Senator John McCain Will Cast His Healthcare Vote

Senator John McCain, who was diagnosed with brain cancer last week, will return to the Senate on Tuesday and cast a crucial vote on the GOP’s healthcare bill.

McCain released a statement confirming his return on Monday night. “Look forward to returning to the Senate tomorrow to continue working on important legislation, including healthcare reform, the National Defense Authorization Act, and new sanctions on Russia, Iran, and North Korea,” McCain’s statement read.

Before McCain announced he would return to Washington, DC, Republicans were so desperate for his vote, they were willing to do nearly anything to get him there — including drive him across the country in an RV, as offered by Majority Whip John Cornyn.

Tuesday’s vote will be quite close, but McCain is expected to vote in favor of beginning a debate on the GOP legislation. If McCain does vote “yea,” the Senate will likely have enough votes begin debating and dismantling the legislation.

Senator Susan Collins of Maine has indicated she will vote against the GOP bill. Senators Shelly Moore Capito of West Virginia and Lisa Murkowksi of Alaska said they would vote against the bill if an Affordable Care Act replacement is not submitted by Republicans.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has remained mum on what exactly Republicans will vote on. The vote could go a number of directions: Senators could vote on the recently proposed and criticized Better Care Reconciliation Act, or a new version of the legislation, or a repeal of the ACA without a replacement.