Valley’s 2 U.S. reps greatly differ on tTrump's Obamacare decision

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The two U.S. House members who represent the Mahoning Valley greatly differ on President Donald Trump’s decision to cut subsidy payments under Obamacare.

U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan called it “a shameful act of sabotage that will send healthcare premiums soaring.”

Ryan, of Howland, D-13th, said: “Let’s be perfectly clear – from this moment on, President Trump is now personally responsible for increases in the cost of health insurance or loss of coverage. The callousness of his decision to attack the insurance market for petty political reasons is unrivaled in recent memory. These people aren’t just statistics on paper. These are mothers, fathers, and children trying to get the care they need to live happy, healthy lives.”

The congressman added: “President Trump promised to help people in this country who were struggling to pay the bills, but we can add that promise to the long list of lies told to the American people. By this action, the president is reaching into people’s wallets and robbing them of what little income they have left. It’s a pathetic show of petulance from a president who is frustrated with his own legislative impotence. And now, all of America is paying the cost of President Trump’s own personal insecurities.”

U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson of Marietta, R-6th, said: “The Obamacare cost-sharing reduction subsidies were never on solid legal ground – a federal court said as much last year. Congress did not appropriate these funds, as would be required by law. Under our Constitution, the power of the purse belongs to Congress – not the president. That’s how our system of government works.”

Johnson added: “Here’s what we know: The current health law is unsustainable in its current form. Perhaps [Friday’s] announcement to reverse the unappropriated Obamacare subsidies will spur the Senate to follow the lead of the House and pass meaningful legislation to benefit the American people. It’s time for Republicans and Democrats to work together to repeal Obamacare, and replace it with affordable, high-quality, patient-centered health care solutions.”