Skelton Would Vote "No" On House Dem Healthcare

JEFFESON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Missouri Congressman Ike Skelton says he opposes a government option for health insurance and would vote against the current health care proposals of his fellow Democrats.

Skelton announced his opposition to the several health care overhaul plans pending in the House during a telephone conference call Thursday evening with constituents.

His comments came on the same day that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the case is growing stronger for allowing the government to sell health insurance in competition with private
companies.

Skelton says he fears that could drive private insurers out of business.

Skelton says he also is concerned that the House proposals could make large cuts to Medicare and hurt rural health care providers.