Sen. Paul lone Republican to vote against dismantling Obamacare

Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky was the only republican to vote against a Senate measure to dismantle President Barack Obama's health care law.

“As a physician, I cannot wait to repeal Obamacare and replace it with a health care system that relies on freedom to provide quality, comprehensive, and affordable care," said Senator Paul.

“But putting nearly $10 trillion more in debt on the American people’s backs through a budget that never balances is not the way to get there. It is the exact opposite of the change Republicans promised, and I cannot support it, even as a placeholder."

During the 21-minute vote starting just after 1 a.m. Thursday, democrats stood up one by one during roll call to state why they voted against repealing the Affordable Care Act.

"Up to 30 million Americans will lose their healthcare, with thousands dying as a result," said Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont.

After debating for seven hours, senators voted 51-48 to approve a budget resolution that will dismantle President Obama's signature health insurance program.

"The Obamacare bridge is collapsing and we are sending in a rescue team and we will build new bridges to better healthcare," said Senator Mike Enzi of Wyoming.

President-elect Trump has promised a replacement for the Affordable Healthcare Act, but that could take years.

The House is expected to vote on the legislation Friday.

A final repeal of the Affordable Care Act could come as early as next month.