Congressman Rothman's Statement Following President Obama's Speech to Congress

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Steve Rothman (D - NJ) made the following statement following President Obama's speech to Congress tonight:

"I believe President Obama's speech changed not only the tone of the debate, but the momentum and likelihood of passage. He demonstrated how Congress can build upon those parts of our health care system that work well, while at the same time, fixing the real problems of those with and without health insurance, who now suffer so much unnecessary cost, uncertainty and heartache.

"Members of Congress, people across the country, my constituents at my Listening Sessions have all weighed in on this issue. I think the time was right for the President to come to us tonight and share with us his thoughts directly.

"What I heard tonight is a step in the right direction - the President's call for providing security and stability for those who have health insurance; providing insurance to those who do not have it; and slowing the growth of health care costs for our families, our businesses and our government are all worthy goals.

"As with everything, the devil is in the details, and in the coming weeks I will work with my colleagues, listen to the people I represent and read the final proposal that comes before Congress before I cast my vote."