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Coffman Promises Constituents No Repeal of Obamacare Without Replacement

Colorado Republican schedules 'listening tour’ in his district over ACA

Rep. Mike Coffman, R-Colo., leaves the House Republican Conference meeting in the Capitol on Nov. 30, 2016. (Photo By Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call)
Rep. Mike Coffman, R-Colo., leaves the House Republican Conference meeting in the Capitol on Nov. 30, 2016. (Photo By Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call)

Colorado Republican Rep. Mike Coffman promised constituents that there would be no repeal of Obamacare without a replacement while others in his party are pressing for Congress to do the opposite.

Coffman made the pledge while announcing a “listening tour” on the Affordable Care Act in his district.

Coffman said he will hold meetings with members of the medical community, patients and constituents in order to discuss the issues and concerns.

“My objective is to personally hear from them on how the ACA has affected the healthcare system, medical professionals, and most importantly, how it has affected patients access to medical care,” Coffman said in a statement. “I will use their input not only to review my own plans on how to proceed, but also to communicate their concerns to my congressional colleagues. Additionally, I want to communicate again that no repeal will take place without first having a replacement.”

Coffman’s dedication to finding a replacement before repeal puts him at odds with many in his party.

The House Freedom Caucus on Tuesday sent out a news release advocating for Congress to move forward on repealing Obamacare, writing “American families are hurting today under the crippling costs of the Affordable Care Act. We made a commitment to the American people to repeal this law — we must keep that promise. We remain open to and encourage a swift vote on a health care package that is market-based, consumer driven, and fair.”

After his tour, Coffman plans to hold telephone town halls with constituents in March to get their thoughts and opinions on repealing former President Barack Obama’s signature health care overhaul.

Republican members of Congress have faced anger at town hall meetings over the Obamacare repeal, among other issues. Coffman himself had to leave a recent meeting with constituents early due to the large number of people who showed up to vent their concerns about Obamacare, the Trump administration, and its travel ban on immigrants from seven Muslim-majority countries. 

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