WASHINGTON, D.C.  -  Congressman Mike Rogers made a strong stand tonight in opposition to the Democratic leadership’s plan for a massive government takeover of the American healthcare system by voting no on both healthcare bills.

Rogers said Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s one–two punch to have the Federal government highly regulate healthcare, which equates to one-sixth of our economy in America, squeaked through Congress on solely partisan votes.  First the House passed H.R. 3590, the Senate passed version of the healthcare bill. H.R. 3590 is expected to be immediately sent to the President to be signed into law. Then the House passed H.R. 4872, a package of changes to the Senate bill that Speaker Pelosi dictated behind closed doors.

Rogers said he was deeply disappointed the Democratic Leadership chose to force their massive healthcare bill through Congress that increasing numbers of  Americans, and the vast majority of East Alabamians, have consistently opposed.

“It is unconscionable to me that the Democratic Leadership is turning its back on the will of the American people and letting their voices fall on deaf ears. This is their agenda, not the agenda of the American people. The vast majority of my constituents do not want this bill to become law.

I strongly opposed it for many reasons, including the fact that it cuts Medicare, raises billions in new taxes, it thrusts the Federal government squarely into the forefront of doctor–patient decisions, and it is an affront to our pro-life values,” Rogers said. 

“Most folks back home in East Alabama are strongly opposed to this bill and the question the true motives behind it.  Congress could have taken more prudent, incremental steps toward reform instead of this misguided and massive overhaul. I am deeply disappointed in the Democratic Leadership and feel this step toward bigger government and higher taxes is a troubling sign for our country,” Rogers added.

Rogers said every Alabama Member of Congress – Democratic and Republican – voted against  the two bills that passed tonight.
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