On the recordMarch 23, 2017
Mr. Speaker, we have heard this legislation described as a rescue mission and an act of mercy. Don't insult the intelligence of the American people. This bill is the cruelest and most immoral piece of legislation I have seen since I arrived in Congress. It will rip insurance from 24 million hardworking Americans, including 60,000 Rhode Islanders. It will put $600 billion in tax breaks into the hands of the powerful, wealthy special interests. This is not a healthcare bill. This is a tax-cut bill. Let's call it what it is. It is going to produce higher costs, higher premiums, and more out-of-pocket expenses. It imposes a crushing age tax on older Americans. It ransacks funds that seniors rely on for long-term care, and it will destroy nearly 2 million jobs. All of this harm to the American people, to settle a political score, and to reward your friends and wealthy special interests. Shame on President Trump and shame on the Republican Party for doing this to the American people.
