President Barack Obama says he recognizes the heavy price tag of revamping the health care system but that it would be much more costly to do nothing.

The president went to a community college in suburban Virginia Wednesday to again press his case for legislation overhauling the system, saying it's "not too soon" to act on the problem.

He spoke as members of Congress continued a Fourth of July week recess away from Washington. The lawmakers will focus anew on the
issue when they return next week. Republicans have steadfastly spoken out against President Obama's proposed overhaul, saying the country can't afford his choices.

The president acknowledged that the speed with which he is acting is an issue, saying he recognizes that some people think "we're moving
too fast."