I am disappointed that the Senate plans to push through a partisan health care bill that does not focus on the fundamental need to lower health costs for all families and small businesses.   In fact, this bill could actually increase health care costs for many who are struggling in today's economy.  With a price tag of well over $850 billion, including over $500 billion in new taxes, this bill has been rushed, secretive, and holds billions in political favors.

For example, why should the state of Nebraska get a guarantee that Congress will pay for 100% of Nebraska Medicaid expansions into perpetuity when Minnesota taxpayers are told they will have to foot the bill?  It's this type of political intimidation with unnecessary payouts and pandering that have contributed to the continued distrust of Washington by the American public.