SALT LAKE CITY — The conservative Club for Growth is challenging Republican Utah Sen. Bob Bennett to a debate over a health care bill he’s sponsoring that the group has begun criticizing in television commercials.
The Washington-based group has a history of challenging moderate Republicans with whom it disagrees. Bennett is up for re-election next year and faces multiple challengers from his party, including Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff.
Bennett’s bill, co-sponsored by Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, would mandate private health insurance coverage in plans approved by the federal government.
Club for Growth president Chris Chocola said Wednesday that Bennett’s plan amounts to a government takeover.
Messages left with Bennett’s spokespeople were not immediately returned Wednesday.
The Associated Press
