In a rare bipartisan move, two freshman Senate Democrats and two House Republicans are set to meet this Friday to discuss a potential plan to preserve key subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which are set to expire at the end of the year. This meeting could play a crucial role in preventing a significant spike in healthcare premiums for over 20 million Americans.

The senators involved, Andy Kim from New Jersey and Lisa Blunt Rochester from Delaware, have extended the bipartisan olive branch to Republican Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania and Jeff Van Drew of New Jersey. The discussions aim to shape a proposal that could provide a much-needed solution to the impending subsidy crisis.

This collaborative effort comes as Senate Democrats are diligently working to devise a detailed ACA framework. Their goal is to create a viable alternative that would not only address the subsidy issue but also assist in reopening the government. The stakes are high, as the expiration of these subsidies could lead to a dramatic increase in healthcare costs for millions of Americans.

Rep. Van Drew has been in talks with President Donald Trump, advocating for at least a one-year extension of the subsidies. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats are hopeful that a bipartisan agreement on the ACA extension can be reached. This agreement would need to garner 60 votes in the Senate to move forward. If successful, it could influence a group of House Republicans to press Speaker Mike Johnson to schedule a vote on the House floor.

However, Speaker Johnson has been resistant to the idea, stating as recently as Thursday morning that he has no plans to allow a vote on the expiring subsidies. Despite this, there are whispers within the ranks of House Republicans about the possibility of supporting a Democratic-led discharge petition. This procedural strategy would enable rank-and-file members to bypass leadership and force a vote on the legislation.

One anonymous House Republican expressed optimism about the situation, stating, “We would find a way.” This sentiment underscores the growing willingness among some lawmakers to cross party lines to address critical national issues, particularly those affecting public health and the economy.

As the government shutdown persists and the deadline for the subsidy expiration looms closer, all eyes will be on this bipartisan group’s efforts. Their success or failure could have significant implications for American healthcare and the broader political landscape.