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House Speaker Mike Johnson has refuted claims that he intends to repeal the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. The Louisiana Republican clarified his stance in response to comments made by Vice President Harris' campaign, which referred to his remarks at a campaign stop. Johnson stated that while he believes the health care system needs "massive reform," he does not plan to end Obamacare.
At a campaign event in Pennsylvania, Johnson was asked about former President Trump's plans for health care reform. He responded that it would be "part of the agenda," which he described as an aggressive plan for the first 100 days. However, when an attendee asked, "No Obamacare?" Johnson responded affirmatively, but later clarified his statement.
In a statement issued Wednesday, Johnson said, "Despite the dishonest characterizations from the Harris campaign, the audio and transcript make clear that I offered no such promise to end Obamacare, and in fact acknowledged that the policy is ‘deeply ingrained’ in our health care system." He further stated that House Republicans will always seek to reduce costs and improve the quality and availability of health care for all Americans.
Johnson's comments come at a time when both parties are making their closing arguments to voters. Vice President Harris has repeatedly warned that Trump would seek to dismantle the Affordable Care Act if he regains the White House, while the former president has said he would improve the law.
According to CNN, Johnson's remarks were first reported by NBC News. The Harris campaign has seized on Johnson’s remarks, warning that “health care is on the ballot.”