GOP Eyes Another Shot at ACA Repeal

Senate Republicans say they would like Gov. Doug Ducey of Arizona to appoint a successor to the late Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) who, unlike McCain, would support legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), reports The Hill . Republican lawmakers say they will not have time to hold another vote to repeal the law in 2018 but vow to try again next year if they manage to keep their Senate and House majorities. "If we reengage in that discussion in some point in the future, it would be nice to have members who enable us to pass it," Senate Republican Conference Chairman John Thune (SD) said when asked about the possibility of ACA repeal legislation coming up for a future vote. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) said he does not know whether the Senate will move another comprehensive health care reform package, but he expects Republican leaders will push "piecemeal efforts to make affordable once more that which has not been affordable since ACA passed." Republicans want Ducey to appoint someone who will be a more reliable vote on health care in case they retain their congressional majorities.