People march for health care reform

APPLETON, Wis. - St. Patrick's Day wasn't the reason some Appleton residents put together a parade. They were marching for health care reform.

Members with the group Organizing for America marched in Appleton in support of health care reform, They brought letters to Congressman Steve Kagen's office from those needing health care help.

"It affects my family, some who have been laid off and have lost their health care insurance," said marcher Tom Leahy.

"The people who gathered today on this kind of cold and dreary morning represent hundreds of others, thousands of others, millions across the country who are suffering under our current system," said supporter John Lipinski.

Kagen said he supports the group's efforts, but was unable to join the march or meet with the group. He called them before their march.

"This next week is gonna be a historic week. We're gonna find and secure enough votes to pass health care, to guarantee coverage for everybody," said Kagen.

Armed with signs, props and cheers, some passers by honked in favor of what they saw.

But not everyone is in support.

"As a party and as a nation I think we should all be concerned about what's being looked at. It's something that shouldn't be rushed through," said Outagamie County Republican Chair Dan Hoff.

Hoff said there are other issues Congress needs to tackle first.

"If you asked anybody what do you think is the most important thing, it's getting this economy going again," said Hoff.

Hoff does agree some reform in health care is needed, but he thinks it should be done a little bit at a time.

Still, the marchers said time is something many people don't have.