THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release December 15, 2009
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AFTER MEETING WITH SENATE DEMOCRATS
Roosevelt Room
3:15 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Hello, everybody. We just had a very productive session about the final stages of health care reform in the Senate. And from the discussions we had it's clear that we are on the precipice of an achievement that's eluded Congresses and Presidents for generations -- an achievement that will touch the lives of nearly every American.
There are still some differences that have to be worked on. This was not a roll call. This was a broad-based discussion about how we move forward. But whatever differences remain, there is broad consensus around reforms that will finally, number one, protect every American from the worst practices in the health insurance industry. No longer will these companies be able to deny you coverage if you have a preexisting illness or condition. No longer will they be able to drop you from coverage when you get sick. No longer will you have to pay unlimited amounts out of your own pocket for the treatments that you need. We are all in agreement on those reforms.
We agree on reforms that will finally reduce the costs of health care. Families will save on their premiums; businesses that will see their costs rise if we do nothing will save money now and in the future. This plan will strengthen Medicare and extend the life of that program. And because it gets rid of the waste and inefficiencies in our health care system, this will be the largest deficit reduction plan in over a decade.
Now, I just want to repeat this because there's so much misinformation about the cost issue here. You talk to every health care economist out there and they will tell you that whatever ideas are -- whatever ideas exist in terms of bending the cost curve and starting to reduce costs for families, businesses, and government, those elements are in this bill.
And in terms of deficits -- because we keep on hearing these ads about how this is going to add to the deficit -- the CBO has said that this is a deficit reduction, not a deficit increase. So all the scare tactics out there, all the ads that are out there are simply inaccurate.
Some of the same people who cited the CBO when it was saying it didn’t reduce the deficit, saying CBO is the most credible possible arbiter of whether or not this adds the our deficit, now suddenly are ignoring what the CBO says.
Finally, we agree on reforms that will make coverage affordable for 30 million Americans who don't have it. Every day that goes by, another 14,000 Americans lose their health care coverage. A recent study shows that in the next decade, half of all Americans under the age of 65 will be without coverage at some point. On the other hand, if this reform passes -- when it passes -- for the very first time in their lives, these Americans will be able to provide health insurance for their families. And those Americans who are already covered will no longer have to live in fear that their family might fall through the cracks of the system we have now.
These aren't small changes. These are big changes. They represent the most significant reform of our health care system since the passage of Medicare. They will save money. They will save families money; they will save businesses money; and they will save government money. And they're going to save lives. That's why this reform is supported by groups like the AARP who represents most of America's seniors. That's why this reform has to pass on our watch.
Now, let's be clear. The final bill won't include everything that everybody wants. No bill can do that. But what I told my former colleagues today is that we simply cannot allow differences over individual elements of this plan to prevent us from meeting our responsibility to solve a longstanding and urgent problem for the American people. They are waiting for us to act. They are counting on us to show leadership. And I don't intend to let them down, and neither do the people standing next to me. There's too much at stake for families who can't pay their medical bills, or see a doctor when they need to, or get the treatment they need. The stakes are enormous for them.
The stakes are enormous for businesses, who are already seeing their premiums go up 15, 20, 30 percent. A lot of the critics of this entire process fail to note what happens if nothing gets done -- and the American people have to be very clear about this: If we don't get this done, your premiums are guaranteed to go up. If this does not get done, more employers are going to drop coverage because they can't afford it. If this does not get done, it is guaranteed that Medicare and Medicaid will blow a hole through our budget.
Those things are guaranteed. That's the status quo. That is the trajectory that we are currently on. I don't intend to have that happen. And I believe that the Senate doesn't intend to have that happen. And I think any fair reading of this bill will indicate that all the criteria that I laid out when I met before a joint session have now been met. It is deficit-neutral; it bends the cost curve; it covers 30 million Americans who don't have health insurance; and it has extraordinary insurance reforms in there that make sure that we're preventing abuse.
By the way, it also does things that Tom Harkin has been a champion of for years: prevention and wellness, to make sure that people are getting the care they need and the checkups they need and the screenings they need before they get sick -- which will save all of us money and reduce pressures on emergency rooms all across the country.
So there are still disagreements that have to be ironed out. There is still work to be done in the next few days. I think it's important for every single member of the Senate to take a careful look at what's in the bill.
We welcome the scrutiny from the press. Recently there was an article in The New Yorker that talked about all the cost savings and how important they are going to be in terms of bending the cost curve over the long term.
