Democrats press GOP with six-figure ads to extend ACA subsidies

The Democratic National Committee has launched a six figure ad campaign targeting Republican House members as the government shutdown enters its second week, mounting pressure on GOP lawmakers to extend pandemic-era boosts to Affordable Care Act subsidies that are set to expire. The buy includes digital spots on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook, as well as billboards and bus-shelter ads in Republican districts, and is meant to highlight projected premium increases for enrollees if the subsidies lapse.

Democrats say the subsidies, enacted during the pandemic, are essential to keeping Affordable Care Act plans affordable and warn that millions of Americans will face steep price increases without an extension. The DNC cited analyses showing average premiums for subsidized enrollees would more than double if the enhancements expire, and the committee has been sending texts to voters illustrating potential premium hikes. DNC Chair Ken Martin said in a statement the party will make sure families know that health care costs are poised to spike because Republican leaders are refusing to negotiate.

Republicans counter that reopening the government should precede substantive talks on...