
Joseph Cao, a Republican Congressman from Louisiana, was the only member of his party in the House to vote today for the health care bill. I just have to give the guy props for being the lone crosser of party lines (from the right). Granted, the Stupak Ammendment was a big part of it, and he does come from a usually Democratic district. He put out a long statement explaining his vote:
Of his vote, Cao said: "Tonight, I voted to keep taxpayer dollars from funding abortion and to deliver access to affordable health care to the people of Louisiana.
Cao said: "I read the versions of the House [health reform] bill. I listened to the countless stories of Orleans and Jefferson Parish citizens whose health care costs are exploding - if they are able to obtain health care at all. Louisianans needs real options for primary care, for mental health care, and for expanded health care for seniors and children. [...]
Cao said: "Today, I obtained a commitment from President Obama that he and I will work together to address the critical health care issues of Louisiana including the FMAP crisis and community disaster loan forgiveness, as well as issues related to Charity and Methodist Hospitals. And, I call on my constituents to support me as I work with him on these issues.
Cao said: "I have always said that I would put aside partisan wrangling to do the business of the people. My vote tonight was based on my priority of doing what is best for my constituents.
Let's see if the right unleashes on poor Cao in the coming days.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/11/08/joseph-cao-health-cares-l_n_349779.html