Albert Russell Wynn: “I do not know how you measure greatness in the modern world, but if in fact America is the greatest country in the…”

“I do not know how you measure greatness in the modern world, but if in fact America is the greatest country in the world, then it seems to me we ought to be able to provide prescription drug coverage to our seniors. Unfortunately, the Republican prescription drug plan that is going to be brought to the floor is best symbolized by the hole in the doughnut, too much cost for too little coverage when compared with the Democratic alternative. Take a look at the premiums: the Democratic alternative, $25 fixed in statute. The Republican premium, not in statute, fluctuates. It may be $35. It may be $85. Probably at least $50. Clearly, the Democrat plan is better. Deductible: Democrats, $100 deductible; Republicans, $200 deductible. Copay: Democrats, 20 percent; Republicans, after the first $1,000, 50 percent copay. Clearly, too much cost, too little coverage. Finally, stop loss. Between $2,000 and $3,700, and the taxpayer pays the bill. There is no coverage, no protection whatsoever. Mr. Speaker, this is a bad plan, and we ought to reject it in the land of the great.”