Our country is based upon a set of guiding principles. These principles are the foundation of the Constitution, which ultimately gives power to the citizens rather than government. You can imagine my disappointment Monday morning when I read the Op-Ed written by Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Hoyer describing opposition to the government health care at town hall meetings around the country as “Un-American Attacks.”
The First Amendment of the Constitution states “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
Simply put, it is not “un-American” to attend town hall meetings, assemble, and petition the government. In fact, it’s a constitutionally protected right. We are lucky enough to live in a country where we are not forced to agree with a government agenda just because a government official says it is their agenda. While I certainly do not promote violent protests, I support your right as an American to let your voice be heard. I’m looking forward to meeting with folks at home in Tennessee throughout August to hear stories and suggestions for health care reform.
Unfortunately, there does not seem to be enough input from people in Tennessee and around the country in the health care debate in Washington. I believe the current health care legislation we have before us in the House today would look a lot different if all point-of-views were taken into account when this debate began. In addition, I believe that if the voices of the American people were heard, we would not be seeing the height of frustration we are currently witnessing at town halls throughout the country.
Currently, health care costs are 17% of our total economy. Furthermore, health care reform will affect everyone in a very personal way, and it’s not something that should be rammed through without a full and honest discussion. It is something far too important to be rushed. There is no Republican disease or Democrat disease, and it is time we start looking at health care reform together, regardless of our differences, party affiliation, or tax bracket. Congress needs to allow all voices to be heard so that true health care reform, that’s beneficial to the American people, can take root.
