The recent frenzy in response to the Congressional standoff has triggered many comments and appearances from President Barack Obama.
His hectic schedule included a visit to Prince George’s Community College in Largo, Maryland on September 26 where he spoke on the
controversy surrounding the Affordable Care Act.
“I won’t negotiate on anything when it comes to the full faith and credit of the United States of America,” he said. “We’re not going to submit to this kind of total irresponsibility.”
He criticized the Republican Party and its attempts to hinder his plans for lowering health care costs. Obama stated, “In the wealthiest nation on Earth, no one should go broke just because they get sick…All told, nearly 6 in 10 Americans without health insurance today will be able to get covered for $100 or less.”
Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, Representative Steny Hoyer, Representative Donna Edwards and Senator Ben Cardin addressed the audience prior to the President’s speech.
Cardin announced, “We’re not going back, we’re going forward. Health care is a right, not a privilege.”
The President encouraged Americans to rally in support of his health care plan which aims to allow uninsured Americans to “comparison-shop” for health insurance at www.healthcare.gov.
Obama also spoke on the battle between the Republican and Democratic Party which ultimately led to Tuesday’s partial government shutdown. A suggested default in regards to the United States’ debts was also a topic in question. Obama responded, “This is the United States of America. We’re not a deadbeat nation. We don’t run out on our tab.”
He noted the devastating affect a government shutdown could have across the nation, especially in regions close to the nation’s capital where there are higher volumes of municipal workers and military bases.
In further reference to the Republican Party’s agenda to halt the proposed act Obama asked, “What is it that they are so scared about?” The crowd’s boisterous response was, “Yoooou!”
