Just vote on the health care bill already

Sometimes even politicians have to stand up and be counted. They need the courage of their convictions and be willing to place their political careers on the line for the big things. Unfortunately, we're not seeing a lot of that going on these days.

It's maddening to see Democratic members of Congress try to hide from voting on the health care bill by using maneuvers that lets them support it without actually voting for it. It's the queasiest way to sidestep a difficult vote on an important topic.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wants to shield lawmakers from voting directly on the health care bill, according to an Associated Press story. Under this method, lawmakers would approve a rule for debate that would deem the Senate bill passed once a smaller package of fixes to the larger bill has also passed.

Does Pelosi or any other members of Congress really believe they are going to be able to hide their vote up or down on health care? No way. And they shouldn't want to. If this health care bill is good for America, then support it and do so without hesitation. And if you're against it, do the same, but don't be afraid of it.

It's amazing that we elect leaders who are afraid to lead. That's because they are only interested in staying elected, not doing the right thing. We believe that doing the right thing, even if it's unpopular, is the best way to be re-elected. If a congressman or woman cannot explain his or her vote, then so what if the seat is lost. Get someone else in there to do it.

Health care is a top concern in our nation. The vast majority of Americans know it has to be changed. So if this is the best solution Congress can manage, fine. Stand tall, cast a vote to support it - or not. Hiding from a vote, however, is just cowardly.