Star-Ledger
August 19, 2009
Brian Whitley

Legions of New Jerseyans are telling their congressmen whether they see eye to eye on health care reform -- but most of the conversations aren't face to face.

Deluged with pointed questions over the health care overhaul proposed in Washington, D.C., much of the state's congressional delegation has replaced or supplemented traditional town hall meetings with teleconferences.

Lawmakers say the unparalleled reach of the massive conference calls -- which have involved 10,000 residents at a time -- suits a debate of nearly unparalleled complexity. They're especially popular with seniors citizens and others who benefit from the convenience of not having to travel somewhere after a day at work.

"It's just like a talk radio show," said Rep. Robert Andrews (D-1st Dist.), who held his first three telephone town halls this year. "It's a very effective communication tool."

Phone meetings also stamp out the possibility of fiery confrontations between supporters and critics of the bill, which have grabbed headlines around the United States. Out-of-town protesters continue to frustrate lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.