The shutdown debate over expiring enhanced ObamaCare subsidies has put Republicans on the defensive over health care, reopening old wounds over the 2017 attempt to repeal and replace the law.

Fifteen years since the Affordable Care Act was passed, the scars from the repeal effort and the GOP’s lingering disgust for the law are influencing the party’s scattered response.

While Republicans are united in criticizing the law and the need for subsidies, there is no clear plan on how to deal with rising premiums if those subsidies are allowed to expire.

Democrats maintain they will not vote for any spending bill unless Republicans agree to an extension of the enhanced tax credits that help tens of millions of Americans purchase cheaper health plans.

They are seizing on the prospect of consum

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