Political Quotes

On the recordJanuary 19, 2011
As a health care professional for almost 30 years, I actually sat down and read all 2,000 pages of the health care bill. And as I read through the measure, I became increasingly alarmed at the level of control over an individual's health that would be vested in the Federal Government. I've spent my life working with those facing life-altering disabilities and diseases. And I've been quick to point out that while we have the best health system in the world, there must be improvements. That is why I am supporting the repeal of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act--and I believe there are plenty of reasons for my colleagues to join me. The law mandates purchase of a government-defined insurance plan, a mandate that the President opposed on several occasions when running for office. As a result of failing to live up to this promise, the Justice Department is now attempting to defend the mandate on the grounds that it is a tax. According to the nonpartisan Medicare Actuary, because of the law, national spending will increase by more than $310 billion over the first 10 years. The law will not lower health care costs, despite numerous claims that we've heard. According to a Congressional Budget Office analysis, health insurance premiums could rise by an average of $2,100 per family. This increase comes despite promises of lower premiums. Mr. Speaker, if this law remains in place, up to 35 million people could lose health care access.
Said by
Glenn Thompson
Republican · Pennsylvania

Editor's note · Context

The speaker discusses concerns about the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and its implications for health care access and costs.

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