“We can talk about Obamacare premiums, but only after we reopen the government.”
The promise
During a budget standoff in 2025, Vance said he was willing to negotiate on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies if Democrats agreed to reopen the government. He framed this as pragmatic compromise rather than ideological shift. The statement marked a softer tone from previous GOP positions, signaling a willingness to discuss healthcare affordability within fiscal limits. Talks occurred, but no agreement emerged before the temporary shutdown ended.





