Supporters push health care reform

GREEN BAY - Fresh off the democratic victory in the House, local supporters of the health care reform bill gathered outside NEW Community Clinic in Green Bay, some a little nervous about its future.

"I'm concerned about the Senate," said Doctor Jan Sarnecki with Doctors for America. He joined other health care advocates to urge Senators to follow through on the House's lead.

"The Senate has always been more of a stumbling block than the House," said Sarnecki. "I hope they can get a meaningful bill through the Senate."

Wisconsin's Senators, both Democrats, are on record in support of the health care reform agenda. But a government run insurance option is what most view as the key stumbling block. Republicans oppose the plan that costs an estimated $1.2 trillion dollars.

"I think the people of this country are really questioning whether Congress is using good judgment," said Iowa republican Senator Charles Grassely.

Independent Connecticut Senator Joe Lieberman says he can't support it either.

"If the public option plan is in there, as a matter of conscience, I will not allow this bill to come to a final vote," said Lieberman.

Wisconsin Senator Herb Kohl issued this statement, saying in part: "I hope we'll be able to pass a strong bill that begins to get health care costs under control and extend health care coverage to all Americans."

Democratic Congressman Steve Kagen says he's confident he Senate, one way or another, will move the reform bill forward.

"It may not contain the public option at all, it might have a watered down version of it," said Kagen.

But that's not acceptable to Senator Russ Feingold.

"I support a public option, which is essential to bringing down costs and ensuring all Americans have high-quality, affordable coverage."

President Obama says he would like a bill to sign by the end of the year. Local supporters say the timing isn't as important as getting it done right.