Chairman Cleaver’s Statement Commemorating the 45th Anniversary of Medicare’s Implementation
Washington, DC – Chairman Emanuel Cleaver, II released the following statement commemorating the 45th Anniversary of Medicare’s Implementation:
”When Medicare was enacted in 1965, almost all Americans 65 and older had access to health care coverage. Before that time, only half of all Americans were covered.
”The creation and development of Medicare for our seniors and most vulnerable populations is one of our nation’s greatest achievements. Today, as we celebrate Medicare’s 45th anniversary defending it is one of my proudest achievements.
”This federal health program covers over 45 million Americans and has played a central role in the US health system and the overall health of our nation. As the Republican Leadership attempts to kill Medicare as we know it, I stand vigilant in protecting this most necessary program.
”Medicare is the safety net for our seniors—especially African American seniors. 67% of African Americans are at or below the poverty line, and 12% of African Americans rely on the program to survive. The most vulnerable cannot afford to see an end to Medicare and I am committed to preventing that from happening.”
- Chairman Emanuel Cleaver
