By Caitlin Taylor

Mar 5, 2009 8:11am

The Note, 3/5/09: Healthy Start — Battle lines remain, but Obama begins with agreement on need for change

By RICK KLEIN Put all that partisan stuff on hold — Rush Limbaugh and taxes and spending, you can wait right here. Here comes everybody’s feel-good bipartisan issue of the year . . . health care? OK, maybe President Obama’s latest policy push won’t sprinkle magical consensus dust on the capital. In the 15 years since this was seriously attempted, to famously disastrous political consequences for Democrats, the partisan battle lines and the terms of the debate haven’t changed substantially. (Think we’ll hear about socialized medicine? Is it possible that we will avoid another take on Harry and Louise?) But the larger point is that so much has changed since Hillarycare — not least the prices of health care services, the evident costs of inaction, and the corporate environment surrounding all of it. Will the politics follow? (Can it afford not to?) On Thursday, the symbolism is substance again — all the major interests in the room for a televised summit on health care, and all agreeing the current system is unsustainable and more than a little ridiculous. Where once the president might have wanted health reform to benefit from a new bipartisan attitude, we’re not quite there yet. So bipartisanship will have be forged in the fires that melted down the first two years of Bill Clinton’s presidency. The president is avoiding the contentious stuff for now — that will be hashed out in rooms where C-SPAN cameras are barred — but he is starting by bringing it all back to the economy. “The cost of health care now causes a bankruptcy in America every 30 seconds,” President Obama will say in his 1 pm ET remarks, at the White House forum on health care reform. “By the end of the year, it could cause 1.5 million Americans to lose their homes.” “If we want to create jobs and rebuild our economy, then we must address the crushing cost of health care this year, in this Administration,” the president will say, according to excerpts provided by the White House. “Making investments in reform now, investments that will dramatically lower costs, won’t add to our budget deficits in the long-term — rather, it is one of the best ways to reduce them.” ABC’s Jake Tapper reports that Obama will enumerate his eight health care reform principles: “Guarantee choice of health plans and physicians; Making health coverage affordable; Protecting families’ financial health; Investing in prevention and wellness; Providing portability of coverage; Aiming for universality; Improving patient safety and quality care; and Maintaining long-term fiscal sustainability.” (Read and re-read those verbs.) With everyone in an open session, and broad representation among interest groups and players: “Call it the ‘un-Hillary’ approach to doing things,” Tapper reported on “Good Morning America” Thursday. “Among the invitees are some who helped kill the Clinton administration’s health care overhaul in the 1990s. Everyone is supposed to be on his best behavior, but will that last?” the AP’s Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar writes. “This is a different day,” said Chip Kahn, a hospital lobbyist who opposed President Bill Clinton’s plan and was to attend Thursday’s gathering (and whose name will be heard quite a bit this time around). “I think among most of the stakeholders, everyone wants to see this work. There is a tremendous feeling that it’s time.” “The assemblage of disparate interest groups is an important part of the summit. In 1994, the opposition of some groups, led by the health insurance lobby, doomed President Clinton’s dream of remaking the health care system,” USA Today’s Richard Wolf writes. Just maybe a different attitude going in: "Obama’s opening gambit to dramatically expand the health care system has attracted surprising notes of support from insurers, hospitals and other players in the powerful medical lobby who are set to participate in an unusual White House summit on the issue this afternoon," Dan Eggen and Ceci Connolly write in The Washington Post. "The lure for the industry is the prospect of tens of millions of new customers: If Obama succeeds in fulfilling his pledge to cover many more Americans, those newly insured people will get checkups, purchase medicine, undergo physical therapy and get surgeries they cannot afford today." Key insight: "The unstated intention of Obama’s approach is to dole out the pain in small, easier-to-swallow bites to minimize opposition, White House aides say. Under the president’s plan, hospitals, doctors, drugmakers, insurance companies and wealthy seniors — all of whom will be represented at today’s summit — would sacrifice. But if the system was calibrated properly, no one would lose too much." Leading with some consensus, or at least one take on it: "After the November election, Obama called on Americans to hold community forums on health care and send ideas on how to fix the country’s ailing health system. The administration will present a summary of the feedback at today’s summit," Lisa Wangsness reports in The Boston Globe. "The report, made available to the Globe yesterday, compiles the responses of 3,272 hosts of the nearly 9,000 community discussions held nationwide, as well as surveys from some 30,000 participants. Using sophisticated data analysis and teams of volunteers sorting through the data, the administration compiled a 120-page report that shows strong consensus on the problems facing the health care system." The strategy is laid bare by who’s not coming, too: This is very much not the realm of the Secretary of State, and surely not this particular Secretary of State. "[Hillary Rodham] Clinton’s distance from the health care initiative, figuratively and literally — she will be in Brussels on Thursday when Mr. Obama begins his effort to overhaul the system with a high-profile gathering of experts — underscores how the Obama White House is grappling with the cloud that still lingers over the Clinton plan 15 years after it imploded," The New York Times’ Sheryl Gay Stolberg writes. "I think we’ve got her pretty well occupied," said David Axelrod. (This time, read and re-read the pronouns.) Learning from mistakes: Rahm Emanuel modeled Thursday’s summit "after a forum he helped Mr. Clinton convene during his second term. The topic then was welfare legislation, an initiative that, unlike the doomed health plan, passed Congress and was signed into law," Stolberg writes. (Obama’s nominee for HHS secretary, Kathleen Sebelius, won’t be there either; she hasn’t been confirmed yet, and she’s still got a day job as governor of Kansas.) Ready for the long sale: "President Barack Obama and senior members of his administration are to be in Dearborn next week for a health care reform discussion, one of several such meetings that will be held across the nation as the president begins wrestling with how to cut insurance costs while improving access to coverage," Todd Spangler reports in the Detroit Free Press. "On March 12, the president will attend a forum on health care reform to begin the discussion. Gov. Jennifer Granholm is expected to lead it and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., is expected to attend." UPDATE: The White House said Thursday that the president will not be making this trip. And yet — Watching for battle lines (how familiar does this feel?): "We shouldn’t nationalize one more percent," Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, tells Bloomberg’s Aliza Marcus. "There will be some broken pottery," said Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah. "Forcing free market plans to compete with these government-run programs would create an unlevel playing field and inevitably doom true competition," reads a letter sent by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and other key GOP senators. "Ultimately, we would be left with a single government-run program controlling all of the market." Release coming from the RNC Thursday: "TAX AND SPEND FEVER: Will Democrats Announce More Details On How They Will Finance New Health Care Proposals At Today’s Summit?" General Rove, rallying the troops by framing the president’s new push as a broken campaign promise: "Mr. Obama’s plan will lead us to the extreme of government-run health care. And in an effort to reach that goal, Mr. Obama’s budget proposes, as a starting point, a $630 billion fund to expand government-run health care. And that $630 billion comes not from reduced spending, but higher taxes," Karl Rove writes in his Wall Street Journal column. "Eloquent words and ‘spin’ work better in a campaign than they do while governing. And as Mr. Obama is discovering, the laws of economics won’t change, even for him." Yes, already: "As President Obama prepares to convene a health care summit on Thursday, a conservative group has launched an ad campaign