BELGRADE, Mont._President Barack Obama says he isn't trying to vilify the insurance companies. He says he's just trying to stop their practices that hurt people.

Obama was responding to an insurance salesman who asked about the president's change in terminology. Obama has switched from calling for "health reform" to "health insurance reform." He's also complained about insurance companies' profits.

The president says his intent was not to vilify the big companies. He said some, like Aetna, are working with the administration on overhaul. But he said others are spending money to oppose his efforts to remake the system.

Obama kicked off a four-state swing in Montana to push for his top domestic priority and regain the initiative in the bitter debate.