Today our nation lost one of its great leaders. Ted Kennedy, the Senior Senator from the great state of Massachusetts passed away at home surrounded by his family. He had his personal faults, as we all do, but he rose above them, and in doing so tried to inspire the nation to achieve its own greatness.
Inspired by her Sister Eunice's work with Special Olympics, Kennedy championed causes such as civil rights, improvements in educational opportunities and raising the standard of living of the poor and downtrodden.
One of his greatest passions was his desire to see America establish universal healthcare. In 1976 he recounted his Father's struggles after suffering a stroke. He was able to see his father recieve the best of care. He stated that this level of care should be availible to all. He said, "If this health insurance is good enough for the President, Vice President and Members of Congress, it should be good enough for all Americans."
He felt so strongly about healthcare and Barack Obama's vision for universal coverage, he gathered his strength and trekked to Denver to rally the troops and pass his torch to the next generation.
As we sit here in debate as to the future of healthcare reform, we must keep Teddy's spirit alive and make this the single piece of landmark legislation that would befit his legacy to public service. WWTD....what would Ted Do should be our battle cry. The bill crafted by Senator Dodd and Kennedy's Health Labor and Pensions Committee delivers this promise. Let this strong piece of legislation go to the President's desk and become Teddy's legacy.
"The Dream Shall Never Die" Edward Kennedy (1932-2009)
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