Dayton: Americans Should Be Able To Keep Insurance

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Mark Dayton says he believes all Americans should be able to keep existing insurance plans under the new federal health care law.

Dayton stressed Tuesday that he has little influence as governor over the decision. But he says he believes his fellow Democrat, President Barack Obama, promised no one would be forced to change plans.

Former President Bill Clinton also expressed that belief this week, putting pressure on Obama. A White House spokesman said Monday the administration is looking at a range of options but said only small numbers of people are affected.

Still, Dayton says the number of people affected in Minnesota is "staggering." He says the changes are too abrupt and says it "defies common sense."

Dayton was speaking Tuesday to a group of Minnesota doctors.