Minnick efforts earn praise from U.S. Chamber

Boise - Idaho Congressman Walt Minnick will host two telephone town halls this month to update his constituents on the state of health-care reform.

"I am fortunate to represent one of the most geographically diverse and rural Congressional districts in the country," Minnick said. "It's not possible for me to meet with people in every town or community to discuss health care, but the telephone town hall is an easy and free way for my constituents to learn more and to tell me what they think."

The telephone town halls will be August 19 and August 31. Both will begin at approximately 6:00 p.m. PDT/7:00 p.m. MDT. The calls can be accessed by up to 50,000 people. Residents of the First Congressional District who are interested in participating can contact one of Minnick's four offices and ask to be added to the list of people who will be called and connected to the town hall.

During dozens of meetings planned throughout the Congressional work period, Minnick is conferring with local leaders, civic organizations, business owners and constituents to discuss jobs, the economy and health care. His efforts have won praise from national business leaders.

"Early in the 111th Congress, Rep. Minnick has shown leadership and a willingness to work with the business community. His votes thus far have demonstrated an appreciation of the importance of American commerce and protecting free enterprise. We are encouraged by his record and look forward to continuing our relationship," said Bill Miller, the senior vice-president for Political Affairs and Federation Relations at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Over the last two weeks, Minnick has met with local Rotary Clubs, chambers of commerce, local citizens, hospitals and employers large and small.

"I also hope to announce soon an event organized specifically to bring together representatives from seemingly divergent interests for a serious and substantive discussion to find Idaho's 'common ground' on health care and how it is impacting our economy," Minnick said. "I want to take back to my colleagues in Washington, D.C., a set of principles to bridge the current divides, a set of principles upon which the vast majority of Idahoans can agree."