Several Democratic Senators had comments following this morning's vote. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) said, "Never before has the Senate found the resolve to make health insurance more affordable and health insurance companies more accountable than today. This is a victory for the American people. Those fortunate enough to have health insurance will be able to keep theirs and those who do not will be able to have health insurance. This is a victory because we have affirmed that the ability to live a healthy life in our great country is a right, not merely a privilege....This morning's vote brings us one step closer to making Ted Kennedy's dream a reality....I look forward to working with my friends in the House, so we can send a bill to the president as soon as possible."

Senate Finance Committee Chair Max Baucus added, "We are all very, very proud of this moment. We stand here at the finish line, though as we stand here we are not standing alone. We stand with those who have blazed a trail ahead of us, tireless champions of health care reform, all the way from President Theodore Roosevelt to our good friend who is with us in spirit, Ted Kennedy."


Chris Dodd emphasized, "This Christmas Eve I can't think of a better gift the United States Senate could give to our fellow citizens than lifting the burden of fear from their shoulders. The fear that they would not be able to have health care for their families in a time of need. This was an enormous victory for the American public, and I'm proud to have been one vote cast in favor of this effort."




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