with the goal of defeating a government insurance option," ABC’s Teddy Davis reports. Look who will be in the room: "Rep. John Conyers, Chairman of the Judiciary Committee and a known single payer advocate, and at least one group advocating single payer, will be there as well," a source tells Huffington Post’s Sam Stein. Stein: "The inclusion of Conyers and at least one other group or individual should quiet, for the moment, the growing chorus of voices who have been openly pressing the White House to be more open-minded to a single-payer system." None of this can be considered in a political vacuum — and fear not, it won’t be. Obama continues to take real heat on the spending front. His top aides spent another day they wanted to be discussing fiscal discipline instead explaining why a bill with more than 8,000 earmarks deserves a presidential signature. "President Obama’s ambitious budget reforms are running into stiff resistance from members of his own party on Capitol Hill, testing his relationship with key centrists and members of the congressional leadership whose support will be critical to the advancement of the Obama agenda," per ABC News. "Despite his campaign promise to root out wasteful spending, the president is accepting, for the time being, lawmakers’ ‘earmarked’ special projects. But by trying to skirt that political battle, Obama is creating another one: His commitment to signing into law an earmark-filled, $410 billion spending plan for the current fiscal year is raising questions among Democrats about his commitment to fiscal discipline." Per ABC’s Matt Jaffe: "At a Capitol Hill hearing, Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev., today pressed Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner on why the administration isn’t taking a tougher stand. ‘What I don’t understand is why you wouldn’t have stood up and said to the Congress, "OK, yeah, this may be last year’s work but times have changed. The economy has changed. We need to start making tough choices." ‘ " "Obama can either walk in lockstep with legislative leaders of his own party, people he needs to push his agenda. Or he can keep the good-government credentials that are part of his public image," Politico’s Jonathan Martin writes. "But it will be tough to do both." Does the president want to own this? "Senate Democrats on Wednesday preserved pet projects sought by a lobbying firm under federal investigation and tried to nail down support for big domestic spending increases in hopes of passing a wrap-up budget bill by week’s end," the AP’s Andrew Taylor writes. "Democrats defeated, by a 52-43 vote, an amendment to strip 13 projects that the PMA Group has pressed for. The firm, now disbanded, is accused of illegally using straw donors to funnel campaign cash to lawmakers." Another tidbit-turned-talking-point: "Congress wants to boost spending on itself by nearly 11 percent this year, an increase that’s part of a massive spending bill that has smaller increases for most agencies that deal with public health, education, energy, and other domestic needs," McClatchy’s David Lightman reports. "The congressional budget, which the Senate is considering this week as part of a $410 billion fiscal 2009 spending bill, is higher than the 8 percent overall boost for most domestic programs." If there’s flexibility here . . . "President Barack Obama is meeting strong Democratic Party resistance to his proposal to reduce tax deductions enjoyed by upper-income Americans and could be forced to drop or modify the idea," The Wall Street Journal’s John D. McKinnon and Martin Vaughan report. "Mr. Obama in his budget blueprint last week proposed a cap on itemized deductions for mortgage interest and charitable donations to help pay for his health-care overhaul. The plan would cost wealthier taxpayers about $318 billion in new taxes over 10 years, according to government estimates. But after objections from Democratic lawmakers, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner appeared to suggest at one point Wednesday that the administration was willing to consider dropping or modifying the proposal." Who wants to keep talking about Rush Limbaugh? (Rush, put your hand down.) House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio, in a Washington Post op-ed: "In a carefully calculated campaign, operatives and allies of the Obama administration are seeking to divert attention toward radio host Rush Limbaugh, and away from a debate about our alternative solutions on the economy and the irresponsible spending binge they are presiding over. This diversionary tactic will not create a single job or help a single family struggling in today’s economic crisis. And that is where our focus should be." Have we turned this corner? "After carefully avoiding direct criticism of President Obama, House Republican leaders are now more aggressively trying to link him with new federal spending that they believe is excessive and ultimately won’t be popular with voters," CQ’s Edward Epstein writes. Imagine if President Bush was layering political people on top of the agencies . . . "As President Obama names more policy czars to his White House team — high-level staff members who will help oversee the administration’s top initiatives — some lawmakers and Washington interest groups are raising concerns that he may be subverting the authority of Congress and concentrating too much power in the presidency," Tom Hamburger and Christi Parsons write in the Los Angeles Times. "Some lawmakers and outside experts fear that Obama is setting up a system that is not subject to congressional oversight and creates the potential for conflict among his many advisors." You can feel this one bubbling up: "An independent inspector general will look into the foreign financial ties of Chas W. Freeman Jr., the Obama administration’s pick to serve as chairman of the group that prepares the U.S. intelligence community’s most sensitive assessments, according to three congressional aides," Eli Lake reports in the Washington Times. "Among the areas likely to be scrutinized in the vetting process are Mr. Freeman’s position on the international advisory board of the China National Offshore Oil Corp. (CNOOC). The Chinese government and other state-owned companies own a majority stake in the concern, which has invested in Sudan and other countries sometimes at odds with the United States, including Iran." (Isn’t vetting supposed to happen pre-nomination?) Adding to the reading list: "The Obama administration has negotiated a deal between Karl Rove and the House Judiciary Committee that will lead to Rove’s written testimony next week on the firings of several U.S. attorneys," The Hill’s Susan Crabtree and Sam Youngman report. John McCain would not have had this problem: "Just 44 days into the job, and President Obama is going gray," Helene Cooper writes in The New York Times. "Mr. Obama’s graying is still of the flecked variety, and appears to wax and wane depending on when he gets his hair cut, which he does about every two weeks." A new swing set for the Obama girls, per ABC’s Sunlen Miller. (Couldn’t they have gotten a toy that can’t be used as a ready metaphor for the markets?) Best wishes: "Former first lady Barbara Bush is recovering at The Methodist Hospital after successful open-heart surgery Wednesday to replace her aortic valve, a family spokesman said Wednesday night," Todd Ackerman reports in the Houston Chronicle. "The operation was scheduled last week, after Bush, 83, reported shortness of breath. Doctors diagnosed a hardening of the aortic valve, during which the valve narrows and obstructs blood flow." Just announced, for your calendars: "President Bill Clinton, Founder, William J. Clinton Foundation, 42nd President of the United States, will present the keynote address at FORTUNE magazine’s annual Brainstorm: GREEN Conference on Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22, 2009. The President’s remarks will cap off a three-day gathering of America’s top CEOs, policy leaders and environmentalists at the nation’s premier green business event." The Kicker: "We do not tease about the gray at all." — President Obama’s haircutter, Zariff. "I haven’t tested the rule yet. But what I’ve been telling people is I think the president has the right to call any citizen that he feels like calling any time he wants. I haven’t had to use him yet, but I think I ought to petition the NCAA to see what the ruling will be on that before I do it." — Oregon State basketball coach Craig Robinson, on the possibility of a recruiting phone call from a certain influential brother-in-law. Bookmark the link below to get The Note’s daily morning analysis: http://blogs.abcnews.com/thenote/the_note/index.html For up-to-the-minute political updates check out The Note’s blog . . . all day every day: http://blogs.abcnews.com/thenote/ Follow The Note on Twitter: http://twitter.com/thenote

