Portland Voters Say "YES" to Universal Health Care!

• Approved the universal health care referendum by a margin of 52% to 48%; a tremendous victory considering that the opposition, (Anthem), outspent consumer advocacy groups by over 50-1, while at the same time asking for another rate increase from individual policyholders.


• Agreed that health care should be accessible to all, not only to those who can afford it.


• Sent a clear message to the opposition that they cannot buy their votes through an expensive and misleading ad campaign.


• Showed recognition that our current system is failing, and change is needed.

Here's what's being heard around the State:

• "The health insurance lobby can't scare Portland senseless: Higher taxes and fewer choices? Don't believe it." (From the Portland Press Herald, Wednesday, October 31, 2001-pg. 7A, Editorial by Jack Beaudoin).


• "Recent polls say that more than 50% of Mainers are in favor of universal health care." (From the Lewiston Sun Journal, Friday, November2, 2001. Article by Bonnie Washuk, Staff Writer).


• "Portland voters endorse single-payer health care: Anthem ad campaign fails to sway public opinion." (From the Bangor Daily News, Thursday, November 8, 2001-pg. B1, Article by Jerry Harkavy, The Associated Press).


• "Non-binding vote tells much." (From the Kennebec Journal online, Friday, November 9, 2001, column by Bill Williamson).

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