As our nation approaches this most critical choice for president, each voter should also thoughtfully consider choices further down the ticket. With the current economic and health care crises, we need to send a representative to Congress from the 6th District who has the background, integrity, determination and progressive ideas to start dealing with vital issues.

Pediatrician Teresa Sue Bratton from Greensboro has long been energetically involved with health care and environmental issues in Guilford County and will lend invaluable insight into the debates facing the next Congress.

She has pledged to work toward lower drug costs for seniors and making quality health care accessible and affordable to many more, especially children and our returning veterans. Rep. Howard Coble has repeatedly voted against the State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and opposed lowering drug prices for seniors.

Regarding the economy, Bratton will encourage small business growth, energy independence through renewable sources, re-educating the work force through support of community colleges and increasing the minimum wage to a living wage.

Coble has opposed equal pay to women for equal work, extending unemployment benefits for job retraining due to jobs lost overseas, and helping homeowners with troubled mortgages.

Bratton knows firsthand the challenges we are facing with the economy, health care system and the environment. She will be part of the prescription for a healthy future for all citizens and bring a fresh commitment to action and change in Washington.

I urge consideration and support of Bratton for 6th District representative.

Douglas E. Lam, M.D.

Pinehurst