User Comments

Don’t bet on bipartisan cooperation when the House GOP is peddling some nonsense about “victory in Iraq” and blaming Obama for “future defeat.”
http://www.political-buzz.com/

Posted by: matt | March 5, 2009, 8:50 am 8:50 am

Ya’ll ever scare a bunch of chickens? They start squaking and flying everywhere. The GOP is acting like a bunch of scared chickens right now.

Posted by: DobermanSpencer | March 5, 2009, 9:05 am 9:05 am

Throw it out there Obama.
If the dow drops because of it….SCRAP IT!
You said yourself that the dow is just like a poll of your approval. So far, you suck.

Posted by: Tam | March 5, 2009, 9:05 am 9:05 am

The only clucking I hear is coming from the whitehouse. They started a feud with Rush and Rush challenged Obama to a debate free from telepromters. Cluck..cluck..cluck

Posted by: Kate | March 5, 2009, 9:07 am 9:07 am

Don’t bet on bipartisan cooperation when the House GOP is peddling some nonsense about “victory in Iraq” and blaming Obama for “future defeat.”
http://www.political-buzz.com/
Posted by: matt | Mar 5, 2009 8:50:28 AM
Why would you use such a biased web site for information??? Can you not think for yourself???

Posted by: billy bob | March 5, 2009, 9:12 am 9:12 am

The Republicans are fighting govt healthcare tooth and nail. They want to keep people paying high premiums and copays as well as high deductibles. They want to keep cruel rules like “pre-existing” clauses and the ability for private insurance to deny any claim they want for extremely technical reasons and force patients to go through exhaustive and time consuming appeals processes or drain their savings. Private insurance has shown by the number of uninsured that they cannot produce healthcare for all (meaning their plans are unaffordable). Our system is too expensive and people can’t even go to some hospitals with their insurance. This is ridiculous in a first world country in the 21st century. I say insurance does need reform. Start with private insurance companies

Posted by: Bob | March 5, 2009, 9:14 am 9:14 am

Bob That is not true. Healthcare needs reform and i do not think anyone disputes that, no matter which party. The question is how and who pays for it. That is where republicans differ with dems.

Posted by: billy bob | March 5, 2009, 9:18 am 9:18 am

Thanks, Rick Klein, for finally being able to write a headline that doesn’t give a negative spin to any issue involving Obama. This Note was actually fairly even handed. Maybe you could put it on your wall, or something, to remind yourself how to write a straightforward piece of reporting.

Posted by: Amy in Maine | March 5, 2009, 9:22 am 9:22 am

I guess I better starting learning french and the Canadian national anthem….

Posted by: USdoomed | March 5, 2009, 9:29 am 9:29 am

I think it’s unfair to blame Hillary for the failure to get health care reform done 15 years ago. There were powerful lobbies and special interests fighting it tooth-and-nail. Plus, the system had not yet completely broken down. But now it is clear to everyone and all major players that the health care system is completely broken and health care is way too costly and crushing doctors, patients and businesses equally. The debate will be over how to reform it, not whether it will be reformed.

Posted by: hopesprings52 | March 5, 2009, 9:30 am 9:30 am

let’s give free healthcare to all, $100K for every household, no more mortages, then lets see how much you can tax the freeloaders.

Posted by: USdoomed | March 5, 2009, 9:35 am 9:35 am

Just a reminder that the people who die each year because of the pathetic state of our health care system (and lack of affordability, vastly due to the insurance model) is way higher then the 911 numbers.

Posted by: John Kovacs | March 5, 2009, 9:42 am 9:42 am

Hillary LOST the presidential bid because she was too appeasing of the right wing. This story comes as no shock. Obama’s plans are working (as well as a plan might work under these dire circumstances). It is almost as if GWB had planned this national/international disaster to motivate the US to move this nation into the direction President Obama is now taking.

Posted by: Radgash | March 5, 2009, 9:42 am 9:42 am

If the news media and general public will just IGNORE the fat, cigar smoking, x drug addict and general fat cat RL will finally fade away-however- it might be a long fade as he seems to not only relish the “fat” cat image but appears to look the partas well

Posted by: Linda | March 5, 2009, 9:42 am 9:42 am

Billy Bob – I know Republicans want to know who is to pay for govt healthcare. But, I don’t think Obama wants to do away with private insurance. This means that people who change jobs or don’t have health insurance can join the govt healthcare plan. Obviously govt should have something better than COBRA at $600/mo. Welfare was changed, you remember, to not allow anyone to stay on it for more than 5 yrs back in the 90s I believe. There could be a time limit for able bodied people to get private insurance through their employer but that insurance cannot be so costly that the person becomes uninsured. Private insurance is profit based and that is the wrong thing when people’s lives may be at stake. I don’t know all the answers. I’m saying we’re all gonna have to work together to reform the system.

