Today’s House vote comes after senators narrowly approved a budget reconciliation bill to begin repealing the Affordable Care Act, during a marathon debate that lasted into the early morning hours Thursday. The Senate vote was 51 to 48, with the entire Democratic caucus opposed to a repeal. During the roll call, Democrats rose one by one to voice objections, prompting the presiding officer, Colorado Republican Cory Gardner, to object that they were out of order.
Clerk: “Ms. Cantwell.”
Sen. Maria Cantwell: “This is not—”
Sen. Cory Gardner: “Debate is not allowed during a vote.”
Sen. Maria Cantwell: “—business as usual.
Sen. Cory Gardner: “Debate—the Senate will be in order.”
Sen. Maria Cantwell: “You are stealing healthcare from Americans. I vote no.
Sen. Cory Gardner: “The Senate will be in order.”
Clerk: “Ms. Cantwell, no.”
Sen. Tim Kaine: “Madam Clerk?”
Clerk: “Mr. Kaine.”
Sen. Tim Kaine: “When I was sick, you visited me. I vote no.”
Sen. Cory Gardner: “Debate is not allowed during a vote. The Senate will be in order.”
Clerk: “Mr. Kaine, no.”
Democrats say nearly 30 million Americans stand to lose health coverage if the Affordable Care Act is repealed. Supporters of the law are planning rallies in more than 40 cities.