Barack Obama Outlines Health Care Reform

Tonight, President Obama stood in front on Congress and the American people to outline his health reform plan. He presented this plan point by point to the applause and standing ovations of a portion of the room. He also received mumblings and murmurs from some members - even one heckler to his left. It was evident that this person was spewing negativity as it took the attention of Joe BidenJoe Biden and Nancy PelosiNancy Pelosi on a number of occasions - and once, the President himself.

After listing his major points, Obama attempted to address the myths and fear mongering lies that have been thrown out by talk radio and politicians. When he mentioned the "death panel" debate, there was definite disagreement by some elected officials. Another point that drew feedback was his promise that federal funds would not fund abortion, nor would the "conscious clause" be withdrawn. As he emphatically announced that illegal aliens would not be provided health care, the room erupted, both in applause and disbelieving boos.

His wrap-up of the points of the speech brought back the truth of Medicare and the lack of support and funding by the very individuals who are fighting for it now. He also gave true suggestions for reform of malpractice laws to allow doctors to treat patients instead of worrying about litigation for the choices they make.

Obama, in his attempt to bring a sense of transparency to this debate, shined a spotlight on the true issue of this chaos - the lack bi-partisanship. In no truer sense was this shown than by the support of the President (applause, standing ovations, nodding heads) and rejection of his ideas (crossed-arm body language, stern facial expressions, and mumbling).

President Obama also threatened to "call out" any politicians who purposely mislead their constituents to the detriment of the process. He gave the average American hope that the health care system can truly be reformed for the good of all.

His ending point was to share the late Ted KennedyTed Kennedy's thoughts about the "character of our country" and his passion, not only for the health care battle, but for the country itself. President Obama encompassed the needs of the USA and health care reform with the essence of Kennedy's heart. By bringing in the hope and compassion Ted Kennedy had for this issue, Obama led into the benediction of the speech.

After all the point by point outlining, Obama "rallied the troops" by calling on the politicians' sense of calling and duty and character to pull together for the good of all Americans and the country itself. Time will now tell what our elected officials do. If health care reform is to occur, it will have to spring forth from this point in history. It will either flourish and grow or wither on the vine.

Now is the time for all good men (and women) to come to the aid of their country.