News for the Ninth - 11.13.2009

Even though the American people spoke loud and clear about their opposition to a government takeover of health care, Speaker Pelosi and her fellow liberals insisted on putting politics before people by ramming through a 1,990-page bill. Under cover of darkness on a Saturday night, this bill passed 220-to-215.

Within the 9^th District, the overwhelming number of calls, emails and letters from people were opposed to this legislation.

I have heard from seniors who are concerned about their Medicare and their general care. This bill makes close to $500 billion in cuts to Medicare and Medicare Advantage will be ravaged, which is widely expected to drive up demand for private Medigap policies. Small business owners tell me they are concerned that this bill will force billions in new taxes, surcharges and places new mandates upon them, which may cause them to lose their businesses. And our young people are concerned about their future, given the $1 trillion this program will cost taxpayers now and in the future.

The Pelosi plan is flawed, to be sure, but I have recently been encouraged: Many senators have suggested that the House version of the bill is dead on arrival in the Senate. The Pelosi bill rewrites nearly one-sixth of the nation’s economy and increases health care costs, raise taxes, cuts seniors’ benefits, and puts a barrier between doctors and patients. 

 

LUNG CANCER AWARENESS: November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, which offers a perfect opportunity to evaluate our own lung health. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and kills more men and women than any other cancer combined. Symptoms to watch for include persistent cough; constant chest pain; shortness of breath; recurring pneumonia or bronchitis; coughing up blood; unusual or unexplained fatigue; swelling and redness of the neck or face; or loss of appetite and loss of weight. Talk with your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, and about your family medical history of lung cancer and all cancers, as well as your history of tobacco use.