Senate to vote on 2 health care proposals. And, the latest U.S. move against Venezuela

"The Senate is set to vote today on two health policy plans one from Democrats and one from Republicans aimed at reducing costs for individuals purchasing health insurance on Healthcare.gov. Meanwhile, some House Republicans want to force a vote to extend subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, which are set to expire in less than three weeks. They warn that Republican leaders risk losing voters and the majority if they let the subsidies expire without a replacement."

"The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter percentage point yesterday in a 9-3 vote. The Fed made its decision in an effort to support the weakening job market. Stubborn inflation and delayed economic data complicated the decision-making process. The rate cut came as a relief to investors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped nearly 500 points. Fed policymakers say in updated forecasts that they expect to cut interest rates just once more in 2026."

"Simmons-Duffin spoke with Ellen Allen of Charleston, W.Va., yesterday, who said she enrolled in a bronze plan without vision and dental coverage. This plan costs Allen a monthly premium of $1,967.50, which is four times this year's cost for a plan that covers less. Polling suggests that the enhanced subsidies are quite popular across party lines, according to Simmons-Duffin. She predicts it's unlikely the votes will be the end of the story, and that Congress may continue to work toward a solution."

The Senate will vote on competing Democratic and Republican health plans intended to reduce costs for people buying insurance on Healthcare.gov. Some House Republicans are pushing to force a vote to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies that expire in less than three weeks, warning party leaders about voter backlash and loss of the majority. A small Senate Republican majority and the 60-vote threshold make passage unlikely, leaving enrollees without immediate relief. Many consumers face steep premiums, and polling shows enhanced subsidies are broadly popular. Lawmakers may continue negotiating after the votes.

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