Atlanta, GA - In their first televised debate, Michael Coles, who has widely criticized Coverdell on his record on health care issues, again challenged the incumbent on HMO reform. Coles also confronted Coverdell by pointing out that, by continuing to protect his colleagues in the insurance industry, he has failed to protect everyday Georgians. Coles began by acknowledging Jodi Garrison and Cindy Marx, who have both been featured in recent Coles television advertisements highlighting HMO abuses and the need for change. “Jodi and David lost their newborn daughter and Cindy and Nicole lost their husband and father because HMO bureaucratsnot doctorsmade medical decisions,” stated Coles. “These families have courageously shared their stories with the people of Georgia so that other families will never again have to suffer the tragedies that they have lived through.” “Senator Coverdell is currently running a TV ad attacking Jodi Garrison. The Coverdell campaign has accused Jodi of “making a mountain out of a mole hill,” continued Coles. “Senator, that’s wrong your job is to help Georgians like Jodi Garrison, not attack them.” With Ms. Garrison and her family looking on, Coles then addressed Coverdell: “Jodi has requested that I ask you one question why have you sided with the insurance companiesand not her? Why do you oppose giving families the right to sue HMOs and hold them accountable?” # # # |
