DELRAY BEACH, FL-- If nothing else it was a lot cooler inside the South County Civic Center than it was outside.
Not just in temperature - but temperament.
The Florida Alliance for Retired Americans, hosted a town hall meeting and made it clear from the beginning they would not tolerate disorderly outbursts.
The vast majority of people in the room were clearly already in favor of healthcare reform.
Those opposed were concerned their voices and concerns would go unheard. But some managed to get a seat.
"It's really stacked. They've got union people or mostly people who voted for Obama. The only reason I got in - and it's true is, because I told them my husband worked 35 years as a teacher for the city of New York," said one opponent.
Following a series of speakers and presentations, Congressmen Alcee Hastings and Robert Wexler addressed the crowd.
Six million Floridians, they say, now live without insurance. 850-more each day. 20% of all people in Palm Beach County.
"I thought this was an excellent discussion describing the benefits of the bill, and for those who objected, that's fair, let them state their objections," Congressman Wexler said.
After speaking the congressmen took about 3-dozen questions, which had been placed on index cards, from the crowd.
Some were in support of healthcare reform. Some against. A system that seemed to allow for a more civil discourse.
No outbursts.
No made for TV moments.
A relief, say those in attendance - considering what they had seen elsewhere.
Congressman Wexler says he's happy to continue the discussion, but is not planning any other town hall meetings on this topic.
