Pocono News Section

Hundreds Attend Healthcare Town Hall in Honesdale

Hundreds Attend Healthcare Town Hall in Honesdale - Monday, August 17, 2009 at 6:12PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Monday, Aug 17, 2009 @ 06:12pm EST
var images = new Array(); HONESDALE, WAYNE COUNTY - The debate over healthcare heated up Monday morning in Wayne County. More than 300 people filled the Wayne County courthouse in 90 degree heat to hear more about the topic.

Applause and even boo's filled the main courtroom as both supporters and opponents of healthcare reform sounded off to Congressman Chris Carney.

Some people were in favor.

"We have rights in this country and we have responsibilities in this country and the responsibility is that everyone who is sick gets well," Janet Burgan of Equinunk said.

Others oppose the plan.

"I never saw such uprising in my life. What kind of operation do we have in Washington? Czars?" Ray Holderman of Lords Valley said.

Monday's town hall meeting lasted one hour. As a Blue Dog Democrat, Congressman Carney says he'll support a bill that covers pre-existing conditions and one that fixes flaws in the current healthcare system.

"The calls we have received into our office throughout the debate are running two-to-one in favor of some kind of reform," Rep. Carney said.

Many people questioned who's going to pay for the coverage while others say a sleeping giant has been awoken.

"People are concerned with losing their rights. How much power are you going to give to the government and it's a much bigger debate than just healthcare," Robert Ostrowski said.

While Monday's meeting was filled to capacity, nearly 100 people waited outside the courthouse. There was even a purple gorilla set up to push the need for a healthcare bill vote. Carney knows that vote is coming.

"I think we will vote on it this year. Whether or not it passes, remains to be seen," Rep. Carney said.