COURT HOUSE — U.S. Rep Frank A. LoBiondo (R-2nd) was one of only five Republicans in the House of Representatives last month to vote in favor of HR 3126, the Children’s Health and Medicare Protection Act of 2007 (CHAMP).

The purpose of this bill is to improve Medicare for older Americans and strengthen the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) for millions of children.

CHAMP passed the House 225-204, almost entirely along party lines and is currently awaiting vote in the Senate.

For his positive vote on pro-senior legislation, Middle Township AARP Chapter 1182 honored LoBiondo at its Sept. 12 meeting in the Samuel S. DeVico Senior Center. About 50 members showed up to hear the congressman speak.

Regarding his departure from voting within his party line, LoBiondo said he’s proud to be a Republican, but votes for his constituents first and with his party second.
He told the story of a recent visit with his 99-year-old mother when she asked how things were going in Washington.

“You’re not forgetting the seniors, are you?”

LoBiondo said he told her, “No mom.”

“You sure?”

He said he told her about this event in Middle Township he was coming to and she said, “OK, if the AARP likes what you’re doing, then that’s a good thing.”

LoBiondo received an appreciative laugh from the gathered seniors for his story.

The congressman also took this opportunity to sign a “Divided We Fail” pledge, which demonstrates AARP’s belief that all Americans should have access to affordable, quality healthcare and peace of mind about their future long-term financial security.

LoBiondo pledged to work with colleagues across the aisle to support legislation that would provide quality, affordable healthcare; strengthen Social Security; provide greater access to retirement plans and tools; and ensure that workers of all ages can continue to work and contribute to society.

“Divided We Fail” is a joint effort of AARP, Business Roundtable, an association of chief executive officers of leading U.S. companies, and Service Employees Union (SEIU), the largest health care union in the country.

These groups launched the campaign to engage people, businesses, non-profit organizations, and elected officials in finding bi-partisan solutions to ensure their goals.

“The need for health and financial security is something we all share, not just for ourselves, but for future generations,” the movement’s Web site said. “It is the promise of America.”

LoBiondo said he was happy to sign the pledge.

“This is absolutely the type of action that we as members of congress should be taking to help ensure we do what’s right for everyone we represent,” he said. “I am proud and honored to formally sign this here with you today in Cape May County in Middle Township.”

Those interested in pledging to vote for candidates that support the “Divided We Fall” ideals can visit www.aarp.org/issues/dividedwefail/.

Contact Hart at (609) 886-8600 Ext 35 or at: jhart@cmcherald.com