Townhall meeting by Congressman Dicks turns out over 800

Citizen Review Staff

August 31, 2009

PORT TOWNSEND, WA -- Approximately 600 citizens filled the meeting room - with another approximately 200 left outside, many leaving when they realized they couldn't get into the hall - for a townhall meeting held by Congressman Norm Dicks (D) held at Fort Worden State Park's Commons.

U.S. Rep. Norm Dicks heard from those who favored health care reform and others strongly opposing the bill (HR-3200) being considered by Congress.

People outside milled around with signs, discussing the issues - many opposing the "government takeover of health care". Bea and John Morris were two in the crowd who couldn't gain access because the number of people inside would have exceeded the allowable number by the fire code. They brought home-made signs which reflected many around the area - and expressed concern that the federal government is forgetting about our Constitution with the various programs. Bea Morris expressed concern over how her children and grandchildren will ever be able to pay for the trillions of dollars being spent now.

There were large crowds jamming each doorway, not allowed to enter by the police who were guarding the doors due to the fire code, straining to hear what was being said inside. Someone asked when they were going to turn on the outside speakers for the benefit of those who couldn't get inside. A police officer kindly stated that "they went to turn on the speakers." The speakers never did get turned on.

The majority of those seated in front sections of the audience were obviously Dicks' supporters, who had apparently come in early to be seated there. Some said they had come in from Tacoma and other areas.

The crowd inside seemed to be divided, more in favor of revamping the bill or getting rid of it altogether, and starting over. Most agreed that health care needs reforming, but the method discussed was differing - with some suggesting tort reform and across-state-border insurance as possible solutions, rather than allowing the federal government to control the lives of its citizens.

Dicks responded to each statement or query with his own view of how it should be, reflective of his Democrat ideology.

To see a video of the entire proceedings, go to Sequim-Port Angeles News Online - Click Here. Many thanks to Chuck Marunde for videotaping the event.