White House opens door to Democrats in wake of health-bill failure
Move signals the Trump administration is fed up with many factions in House Republican conference and may increase its outreach to Democrats
Washington — The White House sent a warning shot to congressional Republicans that it may increase its outreach to Democrats if it cannot get the support of hardline conservatives, a potential shift in legislative strategy that could affect drug prices, the future of a tax overhaul and budgetary priorities. Days after the House GOP health bill collapsed due to a lack of support from Republicans, White House chief of staff Reince Priebus brought up the idea of working with Democrats many times, leaving little doubt that the White House intended to send a message to the hardline Republican flank. "This president is not going to be a partisan president," Priebus said on Fox News Sunday. He said that while "I think it’s time for our folks to come together, I also think it’s time to potentially get a few moderate Democrats on board as well". President Donald Trump could face hurdles in enacting his agenda if he cannot broaden his coalition, even though Republicans control both chambers o...
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