Posted by: Bob | March 5, 2009, 9:45 am 9:45 am

The country is overdue for a major change of course. When those are getting screwed start including higher-middle class, well educated and connected people, a change becomes unavoidable. These people will not just fade away, they have the means and intelligence to fight back with a vengeance.

Posted by: John Kovacs | March 5, 2009, 9:46 am 9:46 am

>>“The cost of health care now causes a bankruptcy in America every 30 seconds,” President Obama will say in his 1 pm ET remarks, at the White House forum on health care reform.<<
Everything this man says is a lie…this remark, bipartisanship, vetoing earmarks, not believing in big government, etc. He's a bigger pathological liar than Bill Clinton.

Posted by: RonnieVZ | March 5, 2009, 9:48 am 9:48 am

I will say this – we now have a President who makes great speeches. I hope this get’s better.

Posted by: NYC-Independent1664 | March 5, 2009, 9:51 am 9:51 am

Linda said: If the news media and general public will just IGNORE the fat, cigar smoking, x drug addict and general fat cat RL will finally fade away-however- it might be a long fade as he seems to not only relish the “fat” cat image but appears to look the partas well<<
Wow, time for your morning meds, honey!

Posted by: Ronnie VZ | March 5, 2009, 9:52 am 9:52 am

Health care is a privilege in America and I believe Healthcare ought to be a right for every citizen. We boast about being the richest, most advanced country in the world, yet there are about 50 million Americans who do not have health insurance and most of us don’t care about that..we are a bunch of selfish Republican hypocrits..me, me, me, my money, my money..I hope Obama can make some headway on this Healthcare thing so that most if not all Americans can have access to at least primary and secondary level healthcare without having to incur heavy financial burdens..Call it Socialize medicine if you want!.. I call it commonsense

Posted by: Stanley | March 5, 2009, 9:58 am 9:58 am

John Kovacs said: When those are getting screwed start including higher-middle class, well educated and connected people, a change becomes unavoidable.<<
Apparently you're not included in the "well educated" group, expert.

Posted by: W. Axl Rose | March 5, 2009, 10:00 am 10:00 am

Let’s face it America, we voted Hugo Chavez in as our President.

Posted by: Hugo Obama | March 5, 2009, 10:03 am 10:03 am

Stanley the Moron said: yet there are about 50 million Americans who do not have health insurance and most of us don’t care about that..we are a bunch of selfish Republican hypocrits…”
I’m not interested in paying for health care for illegal aliens and illegitimate babies. That makes me a “hypocrit,” expert?

Posted by: W. Axl Rose | March 5, 2009, 10:04 am 10:04 am

OBAMA NEEDS TO DROP EVERYTHING and see how he is destroying the economy. Health care? Are you kidding? Is he serious? The people on CNBC Squack BOX are actually depressed. ABC NBC There is NO OTHER STORY. OBMAMA IS DESTROYING THIS COUNTRY AND THE ECONOMY. CITI below a dollar? They wont even be listed. GM? Bankrupt. OBAMA “F” FAILURE FAILURE FAILED Policies, FAILED IDEAS FAILED adminsitration.

Posted by: ChicagoBob | March 5, 2009, 10:07 am 10:07 am

The American medical Association and the medical community supports the Republican party and is sucking the country dry..Which high prices of medication and high Doctor’s fees etc while the health of America is going down..They are the chief opponents of any refurbishing or changing of the current health care system and are quick to label any change to the current system as Socialized Medicine. I support president Obama and wish him well in his bid to change the healthcare system and make it more affordable for citizenry. The Republicans will try to shut it down with the loud cry of “SOCIALIZED MEDICINE”.

Posted by: Stanley | March 5, 2009, 10:07 am 10:07 am

Too late! Dow is down huge again.
Thanks Obama!

Posted by: Tam | March 5, 2009, 10:08 am 10:08 am

Bob; Don’t think the healthcare insurance our congressmen have is cheap. It’s probably carte blanche coverage since we pay for it. If it’s made available to everyone, probably few could afford it. I interpreted that offer as a tongue-in-cheek remark. Only gullible people would think it would be free.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 10:08 am 10:08 am

Stanley the Moron said: “I support president Obama and wish him well in his bid to change the healthcare system and make it more affordable for citizenry.”
Spoken like a true Brown Shirt!

Posted by: W. Axl Rose | March 5, 2009, 10:09 am 10:09 am

ChicagoBob: “OBAMA “F” FAILURE FAILURE FAILED Policies, FAILED IDEAS FAILED adminsitration.”
It certainly has been an interesting month and a half, hasn’t it?

Posted by: Ronnie VZ | March 5, 2009, 10:13 am 10:13 am

W Axyl Rose, Do you have the ability to read and understand? I said healthcare ought to be a right for every citizen..the last time I checked illegal aliens were not considered citizens..who is the moron now! You are one of those Republicans who the polls during the election revealed as being unschooled and unlearned..you probably think that George W was the best president we ever had and the war in Iraq was a success with more than 3000 troops killed and more than 25,000 of our troops incapacitated and more returning home with post traumatic syndrome etc…quite simply put..Axyl Rose..you are a Republican Moron! No one takes the Republican party serious anymore..can’t you tell!

Posted by: Stanley | March 5, 2009, 10:16 am 10:16 am

God you all need to read Cramer today His response to the White house FOOLS
is quite right.
But Obama has undeniably made things worse by creating an atmosphere of fear and panic rather than an atmosphere of calm and hope. He’s done it by pushing a huge amount of change at a very perilous moment, by seeking to demonize the entire banking system
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
NOW HE wants to run around and do Health care? NO NO MORE SPENDING NO MORE WASTE I want to go back and retool the Stimulus and work on GROWING the economy after you all SAY you are SORRY for destorying all the wealth created for the last 10 years.

Posted by: ChicagoBob | March 5, 2009, 10:19 am 10:19 am

ALL THE MAJOR PLAYERS AGREE HEALTHCARE REFORM IS REQUIRED…Ha! All the major players except the hard-working tax payers who support this country. Yeah, the ones who pay Nancy Pelosi’s and Obama’s salaries, the one’s who sometimes watch the biased news, and but products advertised on ABC. Get your heads out of your elitist media and pompous governmental a$%%#s. We the people are FED-UP with Federal government waste, fraud, and abuse and the LAST thing we want is the GOVERNMENT MESSING WITH HEALTHCARE.

