Analysis: Trump the dealmaker struggles to seal the deal
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump, the author of the bestselling book, “The Art of the Deal,” is about to see his deal-making abilities ratified in a legislative showdown on the House floor — or dramatically rebuffed.
Trump, in a message relayed by White House officials, demanded that House Republican leaders vote Friday on a GOP-backed health care bill embraced by the president, placing the legislation on the brink of failure and jeopardizing his vow to repeal and replace former President Barack Obama’s health care law.
By gambling on passing the major health care bill without the votes in hand, the former casino owner is staking the trajectory of his presidency on a roll of the dice, betting Republicans will go along rather than stand in the way of the long-sought repeal of “Obamacare.” White House officials told lawmakers they would leave the health care law in place if the vote fails.
Trump’s ultimatum came after House Republicans delayed a planned vote on the bill, a sign of possible defeat. In the weeks leading up to Thursday, Trump did his best to arm-twist resistant conservatives and moderates opposed to the legislation. He revived his campaign rallies to remind the voters, and their representatives, of the GOP’s promises. He invited Republican lawmakers to the White House, having his advisers join them for bowling and pizza nights and cajoling them over the phone.