Keep health coverage

It is that time of year for the misleading political ads. My comment is about the Rep. Keith Rothfus, R-Sewickley, ads about him beating cancer. I think it is wonderful that Mr. Rothfus had health coverage and received the necessary medical treatment in order for him to combat his cancer.

The result for some Americans might not be as positive because of Mr. Rothfus’ votes in Congress. There might be a woman in Coraopolis who has breast cancer or a young father from Aliquippa who might have lung cancer who needs medical treatment. Those people plus millions of others in our country currently have a chance of receiving medical treatment because they have health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). Mr. Rothfus has voted to take their medical coverage away from them. How many times did he vote to repeal the Affordable Care Act? More than 10 times. Why? Mr. Rothfus and his fellow Republicans including Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Butler, are determined to eliminate health coverage for millions of Americans.

Currently, about 20 attorneys general (including Patrick Morrisey in West Virginia) and Republican governors have filed a lawsuit against the the federal government to challenge provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

If the courts agree with the lawsuit, the insurance companies will be able to make coverage for pre-existing conditions unaffordable for most people or not cover them at all.

We should all be concerned about the attacks on the Affordable Care Act. It can affect everyone’s health insurance. Unfortunately access to health care coverage has become a partisan issue. Why don’t the Republicans want everyone to have health coverage? Why, Mr. Rothfus?

TERRY KIRKPATRICK

Coraopolis