Political Quotes

“Madam President, in Washington there is a great deal of talk about what health care reform will mean for various segments of the population. In particular, many of us spend a lot of time talking about 47 million Americans who do not currently have health insurance and how they stand to benefit from our reform bill. This debate has centered on these folks, especially the 31 million people who will gain access to coverage under our proposal. In my opinion, this alone should be reason enough to pass health care reform. Expanding access to coverage will improve relative health outcomes and save money across the board. It will shift our focus from sick care to preventive care and will reduce wait time in emergency rooms. This will have a profound effect on the lives of millions, and it speaks to the profound need for comprehensive health care reform. But that is only a part of the story. Many of my friends in this Chamber and many people across the country recognize the need to expand health coverage. But they are also worried about the effects that health reform will have on their insurance. Middle-class Americans hear all this talk about helping people with no insurance at all and they say: That is great, but I need help too. My premiums are going up, and benefits are disappearing. I am worried that I don't have stable coverage, or that I won't have access to care when I need it. How will reform help me? I think it is time to take a deeper look at these folks.…”