Letter: I’m Worried for My Patients, So I’m Voting for Friedenberg

I’m really scared. I’m a registered nurse — and I’m worried for my patients who feel increasingly powerless and vulnerable when it comes to their healthcare choices. A new survey from the nonprofit West Health and Gallup confirms what I witness every day: one in four Americans have skipped health treatment because of the cost, and nearly half worry that a single health care emergency could bankrupt them.

As bad as it is today, I’m concerned that things could get much worse. The Trump administration recently expanded its effort to undo the Affordable Care Act by arguing that the entire law should be invalidated. If that happens, some 20 million Americans could lose their health insurance, and many of the patients I see here in Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District will get sicker from treatable diseases. 

Most frustrating of all is that many of the patients I worry about keep voting for the same rubber stamp politicians who make lofty promises — and fail to deliver.

PA’s May 21st primary is also a special election — and Independents, Republicans and Democrats can all help elect a competent, honest, hardworking and compassionate representative to Congress who has our backs when it comes to delivering on affordable health care for all— and much more

I’m a nurse, and I’m a campaign volunteer. I’m knocking on doors for Marc Friedenberg because I believe sending him to Washington is the best thing I can do for my patients. 

Pattie Beem