Failed Legislation
Failed on July 18, 2017
Policy Summary
On Tuesday, the GOP accepted another defeat on the healthcare front, conceding once again to “let Obamacare fail” on its own. This conclusion comes after a delay due to lack of support, a delay due to John McCain’s medical leave, a few unpopular amendments with hopes of rallying Republican support, and even a repeal and replace later effort. The CBO estimated that repealing the ACA with no replacement plan would leave 32 million more people without health insurance by 2026, including 19 million people covered by Medicaid. Three Senate Republicans quickly opposed a repeal with no replacement plan, leaving the GOP out of ideas. President Donald Trump blames the latest health care failure on Democrats, saying neither he nor the Republican Party will “own it”. LEARN MORE
Analysis
No matter where President Trump or GOP leaders point blame, the healthcare failure ultimately comes from a lack of unity and leadership. Even after 7 years of “Repeal and replace Obamacare” echoing from Republican Congressmen and even with a Republican majority in both the House and Senate, GOP leaders remain unable to unite their divided party. The Senate will vote next week on a repeal of Obamacare with no replacement. With all 48 Democrats and a handful of Republicans opposing a clean repeal, it is apparent that Obamacare will remain for now. However, the Trump Administration and GOP have already “given up” on health care once, so it is very possible they will come back to healthcare soon. As Trump said on Tuesday regarding the next step for health care, “Stay tuned”. LEARN MORE
Engagement Resources
- Center on Budget and Policy Priorities – Learn more about what the Senate health bill would mean, who would lose, what the amendments changed, and more.
- Swing Left – This site tracks districts where House winners won by thin margins and encourages voters to vote Democrat in the 2018 election to restore a progressive majority. This is crucial for every aspect of politics, including health care because Congress has a huge impact on what bills become laws.
- As always, contact your state’s elected officials and voice your concerns.
This brief was compiled by Ann Furbush. If you have comments or want to add the name of your organization to this brief please contact Ann@usresistnews.org.
