It would likely fail without McCain’s vote. “While John is recovering, the Senate will continue our work on legislative items and nominations, and will defer consideration of the Better Care Act.”Several Republicans in the party’s conservative and moderate wings have expressed deep concerns over the latest draft unveiled Thursday. Some fear that repealing the Affordable Care Act — the formal name of Obamacare — could adversely impact millions of Americans by effectively forcing them off of Medicaid, the health insurance program for the poor and the disabled, or making health costs soar for people with pre-existing conditions. With Democrats united in opposition, McConnell needs support from at least 50 out of 52 Republicans to pass the measure in the 100-member chamber. In the event of a 50-50 split, Vice President Mike Pence would cast the tie-breaking vote.

Source: Manila Times July 16, 2017 03:33 UTC