Rep Jasmine Crockett says Trump administration, GOP not focused on lowering health care costs as ACA lapse

WASHINGTON, DC: Rep. Jasmine Crockett, a Texas Democrat, said Friday that President Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers are not prioritizing efforts to make healthcare more affordable as Affordable Care Act subsidies approach their expiration. Crockett warned that millions of Americans could soon face higher monthly premiums if Congress fails to act. 

Her comments come amid broader concerns about rising living costs and uncertainty surrounding future government funding. Lawmakers remain divided over whether and how to extend the subsidies beyond 2025. 

Jasmine Crockett raises concerns over expiring ACA subsidies and rising costs 

During an appearance on MS NOW with host Chris Hayes, Crockett said many of her constituents, are increasingly anxious about their financial stability. “But right now, as I go around, especially as I’ve been talking to my seniors, they are so very concerned because the cost of rent is going up and it seems like their checks aren’t going up,” Crockett said. 

She added that healthcare costs are a growing source of worry as enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act are set to expire at the end of 2025. “And people are really, really scared about what we know is about to happen as it relates to the healthcare cliff as well,” she continued. “And it seems like this administration, the Republicans, are not interested in doing anything to make healthcare more affordable in this country.” 

Crockett said she has encouraged insured residents to seek information directly from their health insurance providers rather than relying on political messaging. She advised constituents to call insurers and ask how their premiums may change if the subsidies lapse, noting that price increases could be significant for many households. 

The congresswoman has also previously warned that the federal government could face another shutdown after January 30, when the current spending package expires. That package was signed into law by Trump following a record 43-day shutdown. Crockett has argued that the lack of consensus in Congress heightens uncertainty for families already facing rising expenses. 

GOP Divisions and mixed signals on health care policy 

After the government reopened in November, lawmakers failed to reach an agreement to extend the Affordable Care Act subsidies beyond their current timeline. Republicans have pursued alternative healthcare legislation that does not address the expiring premium tax credits, a move that has drawn criticism from Democrats. 

However, Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, R-La., said that lawmakers had discussed an outline of a potential compromise. Cassidy said the framework could involve extending the enhanced premium tax credits for a limited period while also offering health savings accounts, giving enrolees a choice between the two options. He cautioned that additional details still need to be resolved but said 'there’s potential for a deal there.'