These are the words of 47 national health care experts to Speaker Pelosi and Chairmen Rangel, Waxman, and Miller in a letter dated Friday. The group of experts includes Jacob Hacker, Jon Gruber, and Celia Wcislo (United Health Care Workers, SEIU).
Both houses of Congress have adopted legislation that would provide health coverage to tens of millions of Americans, begin to control health care costs that seriously threaten our economy, and improve the quality of health care for every American. These bills are imperfect. Yet they represent a huge step forward in creating a more humane, effective, and sustainable health care system for every American.
We have come further than we have ever come before. Only two steps remain. The House must adopt the Senate bill, and the President must sign it. <...>
Some differences between the bills, such as the scope of the tax on high-cost plans and the allocation of premium subsidies, should be repaired through the reconciliation process. Key elements of this repair enjoy broad support in both houses. Other limitations of the Senate bill can be addressed through other means.<...>
Abandoning health care reform--the signature political issue of this administration--would send a message that Democrats are incapable of governing and lead to massive losses in the 2010 election, possibly even in 2012. Such a retreat would also abandon the chance to achieve reforms that millions of Americans across the political spectrum desperately need in these difficult times. Now is the moment for calm and resolute leadership, pressing on toward the goal now within sight.
I join with these experts in calling for the House to pass the Senate bill for the reasons they outline in this letter. I know this would mean a sacrifice for many, of both egos and political agendas. It also means taking a risk in this difficult political climate. But the alternative of retreating from this important issue is not an option. Now is the moment - your moment - to stand up and show real leadership...the kind that makes history.