I have been an outspoken critic of the Republican budget plan and its misguided priorities. For the seventh time in a row, the Republicans in Washington have passed additional tax cuts geared to primarily benefit the wealthy.

America's veterans met their obligations to serve our country in the military with honor. As Congress makes decisions that affect veterans' health care, their futures, and their lives, we cannot forget that commitment.

Access to quality affordable health care continues to be a priority of mine. It is unconscionable that in America today more than 43.6 million Americans are without health insurance.

Medicare is one of the most successful health care programs our country has ever known. And it is my goal to make it even better.