Constituents More Concerned About Jobs Than Health Care Reform, Claim GOP Congressmen

Travis Martinez, University of New Mexico - Talk Radio News Service

Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) and Rep. David Camp (R-Mich.) claimed Tuesday that during the numerous town hall meetings held throughout the August recess, the focus was not just on health care reform. The top question being asked was: “Where are the jobs?”

Camp noted during a pen and pad session with reporters that only three counties in his district do not have a double digit unemployment rate, with one county nearing 16%.

The Congressmen touched upon health care reform, both reiterating their opposition to the public option.

“The American people don’t want another health care speech. They want another health care plan,” said Pence.

Camp added, “The public option is not the only concern,” but is “the most offensive part of the bill, because it will lead to many losing health insurance they already have."

When asked how will President Obama’s joint address to Congress Wednesday will be received, Pence responded “The Republicans will welcome the President back into the Congress respectfully."

Energy becoming new 'global race'

"It's nothing short of a disgrace for the Speaker to leave the Congress, not call us back and remain on a promotional book tour while 'everyday Americans' are suffering all over this country", said Rep. David Camp (R-Mich.) today at a press conference to discuss the ongoing speeches on the floor of the House of Representatives. The Republican members of the House are entering their second week of continuous discussion calling for the return of Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) to Washington, and that an emergency session of Congress be called to deal with America's rising energy costs.

"Many of us during the Cold War remember the days of the arms race. Well let me tell you, there is a global race going on for energy right now", said Rep. Randy Neugebauer (R-Texas). "And quite honestly, the United States of America is behind in this race." He went on to say that global oil issues are primarily a supply and demand problem, with the demand for oil continuing to increase and the supply remaining the same.

Rep. Sue Myrick (R-N.C.) pointed out that this oil crisis is not only affecting families, but small businesses, schools that rely on busing systems, and other organizations that depend on fuel. As such, she says the issue demands immediate attention from Speaker Pelosi.