Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he talked to Sen. John McCain on Monday, two days after doctors removed a blood clot over his left eye, and was told some good news.
McCain said he would remain in Arizona this week, but McConnell didn’t give a timeline for his return to the Senate. His absence is now holding up a critical vote on a GOP healthcare reform bill.
“I spoke with Sen. McCain this morning and let him know the Senate continues to send its thoughts to him,” McConnell, R-Ky., said. “Our friend from Arizona is a pretty tough guy as we all know. He will be back with us soon.”
McConnell did not provide a new timeline for voting on the healthcare bill. Republicans are struggling to win 50 GOP votes for the measure. McCain is considered to be among the likely yes votes. Without him, passage would be nearly impossible.
Senator are awaiting an analysis of the GOP proposal by the Congressional Budget Office, but the report could be delayed by days or even a week, according to a GOP source.
Republicans Monday promoted the GOP proposal, which includes a provision authored by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, which would allow health insurers to sell different plans that do not adhere to Obamacare mandates.
“This allows people to personalize and individualize their own health care plans,” Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn, R-Texas, said.
