Trump blames Democrats for health bill’s failure

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump says his health care reform fell short because it lacked support from Democrats.

Trump made his first comments about the failure of a signature legislative item Friday in the Oval Office a short time after a House vote on the bill was cancelled.

Trump told reporters "we were very close" and tried to blame Democrats, through Republicans control both the House and the Senate.

He also predicted the Affordable Care Act would soon implode, forcing Democrats to join the Republicans at the negotiating table.

In response U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse released a statement on postponing the bill saying in a statement, "all Americans deserve access to quality, affordable healthcare." He also added, "I am disappointed that we have reached a delay in moving forward on solutions, but I will continue to work to support healthcare proposals that put individuals first, not the government bureaucracy.”

He continues on to say Obamacare is not working and lawmakers must continue to work on a solution that puts patients first.

On the other hand, U.S. Senator Patty Murray called the move a "victory," and thanked all the people who spoke up about the healthcare plan. She adds, "We will be vigilant in defending against continuing efforts to put the interests of insurance companies and the wealthy ahead of patients’ health and welfare. I fear that while Trumpcare was dealt a significant blow today, the terrible ideas that underpin it will live on with Republicans in Congress and the White House."