Health care isn’t a frill or a luxury. It’s a basic necessity that should be available to all Americans, not just those who have the best jobs and the highest incomes. That’s why I’m working with President Obama and my colleagues in Congress to make good health care a reality for all Americans.

Health reform is not just about expanding access to coverage, although doing so is clearly fundamental. It’s not just about reducing costs, although doing so is essential to reduce the burden on working families of the soaring cost of health care…

We must end these unacceptable practices and make certain that all Americans have access to quality, affordable health care.

The best way to meet this goal is by giving Americans the option of enrolling in a public health-insurance plan, where coverage is provided in the public interest.