CHARLOTTE, N.C.-- A show of support in Charlotte Saturday for healthcare reform ahead of an historic vote in Washington, D.C.
Late Saturday afternoon President Obama addressed congressional democrats in a last ditch effort before the house votes on healthcare reform Sunday.
In Charlotte, and around the country, this is legislation that has you and your neighbors split.
Saturday's rally started at the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, and was a rally for passage of the bill.
But both sides of the debate have made their feelings known in the Tar Heel State this week.
Hundreds flooded the sidewalks of uptown Saturday to make their point about healthcare.
"Both of my grandmothers had cancer, and they both struggled with health insurance, so I'm here to show my support," says Ashley Brewer, who participated in the rally.
"The company I worked for closed down, went bankrupt, I lost my job and I haven't had healthcare for almost two years," says Conrad Sullivan, who also attended the rally Saturday.
They're rallying in favor of the bill in congress to pass, believing it will help uninsured and underinsured americans get better health services.
"This program is essential to every American. Those who have insurance and those who don't," says John White
But voices are just as passionate on the other side of the debate.
A rally was held outside Congressman Bob Etheridge's office in Raleigh this week.
One protester says the idea is good, but the government intervention may not be.
"I am not satisfied with our healthcare system. I want healthcare reform. I do not want government takeover, we need healthcare reform," says Vi McCane, who is against the bill.
Republican house members from our area are against the legislation across the board.
One Democrat, Larry Kissel, also says he'll vote no.
Mel Watt tells NewsChannel 36 he is still undecided, but has often said he supports a universal healthcare option.
