Part 7/10:
Central to the debate are two key issues: the COVID-era enhanced Obamacare subsidies and the regular annual cuts to the Obamacare Budget Baseline (OBB). The former, which increased premium subsidies during the pandemic, are not directly linked to the budget process and are split into separate negotiations.
Many Republicans prefer not to extend these subsidies, arguing that they are not means-tested and benefit higher earners, such as those making up to $130,000 annually, without sufficient scrutiny. The disagreements over whether to extend these benefits hinge on political calculations related to the midterm elections, with some GOP members worried about alienating voters or facing primary challenges.