He also called for Americans to 'stand up to hate' during a time of polarization. 'That today's members of Congress, regardless of party, are willing to look at the facts and speak the truth even when it contradicts party positions.' 'And it is my fervent hope, and the hope of millions that, regardless of party, such courage is still possible. 'As everyone here now knows, this great debate is not settled but continues,' Obama said. He expressed his 'fervent hope' that members of Congress would look beyond party lines when considering the future of the country's healthcare system. His 30-minute speech came just days after US House Republicans passed a bill that would dismantle much of his signature health care law. Obama has avoided commenting directly on Trump in his rare public appearances since leaving office in January and did not mention the businessman-turned-politician by name on Sunday. Theirs was a profile in courage. Because of that vote, 20 million people got health insurance who didn't have it before.' 'These men and women did the right thing. 'There was a reason why health care reform had not been accomplished before. He noted that many members of Congress risked and ultimately lost their seats when they voted for Obamacare. The former president applauded the members of Congress who did 'the right thing' in 20 when they took hard votes for the health reform law. 'I hope they understand that courage means not simply doing what's politically expedient, but doing what, deep in our hearts, we know is right.' 'I hope that current members of Congress recognize it takes little courage to aid those who are already powerful, already comfortable, already influential - but it takes great courage to champion the vulnerable and the sick and the infirm,' Obama said as he accepted the JFK Profile in Courage Award. Obama was careful not to mention Donald Trump by name in Boston on Sunday night as he referenced the current administration's efforts to dismantle much of his signature health care law. Former president Barack Obama has vigorously defended Obamacare as he called on members of Congress to show courage in the debate over the future of health care in America.

Jfk profiles in courage book