Health care for all Americans: “When I’m President, America will stop being the only advanced nation which fails to understand that health care is not a privilege for the wealthy, the connected, and the elected – it is a right for all Americans. (Democratic National Convention acceptance speech, 7/29/04)
First priority: (Responding to a question as to what his first action as President would be) “I will send to Congress a health care plan that stops spiraling costs, covers every child in America, and makes it possible for every American to get the same health care as any member of Congress. Making health care a right and not a privilege is something worth fighting for.” (Associated Press Q&A, 1/25/04)
On prescription drug bill for seniors: “I can promise you a drug prescription [bill] that will make us proud. I voted against this prescription bill.” (Iowa Health Forum, 8/14/03)
Voted NO on bill to provide health savings accounts. Three other votes opposing health savings accounts (H.R. 1, 11/24/03).
NOT VOTING on 36 of 38 votes taken in Senate on medicare reform and prescription drug benefits for seniors, including 6/26/03 vote in Senate and final Senate vote.
Voted YES on bill to allow patients to sue HMOs and collect punitive damages (capped at $5 million) (S.1052, 6/29/01).
Voted NO on medical liability reform (S. 812, CQ Vote #197, 7/30/02).
Voted NO on bill providing $70 billion in tax credits for small business purchase of health insurance (H. Con. Res. 83, CQ Vote #830).