Leading By Listening

by: Congressman Frank Pallone

Mon Aug 24, 2009 at 12:28:29 PM EDT

Since I first went to Congress some 20 years ago, I've always made a point of coming home from Capitol Hill to listen to my constituents' concerns and brief them on the work I've been doing on their behalf.  Despite the well-coordinated campaign by those obstructionists intent on derailing progressive change in Washington, this year will be no different.  So in case you haven't heard, I'm hosting town meetings tonight and tomorrow here in my district.

I'm sure one main issue on everyone's mind tonight and tomorrow - not to mention in the days and weeks to come - will be health care reform.  My position is a basic one.  Health care reform cannot wait.  With over 46 million people uninsured and out of control costs, our current system is broken.  We need action to lower costs, create more efficiency and implement new technologies. That is the only way we can make our health care system more sustainable and available for every American. Simply put, people need to have an option of insurance that is more interested in their health than corporate profits.

As Chair of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, I will continue the fight to make sure the House bill contains a strong public option.  I'm committed to working with President Obama and Congressional leaders to make sure that real, substantial reform is passed into law.  However, I have made it clear to Senate leaders that the public option is the only way to lower costs and create marketplace competition.

I hope you will join us tonight or tomorrow to share your story or ask questions - either on health care reform or any other issue that might be on your mind.  I look forward to having a civil discussion with anyone who shows up, whether or not we agree on the best solution to America's growing health care crisis.  I firmly believe - as I have over the course of my career - that even in the face of a heated debate, an earnest political dialogue can prevail despite any differences of opinion.  I look forward to answering your questions, addressing your concerns and learning from your thoughts and ideas.

As always, I hope you'll follow me on Twitter, become a fan on Facebook, or visit my website to stay up-to-date with the latest news.