Two Republicans break with party as GOP defeats budget amendment to lower health care costs
The Hill·60-word summary·1 min read
On April 24, 2026, two Senate Republicans broke ranks as the GOP defeated a Democratic-led amendment aimed at lowering out-of-pocket health care costs. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer proposed the amendment, which sought to create a point of order against future budget reconciliation bills that do not reduce healthcare expenses for Americans. The vote highlighted divisions within the party on healthcare policy.
On April 19, 2026, three GOP senators—Susan Collins, Dan Sullivan, and Josh Hawley—voted with Democrats to support an amendment addressing insurance companies’ delays and denials of medical care. This marked a break from the Senate GOP leadership, highlighting divisions within the party over healthcare policy. The vote reflects ongoing debates over insurance practices and healthcare access.
Senate Republicans on April 19 defeated an amendment sponsored by Sen. Ben Ray Luján to reverse $187 billion in SNAP cuts from last year's legislation. Notably, Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Sullivan broke with GOP leaders to support the measure, which aimed to create a reserve fund to lower grocery costs. The vote highlights divisions within the Senate GOP on social safety net policies.
New York City Council member Chi Ossé was arrested on April 19 during a protest to prevent a resident's eviction. Ossé was later released and reported being "manhandled" by three men outside the 79th Precinct. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over eviction policies and tenant rights in New York City.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced a positive discussion with President Trump at the White House regarding FEMA aid for wildfire recovery efforts. The conversation focused on support for areas affected by last year's Palisades and Eaton wildfires. The meeting highlights ongoing federal assistance efforts, though specific funding amounts or agreements were not disclosed.
Democrat Rep. David Scott, aged 80, died on April 22, after over 20 years in Congress, reducing the party’s House majority. His death highlights concerns over the aging Democratic leadership, with some colleagues citing it as a "liability problem" amid ongoing debates about age and health in Congress. Scott was the eighth House member to die in office in the past two years, mostly Democrats over 70.
The Senate is conducting a vote-a-rama on a GOP budget resolution aimed at funding immigration enforcement through reconciliation, bypassing the Democratic filibuster. Meanwhile, California gubernatorial candidates are participating in a debate. The vote is part of a two-step GOP plan to advance immigration policies, with significant implications for upcoming legislation.
