A few hours after the House Democrats dropped their health care plan, and as they are still counting votes on whether it has enough support, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is raising money on the public option that's included in the bill.

The fundraising email subject line sure is attention getting: "Breaking News: Strong Public Option Introduced."

In the message to DCCC supporters, Chairman Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) lauds the health care plan and thanks Democrats for standing up and speaking out. And then he asks for more cash:

"Now that we've taken this historic step, the media, pundits, and defenders of the status quo are wondering, "How will you respond?" Help us raise $50,000 by MIDNIGHT TONIGHT to send a powerful message that the American people stand behind a strong public option and comprehensive health care reform."

Full email after the jump.

BREAKING NEWS: HEALTH CARE BILL INTRODUCED WITH A STRONG PUBLIC OPTION

Friend --

I wanted to share some exciting news with you. Today, Democrats under the leadership of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have officially introduced our new bill in the House of Representatives. This bill will reform our broken health insurance system and includes a strong public option.

This historic action is taking place for one simple reason: Democrats like you stood up and spoke out.

You are the ones who made your voices heard in support of a strong public option to keep insurance companies honest, provide greater choice, and ensure quality, affordable health care for the middle class.

Now that we've taken this historic step, the media, pundits, and defenders of the status quo are wondering, "How will you respond?" Help us raise $50,000 by MIDNIGHT TONIGHT to send a powerful message that the American people stand behind a strong public option and comprehensive health care reform.

Contribute $5, $10 or more today so we have the resources to fight back against Republican attacks and prove that grassroots Democrats are standing strong behind health insurance reform with a strong public option.

With Republicans digging in even harder now to protect the status quo, we need grassroots Democrats like you to help us finish the job. Stay tuned for further updates and all the ways that you can help us finish this fight.

But for now, I just wanted to say thanks for standing with us every step of the way.

Sincerely,

Rep. Chris Van Hollen
DCCC Chairman