(Editor’s Note: Dodd dropped out of the presidential race for the Democratic nomination, following a poor showing in the Iowa caucuses on Jan. 3, 2007, where he got less than 1 percent of the delegates. See a video of his explanation on his campaign Web site. )

All Americans deserve access to affordable, quality health care. He initiated the Family and Medical Leave Act in 1993. He promises a universal health care plan by end of first term as president. Called “Universal HealthMart,” his plan iis based upon the Federal Employee’s Health Benefits Plan. It would allow people to keep existing plans and is based upon individual’s and business’s ability to pay. Extend coverage to all despite previous medical conditions and would follow the participant from job to job. Medicaid expanded to poorer families.

YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRAHo-MbQJo
Dodd talks to the press about the distinctions in his health care plan in the spin room following the June 2007 Democratic Presidential Debates.
YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7NEiplkv-M
Dodd addresses differences in the political climate from 1993 when health care reform was first introduced to today at the Health Care Forum in Las Vegas.

— Las Vegas Sun intern Jenna Kohler contributed to this report.