Thune Declines to Overrule Senate Parliamentarian
On Thursday, Senate majority leader John Thune (R-SD) firmly stated “no” when asked whether he would consider overturning Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth McDonough’s decisions.
Responding to reporters, Thune expressed that such a move “wouldn’t be a good result of accomplishing the bill.” This stance has raised eyebrows, particularly after McDonough rejected proposals to restrict states from raising additional federal Medicaid funds through the medical care provider tax, a decision that, arguably, saved Republicans hundreds of billions.
Some within the Republican Party have suggested that McDonough’s decisions have sidelined pivotal opportunities. According to Politico, Thune’s remarks were viewed as a way to maintain focus on the bill’s objectives.
In further comments, Thune mentioned, “There are things we can do. There are other ways to reach the same outcome,” hinting at potential alternatives to achieve their goals while adhering to existing regulations.
Breitbart News reported Thursday that Congress has limited Medicaid funds for transgender healthcare services and ensured that undocumented individuals will not receive Medicaid or CHIP coverage.
Still, the article noted that there is a chance Senate Republicans could adjust the language involving the Medicaid Provider Tax within a broader legislation.
Over the weekend, Thune highlighted that the focus for Senate Republicans is on addressing “waste, fraud, and abuse” within Medicaid. He underscored that this effort aligns with the President’s objectives, emphasizing cooperation with the administration throughout this process. Thune also reassured that their actions would not harm beneficiaries. “We don’t cut Medicaid,” he insisted. “We’re continuing to grow Medicaid, albeit at a slower rate than what’s allowed under current law.” He pointed out that Medicaid has expanded by 50% over the past five years, a trajectory he believes is unsustainable.
On Sunday, McDonough identified eight provisions of the bill that wouldn’t advance in the Chamber of Commerce without a supermajority. On Monday, she further insulated parts of the bill that conflicted with certain settlement rules, as reported by Breitbart News.