I am absolutely confident that if the American people know what's in this bill and if the Senate knows what's in this bill that this is going to pass, because it's right for America. And I'm feeling cautiously optimistic that we can get this done and start rolling up our sleeves and getting to work improving the lives of the American people.
All right. Thank you, everybody.
END 3:23 P.M. EST
Friends,
Thank you so much for sending in your notes to Senator Cornyn regarding health care issues.
I have just printed 34 beautiful notes to carry with me to the meeting today.
Including DJ Mark Anthony’s request for the Senator to report the lies on TV commercials and the colorful picture of Pat Boone.
It is not enough to write President Barack Obama, we have to contact our elected officials, in particular the ones that are not supporting our Prez.
It is not too late, send in your notes to me anytime, John Cornyn's office is 5 minutes from my front door.
Also attend the town hall meetings being organized by our reps.
Yesterday Julie and I attended the one in the Fifth Ward, it was an interesting experienced actually being there vs. watching on TV.
Our Madam Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee did a fabulous job! She came prepared with presentation boards and handouts of the bill.
SJL was very clear and to the point on issues. She was kind and listen to the speakers and promised to take back to Congress our views and concerns.
She kept control of the meeting beautifully! The folks that spoke out without being called on were not addressed and ended up looking disrespectful and foolish.
Congresswoman Jackson Lee clearly sorted thru some of the creative fabrications, lies, and misconceptions floating out there. It was difficult for me to keep a straight face listening to some of the comments from confused and angry audience.
I think some folks are just extremely disappointed we have a Democratic government in place now. They display anger and frustration using the usual rhetoric.
I posted the pictures from the meeting on http://www.facebook.com/maria.isabel and will add to Flickr later after my meeting today.
Here is the town hall for today with SJL:
For your protection and the protection of our elected officials you need to RSVP to be admitted in the room:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpfcqh
It’s not just about me and my family, I care for you too, Mom says it’s a sign of being a Democrat!
Maria Isabel
Organizing for America Pledge Project
President Obama needs our support and help to prove to Washington DC that we are still supporting his "Change" campaign.
If you still believe he has the right ideas and plans, and want to be part of our own recovery please fill out this pledge note and sign it. You can return to me or send directly to the Pledge Project.
Pledge Project Page:http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/pledgeprojectcanvassguide/This site has all the information and forms you need to be clear about the issues.
Pledge Card:http://obama.3cdn.net/f33182f2a60434cfcf_olm6b1dtc.pdf
We are all busy with our families, businesses, and local campaigns, and to support this project is easy. You do not have to knock on doors or make phone calls if you do not have the time. Just send the card in!
Standing for our President Obama!
Maria Isabel713.542.0721713.547.0681 Fax
Barack is asking us to stay in the game…it is only the beginning!!!
If you have not yet signed up to attend one of the 4,000 + "Change is Coming" events around the country, it's not too late.
Hi ~ I so look forward to seeing you tomorrow night.
This gathering will be a celebration of our historic victory against politics as usual, and a festive holiday diner party.
After so many months of hard work attending meetings, canvassing, making phone calls, writing checks, traveling to other states,
and pressing for change in America, it is still surreal that we did it...and you made it happened,
you are responsible for this extraordinary historic experience called:
Barack is our next president!
Nikki Sutton and the transition team is in place and running. They want to hear from us regarding details on issues that are important to each one of us.
Barack is calling for community organizers all over the country to continue establishing relationships with local elected officials to press for change.
He has requested we take on a community service project before inauguration day to let them know we are not going away.
Bring your ideas to the party.
Also, we will be playing "Dirty Grab", a gift exchange game. If you would like to join in, bring a wrapped gift.
Recycled presents are encouraged, shop in your own closet. Gift to be $15 or less in value.
Barry and I will be cooking for you tomorrow and we are delighted you have signed up to attend.
Obama '08,
We Don't Have to Wait!
Maria Isabel has sent you an invitation to 'Change IsComing - Houston 6th Ward House Party' -- click here toview the invitation and submit your response: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gsxb5r
"We are one people, and our time for change has come!"
~ Barack Obama
Hey You ~ How about a Grassroots Inaugural Party?
"Party": groups acting together, leaning more towards the effort of staying active and organized for Barack as volunteers, reather than to have an extravagant celebration Ball. A scaled back approach to the gathering, being that our country is at war and our economy is the pits.
Here is where we are ~ We have a local Maryland and Virginia kick-off committee, submitted a formal request to the official Inauguration Committee to include our gathering as an official event, have a local event organizer already doing research, found location options including the Convention Center, and have a list of several entertainers to choose from.
