Thomas Daschle: “The issue, as we have noted now several times, has probably the most elaborate array of support by health care…”

“The issue, as we have noted now several times, has probably the most elaborate array of support by health care organizations, organizations that deal with this every day. Organizations on the front line of health care delivery have said this must be our highest priority--not just in health care, but in the array of issues that are confronting this Congress. They say there is nothing more important than passing this legislation this year. I think they are right. This is what the American people want. I might note, we just received a faxed letter from the President, from Moscow, on this very issue. I might just read one short paragraph. As I mentioned in my radio address this past Saturday, ensuring basic patient protections is not and should not be a political issue. I was therefore disappointed by the partisan manner in which the Senate Republican Leadership bill was developed. The lack of consultation with the White House or any Democrats during the drafting of your legislation contributed to its serious shortcomings and the fact it has failed to receive the support of either patients or doctors.”