Trump Opens Door to ACA Subsidy Talks

President Trump told reporters in the Oval Office he was open to negotiating with Democrats over extending COVID-era Affordable Care Act premium subsidies. That marked a break with congressional Republican leaders who have insisted talks should wait until the government reopens. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer denied that formal talks were underway but said Democrats would sit down to negotiate if the subsidies are renewed. White House officials and GOP leaders issued mixed or contradictory statements about whether negotiations were occurring. Trump criticized the subsidies as “billions and billions” wasted, aligning with conservative concerns even as Democrats warn expiration would raise premiums for ACA enrollees. The shutdown, now in its sixth day, has strained federal services, prompted symbolic Senate votes, and spurred warnings about low WIC funds, unpaid federal workers and possible further federal job cuts.