Organizing for America, a project of the Democratic National Committee, called the meeting and is hosting hundreds of similar events all around the country in advance of Obama's health care address to Congress next week. A few grumbled about the petition but signed it anyway. The petition said they agreed with the president's call to lower costs, allow people to go to the health care provider of their choice, and ensure access to health care for everyone.
Sarah Mouracade, Alaska's regional field director, said the event wasn't intended to be an open forum but rather a gathering of supporters. At least one critic of health care reform got in but wasn't disruptive.
Obama's push has been hugely controversial and faces a tough time in Congress. Some Alaskans, scared they could lose their existing coverage or worried about projected 10-year costs of over $1 trillion, have taken to the streets to protest the effort.
During Thursday's rally, group members chanted their support to reform health care now, even though most in the crowd also raised their hands to show they already have coverage.
"Doing nothing is not an option," said Jonathan Teeters, state director of Organizing for America. He said many small business owners can't afford to provide insurance, and that 18 percent of Alaskans are uninsured.
U.S. Sen. Mark Begich called in from Indiana. He's driving across the country with his family to Washington, D.C.
"The goal at the end of the day is affordable, accessible and stable health care coverage for all Americans," Begich said, drawing huge cheers.
The crowd followed the organizers' script and shouted out a thank-you to Begich in unison. They also held up signs and recorded a video message urging U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski "to stand together with Alaskans and support health insurance reform!"
Murkowski has said Congress should slow down and doesn't need to make all the changes at once.
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