Submitted by AnnElyse Gibbons
On November 7th, 2009, Rep. Baron Hill had a tough choice to make. Before him, in Congress, was a large and controversial piece of legislation, and a decision that will not be forgotten in his 2010 re-election campaign. I placed my faith in Rep. Baron Hill, after months of working hard with College Democrats at Indiana University and Students for President Obama to secure phone calls, emails and letters to prove to him that the youth voice on campus is loud and strong, and in support of Health care Reform with a public option. After spending all day and most of the night glued to CSPAN, the votes were cast. Rep. Hill reinforced my belief in him as my representative and reaffirmed why I had always supported him in his previous elections. Congressman Hill is a champion, who admirably serves the 9th district by voting on behalf of the well being of his constituents.
For anyone who has lost their job, and their health care along with it, they will be able to thank Rep. Hill when they can re-insure themselves because of H.R. 3962, and his vote for it.
For anyone who has a pre-existing condition, and was unable to receive health care coverage, they can thank Rep. Hill when they are no longer able to be denied insurance on that basis.
For anyone who has a child or a loved one who is unable to receive preventative care, they can thank Rep. Hill when premiums go down, and there are affordable options for families in Indiana who could not previously afford what was offered in the private sector.
For anyone who has the misfortune to be struck by an illness, they can thank Rep. Hill for allowing the removal of one huge weight that would have been on their shoulders; facing bankruptcy to pay for hospital bills.
For any student who is not currently insured, you can thank Rep. Hill for fighting to give you a quality and affordable choices to protect yourself.
And all American citizens should thank Rep. Hill, and every other member of Congress who voted for the Affordable Health Care for America Act, because in the long run, our country's safety, security, well being and international standing rely on the health and prosperity of the citizens of this country. America and American citizens are no longer willing to stand for being a 1st world country, with a 3rd world health care system. We are no longer willing to turn a blind eye to the inequities of the failure of our broken system.
Thank you Baron, for recognizing what America needs, what America wants, and for making the right decision, in an admittedly tough situation. My student group recognizes your adherence to our views, and your willingness as a politician to not forget about the students who helped elect you in 2008. We will NOT forget how you voted one year from now, and pledge our continuous efforts in support of your office.
AnnElyse Gibbons- President of College Democrats of Indiana University
