The Free Press, Mankato, MN

Local News

November 8, 2009

Walz sole area yes vote on health care

Bill passes U.S. House 220-215

Area U.S. representatives split on the landmark health care bill that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives late Saturday night.

During a short speech on the House floor, 2nd District Congressman John Kline, R-Lakeville, said he was against the bill because it would give too much power to a newly created “super bureaucrat.” Kline, whose district includes Le Sueur County, said that bureaucrat would be the “health choices commissioner” created by the bill.

He joined the vast majority of his fellow Republicans in voting against it.

“It is no wonder millions of Americans are in fear of a government takeover,” Kline said. “I don’t believe this bill should see the light of day. It definitely shouldn’t pass.”

Kline also said the 2,000-page bill would result in a loss of jobs and “trillions of dollars” in costs to the government.

Prior to Saturday’s vote, 1st District Congressman Tim Walz, D-Mankato, said he would vote in favor of the bill, barring any major changes.

“We’re as close as we’ve been in 50 years to making health care affordable for Americans,” he said.

Rep. Collin Peterson, a Democrat whose 7th District includes Sibley County, voted against the bill.

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