Incoming Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., on Tuesday criticized President-elect Trump’s pick to run the Department of Health and Human Services, Rep. Tom Price, R-Ga., because he wants to reform entitlements, repeal Obamacare and withhold taxpayer dollars from Planned Parenthood.
“Congressman Price has proven to be far out of the mainstream of what Americans want when it comes to Medicare, the Affordable Care Act, and Planned Parenthood,” Schumer, who will lead Senate Democrats beginning in January, said in a statement. “Thanks to those three programs, millions of American seniors, families, people with disabilities and women have access to quality, affordable health care. Nominating Congressman Price to be the HHS secretary is akin to asking the fox to guard the hen house.”
The Senate must confirm Trump’s Cabinet nominees with a simple majority. Republicans will control 51 or 52 votes, depending on the outcome of the Louisiana Senate runoff.
Meanwhile, Republicans praised Trump’s pick as one that will help the federal government find healthcare answers that help patients.
“This is the absolute perfect choice,” said House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis. “Tom Price has made health care his life’s work. As a doctor, he has practiced and taught medicine, and he knows exactly how Washington’s decisions affect patients. As a legislator, he has played a leading role in developing conservative health care solutions that put patients first.”
“Whether in the operating room or on the House floor, Dr. Price has dedicated his career to saving lives and improving health care for Americans from all walks of life,” added House Ways & Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady, R-Texas. “Dr. Price’s unique experience, clear understanding of health and budget policy issues, and strong work ethic have been invaluable assets to our Committee.”
