Johnson Mum on ‘Obamacare’ Subsidies as Shutdown Begins

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., did not commit to renewing Affordable Care Act subsidies set to expire this year, a key issue for Democrats as the government begins its first shutdown in seven years.

Johnson was asked Wednesday at a press conference with House and Senate Republican leaders about the possibility of negotiating an extension of the Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare,” subsidies after the government reopens.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has expressed support for this position, yet Johnson passed on directly answering the question and accused Democrats of forcing the shutdown by failing to fund the government.