Posted by: govtdependentsRus | March 5, 2009, 10:21 am 10:21 am

Stanley the Moron said: “the last time I checked illegal aliens were not considered citizens..”
First of all, expert, learn how to spell “Axl.” Second, illegal aliens already receive FREE health care at hospitals…all they have to do is show up and no hospital will turn them away. Guess who’s footing the bill?
What flavor of Obamaid are you drinking?
Love, Axl

Posted by: W. Axl Rose | March 5, 2009, 10:24 am 10:24 am

W Axyl Rose the vomit bag, It is quite evident that you are unschooled and would call names and pick a fight on the internet..that is what cowards do..this blog is for educated people who can read and make commonsense contributions..that exempts you..a vomit bag moron. You voted for Bush didn’t you..there you go! LOSER!

Posted by: Stanley | March 5, 2009, 10:24 am 10:24 am

govtdependentsRus >>>
THERE Is a time and place for eveything. WHEN we are in a strong growing economy and we are all making tons of cash THEN and ONLY then can we look at adding more burden but Obama is creating a SOUP KITCHEN economy. HE IS A FAILURE UTTER FAILURE. HE is trying to change the subject. NO NO NOTHING ELSE IS MORE IMPORTANT than the economy today !!!! HE HAS NOT FIXED IT.. HE has made it worse. ENOUGH

Posted by: ChicagoBob | March 5, 2009, 10:25 am 10:25 am

The US is not doomed, so cut it out. We are a bunch of crying babies if things doesn’t go our way, because we are spoiled. This is good for us…it builds character. We will get out of this mess and be better for it. We will understand the value of money and how to use it. We will start saving for rainy days, etc. So, cut it out on both sides. The president has 4 years to turn it around or he will be voted out, plain and simple. BTW: it is in all of our best interest that he turn it around, so don’t be quick to jump all over stuff that he is trying or hoping that he fails. Yes, I am talking to you Republicans and Democrats. We will all have to give a little on things that we usually don’t agree on.
Grow up and be constructive.

Posted by: Richard | March 5, 2009, 10:26 am 10:26 am

I agree something needs to be done. The things that need to be done are arguable. Healthcare insurors and lawsuits are the two most expensive players in the healthcare system we know today. That’s where attention needs to be focused. Neither the healthcare insurance industry nor tort law will be reformed under the Obama administration. Why? Because the insurance industry is the biggest lobby group of all and they’re not suffering economically so we can’t take over that industry. Lawyers make an unrealistically luxurious living off of malpractice and malfeasance lawsuits and insurance companies rape healthcare providers with protective insurance premiums, back to the biggest lobby. More taxpayer money will be invested to obtain coverage for those who aren’t covered and that’s the end of the story. We can expect to see the bureaucracy grow as well. We’ll be paying the salaries and benefit programs for thousands of new government workers. Once put in place these things never go away. So tell me again how in the long run this endeavor will save money for the taxpayer. Terms like “long overdue” and “we can’t put this off” are merely sales techniques that instill a sense of urgency for a quick close on the sale. Then comes the buyer’s remorse.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 10:27 am 10:27 am

Stanley the Moron said: W Axyl Rose the vomit bag, It is quite evident that you are unschooled and would call names and pick a fight on the internet.”
For the last time, expert, it’s AXL! You really shouldn’t have dropped out when you were a freshman in high school. How’s the pizza delivery business treating you? Go put on your Dominos hat, Moron Stanley, and be on your way.

Posted by: W. Axl Rose | March 5, 2009, 10:29 am 10:29 am

Stanley -
“The American medical Association and the medical community supports the Republican party and is sucking the country dry..Which high prices of medication and high Doctor’s fees etc while the health of America is going down..They are the chief opponents of any refurbishing or changing of the current health care system”
Actually, AMA is representative of US demographics – so 50/50 Rep and Dem. If there’s a tendency to support Reps, look to positions on tort reform where Dems routinely free wheeling litigation against medical practitioners. If you were the target of constant litigation, you’d probably support Reps too.
High cost of drugs comes from R&D pipeline – minimum 10 yrs of advanced science and testing and regulatory hurdles before you can go to market, and then only 10 yrs of protected sales before generics take over. Should US Pharma stop researching new drugs or should they not try to recoup costs or generate profits?
As for high medical fees – 1) people can opt for free services in many cases (clinics, ER, etc), 2) don’t ignore the 100′s thousands of debt most doctors incur while “paying” for their education — shouldn’t they make enough to pay down debt, cover costs and malpractice insurance, and get ROI on 10+ yrs of education and (in many cases) a hard lifestyle, 3) malpractice insurance (see above).
Essentially, you seem to be saying that the entire health system should exist for the good of other people, and not for any of the people participating in it as suppliers. Absent a national medical corps to support a “for the general good” mission, why would anyone want to invest and produce goods/services?

Posted by: SJT | March 5, 2009, 10:30 am 10:30 am

Axyl Rose the vomit bag, I chose to call you Axyl because that is the name for a new brand of vomit bags..you Republicans are losers..can’t you tell that most of America are fed up of you guys..how many of your so called red states voted for Obama..even the so called conservatives are tired of Moronic Republicans like love Axl..you guys have damaged our country with you conservative crap and trickle down economics..George H Bush calls it voodoo economics..Axl, go to school and then come back and blog in five years. Drop the love talk..take it to the village in my hometown of New york City if you get my drift. The obama koolaid is pretty good compared to the BUsh koolaid and more than 60% of Americans agree. Axl go away!

Posted by: Stanley | March 5, 2009, 10:33 am 10:33 am

As one of the “lucky ones”, my family pays about 14k a year in premiums for my wife and three kids. This is before we ever use our insurance. To add insult to injury, the claims we do make are very often rejected and we have to battle the insurance companies to get the coverage for which we pay an enormous amount of money.
Anyone who argues that drastic reform is not needed, simply must not be paying attention.

Posted by: FCD | March 5, 2009, 10:37 am 10:37 am

SJT,Thank you for the education..I will do some more research based on what you have said. I really believe that healthcare ought to be a right and not a privilege for citizens..In this my beloved country it is a privilege..I believe that there are two important areas a government
must make sure is affordable and accessible for its citizens and they are Education and healthcare

Posted by: Stanley | March 5, 2009, 10:39 am 10:39 am

Posted by: Kate | Mar 5, 2009 9:07:37 AM
“The only clucking I hear is coming from the whitehouse. They started a feud with Rush and Rush challenged Obama to a debate free from telepromters. Cluck..cluck..cluck”
_____________________________
Right! The President of The United States “Started It” by saying; “I want Rush Limbaugh To Fail.”
Why even “Dignify” the rantings of an “X” Rated “Shock Jock.” But I guess ‘politically’, it’s Courteous to respond to the “Leader of the Republican Party!”

