One of the premiere organizations funded by billionaires Charles and David Koch is vowing reelection cash for Republicans who help thwart the American Health Care Act.
Millions of dollars is on the line for lawmakers who buck President Donald Trump, House Speaker Paul Ryan and others who back the current Obamacare replacement bill.
Americans for Prosperity, which boasts 35 chapters across the nation and an army of grassroots activists, say the current legislation is too tepid for the level of policy reform needed.
“We want to make certain that lawmakers understand the policy consequences of voting for a law that keeps Obamacare intact,” Americans for Prosperity president Tim Phillips said, CNN reported Thursday. “We have a history of following up and holding politicians accountable, but we will also be there to support and thank the champions who stand strong and keep their promise.”
Koch-funded groups and their donors plan to spend between $300 million and $400 million on projects related to the next election cycle, the network reported. Lawmakers who vote for the bill will have access to AFP’s resources, but not as much as those who oppose AHAC.
Mr. Trump made a last-minute appeal to Americans on Thursday to pressure their elected leaders into supporting the bill.
“Americans were told that Obamacare would bring down prices and increase options. You were told that you could keep your plan and keep your doctor,” Mr. Trump said in a video published on social media, The Washington Times reported. “You were given many, many false stories. The fact is, you were given many lies. […] Call your local representative, call your senator — let [them] know that you’re behind our plan.”
