Most importantly, I ask for your help. Two years ago, working together, we passed the Children's Health Insurance Program. Now, we have the opportunity to build on this success and make a greater impact on the health of all Marylanders with our billion-dollar battle against tobacco and cancer. Almost every family in this room has some experience with cancer. Sadly, Maryland ranks sixth in the nation in cancer deaths.
Cancer is a horrible disease.
Yet I am convinced that we can make Maryland the leading Anti- Cancer State in the Nation. Earlier this year, when I announced our plan to conquer cancer, I could feel the excitement in the audience at the University of Maryland Medical System. As I said that day, I love the people that farm tobacco, but I hate the tobacco industry. Frankly, the reason I need your help is because some people have suggested that we forgo this opportunity and instead redirect this money to other uses such as tax cuts or road construction. I need your help and support to reject this notion, so we can do what is right for Maryland.