Utah's Matheson May Get Dem Rival Over Health Vote

BROCK VERGAKIS

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A Democratic state lawmaker said Monday he may run against U.S. Rep. Jim Matheson because of his vote against health care legislation.

State Sen. Scott McCoy of Salt Lake City said he and other Democratic activists are disappointed and frustrated with Matheson for joining with Republicans in opposing the $1.2 trillion, 10-year measure that would expand coverage to millions of uninsured.

In a posting on his Facebook page, McCoy wondered publicly, "So is it time for me to form an exploratory 'McCoy for Congress' committee given Jim Matheson's vote against the healthcare reform bill?"

That drew scores of comments in support of the idea, although McCoy said it is much too early to decide if he'll enter the race.

Matheson is seeking a sixth term in 2010 and no Democrats or Republicans have filed to run against him.

He said he voted against the bill because it is too expensive.

In a statement issued Friday, one day before the House approved the measure on a 220-215 vote, Matheson said passing health care reform is a moral and fiscal necessity. However, "a one-size-fits all nationally-run plan that doesn't acknowledge the different health demographics in the states isn't the answer," he said.