"I read the versions of the House [health reform] bill. I listened to the countless stories of Orleans and Jefferson Parish citizens whose health care costs are exploding — if they are able to obtain health care at all. Louisianans needs real options for primary care, for mental health care, and for expanded health care for seniors and children. [...] I have always said that I would put aside partisan wrangling to do the business of the people. My vote tonight was based on my priority of doing what is best for my constituents." - Steven Perez from Bookmarklet

Before yesterday I hadn't heard of the man. Today, I'm wishing more politicians (regardless of political party or platform) had his cajones. - Prosey BUTTONS!

fyi he's got a great story: Vietnam refugee at age 8, wins the House seat of a 9-term incumbent in last year's election: "He is only a recent convert to the Republican Party, having been a registered independent for most of his adult life, and has no position — at least not one he cares to share yet — on President-elect Barack Obama’s agenda. His politics seem less a matter of ideology than of low-key temperament and a Jesuit-inspired desire to “help and serve people,” as he put it." - Christopher Chung

I, for one, have tremendous respect for the man. He is more of a maverick than McCain ever could hope to be. Good fo Cao to not toe/tow (?) the party line and for flushing out the hysterical racists in his party. - Rene, Pro Button Pusher