Schakowsky Statement on the Failure of Trumpcare

Washington, D.C.- Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Chief Deputy Whip, released the following statement after the Senate’s disastrous “Skinny Repeal” bill to undo the progress of the Affordable Care Act was voted down:

“Last night was a victory for Americans across the nation who spoke out, sat down and even got arrested to prevent Congressional Republicans from ripping away their health care. The Senate failed early this morning to repeal parts of the Affordable Care Act because of the public’s fear and outrage about their proposals. It was a victory – but it doesn’t mean that the Republican assault is over. The White House has already done damage to the law – and promises to continue to create chaos.

“Now it is time for Congressional Republicans to prevent President Trump’s sabotage strategy. They need to stand up and tell the President to pay for the ACA’s cost-sharing assistance that helps families and keeps insurance companies in the market. They must make sure that independent, trained navigators are in place this fall to help people select the best planfor them. They need to prevent the Trump Administration from terminating assistor funding as they have already done in Chicago, Philadelphia and other cities – and pass a budget that replaces and expands assistance.

“Above all, they must come to the table to work with Democrats to stabilize the market and lower the cost of health care. Democrats have put out many ideas to do so – from creating a public option to giving Medicare power to negotiate for lower prescription drug costs.

“We can provide a better deal for health care consumers, businesses and providers – if only Republicans abandon their cruel attacks on Americans’ health care and work with Democrats on real solutions.”