Obama taking healthcare reform tour to New Hampshire

(NECN: Alison King, Portsmouth, N.H.) – The city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire on Tuesday will host President Barack Obama, who will take part in a town hall meeting to answer questions on his healthcare overhaul propsal. It follows a number of heated debates nationwide over reform. The event will be held at Portsmouth High School, and President Obama will explain to Seacoast residents what exactly is at stake, and why it is important to move forward now, according to the president’s domestic policy adviser, Melody Barnes. Healthcare town hall meeting across the country have, in some cases, turned violent. Those who oppose President Obama’s plan will be present at the meeting. “We want to have a dialogue and we can do so peacefully,” Matt Murphy said. “We do intend to make our presence known.” In Mexico on Monday, Mr. Obama told the press that Canada’s health system was not a fit for the United States. The deadline for registering online for up to two tickets was 3 p.m. Saturday. Material from The Associated Press used in this report.