A vote on the bill could come by the end of the week, but it's a controversial topic that has people on both sides working hard to make their voices heard.

Activists from the tea party movement and other conservative groups converged in front of Congressman Ben Chandler's Lexington office, but it wasn't to protest the lawmaker.

Organizers of the event say they support Chandler's opposition to the current health care plan before Congress. Attendees like physician Lewis Hicks say they want to see the bill defeated in the House: "I think this is a budget-busting bill. We can't afford it."

As a play on the expression, "pitchforks and torches," many brought small torches for a candlelight vigil. A light-hearted gesture but a serious message.

Eric Wilson, event organizer: "Some mini-torches, we're going to get candle-scented ones, yes."

Eric Wilson is the director of the conservative group, the 912 Project. He says this event is the culmination of months of activism.

Eric Wilson: "They've been making phone calls, writing letters. They're frustrated. They want their voice heard. This is a way they can come out and just make a visual image and say, hey, we're out here in number. We want to be heard. We don't want this health care bill."

Across the country, efforts to influence swing votes in Congress are increasing in anticipation of a final decision on health care reform.

Conservative activist Teresa Pinkston: "They're putting us so much in debt, our grandkids, our great-grandkids will not be able to pay off. And that's what I'm here tonight for is to protect and speak out for my great-grandkids."

As the vote comes down to a few key members of Congress, these activists are watching closely.

Lewis Hicks: If they hold together, I think they can defeat this."

Organizers of Tuesday night's event are also planning a health care debate among candidates for Kentucky's U.S. Senate race. Candidates will square off April 24 in Madison County.