Speaker Mike Johnson expressed fresh skepticism on Friday regarding the possibility of reaching a bipartisan agreement to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance subsidies. The discussion, a central Democratic demand, comes in the midst of a 10-day government shutdown that has seen tensions rise on Capitol Hill.

During a joint call with members of the House Freedom Caucus, Johnson stated that reaching a consensus on the issue would require significant effort and remained uncertain about the feasibility of any reform that could gain sufficient support to pass. “It will take a lot of work to build consensus,” Johnson mentioned, underscoring the deep divides within the House GOP, some of whom are opposed to extending the subsidies.

The speaker emphasized the complexity of negotiations within a "deliberative body with 535 members" and branded the subsidy extension as an "end-of-the-year policy decision." This statement comes despite some GOP members’ desires to address the subsidies before the ACA open enrollment begins on November 1.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries reiterated on Friday the Democratic stance that extending the subsidies is essential to resolving the health care crisis and ending the government shutdown. “We have to address the health care crisis decisively,” Jeffries said, indicating a firm legislative approach was necessary from the Republicans.

Adding another layer to the negotiations, Johnson also hinted at potential upcoming rescissions, which involves clawing back previously approved congressional funding. This move could further complicate talks, as ending such rescissions is another critical demand from the Democrats.

On the broader issue of health care reform, Johnson spoke about the necessity of a comprehensive overhaul to reduce costs, enhance accessibility, and improve the quality of care. However, he acknowledged that significant changes would take time due to the deep entrenchment of the ACA policies.

Also weighing in, Rep. Andy Harris, chair of the Freedom Caucus, expressed a desire for a more inclusive health policy deal rather than merely extending expiring tax credits. Meanwhile, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise criticized the ACA and advocated for alternative solutions like expanding Health Savings Accounts and association health care plans, which were part of unsuccessful GOP replacement efforts in 2017.

As the deadlock continues, the path forward remains unclear, with substantial work ahead for both parties to bridge their differences and end the shutdown.