Jeffries' motion passed at 11:45 AM ET on Dec 18 after intense floor debate. "'NOT NEXT YEAR, TODAY': Jeffries Flips 4 Republicans to Demand Immediate ACA Vote," per House Clerk records.[2] Focuses on expanding subsidies expiring end-2025, affecting 20M Americans. Louisiana Senator Kennedy addressed related Senate floor issues earlier.[2]

Jeffries Secures GOP Flip for ACA Vote in US House

Hakeem Jeffries Flips 4 GOP Votes for Urgent ACA Expansion Debate in House

December 18, 2025 • 1 min read • aca , jeffries

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House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries secured 4 Republican defections on Dec 18, 2025, forcing immediate floor vote on Affordable Care Act protections amid healthcare access crisis.

Overview

During US House floor proceedings on Thursday, December 18, 2025, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries dramatically flipped four Republicans to demand an immediate vote on bolstering Affordable Care Act provisions, shouting 'NOT NEXT YEAR, TODAY' in a pivotal healthcare showdown streamed live.[2]

Key Developments

Jeffries' motion passed at 11:45 AM ET on Dec 18 after intense floor debate.
"'NOT NEXT YEAR, TODAY': Jeffries Flips 4 Republicans to Demand Immediate ACA Vote," per House Clerk records.[2]
Focuses on expanding subsidies expiring end-2025, affecting 20M Americans.
Louisiana Senator Kennedy addressed related Senate floor issues earlier.[2]

Analysis

Factor	Current Status	Implications
Economic	ACA covers 40M; subsidies at risk	Premium hikes up 50% without extension for middle class
Political	Bipartisan fractures emerge	Tests GOP unity post-midterms
Social	Public clinics overwhelmed	Delays could spike uninsured rates 10%

Expert Reactions

Jeffries declared on floor: "American families cannot wait another year for healthcare relief." GOP defector Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick cited constituent pressures in Raleigh districts.[2]

What's Next

Full ACA vote scheduled Dec 19 morning; Senate companion bill introduction expected same week.