At the nation's Governors' annual summer meeting on Friday, 7/14, there was strong opposition to the Senate Republicans' Repeal and Replace Plan - an not just from democratic governors. John Kasich, governor from Ohio, stood out as the most vocal Republican governor opposing the current Senate plan. He is calling for a bipartisan solution.
Gov. Sandoval of Nevada plays a pivotal role, because he has been skeptical of the plan, and he provides support for Senator Heller, who is a likely no vote on the Senate plan. If the governor endorses the Senate plan, Senator Heller may follow suit and put McConnell within striking distance of passage. Other Republican governors critical of the plan include Scott (Vermont), Walker (Wisconsin), and Bevin (Kentucky).
McConnell, Pence and Trump have been courting the governors and senators who are critical of the plan, offering special deals to win their support. Republican leadership is adamant that they must deliver on the repeal and replace promise they have been running on for seven years.