Political Quotes

“I'm pleased to join with Senator Conrad Burns in offering this concurrent resolution. To my amazement, this common-sense approach to health care reform is opposed by some. We believe that all costs associated with health care reform should be considered on-budget. The American public concurs that too many are without health insurance and that medical costs are increasing at alarming rates. We may not all agree upon the best method of addressing these problems. However, we share the same goals--reduced cost and increased access, which is a good starting point. President Clinton, in his Health Security Act, envisions an expanded role for the Federal Government. I, for one, do not agree with this approach to reform. Rather, I support market, insurance, and malpractice reforms as means of reducing costs. We can best help the uninsured by reducing costs and providing vouchers to help those who need it to purchase private insurance. I'm not here to debate the merits of the various health care plans. Instead, I'm here to express my belief that the cost of any health plan, whether advanced by a Republican, Democrat, or independent, must be considered on-budget. This is an important first step in the health care debate. We must show that we are serious about reforming the health care system and serious about being fiscally responsible in the process.”