WASHINGTON DC (Nov. 7, 2009) In a special Saturday night session called by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the House of Representatives managed to work out differences with pro-life Democrats and pass the massive federal health care bill along party lines. One lone republican joined the democrat ranks, giving the legislation only 2 votes over the necessary 218 votes to pass. The final count was 220 for, 215 against.

   In a statement sent to supporters, President Obama said, “Despite countless attempts over nearly a century, no chamber of Congress has ever before passed comprehensive health reform. This is history... Those who voted for reform deserve our thanks, and the next phase of this fight has already begun.

   “The final Senate bill hasn't even been released yet, but the insurance companies are already pressing hard for a filibuster to bury it. OFA (Organizing for America) has built a massive neighborhood-by-neighborhood operation to bring people's voices to Congress, and tonight we saw the results. But the coming days will put our efforts to the ultimate test. Winning will require each of us to give everything we can, starting right now.”

   While the Obama administration is continuing its grass roots efforts, it is also asking for contributions of $5.00 or more to “continue the fight.” The plea for financial support was sent via the Internet just hours after the vote.

   In response, Ohio 3rd District Congressman Mike Turner issued the following: “It is unfortunate the Majority in Congress, led by Speaker Pelosi, has decided to support a government takeover of our nation’s health care system. They have decided to ignore the wishes of the American people and push forward with their vision of reform, which will only further impair our economic recovery.

   “Ohioans continue to ask why Congress feels compelled to implement an absolute health care overhaul when common sense measures such as prohibiting insurance companies from denying coverage based on pre-existing conditions, allowing small businesses to pool coverage, offering the ability to deduct the full cost of their health insurance premiums, and tort reform, should first be considered. I remain committed to supporting Ohioans call for common sense health care reforms.”

   President Obama is expressing confidence that the bill will pass the Senate. However, the Senate has its own version of a health care bill, and Senator Joe Lieberman said on Sunday news programs that he would vote “no” if a government-backed insurance plan remains in the final version