Reacting to public outcry for a chance to voice opinions about proposed federal health care plans, U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon opened the flood gate, providing multiple and diverse ways for 6th District constituents to get their say on the understandably controversial bill.
Whether to avoid the shouting matches that have broken out at many town hall meetings by federal legislators in the past month or just following set plans, Gordon’s office originally planned only a couple of telephone call-ins for constituents, something he has done previously.
Whatever the reasoning, call-ins weren’t enough this congressional break as the proposals to address health care issues nationwide, including tens of millions of uninsured and ever-rising costs, has many citizens concerned, scared and worried.
While some of the shouting and acting out at congressional public meetings in recent weeks is a direct result of partisan politics, much is simply folks concerned about more government involvement, access to health care, costs and many other concerns.
Health care has been a controversial issue for more than two decades now with continual debate and many differing views.
Legislation to address the problems is obviously of interest to everyone.
We hope people here will show more civility and decorum than we have seen my many at previous meetings elsewhere.
Strong opinions can be expressed in a civil manner.
Gordon deserves credit for recognizing citizens wanted more ability to have input on this major issue.
When he recognized the public clamor for information and chance to speak out, he provided a smorgasbord of opportunities:
• Aug. 21: Two Telephone Town Halls - one at 11 a.m. CDT and another at 5:30 p.m. CDT (to register, visit http://www.gordon.house.gov or call 615-896-1986).
• Aug. 24: Face-to-Face office hours, starting at 9 a.m. CDT, at the Patterson Park Community Center (521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro, 37130).
• Aug. 24: Town Hall meeting, moderated by the Daily News Journal, at 7 p.m. CDT in Murfreesboro (location, to be determined).
• Aug. 25: Face-to-Face office hours, starting at 9 a.m. CDT, at the Putnam County Courthouse (300 E. Spring St., Cookeville, 38501).
• Aug. 26: Face-to-Face office hours, starting at 9 a.m. CDT, at the Sumner County Courthouse (100 Public Sq., Room B-100, Gallatin, 37066).
• Aug. 26: Town Hall meeting, moderated by Mike Toole of The News-Examiner at 7 p.m. CDT in Gallatin (location, to be determined).
The public will certainly have a chance to speak, and hopefully all will be allowed to speak within a spirited, but civil context. |
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