Updated Jun 28, 2012 - 11:34 am
Kyl, McCain, Pastor respond to health care ruling
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Arizona's top legislators issue statements in response to the Supreme Court's ruling in favor of President Obama's health care reform bill:
Republican Sen. John McCain said: "Today's decision by the Supreme Court is disappointing. Obamacare is unpopular with the American people because it puts Washington in control of our health care choices and does nothing to address the real problems in our system -- most importantly the rapidly rising and unsustainable costs.
"In fact, Obamacare does the opposite, driving up the cost of health care and, as a result, impedes the economic recovery this country so badly needs. Congress should immediately begin the process of repealing Obamacare and replace it with common sense reforms that ensure all Americans can get the care they need at a price they can afford."
Republican Sen. John Kyl said, "For over two years, the president's health law has remained highly unpopular with the American people -- particularly the mandate to purchase health insurance and other tax hikes. Because the Supreme Court did not strike down the most onerous provisions, it appears that the American people themselves will have to overturn the law by the choices they make in November's election.
"We need to listen to the people to see what they would like; then, Congress can replace the flawed law with reforms that ensure Americans have health care that is affordable with a doctor of their choice and without increased taxes, mandates, and rationing.
"It hardly matters to the American citizens that the requirement to buy government defined insurance cannot be justified under the Commerce Clause if it can be justified as a 'tax.' Forcing people to buy something and penalizing those who do not with a ‘tax' leaves citizens in the same position as if the mandate were justified under the Commerce Clause."
Democratic Rep. Ed Pastor: "This is a profoundly important day for all Americans. I commend the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Affordable Healthcare Law and continue with its implementation of vital provisions.
"With this ruling, the court recognized the opportunity we have as a nation to move forward and ensure that all Americans have the healthcare coverage they need and deserve. This decision will have a profound and positive impact on our country's health delivery system.
"It is truly a great day for all Americans."
