Gus Bilirakis: “I rise in support of H.R. 4680, the Medicare RX 2000 Act. The addition of prescription drug coverage to the Medicare…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 4680, the Medicare RX 2000 Act. The addition of prescription drug coverage to the Medicare program is one of the most important things we can do this year. I am saddened, Mr. Speaker, by the strictly partisan and political debate that has arisen on this vital issue and by the efforts to continuously interrupt these proceedings with nonsensical procedural motions. This conduct reinforces my sincere belief that the Democratic leadership does not want to take real action this year on this issue, just like they failed to address the problem for over 40 years when they controlled the House. This is a critical concern for seniors throughout the country, and it should not be reduced to merely a political issue or to one of spite. I am reminded of a debate in the 104th Congress when we worked successfully to save Medicare from bankruptcy. At that time the Democratic leadership exploited the crisis facing Medicare by engaging in demagoguery for political gain. The Washington Post editorial board rightly labeled them 'Medagogues.' Now they are playing politics with seniors in desperate need of prescription drugs. In the words of the Great Communicator, Ronald Reagan, 'There they go again.' Many of the latest drug and biological therapies are targeted at preventing or curing diseases that affect senior citizens and persons with disabilities.”