But the decision also gave Republicans unexpected ammunition to energize supporters in the battle for the White House and to fight "Obamacare" as a new tax on people who don't obtain health insurance.
Representative Trey Gowdy (SC-4) released the following statement after the United State Supreme Court ruled 5-4 to uphold the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA). The Supreme Court did redefine PPACA as a tax.
“The question every American should now be asking themselves is what's next? Can Congress "tax" you for not exercising enough since that impacts the cost of healthcare? Can Congress "tax" you for eating certain foods or offer "tax" breaks for avoiding certain foods? Can Congress "tax" you because you only walk on the treadmill and don't run? Are there any limits to the power of the federal government?”
“Our forefathers would not recognize the modern day interpretation of the document they wrote and ratified.”
“The President said this wasn't a "tax" and the Supreme Court bailed him out by re-interpreting his argument as a "tax" rather than as a mandate and an expansion of the commerce clause.”
“Federalism is gone. The state has the power to control – via mandate or "tax" - virtually all aspects of your life. It's a sad day for those who believe in personal responsibility and a limited federal government.”