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 10:41 am 10:41 am

Richard >>>> Obama has an enemies list does this sound familiar? Does this trouble you? And Wealth, Its being LOST at a record pace. JOB LOST? 695,000 jobs. You say thats not going into the tank? OBAMA IS WAY over his paygrade. Someone in the democratic party needs to pull him aside and force him to wake up. The country is imploding and he wants to change the subject. NO NO WAY. Its ONLY the ECONOMY that matters. NOTHING else.
Health care can wait. Health care HAS to wait. We cant take any more of the OBMAM change.

Posted by: ChicagoBob | March 5, 2009, 10:43 am 10:43 am

Richard; Wrong! We the people are doomed to whatever Obama wants to do in his efforts to redefine America. With the house in his pocket and the senate so evenly divided he has cram-down technology at his fingertips. We who disagree have no say and no choice at this point. Of course we hope to see the US succeed and believe it will. We believe the US will recover and succeed in spite of what he does. What we’re concerned about is what will life be like for future generations. Ironically that’s part of his sales pitch. We know ultimately it won’t be the top 2% supporting the masses. The financial burden of the changes he’s making will impact all taxpayers. Instead of working the first seven months of every year to pay taxes we’ll be working eleven months or maybe all the time just to pay taxes. That’s not freedom. He disquises his projects as part of economic recovery to win acceptance, but it’s all about redistribution of wealth in reality. He’s buying party votes. The economy will recover without government intervention and probably sooner without the out of control government spending we’re growing more weary of day by day. Enough of this meaningless blog. I have work to do. See ya~~~~~~~~~

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 10:45 am 10:45 am

bobj72
Why even “Dignify” the rantings of an “X” Rated “Shock Jock.”
GOOD Question? Why make an enemies list? Because you are WAY over your head and the only way to protect yourself is by destroying others. FAILED Obama presidency.

Posted by: ChicagoBob | March 5, 2009, 10:46 am 10:46 am

Axl Rose, the latrine cleaner is mad that the Republicans were kicked out..get to work and start cleaning those toilets love Axl. See you Repubs in twenty years.

Posted by: Stanley | March 5, 2009, 10:46 am 10:46 am

Many people are against the government getting involved in health care, but many more want something done. I hope the republicans get behind the President and help form a working plan. Many people have lost their savings and homes because of the rising cost of health care and I don’t believe that in America, this should happen. One illness can wipe out a person’s life savings and home. I just went through this with my daughter who died of cancer. Everyone has been touched by the health care crises in some form so please, Republicans, put your anger at losing aside, and help create something that works for all. I think you will feel better and the country will be better off.

Posted by: talmag | March 5, 2009, 10:46 am 10:46 am

“I think we’ve got her pretty well occupied,” said David Axelrod. (This time, read and re-read the pronouns.)
David Axelrod is so slimy…For some reason he has always given me the creeps.

Posted by: lois | March 5, 2009, 10:47 am 10:47 am

HAS THE CHICKEN AND CHIEF DECIDED TO DEBATE RUSH YET?

Posted by: david reyes | March 5, 2009, 10:51 am 10:51 am

BTW: it is in all of our best interest that he turn it around, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
ITS IN OUR BEST interest OBAMA UNDO everything he just did. HE NEEDS a SWIFT reversal before he sends us back another 10 years. HE IS DESTROYING TRILLIONS of dollars in wealth. Its not wanting him to fail any more he has failed. Obama has failed. COMPLETELY.
WE NEED Change NOW and reverse the insanity before its too late. If impeachment is required then LETS do that before its too late. AND NO I am not kidding. How many TRILLIONS and enemies need to be added to a LIST before people see this man is ill-equiped to handle the job.

Posted by: ChicagoBob | March 5, 2009, 10:51 am 10:51 am

We desperately need change, I understand this and agree!
HOWEVER, government healthcare is NOT the answer. You all will agree with me the day your mother turns 73, she needs a valve replaced, and the GOVERNMENT decides that she’s too risky, doesn’t have enough years left, and refuses to allow her to get the transplant!
Really, my fellow Americans, do we want THAT?!?
Personally, I would rather make my own health care decisions, thank you very much.

Posted by: lindsay | March 5, 2009, 10:52 am 10:52 am

HAS THE CHICKEN AND CHIEF DECIDED TO DEBATE RUSH YET?
>>>>>>> He cant. No teleprompter.
The country is tanking and he is talking more spending. CITI is almost off the DOW GE underwater GM bankrupt.

Posted by: ChicagoBob | March 5, 2009, 10:54 am 10:54 am

OBAMA’s issue is he doesnt know how to build anything. DESTROYING? Thats easy. You can destory things as we have all seen in no time at all. BUILDING? The democrats and OBAMA have failed the entire NATION.

Posted by: ChicagoBob | March 5, 2009, 10:55 am 10:55 am

Chicago Bob,
Thanks. You mis-interpreted my post. Anything the government takes over turns into a corrupt pile of s#%t. Government dependents have been running Baltimore city for over 25 years on Obama’s policies. Baltimore city is 20% tax payers, 80% tax consumers in an urban disaster zone. The government dependents don’t see what the deadly strings of dependence and complete government control of $$$ have done to them and their city. Handouts always sound nice but they are unsustainable.

Posted by: govtdependentsRus | March 5, 2009, 11:00 am 11:00 am

You people are crazy, do you think your physician is going to work for the peanuts that comes from a government program. It will never pay at the level needed to improve care. These guys leave school with 400k in debt. Doctors will resist by not taking on new patients. THEN WHAT? The profession is losing more doctors then gaining for a growing population. Triple the work load, THEN WHAT? RED TAPE, THEN WHAT? Wait for approval, THEN WHAT? Payment fee at 30% of cost, THEN WHAT? GOOD LUCK!

