Coverage for pre-existing conditions did not die in Congress last night

If you were watching the Senate’s budget debate late Wednesday night, you might be under the impression that Congress has killed coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. It hasn’t.

Yes, the Senate did vote to move ahead with repealing President Barack Obama’s signature health-care law. And, yes, as part of that vote, Republicans rejected a Democratic amendment meant to protect insurance for people with pre-existing conditions. But the reason lies with the way Republicans want to get Obamacare repeal through Congress — not with an inherent opposition to protecting sick Americans.

Before delving into budget procedure, here’s an important note: Republicans — including President-elect Donald Trump — have said they want to continue to protect those with pre-existing conditions. The Affordable Care Act makes it against the law to deny coverage to those who are already sick. Trump told “60 Minutes” that the feature is “one of the strongest assets” of the law. House Republicans, meanwhile, say they will offer the same protection.

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