Oz testifies before the Senate Finance Committee March 14. Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
The Senate Finance Committee advanced Mehmet Oz's nomination for CMS administrator Tuesday on a 14 to 13 party line vote.
Why it matters: The move puts Oz closer to being confirmed, while Democrats used the occasion to try to shine a light on what they called damaging GOP cuts to Medicaid.
What they're saying: Democrats sought to connect the nomination to congressional Republicans eyeing Medicaid in their reconciliation bill.
Ranking Member Ron Wyden said Oz had refused to provide clarity on his position on cuts to Medicaid. "He dodged, he weaved, he simply wouldn't answer."
Senate Finance Chair Mike Crapo praised Oz for his work as a physician and touted that he would work on issues like physician pay and PBM overhauls.
The big picture: Oz is widely expected to be confirmed on the Senate floor.
Other than Medicaid, we'll also be watching how he handles Medicare Advantage, given his criticism of some insurer practices during his confirmation hearing.
