Residents of the 11th Congressional District of New York Express Overwhelming Support for Obama’s Health Care Reform and Public Option

(Brooklyn, NY) – On Monday and Tuesday of this week, Rep. Yvette D. Clarke hosted two health care town hall meetings where the overwhelming majority of Brooklyn residents expressed their strong support for Congress to move forward with health care reform legislation. The constituents overwhelmingly supported the inclusion of a public option in the healthcare exchange.

“It was clear from my constituents that our nation can no longer accept the status quo. Health care reform must happen this year. During the town hall meetings, we were able to clearly explain H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act, and debunk many of the misconceptions about the legislation. My residents understand that I will be advocating for health care reform legislation that will cover the 47 million people that are uninsured or underinsured,” stated Congresswoman Clarke.

Brooklyn citizens shared their written testimony of how the current health care system has affected their access to quality health care.

“Three years ago, I lost both of my knees due to a bacterial blood infection I caught from the hospital. Now I need customized knees and they cost $25,000. My surgery has been postponed 3 times, due to the cost. Insurance will only pay for the hospital stay, surgery and therapy. That leaves me to get the money for my knees,” stated Marisa Hunter.

“Everyone needs access to healthcare on all socioeconomic levels. I have recently been denied health care … because I receive “too much” income from unemployment. I was recently laid off from a full time position where I receive great health care insurance and now, I have nothing, and I need healthcare insurance,” stated Mary Lafayette.

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke is a staunch supporter of a health care reform plan that includes a robust public option.

“I believe that health care is not a privileged, but a right. That is why I cannot support legislation that does not include a public option. As a Member of the House Education and Labor Committee, I will be working to ensure that we pass legislation that helps to cover all Americans,” concluded Rep. Clarke.