President Trump and Republicans Allow Expiration of Obamacare Subsidies, Increasing Health Care Costs
President Trump and Republican allies in Congress have allowed the expiration of enhanced subsidies for the Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly known as Obamacare, leading to increased health care costs for Americans. According to a report by KFF, a nonpartisan health policy nonprofit, the average deductible for Obamacare plans rose by 37%, from $2,759 in 2025 to $3,786 in 2026. This change has forced many consumers to switch to lower-premium plans that require higher out-of-pocket payments. The expiration of subsidies, which had been in place since 2021, was a significant factor in the cost increase. Democrats had attempted to preserve these subsidies during a 43-day government shutdown in late 2025 but were unsuccessful. The rising costs have become a critical issue as the midterm elections approach, with health care affordability being a major concern for voters. 
