Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Tomorrow at the Capitol
One of the things I like best about my past is that for a short time I was connected to some of the most intelligent and lovely human beings entering the world of government and politics. And reading Leeann's post asking for prayer as she faces a big day tomorrow on Capitol Hill in the health care reform battle encouraged me in what has been a depressing year for a conservative. Whatever the outcome, knowing Leeann is there, is a guarantee that there are people working hard and doing their best with intelligence and humility. They may be in the minority, but I still believe David can top Goliath. Be praying July 16 for Leeann and for her boss. (I am not sure I'm supposed to disclose who he is but you can find it if you know how to search congressional representatives and their staffers.)
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Rachelle, I can’t tell you how much your prayers mean to me. Thank you for your thoughtfulness in sharing my request with others!
I wanted to give you (and your readers) an update since you were very much vested in this venture too. Yesterday went as well as we could’ve possibly expected it to. Our guys were very prepared, very articulate, and brought up 40 amendments to bring up a multitude of problems with the health reform bill that has been introduced in the House. My boss did particularly well and had a hand in 5 amendments and spoke at least 10 times (not bad for a new guy on a small Committee!). One of our amendments even received bipartisan support, but failed by two votes.
At the end of the day (or, to be more accurate, morning – the hearing ran from 9 am Thursday to 1:30 am Friday), the only thing bipartisan about the bill was the opposition to it. Three members of the majority joined the minority in opposing the bill in Committee, but it still passed 23 – 18. Regardless, Members and staff on our side are very pleased by what we were able to do under the circumstances, and I credit that in no small part to your prayers. While the real heavy lift for my boss and me is done, keep those prayers coming for the House Energy & Commerce Committee, which will continue to work on the bill through next week, and for the anticipated floor vote at the end of the month.
Thank you again! It helps to know people are praying on both coasts (and all in between) for what's going on here in Washington.
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