Ind. in the middle of healthcare debate

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - A groundbreaking proposal to create a universal healthcare system advanced in the U.S. Senate on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Indiana is emerging as a battleground for the historic debate.

Indiana is one of eight states where ads, purchased by the Democratic National Committee, are airing as part of the effort to sell the president's health care reform plan.

It's the same reason why a rally was held on Monument Circle by supporters of healthcare reform.

"I'm here to encourage the administration and Congress to give everybody affordable healthcare," said Paul Curd of Evansville.

Meantime, the first piece of universal healthcare legislation cleared a Senate committee Wednesday as President Barack Obama called for passage of a complete plan in both the House and Senate before the August recess.

Indiana Congressman Mike Pence is one of the leaders of the Republican opposition.

"The proposal by House Democrats amounts to a government takeover of our healthcare economy paid for on the backs of small business owners and working Americans," said Rep. Mike Pence (R-6th District).

Back on Monument Circle, you get a different take.

"I'm a small business owner from Evansville, Indiana and I can't afford the health insurance," said Lea Rankin of Evansville.

The debate will soon include not just rallies, but also phone banks and door-to-door campaigning by supporters of healthcare reform. They, like the ads, ask voters to contact their Senators.

In Indiana, the key vote belongs to Democrat Evan Bayh. He sent a statement to 24-Hour News 8 saying, "It's past time to reform our health care system."

Bayh, however, is not yet committed to voting for the president's plan. His statement said he is seeking a solution that is paid for.