"I realize that many Americans have become nervous about reform."
On Wednesday September 9, 2009, President Barack Obama delivered a moving speech to U.S. Congress concerning health care reform. He declared he will no longer tolerate or acknowledge opponents of reform as they are only detrimental to the cause. His primary focus now is to implement the system with the help of both Democrats and Republicans.
Obama proclaimed that through the program, all Americans are required to have insurance as all drivers are required to buy auto insurance. The government will provide the public option for those who are unemployed an can not afford other health insurance. He mentioned he hoped the public option would create competition and drive down the prices from private insurance companies. He did not specify if taxpayer money would fund the public option.
He also suggested that large business were expected to provide health insurance options.: "There will be a hardship waiver for those individuals who still cannot afford coverage, and 95 percent of all small businesses, because of their size and narrow profit margin, would be exempt from these requirements," Obama said. "But we cannot have large businesses and individuals who can afford coverage game the system by avoiding responsibility to themselves or their employees."
Obama lastly reinsured that Medicare and Medicaid would be readily available despite cuts in costs.
Overall, there response was positive. Democrats exhibited great support while many Republicans remained skeptical and felt Obama should been more specific about the reform's ideals, especially concerning the public option.
One Congressman clearly displayed his opposition to Obama and his plans. South Carolina Republican Joe Wilson sponstenoutly shouted, "You lie" after Obama denied that health care legislation would provide free coverage for illegal immigrants. Wilson's outburst was instantly condemned and criticized by both Republicans and Democrats with both parties demanding he apologize immediately.
Reportedly Wilson called the White House and apologized for his "inappropriate and regrettable" comments after Obama's speech.
46.3 million Americans are currently living without Health Care Insurance. Maybe this isn't such a horrible idea. It doesn't hurt to try something once. Personally i believe the reform has good intentions. If the money does happen to come from taxpayers, then so be it. The government should impose steeper taxes upon the rich. Private insurance is turning into a monopoly and needs to be broken up. Lastly, every American should have health insurance. There are citizens dying everyday because they can not afford doctor's visits or hospital bills.
Personally I don't believe this incident would have occurred had this been Bush. Bush created a war where our soldiers continue to die on a daily basis. Yet, because this is Barack Obama and because of his background, he is receiving harsh criticism and opposition for a great cause. I hope Obama is successful.
