Part 6/10:
Schumer's initial hardline stance began to crack early, making concessions like settling for a one-year extension instead of permanent Obamacare subsidies. This move signaled weakness, prompting more moderate Democrats from states like New Hampshire and Nevada to push for compromise.
Adding to the pressure was President Trump's strategic maneuvering over the weekend. Trump countered Schumer's concession on Obamacare subsidies by proposing a shift to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), bypassing insurers and direct funding the American people instead. This proposal was widely hailed by GOP senators and created additional leverage, effectively stealing the Democrats' issue and forcing their hand.