The vast majority of people, those in support of reform and those opposed, who attended were respectful to their fellow participants and speakers. Many there were pleased with the House proposal while others thought it didn’t go far enough and some thought it went too far. A vocal few tried to interrupt an open thoughtful discussion of the importance of acting to fix the health care system.

There’s a reason I continue to have so many public meetings. It’s to hear from everyone – those who agree and disagree. During the two-plus hour town hall there was a broad consensus of the need to move health reform forward.

We are closer than we have been in decades to an agreement on how to make our health system work for — not against — Americans and American businesses. The growing costs of health care are one of the biggest drags on our economy. We can lower costs, offer more choices and improve the quality of health care. Reform is an absolutely crucial part of our long-term plan to rebuild our economy in a responsible way and lower health care costs for American families and businesses.

We have an opportunity to put doctors and patients back in charge, and give Americans peace of mind that they can keep the care they like and never be denied the care they need. The other side after having nine years to present a health care plan still hasn't done so. In nine years premiums have doubled forcing some into bankruptcy and businesses to close. There is agreement that something must be done.

For those who were not able to join the town hall I invite you to view video of the event here: youtube.com/congressmancarnahan.

We can't fix our economy without fixing health care. In the coming days I will continue hearing from thoughtful constituents to make the proposed plan even better and encourage constituents to either send me a message through the website or call the office.