Incoming Chief of Staff Reince Priebus says repealing and replacing Obamacare will be be at the top of the incoming administration’s agenda in what they are promising is going to be a very eventful first year.
“It’s going to be a busy year starting with the first nine months being very much consumed through Obamacare and tax reform,” Priebus told conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt Wednesday. “I think we’re probably going to lead with Obamacare, repeal and then replace.”
In addition to repealing the Affordable Care Act, President Barack Obama’s trademark health law, Trump’s chief of staff also said Republicans were planning to enact tax reform.
“You’ll have tax, a small tax reform package, and then a bigger tax reform package at the end of April. So I think what you’re looking at is between two tax reform packages and reconciliation in the first nine months,” Priebus said.
The former Republican National Committee chairman stressed the importance of pushing a Republican agenda through Congress due to the party’s majorities in Congress with 52 senators and 241 representatives.
“I can assure you that we’re working around the clock to make sure that big changes, bold changes, happen quickly, and that the Republicans across the country deliver not just on the promises everyone has been making over the years but also deliver on the philosophy of the party that’s been outlined year in and year out,” Priebus said.
“Now, it’s time for being in the majority, and I can tell you President-elect Trump is going to lead the way to put up and show up.”
Repealing and replacing Obamacare has been a campaign cornerstone of Republican candidates since the law was enacted in 2010. Republicans can repeal significant portions through a budget procedure that avoids a Senate filibuster. However, because the GOP does not have a 60-seat supermajority in the Senate, it will be difficult to replace the law.