To the Editor:

Re “G.O.P. Repeal Push Is Dealt a Setback as Debating Opens” (front page, July 26):

Senator John McCain, who has a brain tumor and is recovering from surgery, returned to Washington to vote in favor of allowing the Senate to proceed with some sort of Obamacare repeal bill. The bill, whatever form it eventually takes, unmistakably will cut off health insurance for millions of people. Mr. McCain has excellent government health insurance benefits and will of course continue to receive the best medical care available.

He may be a war hero, but where was this man’s moral compass as he flew back to cast his vote with those who would deprive millions of Americans from receiving the same care?

JANET LINDER, AUBURNDALE, MASS.

To the Editor:

President Trump scolded Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, both Republicans, for their votes against the motion to proceed on the health care debate. They should wear Mr. Trump’s invective as a badge of honor, having placed the best interest of their constituents over that of the Republican Party. In doing so they displayed courage and independence.

It is hard to imagine that Ms. Collins continues to feel comfortable in a national Republican Party led by President Trump and the Senate majority leader, Mitch McConnell. It is time for her to declare herself an independent, like her fellow senator from Maine, Angus King, and to caucus with the Democrats. The same goes for Ms. Murkowski. And the Democrats should welcome them with open arms.