In a heated confrontation that underscores deep divisions within the Republican Party, a contingent of moderate GOP House members challenged Speaker Mike Johnson during a private meeting on Tuesday. The bone of contention: the imminent expiration of Obamacare health insurance subsidies and the leadership's reluctance to allow a vote on their extension.

The closed-door clash, which took place during a session of the centrist Republican Governance Group, was audible even outside the meeting room. Representative Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) vocally criticized the leadership's stance, dismissing assurances that the party could formulate a GOP-centric health care bill in the following year. Lawler, clearly frustrated, argued against the feasibility of passing another reconciliation bill, branding the leaders' optimism as wishful thinking.

Adding to the chorus of discontent was Representative Jen Kiggans (R-Va.), who pressed Johnson on why preemptive measures weren’t taken earlier regarding the subsidies and broader health care issues. According to sources who requested anonymity, Kiggans’ stern inquiries highlighted a broader concern among GOP moderates about the potential political repercussions as insurance premiums are set to spike next year.

Despite the internal resistance, some moderates are attempting last-ditch efforts to address the issue. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) introduced an amendment to a GOP health package slated for discussion this week, proposing a two-year extension of the tax credits with added anti-fraud measures and tighter income eligibility criteria. Kiggans is also expected to propose a similar amendment aimed at extending the subsidies while enhancing fraud prevention.

Speaker Johnson, exiting the contentious meeting, downplayed the intra-party strife, suggesting that the moderates had presented some ideas worth considering. His comments came as House Democrats push for a straightforward three-year extension of the subsidies, urging some Republicans to support a discharge petition that would force a floor vote on the issue.

The GOP moderates, having previously dismissed the Democrats’ proposal citing the need for stricter controls, seem to be keeping their options open. "All options are on the table," Lawler stated earlier that day, signaling a possible shift in stance depending on the outcomes of ongoing discussions.

As the debate continues, the clock ticks closer to the subsidy expiration, setting the stage for a significant impact on millions of Americans and potentially reshaping the political landscape as the 2026 midterms approach.