Washington, DC – Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference, issued the following statement after the conclusion of today’s White House Health Care Summit.

“I am pleased that Republicans Members of Congress had an opportunity to meet face-to-face with President Obama and prove to a national TV audience that a common-sense, step-by-step approach to health care reform will be more effective than a government takeover of one-sixth of the U.S. economy.”

“The only hope for a bipartisan solution is to hit the restart button and finally put away the budget-busting proposals that the American people – in poll after poll – have consistently rejected.  If Congressional leaders ultimately decide to use the Reconciliation process to pass their plan, the American people will be outraged, and rightfully so.”

“There is much greater promise in bringing both sides together on behalf of a better solution which focuses on lowering premiums for families and small businesses, promoting healthier lifestyles, and increasing access to affordable, high-quality care – all without raising taxes or adding to our crushing national debt.  I will continue to be a strong advocate for that approach.”