SCHERERVILLE | Talk quickly turned to health care reform Thursday when a gathering of mostly conservatives grilled U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Ind.

Many in the crowd of nearly 100 said they're skeptical of the health care bill under consideration in Washington.

"Why should anyone believe the federal government is competent to run the health care system for the entire nation," said Woodrow Wilcox, who told Visclosky he works with senior citizens on health and welfare issues.

Others were critical of President Barack Obama's handling of the issue.

"The president has done a terrible job of explaining the health care bill," and has tried to rush the bill through to passage, one audience member said.

"How are we going to pay for this," one man asked.

Visclosky, who represents much of Northwest Indiana in the U.S. House of Representatives, agreed to take questions on a range of issues from those at the gathering arranged by Highland Republican Party Chairman Mario Martini.

While other issues surfaced, including criticism of Obama's choice of advisors and concern over government expansion, most of the discussion centered on health care.

Visclosky told the group he has not yet decided how he'll vote on the health care bill.

"My hope is that when Congress reconvenes, we have discussion based on facts, on both sides," Visclosky said. "What I do not want is for the solution to be larger than the problem."

Visclosky said even though many of those in the crowd don't see eye-to-eye with him, "they have a right to be heard. I really do appreciate the invitation to be here tonight."

Martini said even though Visclosky is Democrat and most of those in the crowd are Republicans, "he's our congressman, and I appreciate the time he gave us."