Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy both voted Tuesday to allow the Senate to allow debate to begin repeal and replacement of the Affordable Care Act. The final tally was 51 - 50, with the tie-breaking vote being cast by Vice President Mike Pence.

In addition, Arizona Senator John McCain of Arizona, recently diagnosed with brain cancer, returned to the floor to cast a vote backing the measure.

The Cassidy and Kennedy votes were no surprise, as Kennedy campaigned on a promise to repeal the ACA and Kennedy, along with Maine Senator Susan Collins, have co-authored one of the numerous Republican replacement options.

Oddly, it was Collins, along with Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who sided with all 48 Democrats in opposing further healthcare debate.

How Senators Voted To Consider Further Debate On Obamacare Replacement

Majority Needed To Pass               Yes          No

Republicans                                    51             2

Democrats                                        0            48

Total                                                51           50

 

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