Obama kicks off health reform push

President Obama hosted a gathering of health care figures at the White House today in an effort to kick off his push for health reform (Source: “Obama Starts Big Push for Health Care Overhaul,” New York Times/AP, March 5, 2009).

Obama said he will attempt to get all stakeholders to participate in his reform effort.

''In this effort, every voice must be heard. Every idea must be considered. Every option must be on the table. There will be no sacred cows in this discussion,'' Obama said, adding that ''Those who seek to block any reform at any cost will not prevail this time around.''