WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says a sweeping overhaul of health care is a proposal that honors the nation's traditions.
She spoke moments before a historic House vote.
Pelosi has guided the legislation through the House and appeared to have secured the votes to win passage. She credited President Barack Obama for what she called an "unwavering commitment" to extend health care to all Americans.
Democrats greeted her with a standing ovation as she approached the lectern to speak. With the vote imminent, she called on Democrats to "make history for our country and progress for the American people."
Pelosi credited the late Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., for making "health care his life's work" and pushing for legislation until his death. Kennedy's son, Patrick, gave her a kiss when she finished.
