Universal Health Care

Means Universal

For nearly a century leaders in Washington have been talking about universal, affordable health care for all Americans. Today we still face a health care crisis of rising costs, and growing numbers of uninsured. Despite the talk, there has been little action towards developing a comprehensive solution that provides access to affordable and quality health care without bankrupting small businesses, like those that are the backbone of the First Congressional District and the national economy.

Universal coverage cannot be achieved until we accept the premise that every adult and child must be insured. If elected to Congress, I will support and advocate for true universal coverage and will provide leadership in forging consensus on a policy that provides such coverage without harming employers. Such a plan must also recognize the obvious need for access to affordable and quality mental health care.

Maryland and the Eastern Shore have higher incidences of certain cancers than the rest of the nation, including cervical and lung cancer. The First District's interest in funding medical research seems apparent. Nonetheless, advocacy for funding and objections to funding cuts have been noticeably timid. I support stem cell research as a promising development in solving life-threatening genetic conditions and diseases.

If elected to Congress, I will be a vocal advocate for continued and increased funding. I will also work to fund research into the source of our cancer pattern, to increase awareness and to materially improve screening and treatment for our disadvantaged communities. As a congressman, medical research funding will be a priority.