[Page H9250]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                        WHERE ARE THE DEMOCRATS?

  (Mr. JONES asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. JONES. Mr. Speaker, for decades Medicare has been a vital program 
that has helped millions of Americans get the medical care they need. 
Now, the Republicans in Congress are working for an even stronger 
Medicare system. The Democrats, on the other hand, are only offering 
scare tactics.
  Here are the facts: Under the Republican plan, Medicare spending per 
beneficiary will increase from $4,800 today to $6,700 in the year 2002. 
Mr. Speaker, there are no cuts. We are working on a plan to save 
Medicare from bankruptcy, while increasing benefits for the seniors of 
America.
  Mr. Speaker, this is one of the most important issues that Congress 
will face this year. Where are the Democrats? The Republicans in 
Congress have recognized this fact and have chosen to tackle the 
problem head on. It is our goal that Medicare remains strong for 
today's seniors and for generations to come.

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