The "Party" theme is a promise to continue our community involvement, tickets will be $200 per person, dress code is relaxed.
The Maryland kick-off committee is looking for volunteers to spearhead the event, and you do not have to reside in Washington DC.
If you are interested in attending and purchasing a ticket, or would like to offer your event coordinating talent as a volunteer in one of the committees please send an email to: obamatallgrass@gmail.com.
If you do not wish to attend the party, but would like to be one of the sponsors for the event, indicate your intentions on your email.
Obama Love,
"Party": groups acting together, leaning more towards the effort of staying active and organized for Barack as volunteers, than to have an extravagant celebration Ball. A scaled back approach to the gathering, being that our country is at war and our economy is the pits.
Here is where we are ~ We have a local Maryland kick-off committee, submitted a formal request to the official Inauguration Committee to include our gathering as an official event, have a local event organizer already doing research, found location options including the Convention Center, and have a list of several entertainers to choose from.
If you are planning to be in DC Jan 15th please come to my party. Just received a note from Susannah Perlman, my first celebrity to RSVP.
Maria Isabel has sent you an invitation to 'HOLTInauguration Party - DC' -- click here to view theinvitation and submit your response: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gsx22m
About Susannah Perlman:
http://www.nicejewishgirlsgonebad.com/newsite/girls.html
Hi ~ Barry and I just got back from a moveon.org gathering aimed at keeping the momentum of the campaign moving.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25714894@N08/
We have accomplished so much by getting Obama elected, but like Barack told us, the job is not done. We need to continue to pressure our elected representatives to support the changes that we aspire to. MoveOn is organizing a campaign to send 100's of thousands of photos of real Americans holding signs declaring "I Stand with Obama for" ... (Clean Energy, Health Care, Ending the War in Iraq, Diplomacy, or your own issue). The plan is to send thousands of photos to Congress, etc. and to plaster DC with select photos to let people know that this movement is not going to lay down. Let me know if you want to get involved in this effort.
mariaobama@gmail.com
In case you missed it.
Four segments, here is the first:
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=4608198n
So look forward to the Texas Black Tie and Boots Ball........Hope to see you all there!
Sweet victory for Harris County TX!!!
Thanks everyone...and you know who you are.....
Barry and I just had a breakdown with our attentive stay reservation in DC. Any diehard democrats want to share their room? We are small people, just need a spot for our sleeping bags...
Obama Love!!!
713.542.0721
http://flickr.com/photos/25714894@N08/
Black Tie & Boots Inaugural Ball corporate sponsorships are available. Details on securing sponsor tickets and benefits, including sponsorship forms, can be found at the TSS web site, www.texasstatesociety.org in our special BT&B section. Find out how you can become a corporate sponsor to "The Hottest Ticket in Town" during Presidential Inauguration Week. Interested corporate sponsors can also contact Jackie Alafoginis at 202-237-0099, ext. 20 or by email at jackie@websterconsulting.com
Thank you OFA fellow community organizers....we are almost there!
But today there is still a few more things you can do to help finish the job until the polls close.
Your "Precinct Chair" has a list of folks in your precinct that have not yet come to the polls, this is a great opportunity.
If you do not know who your precinct chair is, here is how to find him or her in Houston: http://www.hcdp.org/precinctchairs.php
Contact your precinct chair and see what you can do to help.
Our neighborhood last night only had a list of about 100 folks that had not voted yet. Split the list with other community organizers in your area and call these folks or put a reminder to vote today on their door!
Ken from the DNC has vote reminder lit at our OFA Headquarters - 4300 Lyons Houston 77020, we must GOTV!!!
Another option if you would like to volunteer today, you can be an Obama Precinct Captain by standing outside your polling location wearing your Obama gear ready to greet voters.
Remember, these are your neighbors and if lines are long tonight they may be encouraged to stay if they see you there.
During the Primary some of the folks that came to vote stayed with us for part of the day.
If standing and greeting is not your thing, MyBO will be updating the battleground state calling list throughout the day.
The campaing is planning to post the names and numbers of specific pockets of voters in strategic battleground areas that have not made it to the polls.
This you can do in the comfort of your own home.Also there are busy call banking locations all over town, you may want to find one near you and bring snacks or drink to the volunteers.
The Harris County Democratic Party is phonebanking today, and also OFA has several locations, here is how to find an OFA call banking location near you in Houston: http://gotv.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpvvv4
In a few hours we will know who the next president will be, Obama and his campaing strategists had a plan for this election, they did a great job mobilizing folks, and you did the rest.
