As we reported last month, CNSNews has been asking members of Congress to cite the part of the Constitution that gives them authority to impose an individual health insurance mandate.
Here are more responses . . .
Sen. Kent Conrad (D-ND)
“No, but I’ll refer you to the legal counsel for the Senate and they’re the ones that lead there as the full legal basis for the individual mandate -- and I assume it’s in the Commerce clause.”
Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-CA)
“Well, I would assume it would be in the Commerce clause of the Constitution. That’s how Congress legislates all kinds of various programs.”
Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-LA)
“Well, we’re very lucky as members of the Senate to have constitutional lawyers on our staff, so I’ll let them answer that.”
Sen. Blanche Lincoln
“Well, I just think the Constitution charges Congress with the health and well-being of the people,”
Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR)
“The very first enumerated power gives the power to provide for the common defense and the general welfare. So it’s right on, right on the front end.”
Login or register
to post comments