ROANOKE CO. – Talking health care, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine held a rally at Roanoke College Saturday in Salem, rallying the support of people in the Roanoke Valley to protect from President Donald Trump's opposition to the Affordable Care Act.
“What he ought to be thinking about is health care! That is what he ought to be thinking about,” Kaine said to supporters.
Kaine's comments came as Washington faces an important vote in the Senate on whether to replace or repeal Obamacare. The decision could affect nearly 32 million Americans who since became insured under the controversial bill.
Local supporters at the rally say this decision could drastically affect future generations. Brent Riley of Roanoke County came with sign in hand. His main message about the decision is to consider the quality of life for future generations.
“There is more to this issue than just taking care of our physical things. It's about raising our kids right, and bringing them up in the world where they are able to be healthy and not have so many medical problems. mental problems and education problems,” Riley said.
Kaine, who now sits on the health committee, told supporters that this decision could be one of the most monumental decisions of our generation. He voiced his frustration with how the committee has yet to have a hearing directly about health care issues.
He says the reform should be more open to input from the public and medical professionals. His said plan for reform, considering the divide in Washington among the two parties, would be to send the issue back to a committee.
“What is the most important thing in somebody's life? Their health. What's the most important expenditure you ever make with a dollar? Your health. What's the biggest sector in the American economy? Your healthcare. We got to get this right,” Kaine said.
Kaine says the vote will likely be held on Tuesday.