Asia-Pacific

GOP repeals healthcare reforms in symbolic vote

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-01-20 09:31

WASHINGTON -- US House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a bill repealing last year's healthcare reform, a signature legislation of the Obama administration. The bill is not likely to pass the Democratic controlled Senate.

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The House voted fulfills a central Republican campaign pledge and is the first major policy legislation since they take over the House this year.

The vote was 245-189, splitting along party-line. Three Democrats joined all 242 Republicans in supporting repeal.

Republicans argued the healthcare law would increase spending, raise taxes and eliminate jobs, while the White House has recently launched a campaign to counter the claim.