Congresswoman Schakowski (D-IL) I Will Not Vote For a Bill Without a Real Public Option

Schakowsky: I Will Not Vote For a Bill Without a Real Public Option
by Brian Beutler
September 3, 2009

House Progressives are increasingly indicating that they're worried the White House will sacrifice the public option.

"Many Members of Congress -- including myself -- will not support a health insurance reform bill that does not break the strangle hold of private insurance companies on our health care system," said Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL). "That requires that consumers have a choice of a robust public health insurance plan. I will support nothing short of a robust public health insurance plan upon implementation, no triggers. I believe Congress will pass and the President will sign such a bill this Fall."

Schakowsky is chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus' health care task force. She's also a close Obama ally and many progressives believe that if the White House wants House progressives to compromise further on the public option, it will turn to her first. For now she's saying she's not budging.

http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/congressional-progressive-caucus/

say "thank you" for standing up for the American people:

2367 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
(202) 225-2111
(202) 226-6890 Fax

No public option = no bill.