Freedom Caucus chairman shrugs off Trump warning on 2018

Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.), chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, says he’s not worried about losing his seat in 2018 if the ObamaCare repeal plan fails. 

“I serve at the pleasure of the people of western North Carolina, and when you serve at their pleasure, it’s only those 750,000 people that can send you home,” Meadows told reporters Tuesday. 

“It’s a temporary job, and I’ve known that from day one.” 

Meadows’s comments came minutes after President Trump addressed the GOP conference Tuesday, telling members that they could lose their seats — and the House majority in 2018 — if they fail to repeal and replace ObamaCare. 

“I believe many of you will lose in 2018,” the president said.

{mosads}Trump specifically singled out Meadows as an opponent to the measure, saying, “I think Mark Meadows will get there, too. Mark, I’m coming after you.”

Members of the House Freedom Caucus say they are still opposed to the bill just two days ahead of its vote on the floor because it does not repeal ObamaCare’s insurer regulations and requirements. 

Meadows and Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), another Freedom Caucus member, said after Trump’s address they’re still opposed to the bill. 

“I’m still a no, because the bill we’re currently considering does not lower premiums for the vast majority of Americans,” Meadows said. 

“I certainly think that the president is the best guy to bring this home and close this deal out. Hopefully, we’ll be able to do that, but if everyone’s entrenched at this particular point it’s going to be a very difficult 48 hours.”