The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on the American Health Care Act (AHCA) Thursday, and the proposed legislation is receiving major pushback from some Republicans in Congress.
Many conservatives have labeled the AHCA simply Obamacare 2.0, but the White House and Republican leaders have been going above and beyond to make changes to the bill to satisfy the entire Republican caucus.
Now, President Donald J. Trump has just put Republicans on notice, warning them that if they vote against repealing Obamacare, they will lose their seats in Congress.
Speaking at a rally in Louisville, Kentucky Monday night, the president observed “I honestly think many of you will lose your seats in 2018 if you don’t get this done.”
From CNN:
Republican leaders are looking to the President to use the full power of his bully pulpit — not to mention his negotiating skills — to pressure members who are still on the fence. Trump doesn’t have much time: The House is planning to vote on the proposal on Thursday.
Asked Tuesday walking to the meeting if he can get the votes, Trump responded, “I think so.”
Late Monday, House leadership announced a set of moderate changes to their health care bill meant to reassure both conservatives and moderates who have a distinct set of concerns about the legislation.
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Members of the House Freedom Caucus announced Monday night that while they would not be taking an official stance against the bill, members said there were enough “no” votes among their group to sink the measure.
Trump specifically called out Freedom Caucus Chairman Mark Meadows, R-North Carolina, saying he thinks both Meadows and the group will get on board. “A loss just isn’t acceptable,” Trump said.
Republicans who vote against the AHCA are essentially voting for Obamacare, as the disastrous healthcare law will remain in place unless Congress takes quick action and replaces it. President Trump has tremendous influence with members of Congress and the American public so there is no doubt that he will use the bully pulpit to pressure and go after members of Congress that vote against the AHCA.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see the president openly endorsing primary opponents of Republicans who refuse to vote to repeal and replace Obamacare, a threat that could cause uneasy members of Congress to support the bill.
Would you support the president going after Republicans who refuse to support the AHCA? Share your thoughts below!