RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — New ads funded by groups on both sides of the debate over expanding Medicaid appear to be narrowly aimed at one person: House Speaker William J. Howell.

The focus on Howell underscores what is likely a pivotal role that he will play in deciding the outcome. The Democrat-controlled Senate and Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe supporting expanding the Medicaid rolls. But the Republican Howell, and his colleagues in the GOP-controlled house, have remained resolutely opposed.