Peterson announces two health forums

Rep. Collin Peterson faced criticism last month when he told Politico “I don’t do town meetings” because of the raucous personalities that often show up to such events. Despite that, Peterson has scheduled two health care town hall meetings in his district within the next week.

While not specifically called town hall meetings, the two “public round-table discussions” will focus on “how to control health care spending while improving access to quality care.”

The discussions will feature a panel of experts and stakeholders, as well as questions from the audience, all of it moderated. The event is open to the public.

Peterson’s statement that got Republicans riled up last month: “Twenty-five percent of my people believe the Pentagon and Rumsfeld were responsible for taking the twin towers down. That’s why I don’t do town meetings.”

Will 9/11 truthers be present at these forums?

Willmar Meeting:
2 p.m., Friday, August 14, 2009
Health and Human Services Multipurpose Room
2200 23rd Street
Willmar, MN 56201

Bemidji Meeting:
1 p.m., Monday, August 17, 2009
County Administration Board Room
701 Minnesota Avenue NW
Bemidji, MN 56601