Andy Harris: “despite the large amount of attention that matters of national security have demanded, the House has remained steadfast…”

“despite the large amount of attention that matters of national security have demanded, the House has remained steadfast in confronting the threats to security here at home. We passed decisive measures to revitalize our financial security and our economy. Moreover, we continue to confront the corporate greed that has threatened the life savings of millions of Americans. These dramatic efforts to restore America's economic security will mean little, however, until we address the moral obligation to our seniors. After all, they are the people who built America's prosperity in the first place. The enactment of the Medicare program constituted a sacred pact with our seniors. It reflected our Nation's belief that the health concerns associated with advancing age should not raise the specter of grinding poverty. Nevertheless, while our society enjoys an unprecedented level of wealth and material comfort, our seniors still suffer sleepless nights worrying about how they will afford critical medical and life saving prescription drugs. Far too often, good politics has taken precedence over good policy. Meanwhile, men and women who spent their lives investing in this country have paid the price of political inaction. Yet, thanks to the visionary leadership of the gentleman from Illinois (Speaker Hastert), the gentleman from California (Chairman Thomas) and the gentleman from Louisiana (Chairman Tauzin), our seniors at least have reason to hope.”