Thank you Representative Dennis Moore

As a founding member of the Blue Dog Caucus there has been a lot I’ve been bothered by in Rep. Dennis Moore’s votes over the years. For some time I’ve refused to give money and I can’t count how many times I stopped being a fan on Facebook but Rep. Moore has risen to an honorable challenge not even I expected.Rep. Moore supports the public option.

With a majority of the University of Kansas campus in his district, Moore clearly understands the difficulties that young people face when transitioning from college to the questionable work market. Over one third of 18-29 year olds are uninsured and contrary to believe it isn’t because they don’t want to be…. its because for so many of my generation – it simply isn’t an option.

While the over one third stat is troubling it is due in large part to the 22% unemployment rate for young people, but also in part because more and more employers refuse to give health care to entry level employees if they provide it at all.

The second county in Rep. Moore’s district is Wyndotte County where according to the 2000 census men have a median income of $31,335 versus $24,640 for women with 16.5% of the population living below the poverty line including 23% of those under age 18 and 11.10% of those 65 or over.

More than half of Rep. Moore’s district is in desperate need for a public insurance option and he’s heeding their strife, though not without violent backlash.

“I expect to have differences with people, differences of opinion. And, I respect people’s opinions. But, I expect exchanges we have to be respectful and not threatening,” said Moore. “As a former prosecutor, I certainly do not tolerate threats well and that’s why I contacted the police department.”

This is why, while our friends at FireDogLake are helping support those who have taken the all or nothing pledge, we here at home wanted to funnel all of our efforts into supporting Rep. Moore’s confidence in his decision and his determination to represent the needs of his district.

Please, help say a big Thank You! to Rep. Moore by contributing on the ActBlue page Kansas Free Press has set up.

As someone who doesn’t have health insurance right now, I’m grateful for his dedication to the cause. I hope he feels our support behind him and continues to stand strong. We are trying to raise $5,000 which is a small sum compared to the $450,000 at FireDogLake – but we think we can do it!! Help us here!

Become a Fan of Rep. Moore on Facebook or email Rep. Moore here