Republicans oppose healthcare bill: Is Trumpcare doomed?
Casting a shadow of uncertainty over Trump's proposed healthcare bill, two more Republican senators, Mike Lee and Jerry Moran have stated their opposition to it, leaving it without the required majority for passing. Replacing Obamacare had been one of Trump's key campaign promises. While Republicans had been divided on the issue, moderates had raised concerns on leaving out vulnerable population. Is Trumpcare doomed?
Obamacare repeal: House passes Republican health care bill, Senate awaits
On 5th May, symbolizing a major legislative landmark under the Trump presidency, the Republican dominated US House of Representatives voted to repeal parts of Obamacare including insurance coverage for people with "pre-existing conditions", intending to replace it with the Republican-sponsored American Health Care Act. The bill was then set to face a tough fight in the Senate where the Republicans are lesser in numbers.
Republicans unveil Obamacare replacement bill in Senate, faces uncertain fate
In June, Republicans in the US Senate unveiled a bill proposing to replace Obamacare with a healthcare plan that cuts aid to the poor and ends tax on the wealthy. US President Donald Trump, who made replacing Obamacare a signature campaign promise, welcomed the bill but indicated it may need changes. The contentious bill faces opposition by all Democratic and some Republican lawmakers.
Opposition to Trump's new healthcare bill
While Democrats have entirely been opposed to the bill, Republican Senators Lee and Moran joined earlier opponents, Rand Paul and Susan Collins, taking the number of Republican opponents to 4. Moran maintained that "we should not put our stamp of approval on bad policy", Lee said that, "it does not lower premiums for middle-class families or create free space for costly Obamacare regulations."
What does Trumpcare propose to do?
The American Healthcare Act termed "Trumpcare" aims to reduce government interference in health care, providing people more options. It repeals taxes including penalty for not buying health insurance and allows states to be rid of the pre-existing conditions clause, which prevented insurance companies from charging higher rates from patients with pre-existing conditions. It further cut down on funds under Medicaid program for the poor.
What now?
Republicans currently hold 52 out of 100 seats in the Senate. With 4 Republicans and 48 Democrats currently opposing the bill, Trump's efforts to 'repeal and replace' Obamacare may be unsuccessful. While Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell notes that they may push for a two-year delay in implementation to allow for a stable transition from Obamacare, it may leave many without healthcare.
