Mr. Speaker, today we choose between the people who carry a lunchbox to work, and the people who carry Gucci briefcases and wear imported loafers.

The people who carry lunchboxes aren't asking for special favors or special treatment. They're not asking for a tax loophole. What they want is very simple. When they change jobs, or if they fall prey to downsizing, or if a loved one contracts cancer or diabetes, they want to be able to buy health insurance. That's all.

I am afraid that this very modest request from the people who carry lunchboxes is going to fall on deaf ears in this House. The majority has instead constructed a monument to the influence industry.

We can pass a bill that makes health insurance portable and prohibits discrimination or restrictions because of pre-existing conditions. This simple bill would help 25 million Americans. Another provision in this bill on the tax deductibility of health insurance for the self-employed would help 3 million Americans.

We could pass that bill, sail it through the Senate, and have it on the President's desk for signature tonight. Instead, we're going to be voting on a Christmas tree bill adorned with ornaments for various special interests. And like a Christmas tree, it's soon going to be put out on the lawn for garbage pickup.

I know whose side I'm on. I'm voting with the people who carry lunchboxes. I urge my colleagues to do the same.

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