Rep. Larson urges Dems to protect senior benefits

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Connecticut Rep. John Larson says health care reforms passed by Democrats have guaranteed access to affordable health care, while Republican proposals threaten it.

Larson, chairman of the House Democratic caucus, urged Democratic National Convention delegates Wednesday to fight to protect hard-earned access to health care and support for the elderly.

The East Hartford congressman said his father was a fireman at the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft plant who took pride in working for a better future. He said his mother has faced several illnesses with courage and now has round-the-clock care for dementia, provided by private and federal benefits his father earned.

He said GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney and running mate Paul Ryan's proposals would weaken those benefits, while President Barack Obama introduced savings to protect the programs that keep many seniors out of poverty.