Tommy Thompson
Health and Human Services Secretary
National Press Club Luncheon Speaker -- Nov. 20, 2003

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Tommy Thompson, Secretary of Health and Human Services

As congress works on a major overhaul of Medicare, Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson spoke to the Press Club about legislation that could provide senior citizens with prescription drug coverage for the first time since the program began in 1965.

As head of the nation's health and welfare programs, Thompson oversees more than 60,000 personnel and a budget of nearly $5 billion. He began his career in public service in 1966 as a representative in Wisconsin's state Assembly.

Thompson gained national attention after spearheading a welfare reform drive as Wisconsin's governor. He also created the first school choice program in the nation. Both issues figured in George W. Bush's presidential campaign, and they won Thompson the post of Health and Human Services chief in the new administration.

In Depth:

'Talk of the Nation' Looks at Medicare Expansion

Thompson to Support International Anti-Tobacco Treaty

Report: Mental Health Programs Provide Inadequate Care

Web Resources:

Health and Human Services Web Site

Medicare Information

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