over healthcare subsidies should happen only after a short-term spending bill is approved to fund agencies through November 21.

While some Republicans privately acknowledge the subsidies’ popularity, the party is pressing ahead with a budget plan that includes over $1 trillion in cuts over the next decade to Medicaid and food aid.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates 10 million Americans could lose coverage.Vice-President JD Vance reiterated the administration’s line, saying Republicans are open to talks but only “after Democrats agree to reopen government.” For now, however, both sides remain entrenched, with healthcare costs at the center of a standoff threatening millions of Americans.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar