The Senate floor exploded in a roar of bipartisan cheering yesterday as Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA) returned to cast his vote on the much anticipated Medicare bill that would block a 10% cut in payments to doctors, support community hospitals, and expand access to primary care services. The Senator’s vote was among 9 that helped secure a veto-proof margin of (69-30) for one of the most critical pieces of healthcare legislation this year.

The warm reception Senator Kennedy received speaks volumes about the character of a man that has dedicated his life to improving the quality of our healthcare system over a distinguished 46 year career.

"I return today to keep a promise to our senior citizens, and that is to protect Medicare. Win, lose or draw, I wasn't going to take the chance that my vote would make a difference," Kennedy said in statement released from his office.

Here's some footage from his return:

In stark contrast to Senator Kennedy, Republican presidential candidate Senator John McCain talks often about his commitment to improving the healthcare system, but didn't make it to DC to vote on the bill or the previous vote that came to the floor on June 26th.

For more news on Senator Kennedy’s vital Medicare vote, click here!

Comments

There are no comments for this entry yet. Get the discussion started and post below.

Post a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Not a member yet? Registration is easy and takes just a minute.

Can’t remember your password? Have a password reminder emailed to you.