The health care debate took center stage in Indianola today, as hundreds of Democrats gathered for Senator Harkin's 32nd annual Steak Fry. That's where the Senator, and guest of honor Minnesota Senator Al Franken make a bold prediction about Health Care reform.
"That strong Health Care Reform bill, mark my words, I'm the Chairman and we will have a strong public option in the bill," says Senator Harkin.
Last week Sen. Harkin was named the new Chairman of the HELP committee, the Health, Education, Labor, and Pention Committee, a very powerful position that puts him right in the middle of the health care debate.
Hundreds of Harkin supporters cheered as the two Senators announced their support for Obama's Health Care Reform bill. They say the bill will pass before Christmas, but they admit it will not be bi-partisan. The Senators made their case for the public option plan in the final version, saying it's the only way every single American can afford health insurance.
"The changes will keep Americans healthier, save families money, and bring down the cost of health care. Call me crazy but it seems like damn good idea," says Sen. Franken.
Meanwhile, protesters gathered outside the event to express their displeasure. The Save Our American Republic group says they're ticked off. They say the Democrats are trying to trash the health care industry. They fear it will turn into a Socialistic system.
"Does health care need work? Yes it does. Let's take care of 5 to 10% who need help and keep the good system good rather than trash it and let the government be in control," says Jim Carley of Save Our American Republic.
On the flip side, Republican Senator Charles Grassley says he's trying to work with the Democrats of a bi-partisan bill, but says he will not vote for a bill with the public health care option
"That strong Health Care Reform bill, mark my words, I'm the Chairman and we will have a strong public option in the bill," says Senator Harkin.
Last week Sen. Harkin was named the new Chairman of the HELP committee, the Health, Education, Labor, and Pention Committee, a very powerful position that puts him right in the middle of the health care debate.
Hundreds of Harkin supporters cheered as the two Senators announced their support for Obama's Health Care Reform bill. They say the bill will pass before Christmas, but they admit it will not be bi-partisan. The Senators made their case for the public option plan in the final version, saying it's the only way every single American can afford health insurance.
"The changes will keep Americans healthier, save families money, and bring down the cost of health care. Call me crazy but it seems like damn good idea," says Sen. Franken.
Meanwhile, protesters gathered outside the event to express their displeasure. The Save Our American Republic group says they're ticked off. They say the Democrats are trying to trash the health care industry. They fear it will turn into a Socialistic system.
"Does health care need work? Yes it does. Let's take care of 5 to 10% who need help and keep the good system good rather than trash it and let the government be in control," says Jim Carley of Save Our American Republic.
On the flip side, Republican Senator Charles Grassley says he's trying to work with the Democrats of a bi-partisan bill, but says he will not vote for a bill with the public health care option
