Earlier today, Speaker Nancy Pelosi unveiled the newest House health care bill at a press conference on the West Front of the Capitol. The Democratic bill is nearly 2,000 pages in length – twice as long as the original, but “essentially the same.” How is that even possible?

I attended the press conference, but was unable to get in because there was a list at the door. I have been around the Hill for several years now and can assure you that was the first time I have seen a “list” at an outside press conference. I even watched people as they walked in, hoping to see some individuals who may be on the other side of the health care debate, but sadly no. The only people to receive invites were supporters of the Democratic bill, many of them House staff.

I stood, outside the barricades, with friends from other organizations who wanted to hear the Speaker and what the new bill contained. We were constantly reminded by Capitol police officers that we would be “forcibly removed” if we congregated in groups of 20 or more. It seems they are instituting a lot of firsts in the House of Representatives these days.

Much like the talk of Internet town halls (see blog post below), this is another attempt by House Democrats to stiffen the voice of taxpayers and the people they serve.

I encourage you to take a look at the new health care bill and contact your Members of Congress with any and all questions and concerns.

Click here for a summary of H.R. 3962. Click here for the full text.