It was really quite the spectacle. Yesterday, the various cable networks’ headlines were on steroids as the House Republicans were deciding just what to do with Obamacare…..after seven years of its greatest minds crafting a health care bill that would be so great for America, I tell you.
It seemed the GOP far right wanted a more draconian bill. The bankruptcy expert, that self-described ultimate negotiator with people he can roll, caved. Then the moderates began to flee. But, wait, late in the morning an announcement was soon to come. Paul Ryan told us so. But, wait, that announcement would come later in the day. But, wait, maybe the votes weren’t there. But, wait, maybe they are and we’ll hear about later at night. But, wait, the Trumpster had a hissy fit and pouted that if he didn’t get his way he was going to take his bat and ball and go home and leave Obamacare just as it is. That’ll show ’em!
It is nothing less than astounding that a political party can be so entirely inept. The very best it can do right now is absolutely nothing. Why? If Obamacare is left in place, the Republicans can continue to take pot shots at it. Yes, they’ll look foolish still continuing on with this mantra when they’ve been saying for years that they had the perfect plan to replace it. But that’s better for them than having a bill for which they’re responsible and that angers everyone. The Freedom Caucus meanies won’t get to throw sick people out on the street uninsured. The Republican governors who have to actually govern will have funds slashed. Trump supporters losing insurance benefits will further erode the core base of true believers.
What will happen today? I’m not sure there is any magic deadline with today. Maybe this Republican debacle will be kicked down the road. Maybe the GOP needs another seven years to figure out its health care plan. But if the House GOP actually manage to pass a bill, there is no doubt the public will hate it. There is also no doubt what Republican senators will do. You see, they like to get reelected to their cushy 6-year terms. They’ve also never had any great love affair with their fellow Republicans in the House. Senators are about self-preservation. They will find a way to wash their hands of any bill that comes their way.