American Morning

Tune in at 6am Eastern for all the news you need to start your day.
July 23rd, 2009
06:27 AM ET

Obama: Reform 'central' to economic recovery

President Barack Obama delivers remarks on health care during a prime-time press conference from the East Room of the White House July 22, 2009, in Washington, DC. (AFP/Getty Images)
President Barack Obama delivers remarks on health care during a prime-time press conference from the East Room of the White House July 22, 2009, in Washington, DC. (AFP/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON (CNN) - President Obama said Wednesday he was unable to guarantee that health care reform won't change how Americans get medical treatment, but he said any changes would be necessary and positive.

In a nationally televised news conference dominated by the health care issue, Obama delivered lengthy statements in response to Republican attacks on proposals he favors.

He also attempted to ease the concerns of people left confused by the fierce debate in Washington.

He repeatedly emphasized that the spiraling costs of the current system would bankrupt the nation while denying coverage to millions more Americans.

Asked directly if he could guarantee that an overhauled health care system won't change how people receive treatment, Obama said no.

"The whole point of this is to try to encourage what works," Obama said, addressing concerns that reform would take away the ability of people to choose their doctors and treatment.

Watch Obama describe importance of "getting it right" Video

What's your reaction to Obama's health care speech? Tell us your thoughts.


Filed under: Health • Politics
soundoff (103 Responses)
  1. J.Johnson

    I do not wish to comment on the Cambridge Police Dpt, Officer Crowley, or Prof. Gates.

    My beef is with people who want critique this incidence as an officer carrying out his duty but want to describe WACO and Ruby Ridge incidents, where warrants were served by legal arms of government enforcement, as MASSACRES.

    July 24, 2009 at 8:49 am |
  2. Coty

    Love Kiran and John. Unfortunately I will have to go elsewhere for my news. Seems like CNN hates white people...not saying the Sen. was right but come on. If it wasn't that we'd be talking about one of the Mayors or some kids who didnt get to swim at a pool. Maybe the wrong place for this but oh well...see what's on Fox(shudders).

    July 24, 2009 at 6:40 am |
  3. Bernice

    I am soooo pleased to see that he FAILED! Hopefully this is the beginning of his waterloo!! People do deserve so much better that a man in office who just seems to be overly racially motivated! It did not matter what color anyone was BEFORE he made it to the white house, it should not change after! STOP HIM! This is an American takeover! There are MANY programs on tv now, stating just what I have said for months now! People are beginning to wake up and start looking into his actions! They are soooo unAmerican that everyone should keep a eye on him and this full administration! This is a spread of racism, not reform on healthcare! The senate and congress were just looking outfor our best interests! That is what we voted them in for! They ARE now doing what we elected them to do! STOP anyone who is trying to hurt the American People, and with the shut down on this bill, I believe that they DID THIER JOB! STOP HIM!

    July 24, 2009 at 6:04 am |
1 2