Graham to GOP: Don't 'Count on the President to Have Your Back'

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said Monday it is not smart for lawmakers to rely on the president when it comes to creating legislation.

MSNBC asked Graham to comment on Senate Republicans' healthcare bill, which GOP leaders are hoping to put up for a floor vote later this week.

"Here's what I would tell any senator: If you count on the president to have your back, you need to watch it," Graham said. "Here's what I told the House guys: You need to understand the Senate is a different animal. I don't think the House bill was mean, I'm not so sure it was as well-constructed as it could have been.

"Our bill is a bit better, it saves more money, and I think in many ways it has a softer transition."

The House passed the American Health Care Act in early May. A group of senators and staffers have been working on the bill ever since. Last week, they unveiled an altered version of the legislation, the Better Care Reconciliation Act.

A Congressional Budget Office report made public Monday claimed the bill would lead to 22 million people losing their health insurance coverage.

• White House Criticizes CBO for GOP Healthcare Score
• Three GOP Senators a Definite 'No' to Healthcare Bill as Is