Even before GOP health care bill is introduced, battle lines clear in PA, NJ
But even before
The plan is part of a broader push to reshape a law that he blamed for raising costs and reducing consumer choices.
"What we've said for seven years now is that we want to repeal Obamacare, move health care in a different direction," Toomey said. "I think I'm going to be able to conclude that this is a big step in that direction."
Every Democrat from the region has vowed to oppose the measure, attacking it as a tax giveaway to the wealthy that would cut critical consumer protections.
"We have one choice: Stop the bill," Sen.
At stake are health programs for the poor; safeguards for people with expensive preexisting medical conditions such as cancer; rules to ensure that certain services, such as maternity care, are covered; and an array of taxes and mandates underpinning the program, which has expanded health coverage for millions.
The overhaul represents one of
A vote could arrive as soon as next week.
Despite being one of 13
"We're going to go over it over the course of the next week," Toomey said as reporters swarmed lawmakers close to the process. "We're going to argue about it, people will criticize it, praise it. It starts tomorrow morning."
He defended the
"If we then tried to do an ordinary committee process, [
His plan for Medicaid has been a major flash point.
But several Republican senators from states that expanded Medicaid under the ACA want to go in the opposite direction and ease the House cuts, arguing that the program has helped millions in their states obtain health coverage.
The bill's Medicaid reductions could cost
"We're about to vote on a monumental bill within days and no one has seen it," Sen.
But,
Even many in the
Toomey said the issue has been discussed nearly every day within the
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