Soprano metaphor used here for at least five years.
"They're using bullying tactics to attack our state," the Republican told Fox News late Thursday. "It's wrong. It's outrageous that they're doing this."
Mr. Scott said this week he will sue the administration for linking the expansion debate in his state to a $2.2-billion demonstration program known as the Low Income Pool, which reimburses hospitals for treating the poor and uninsured. The funding is set to expire in June, and Mr. Scott wants a renewal.
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services sent Florida a letter Tuesday saying it had doubts about the LIP program. It reiterated its belief that Obamacare's Medicaid expansion is a better way to cover the poor and rein in hospital costs.
Mr. Scott took that as a direct threat -- essentially, either expand Medicaid or lose the other funds.
He says the administration is violating the very decision in 2012 that upheld Obamacare, but which also ruled states must be given a choice over whether to expand Medicaid or forfeit all of their health money under the federal-state partnership.
It is unclear when Mr. Scott plans to actually file suit. The governor's office said it is still working with state Attorney General Pam Bondi to draft the complaint.