Bachmann wants ground rules for health care debate
Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann says new ground rules are needed in the debate over federal health care reform.
Democrats have passed separate health care bills in the House and Senate, but prospects for a final version are unclear. During a State Capitol news conference today, Bachmann said she and other Republican critics are proposing a set of principles called a "Declaration of Health Care Independence" that they want to Democrats to agree with.
"No more negotiations behind closed doors on health care," Bachmann said. "No more political bribes and payoffs going forward. No health care bill that would mean an increase in the federal deficit. No increase in any state deficits or debts, and no increase to individuals or to employers that would be in effect a tax."
Bachmann did not offer specific changes for the health care bill. She wants those issues resolved in future negotiations.
Meanwhile, one of the 6th district Democrats trying to unseat Bachmann this fall is holding a campaign kickoff event this week.
State Sen. Tarryl Clark, DFL-St. Cloud, says she will will formally launch her campaign Thursday at the State Capitol. Clark will then conduct a 6th district tour, with stops in Anoka, Buffalo, Elk River, Ham Lake, Oak Park Heights, St. Cloud, St. Joseph, Stillwater and Woodbury.
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