Barack Obama is facing his toughest battle yet as US President as he tries to push through his contentious healthcare plan.
In a powerful speech, which drew huge applause from the Democrats and hostile reactions from Republicans, Obama told the US Congress that healthcare in the country just had to change.
“The reform I’m proposing would not apply to those who are here illegally,” Obama said.
Tempers ran high as Obama tried to convince the US Congress on his healthcare plan.
He wants to make sure that 50 million Americans who can’t afford insurance get it. But Republicans say it will affect the quality of healthcare and cost the state too much money.
“Replacing your family’s current health care with government-run health care is not the answer. In fact, it’ll make health care much more expensive,” said Charles Boustany, Representative for Lafayette, Louisiana.
It has become an increasingly bitter debate, which has even divided the Democrats and reduced Obama’s approval ratings.
“I am not the first President to take up this cause, but I am determined to be the last,” he said.
Healthcare has become the definitive issue for Obama, just nine months after he took office.
Analysts say his success or failure may determine whether he has the political clout to press ahead on issues like climate change, arms control and the Afghanistan war. It is also likely to shape next year’s congressional elections.
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