Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA) releases the following statement on providing a public option

Washington, DC – “We must not let the conversation about healthcare reform become derailed by confusion. If real reform is to take place it must include a public option.

“When travelers arrive at the airport in any major city they deliberate on how to reach their final destination. Faced with a myriad of options they can select to be picked up in their own car, rent a car, hire a private car service or take public transportation. Commuters can choose the mode of public transportation that is most beneficial to them; a cab, a bus or the rail system. No doubt, the selection of either of these choices is based on which is the most convenient and cost effective for the traveler.

“The same is true as it relates to healthcare reform; which plan is best for the consumer? The option to choose to stay with their current provider, choose from countless other providers or take the public option. A public option will simply provide a choice for the consumer. It’s the opportunity to examine alternatives and then make the best individual choice.

“Simply put, an option is an opportunity; and a public option is a patient opportunity. Consumers must be given the option to make an informed decision about their own healthcare. A public option merely expands a patient’s ability to choose. I will work with my colleagues to ensure that the choice is not curtailed nor the conversation confused.”

someone please explain to me what on earth is wrong with my congresscritter? (Davis, CA-53, “Open to Anything”)

Normally, she’s ever so reasonably and generally progressive. She doesn’t even take a lot of money from insurance lobbyists.

It’s good that this list is so much longer than it used to be.

I’m x-posting this from Whip It!Day 54. Please bear w/ me as I try to properly follow the action here. FDL certainly is a lively and robust site.

I don’t see my rep, Richie Neal, from the Mass 2nd district on that list anywhere??

Neal is up for re-election next year, and he is being challenged for the first time in years by Republican Dr. Jay Fleitman, who is Chair of Northampton’s Health Board, Chair of Republican city ward, immediate past President of the local hospital’s medical staff, and member of the hospital’s board of trustees. Fleitman said in a press release, “Health care isn’t a privilege or a right. Health care is a necessity.” Monster.

I live on Northampton, and it scares me that Fleitman is Chair of my city’s Health Board. It also bothers me that Neal is not on that list. A couple towns over, in Amherst, John Olver made the list under “Robust”

Time to Whip Neal I believe. Any suggestions to help me Whip Neal Good are welcomed. Any ideas on how to keep Neal in office, but make him more Progressive are also welcomed.