November 9, 2009

Local congressman Tom Perriello voted in favor of the health care reform bill after wavering for months. Already his opponents are saying the freshman Democrat has sealed his political doom.

Perriello says the choice came down to either sitting on the sidelines or solving the problem.

Saturday's vote in favor of the Health Care bill followed twenty-one town hall meetings held by Perriello across our area. The Congressman met with supporters and opponents of health care reform.

The Newsplex spoke to Bill Hay from the Jefferson Area Tea Party. He attended several of the town hall meetings, and he's very disappointed with Perriello's vote. He says this vote could cost the Congressman reelection in November 2010.

"He's gonna have all types of excuses. He's gonna say, well they changed it, they took out certain things that he was against, and he was very happy with it. He's just going to dance; he always dances,' says Hay.

Perrielllo defended his position, saying that the health care bill had some real benefits for people in our area. Perriello also says it was his personal decision; he didn't blindly vote with the majority of Democrats.

"I think being the group that finally stepped up and did the tough work to tackle that problem when so many before have failed is something we'll look back on beyond a career, and just be happy I was a part of," says Rep. Tom Perriello (D).

Congressman Perriello wants to hear from people about the decision. He's inviting all 5th District constituents to dial in to a telephone town hall meeting on health care reform on Thrusday, November 12th from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Constituents will have an opportunity to ask questions of the Congressman and to express concerns. The call is free and participants may dial in at any time.

The number to dial is 877-269-7289 and then enter the PIN 14581.