Jul 28, 2017

Paul Ryan fails to reassure skeptical GOP senators on health bill

Sam Baker

J. Scott Applewhite / A

House Speaker Paul Ryan hasn't yet reassured skeptical Republican senators that their health care bill won't become law — which means they might not be willing to pass it. Ryan said earlier tonight he would be willing to proceed to a conference committee with the Senate if the upper chamber passes its "skinny" repeal bill, but he did not rule out bringing the bill to the floor if that process fails.

  • Sen. John McCain said Ryan's letter was "not sufficient" to address his fear that the Senate bill could become law if they pass it.
  • Sen. Lindsey Graham also wasn't on board, at least not yet. "I want to make sure I understand" what Ryan's committing to, Graham said, according to The Hill.
  • Sen. Ron Johnson said he was happy about Ryan's pledge to conference the House and Senate bills, but didn't answer questions about what would happen if that effort failed.

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