Posted by: Heavenislikethis | March 5, 2009, 11:02 am 11:02 am

Get your reading glasses out folks, what he says and what he intends will be different tan what HE signs. http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSTRE52255S20090303?feedType=RSS&feedName=healthNews

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 11:04 am 11:04 am

mmonroeliveson wrote: ” With the house in his pocket and the senate so evenly divided he has cram-down technology at his fingertips. We who disagree have no say and no choice at this point.”
Is this something you wrote today, or a reference to the previous presidential administration? Because this is exactly how everyone who is NOT a GOP supporter felt for most of the last 8 years. The GOP supporters are the first ones to say ‘Y’all beat up on Bush for 8 years, what’s good for the goose is good for the gander, so we have the right to beat up on Obama’. Now the shoe is on the other foot. How does it feel to be so…..marginalized?

Posted by: SearamblerOne | March 5, 2009, 11:05 am 11:05 am

Let’s all just sit around as lazy, entitled, non-working people and expect the government to take care of us. Oh, you mean someone ACTUALLY has to WORK HARD to make the country, the neighborhood, and the household better? Nobody workin’ round here. Just gimme, gimme, gimme some of that gov’t $$$. It’s unsustainable fools.

Posted by: govtdependentsRus | March 5, 2009, 11:09 am 11:09 am

Blah blah blah. Obama’s approval is in the 50′s and dropping more soon. He’s making too many mistakes and enemies. When people at CNBC (aka NBC) start screaming about your policies, it’s only a matter of time before a Dem’s numbers plummet. The only ones that will remain in his corner will be the goose-steppers.

Posted by: GK_1970 | March 5, 2009, 11:09 am 11:09 am

Axl Rose is the biggest moron in the history of rock and roll…an appropriate moniker.
“You said yourself that the dow is just like a poll of your approval. So far, you suck.”
He did? Because that’s not even remotely close to true.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 11:10 am 11:10 am

DID THE CHICKEN AND CHIEF TALK AGAIN TODAY ????????????????? AFTER GORDON BROWN CALMED MARKET YESTERDAY I THOUGHT OBUMA WOULD STAY QUIET FOR A FEW DAYS TO GIVE US SOME RELIEF ON OUR 4O1 K”S I WISHED HE WOULD GO ON VACATION FOR A WHILE WHEN HE TALKS THE MARKET LISTENS AND DROPS

Posted by: david reyes | March 5, 2009, 11:10 am 11:10 am

Lindsay wrote: “We desperately need change, I understand this and agree!
HOWEVER, government healthcare is NOT the answer.”
From the article:
Obama will enumerate his eight health care reform principles: “Guarantee choice of health plans and physicians; Making health coverage affordable; Protecting families’ financial health; Investing in prevention and wellness; Providing portability of coverage; Aiming for universality; Improving patient safety and quality care; and Maintaining long-term fiscal sustainability.”
Lindsay, where do you read ‘government health care’ in this? And more importantly, do you have a better idea?

Posted by: SearamblerOne | March 5, 2009, 11:13 am 11:13 am

talmag – my heart goes out to you and your family. I too have had similar situations. We Americans can make universal healthcare happen, but it takes the strength and courage of the polititions and folks like you and I to tell our stories.

Posted by: Mark from atlanta | March 5, 2009, 11:13 am 11:13 am

Moron Stanley, you’re all for free health care for everyone because you’ve never had a job where health benefits are deducted from your weekly pay.
Maybe you should move out of your mom’s basement and see how the real world operates. And ease up on the pot smoking in the morning, pizza boy.

Posted by: W. Axl Rose | March 5, 2009, 11:14 am 11:14 am

My question about this Health Care Conference today is, Who will be representing me? I have been uninsured for the last four months. I can’t seem to find a list of attendees anywhere and when I call the White House to ask no one can give me answer. I have been unemployed for 3+ years and have been paying my way the whole time. I am near bankruptcy and foreclosure now and with my mortgage two months behind I finally had to let my health insurance lapse. For the first time in 52 years I am scared of getting sick, scared about the progress of my COPD, scared about losing everything. Who will speak for me and the 46,000,000 other uninsureds? I want a seat at the table.

Posted by: Charles A. Bowsher | March 5, 2009, 11:18 am 11:18 am

Posted by: david reyes | Mar 5, 2009 10:51:20 AM
NO Traction! Get a clue.

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 11:20 am 11:20 am

Searamblerone, Get your facts straight. The last 2 years of Bush’s presidency when the economy collapsed – because Democrat Barney Frank’s Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac disastrous loan policies came to roost – were under complete Nancy Pelosi (House) and Harry Reid (Senate) control. So IT WAS NOT A REPUBLICAN controlled government for the past 2 years as the economy crumbled.

Posted by: govtdependentsRus | March 5, 2009, 11:22 am 11:22 am

Hillary’s plan would have allowed illegal aliens to get health care. They could literally walk across the border this morning and get health care this afternoon. Obama’s plan calls for a reduction in Medicare and Medicaid. We pay for it but we’ll get less service because it will go to someone else. I’ll use that money for private insurance. You can’t get a MD to accept new Medicare patients anyway.

Posted by: Oonogil | March 5, 2009, 11:23 am 11:23 am

Silky,
Maybe if you stubbed rubbing yourself through your silky underwear while reading this forum, you would see that I didn’t write the comment you mentioned.
Love,
Axl

Posted by: W. Axl Rose | March 5, 2009, 11:25 am 11:25 am

Sure folks let the government run EVERYTHING including health care. They are such models of competence, efficiency, fairness, and integrity. IDIOTS! Wake up. The government can’t even tie a shoelace without botching it up. You better start learning how to work REALLY hard and take care of yourselves. The government IS NOT GOING TO BE ABLE TO PROVIDE FOR YOU.

Posted by: govtdependentsRus | March 5, 2009, 11:25 am 11:25 am

I have a plan to provide healtcare for everyone. It’s a five step plan. 1)Ban malpractice lawsuits and thereby eliminate the expense of malpractice insurance 2)Set universal rates for specific medical procedures and prescription drugs 3) Set profit limits on healthcare insurance coverage and require availability to everyone at a universal rate 4)Establish free clinics nationwide for those who can’t afford to pay for healthcare. 5)Legalize, control and tax marijuana just like alcohol and pay for the free clinics with the tax revenue from marijuana sales.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 11:25 am 11:25 am

The biggest difference between Hillary’s and Obama’s plan is that Americans aren’t going to let the Republicans play partisan games with this issue anymore. Americans are either uninsured or they have insurance and are not receiving quality care. Our healthcare system is a complete mess and it needs to be revamped.

