House Rep. Jeff Van Drew Calls ACA ‘Horror Story,’ Demands Reforms

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Rep. Jeff Van Drew, a Republican representing New Jersey, described the Affordable Care Act as “nothing but a horror story” for Americans.

Van Drew stated that the American people did not create this problem and do not deserve punishment under the law. He urged Congress to develop an immediate plan to replace the ACA, warning against allowing premiums to skyrocket without intervention.

The representative criticized the Democratic proposal for a three-year extension of subsidies, calling it “not workable.” Instead, Van Drew advocated for a short-term bridge that would extend subsidies with reforms such as income-based caps on benefits and measures to address waste and fraud.

Van Drew noted that his committee is reviewing potential changes to the ACA. He stressed that while some might object to the timeline, extending subsidies for 18 months to two years with targeted reforms would provide a necessary transition before implementing a comprehensive alternative.

Van Drew emphasized that the only beneficiaries of the current system are insurance companies, which have been raising premiums largely funded by government subsidies.

In separate remarks Wednesday, President Donald Trump expressed support for a Republican healthcare bill that would provide up to $1,500 in assistance to qualifying ACA enrollees. Trump stated he likes “the concept” but does not want to give money to insurance companies.