I am writing to thank Congressman Mark Kirk for voting no on the $1.2 trillion government health care takeover bill. While I am proud of every representative (Republican or Democrat) who stood up for our health care, I want to single out Congressman Kirk for special praise.

Congressman Kirk not only said no to the government takeover, he proposed an alternative that will actually reform health care, and keep the power where it belongs - in the hands of patients and their doctors.

Congressman Kirk's health care plan has three main facets.

First, it forbids the government from interfering with any decision made between you and your doctor.

Second, allow consumers to buy insurance from any state in the nation, increasing competition and driving down cost.

Third, pass serious tort reform to reign in the out of control lawsuits that weaken our health care system and drive up costs.

Now, more than ever, we need leaders with courage and ideas like Mark Kirk. He is running for the U.S. Senate in 2010, and I can think of no better man for the job.

I would encourage everyone who is tired of their government thinking that the solution to every problem is yet more government to take a look at Congressman Mark Kirk. You will like what you see.

Christine Dolgopol

Wheeling