Obama to Congress: Health Care

The full text of the President's address to Congress, and also televised at 8pml on 9 September 2009.

Congress, in general, appeared by their applause to be pleased...with the exception of some unheard call (later identified by AP as Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) out on the omission of health care for immigrants.

Addressing both the left and the right, the President said,

"To my progressive friends, I would remind you that for decades, the driving idea behind reform has been to end insurance company abuses and make coverage affordable for those without it. The public option is only a means to that end - and we should remain open to other ideas that accomplish our ultimate goal. And to my Republican friends, I say that rather than making wild claims about a government takeover of health care, we should work together to address any legitimate concerns you may have."

Republican Congressman Charles Boustany response seemed to differ greatly from the President, and appeared to stress "cost of care" not "care for those in need."