Story perspectives

Thune Open to Obamacare Talks Amid Ongoing Shutdown

10/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said in an MSNBC interview he is open to negotiating with Democrats to extend Obamacare subsidies in exchange for reopening the government.
Thune added the subsidies need reforms, and while he can guarantee a vote, he cannot ensure passage.
Democrats remain skeptical about Republicans’ intentions.
With the shutdown in its third week, Thune hopes it ends before Thanksgiving but does not rule it out.

History

Historical Context

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), signed into law by President Obama on March 23, 2010, aimed to expand healthcare access, covering an estimated 20 million additional Americans by 2016. Despite its success, the ACA faced ongoing partisan opposition, particularly from Republicans who sought to repeal it. Senate Majority Leader John Thune's current negotiations on subsidies highlight the continuing tensions surrounding healthcare reform and its implications for future policy.

1 of 2

Story summary

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said in an MSNBC interview he is open to negotiating with Democrats to extend Obamacare subsidies in exchange for reopening the government.
Thune added the subsidies need reforms, and while he can guarantee a vote, he cannot ensure passage.
Democrats remain skeptical about Republicans’ intentions.
With the shutdown in its third week, Thune hopes it ends before Thanksgiving but does not rule it out.

1 / 2