FORT WAYNE, Ind.(WOWO) — Congressman Marlin Stutzman joined Kayla Blakeslee on Fort Wayne’s Morning News Thursday to discuss the latest developments in Washington, the state of Obamacare, and what it’s really like to work in Congress. The conversation touched on procedural votes, party dynamics, and even what listeners can expect from a day-in-the-life visit to Capitol Hill.
A Procedural Vote Sparks Questions
The discussion began with a recent procedural vote in the House on ongoing debate over Obamacare subsidies. Nine Republicans joined Democrats to advance the measure, raising questions about party unity and legislative priorities.
“First of all, Kayla, we’re off to a rough start because Congressman Doug LaMalfa passed away recently in California, Marjorie Taylor Greene has stepped out of office, and then Congressman Jim Baird was in an accident on his way back to D.C.,” Stutzman explained. “So we were down three Republicans. That leaves us with a razor-thin margin, and the Democrats saw an opportunity to push forward a discharge petition to bypass committee.”
Stutzman noted that some Republicans voted with Democrats out of concern for their districts or personal convictions, but he stressed that the move is not aligned with his view on fixing the health care system.
“We have a plan to fix Obamacare and to take a different approach rather than just throwing more money at a problem that is only getting worse. Obamacare has been a failure. It’s cost the American people trillions of dollars, and while 24 million people are on it, that’s a fraction of the 350 million Americans we serve. We can fix this sooner rather than later,” he said.
He also emphasized that, while the procedural vote may make headlines, the outcome is unlikely to affect the Senate. “If the measure passes the House, it will go to the Senate—but it won’t pass. This is largely a political vote designed to make a point ahead of the 2026 midterms.”
Behind the Scenes: Life in Congress
Stutzman offered a candid glimpse into the complexity of Congressional work and the challenges of interpreting votes as an outsider.
“I think people often misunderstand the so-called ‘gotcha’ votes. There’s always more happening behind the scenes. Sometimes I’ll stand on the House floor during a vote and look around at my colleagues and think, ‘What’s actually going on here?’ There are always different angles, different strategies, and different priorities at play,” he said.
He likened much of the legislative process to “sausage making,” acknowledging that while the work can be messy, it’s essential to navigating a body of 435 representatives with varying agendas.
Economic Optimism and a Historic Celebration
Despite political disagreements, Stutzman expressed optimism about the country’s economic outlook.
“People should be seeing more money in their paychecks. The economy is growing, and there are positive developments happening on many fronts in our government. It’s an exciting time, especially as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary this year,” he said.
Blakeslee also announced that she and her team would spend a day shadowing Stutzman in Washington, D.C., giving listeners a behind-the-scenes view of Congressional life.
“I’m so excited. I knew you all were coming soon, and it’s coming faster than the holidays—it’s next week already. There’s a lot going on in Washington, and I’m looking forward to showing your audience how life works here. Of course, just hanging out with you and Josh will be the highlight for me,” Stutzman said with a laugh.
Looking Ahead
Stutzman concluded with a reminder that, despite the complex politics, there are many reasons to remain hopeful.
“There are so many good things happening economically and in terms of security that I feel optimistic about the year ahead and the 2026 election. We’re focused on improving lives, making smart legislative decisions, and celebrating milestones like the 250th anniversary of our country. It’s going to be a great year for Americans,” he said.
