Senate Republicans vote to open debate on repealing and replacing Obamacare

Key step toward healthcare reform passes thanks in part to John McCain’s return, but shape of final legislation and chances of success remain unclear

Senate Republicans took a tentative step toward fulfilling seven years of promises to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on Tuesday, something they achieved only after the dramatic return of Senator John McCain, who was diagnosed last week with brain cancer.

The procedural vote, which passed without the support of a single Democrat, allows the Senate to open debate on repealing and replacing the ACA, popularly known as Obamacare, even though it remains unclear exactly what legislation they will be voting on.

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