"Unfortunately, a recent headline in Roll Call misstates and sensationalizes my comments about a colleague's statement on health care reform.  I am strongly opposed to the health care legislation passed by the House but it is not a terrorist attack. I am sure the President and Congressional leaders have only the most patriotic intentions, even if the long term results will be very damaging."

"In my answer to a reporter's question, I had tried to communicate that the health care legislation would cause the same kind of fears, concerns, and severe consequences similar to those of the terrorist attacks on 9-11.  People will feel less secure and the federal government will have a greatly expanded role in their day-to-day lives.  A role that had previously been left to the states, local government and the private sector.

"Indeed, this bill will jeopardize the special doctor-patient relationship, increase taxes, ration care, severely cut Medicare benefits to our seniors, and places a crippling long term financial burden on the young.

"Instead of this radical approach to reform health care, we need to take a common-sense, step-by-step approach that will lower health care premiums for families and small businesses, increase access to affordable, high-quality care, and promote healthier lifestyles-without increasing debt."