WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, with 218 signatures on Democrats’ discharge petition, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) took to the House Floor to demand an immediate vote on legislation to stop the GOP’s premium hikes. Below is a transcript of her remarks: 

"My question to the Republican Party is: What are you doing? What are you doing? Why won’t you use your immense power as the majority to help the American people?

"The bill before us does nothing for the 15 million Americans who are about to lose their health insurance. The 1 million children who are about to become uninsured. The hundreds of hospitals that are closing or are on the verge of closing. 24 million people who are staring down premiums they simply cannot afford. 

"It does nothing to solve a crisis that the Republicans have inflicted on the American people.

"But, but, but! In typical fashion, here's what it does do. It does promote the GOP dream of a nationwide abortion ban. You found time for that.

"But today's the day to stop these tax credits from expiring.

"You called us back in July from recess to make sure that we voted on tax cuts — make them permanent for the very richest Americans. But now that we have a bipartisan discharge petition ready to vote on today, you can't find the time to do it?

"We are ready to vote, Mr. Speaker.

"You have the power to bring that to the Floor today. Let the will of the people be the will of the People's House. Let’s stop the premium hikes, extend the ACA tax credits, and get back to building a health care system that is worthy of the American people."

To watch the full speech, click HERE.  

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