Democracy in action

On Saturday I witnessed democracy in action at a health-care seminar led by U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy, R-Upper St, Clair. The crowd was so large that it had to be moved to a second venue and was still standing room only.

Together, we said the Pledge of Allegiance, we honored a World War II veteran, John Cooper, who received an overdue Bronze Star and a long standing ovation. There were Democrats and Republicans, old and young, and we all listened and questioned and participated. As far as I know, there was no press coverage of this event.

The health-care bill, as it stands, is so huge that I do not believe anyone could have read it. The rush to pass it is just a ploy to get the bill passed before we know what it contains. As I understand it, even if passed, it will not go into effect until 2013. What is the rush? Why can't we take our time and do it right?

There are a few things that I heard and found outrageous. It's estimated that if this plan goes into effect 4.7 million jobs will be lost in the private sector and in their place 55 new federal agencies will be established. Tort reform is off the table, as is the possibility that Congress will be required to have the same health care as the rest of us. They will keep their golden plan, no matter what they force us to accept.

People, you need to be paying attention to what is going on in Washington. Are we just sheep being led to the slaughter? Contact your representatives now.

HELEN L. RICHARDSON
Mt. Lebanon