On the recordJuly 10, 2012
I'd like to thank Chairman Pallone for yielding the time. He started off the debate by saying this debate reminds him of the movie ``Groundhog Day.'' I think he's right. It reminds me of a summer rerun. Republicans are forcing another political debate on the Affordable Care Act--a tired rerun--when the Republicans should be joining us in focusing on creating jobs and boosting the economy. That is our number one priority this summer. It's a real shame. In fact, it's disheartening to hear my Republican colleagues urge repeal of vital consumer protections for American families. My Republican colleagues are undermining the economic security of middle class families in doing so. They are urging the elimination of important improvements to Medicare, like closing the doughnut hole, putting cash back into the pockets of seniors who need it at this time. And what they're saying is that it's okay that people don't take personal responsibility for their health and their health care, and I think that's wrong. It is not fair that if you pay those health insurance premiums time after time and those copays, that you end up picking up the tab for those who do not. That's not fair. The Affordable Care Act targets that for replacement and encourages personal responsibility. I urge my Republican colleagues not to waste our time here, but let's come together. Let's work and focus on improving the economy and creating jobs. That really is our number one priority.