My heartfelt thanks for all you have done so far and will do today.
Feel free to email me or call anytime today.
With Obama Love,
Hey Guys,
We are almost to the end of this incredible journey…..I have had the time of my life with you!
We have made so many great friends all across the country, good people brought together by Barack Obama and this "Change" thing.
My heartfelt thanks to you for your precious contribution to this terrific effort, your friendship, and love. Thanks for all you are doing!!!
I know there are many parties, and fancy get-together plans around town for after the closing of the polls on Nov 4th, but I hope you will stop by and have one last dance with me to the "Thunder" of DJ Mark Anthony.
Please join us at the OFA Houston Headquarters, 4300 Lyons for one last "Staff Meeting", you know how I love meetings... and Election Celebration!!!
Maria Isabel has sent you an invitation to 'Staff Meeting- Election Day Celebration' -- click here to view theinvitation and submit your response: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpvjv2 Personal Message: (Optional)
Almost there.....
While the Senator is away this weekend our orders from Chicago is the urgency to call Ohio.
We have several phone banking locations in Houston, find one near you:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/search_simple
If you can not get to a phone bank location but have time to call from home, email me:
What about Texas? Here is my plan: between 9 am and 9 pm we are calling Ohio, but our family members, our friends, our neighbors, and local contacts we can reach anytime by emails.
911 - Call Now!!!
Maria
This is an invitation to a final presidential debate watch Party Wed Oct 15th.
At the OFA Houston Office
4300 Lyons Ave, Suite 200 - Houston TX 77020
The debate starts at 8:00 PM, but you are welcome to come early, socialize with fellow Obama volunteers, and help us phonebank.
We are serving Chicago Style Hot Dogs with the trimmings, sponsored by Super Volunteer Gretchen Lindquist.
Please RSVP on MyBo: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gs5bc7
Display Your Obama Gear!
Decorate your life in this presidential election season, stop by the office anytime and pick up an "Obama Supporter Bundle".
We have six different styles of Obama shirts including an awesome full color Andy Warhol inspired T, 10 different Obama button designs, 6 different Obama bumper stickers, lapel stickers, yard signs, and aprons.
Obama '08 America Can't Wait!
Thank for all you are doing,
Houston Obama Leadership Team ~ OFA Houston Office is Opening Tomorrow Oct 11, 2008
Come and meet the local staffers and your fellow supporters.
Lets Rally Up Houston With Obama Love and Hope!!!
This is a great opportunity to get involved with the local campaign!
Time: Saturday, October 11 at 1:00 PM - 3 hours
Location: OFA Houston Office
4300 Lyons Ave #200
Houston, TX 77020
Directions:
North side of I-10 and East of Hwy 59
You can view the details of this event at any time by going to:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gs5y77
Re: Early Voting
Early Voting Hours of Operation
Oct 20th - Oct 24th 8 am - 4:30 pm
Oct 25th 7 am - 7 pm
Oct 26th 1 pm - 6 pm
Oct 27th - Oct 31st 7 am - 7 pm
Map of your Precinct: http://hcdp.org/precinctmaps.html
Contact your Precinct Chair: http://hcdp.org/precinctchairs.php
Some Precincts are not active. If your Precinct Chair does not respond, contact the Harris County Democratic Office and volunteer to be Leadership in your community.
Harris County Website: http://hcdp.org/index.html
eSlate Voting Information: http://www.1960area.com/voting/index.html
eSlate Classes in Harris County:
http://www.harrisvotes.com/docs/eSlate%20Training%20Classes%202008.pdf
Event on MyBO
Support Barack by volunteering for
Early Voting In Your Community' -- click here to view the invitation and submit your response:
Early Voting Locations: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/politics/5551822.html
Oct 20th – Oct 24th 8 am – 4 pm
Oct 25th 7 am – 7 pm
Oct 27th – Oct 31st 7 am – 7 pm
Barack needs your help, volunteer at your Early Voting Location.
Some Precincts are not active. If your Precinct Chair does not respond, contact the Harris County Democratic Office and volunteer to be leadership in your community.
Yes We Can!
Obama For America Houston Office Opening Sat Oct 11 at 1 PM
4300 Lyons Ave #200 - Houston TX 77020
North Side of I-10, East of HWY 59 In the Fifth Ward
This is your office, come and get informed on the local Obama campaign happenings, and meet the awesome staffers.
Obama '08, America Can't Wait!!!
