Online Newsletter Highlighting NBC News Politics Team’s Latest Reports

Last updated Jul 25, 2025

TL/DR –

The Republicans on Capitol Hill are divided over a looming Obamacare deadline. Some Republicans are calling for an extension of funding for the Affordable Care Act in order to prevent insurance premium hikes and loss of health coverage for millions of Americans. Others, however, are opposed to this, arguing that it would be too expensive to continue premium tax credits, which cost over $30 billion per year.

Welcome to the online edition of From the Politics Desk

Friday’s round-up includes Sahil Kapur’s analysis of an Obamacare deadline causing a rift among Republicans and Kristen Welker’s assessment on the political implications of the Jeffrey Epstein saga. Scott Bland also responds to questions about Texas Republicans’ redistricting efforts. Sign up here to receive this newsletter.

Republicans Split Over Impending Obamacare Deadline

After endorsing President Trump’s Medicaid cuts, Republicans are now facing another healthcare battle. A growing number of party members are advocating to extend funding for the Affordable Care Act set to end this year. However, this move is opposed by conservatives who argue that it would be too expensive to continue the premium tax credits, originally adopted as part of a Covid-19 response. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that about 5 million Americans will lose their insurance by 2034 if the funding ends. Read more from Sahil here.

Political Impact of the Epstein Saga Unfolding

The Epstein saga continues to cause political distress for President Trump. Despite attempts to change the subject, calls for more transparency regarding the Epstein files are only growing louder. The issue could have an impact on the GOP as they seek to defend their congressional majorities in the upcoming midterms. Recent polls show that the administration’s handling of the Epstein files is disapproved by 71% of independents and is evenly divided among Republicans.

Questioning the Legality of Texas Republicans’ Redistricting Plans

This week’s reader question pertains to the ongoing attempt by Texas Republicans to redraw congressional maps. Our response: Redistricting happens every decade following the census, but mid-decade changes are not uncommon. Texas Republicans attempted to redraw maps in 2003, however, similar efforts in Colorado were ruled unconstitutional. Scott Bland provides more insights.