WASHINGTON, DC – Energy and Commerce Committee Vice Chair Diana DeGette (D-CO) today chided President George W. Bush over his comments about the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) during his press conference:

“President Bush’s political rhetoric matches his cynical policy. We have a choice – we can either pay for the health care of low-income children through SCHIP or through the emergency room. President Bush’s reckless and irresponsible proposal will force millions of kids to line up at the front door of America’s hospitals.

“While the President tries to paint bipartisan Congressional efforts to insure children as politics, the fact remains that the President’s proposal harms kids. Despite the President’s rhetoric, our proposal simply ensures that millions of low-income kids will gain access to health care.”