Texans wanted Medicaid expansion, gun reform and looser abortion laws. Instead, Abbott and the GOP focused on culture wars, writes @MaryEllenKlas (via @opinion) https://t.co/duxPKAgiGs ...

Healthcare Policy & Political Landscape - Republican Senator Tom Tillis' decision not to seek reelection followed his opposition to Donald Trump's bill, which could potentially strip health insurance from hundreds of thousands of people [1][2] - The withdrawal of support for the bill by Tom Tillis suggests a disconnect between Washington Republicans' claims and the potential loss of health insurance for 500,000 to 1 million North Carolinians [2] - Expansion of Medicaid in North Carolina has provided health insurance to previously uninsured individuals, a benefit now threatened by Washington Republicans [3] Impact on Citizens & Political Response - The potential loss of health insurance is a significant concern for working families already struggling with everyday expenses [4] - There is a commitment to ensure North Carolinians are aware of the potential loss of life-saving health insurance [5] - The speaker aims to address the healthcare issue in Washington, emphasizing action over mere presence, and believes rural Americans will voice their concerns to their representatives [5]