Balance of Power House GOP Votes Test Trump’s Sway
Jan 8, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Jason Smith, a Republican U.S. Representative and chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, dives into fiscal policy challenges, health care subsidies, and upcoming decisions on tariffs. Suzan DelBene, a Democratic U.S. Representative and chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, emphasizes the urgency of extending Affordable Care Act subsidies while critiquing Republican positions on health care. Both lawmakers share insights on avoiding government shutdowns, the impact of Trump on GOP votes, and the need for oversight on pressing issues like Venezuela.
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Subsidy Rules Reverted To 400% FPL
- Jason Smith says pandemic-era unlimited subsidies reverted to a 400% FPL cap, meaning most below that threshold will keep substantial help.
- He emphasizes Democrats set temporary subsidy dates and Congress must weigh reforms versus status quo extensions.
Finish Appropriations In Regular Order
- Insist on completing appropriations bills in regular order and avoid relying solely on continuing resolutions.
- Jason Smith says three of 12 appropriations bills are signed and Congress should finish the remaining nine via minibus progress.
Congress Must Scrutinize Huge Defense Requests
- Jason Smith refrains from endorsing a $1.5 trillion defense spend but stresses Congress must control the power of the purse.
- He highlights recent months with positive revenue as a sign progress on fiscal discipline, but calls for sustained improvement.