Posted by: Giggles | March 5, 2009, 11:29 am 11:29 am

“The only clucking I hear is coming from the whitehouse. They started a feud with Rush and Rush challenged Obama to a debate free from telepromters. Cluck..cluck..cluck”
That teleprompter talking point is hilarious. I understand Republicans have a tough time believing that there could be a President capable of speaking in complete sentences all by themselves and without aid, but it’s true. He can. He’s a pretty bright guy. And if you think it’s chicken of him not to debate, you’re an idiot. He has NOTHING to gain in doing something like that and everything to lose. He’s way to smart to put himself in that position.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 11:31 am 11:31 am

SeaRambler; Most people seeking revenge wouldn’t shoot themselves in the foot.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 11:31 am 11:31 am

This article mentions that a conservative group is buying air time to combat Obama’s health plan. What they fail to mention is that this conservative group is run by Richard Scott, a CEO of Columbia/HCA in the 1990s who is one of the all time villains in health care coverage. He fraudulently charged the government millions of dollars and the company was charged 1.7 billion dollars in fines and penalties under his watch. The company falsified Medicare claims, bribed doctors with money and drugs, and struck illegal deals with home care agencies.

Posted by: Ordermonger | March 5, 2009, 11:34 am 11:34 am

I know you didn’t write the comment I quoted. They are independent thoughts. And Axl is still a world class idiot. Izzy would have been a better go to handle. Hell, Adler would be a better go to handle.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 11:36 am 11:36 am

Let’s start with denying all services, including health care, to illegal aliens.

Posted by: Ron | March 5, 2009, 11:38 am 11:38 am

When he gets the socialized medicine he is trying to get. Does that mean Obama. congresspeople and senators will have to stand in the same line with me to get medical care.

Posted by: Lee S | March 5, 2009, 11:41 am 11:41 am

govtdependentsRus – So, “government can’t tie its shoe lace without botching it up”?
Hmmm, let’s see, why don’t we ask the private sector folks on Wall Street to advise us, since they’ve done an outstanding job destroying the financial markets while enriching themselves. Or, perhaps, we can ask the automakers to show us how the private sector works? Now, of course, I realize that this is all Obama’s fault, and we are officialy on our way to becoming the USSR, but I’m hopeful that dismantling the remnants of government will get us back on track.
Let me be clear: You are astonishingly superficial and remarkably ignorant. I wish I could call your assessment discouragingly simple-minded, but the words “assessment” and “simple-minded” would imply you actually gave any thought before you pecked away at your key board like a drooling, self-centered cretin.
I often wonder what the private lives of folks like you are like.
The good news is that depsite the screeching and ranting, folks who share your views – while loud and proud – are becoming as extinct as the dinosaur.
Absolutely amazing.

Posted by: FCD | March 5, 2009, 11:43 am 11:43 am

Unless Obama takes on the EXPENSE side of healthcare it won’t work. Health care should never have become profit based corporate industry. An aspirin at a hospital should not be $10. Seeing your doctor for 15 minutes should not cost $200. The healthcare industry as a whole including doctors, hospitals, drug manufactures and insurance companies have been guided by greed in the US for too many years. What’s a spleen worth? It’s worth every bit of blood money the health care industry can squeeze out of the patient. I know this for a fact because my wife’s boss was let go and replaced because he refused run patients through the neighborhood clinic like cattle and overcharge them for every Band-Aid.

Posted by: dan | March 5, 2009, 11:46 am 11:46 am

silky >>> He has NOTHING to gain in doing something like that >>>>>
Then why mention Rush at all unless he is CHICKEN and cant justify the wealth destruction policies of his administration.
695,000 lost jobs. THANK OBAMA you destroying the country at light speed.
You can destroy things by using wedge issue like Classwarfare. WELL good JOB Genius Obama trillions LOST. 401K’s , IRA’s all hurting average people and destroying their retirement.
Cap and Trade? MOST harmful idea to every person in America. It will cost poor people middle class the working poor over 100 a month in IL and we have lots of NUKE power here.
That doesnt even start to include the cost of rise in every day goods.
Obama wrong failed president Cramer is right. Biggest Wealth Destroyer EVER.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 11:46 am 11:46 am

Ron >>>>>>>>>>>
Let’s start with denying all services, including health care, to illegal aliens.
>>>>>>> Yeah paying for the hidden democratic slaves is something the democrats want to discuss. Prisons overflowing with illegals Hospitals in bankruptcy because of illegals all the while the President and his group wants to protect the slaves because they make cheap labor and destroys more wealth for the middle class. DRY WALLING used to be a good living.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 11:49 am 11:49 am

Giving Away Free Health Care to ALL is NOT the Answer. REGULATION and LIMITATIONS on Med Companies and Costs are the ONLY Way to make it affordable for Most of America. Limitations need to be set on everything from Monthly Premiums Paid to Max Procedure Costs. If Doctors and Hospitals know that you have Insurance they charge 2 to 3 Times MORE than it really costs cause they know the Ins. Company WILL pay the Bill. Since Alot of People DON’T pay their bills, the other policy holders who do cover these profit loses thru higher costs & premiums. Doctors & Hospitals will get & need to get their Money for Services Rendered instead of getting shafted by the public.

Posted by: MPass86 | March 5, 2009, 11:50 am 11:50 am

Dan – You are spot on.

Posted by: FCD | March 5, 2009, 11:50 am 11:50 am

Democrats are the anti American Anti wealth anti middle class and poor. You will be drowned in taxes you pay in everything you buy and use because of insane unsustainable spending. NOW Healthcare? WHERE is the money coming from? The economy is going back to 1980.
Is that it ? He wants to relive the Carter Years.
Impeachment is starting to sound better and better.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 11:52 am 11:52 am

I can’t understand how come a heartless criminal has the guarantee under the constitution to a legal defense and a sick person is not entitled to decent medical treatment?
I can’t understand where we find these zillions of dollars to destroy Iraq and nobody openly protests and we scream to heavens so that many good Americans don’t have a chance to have a decent medical treatment for a reasonable price?
Have we become so callous that we silently endorse war and scream when others have a chance to heal.
Emilio – Disable American Veteran
My son is with the SF fightng in Iraq
So don’t tell me about doing my part please.

Posted by: Emilio R. C. | March 5, 2009, 11:53 am 11:53 am

Emilio R. C. >>>> Look I agree that the industry needs change. BUT making free health care at this time with the economy tanking is no possible. Without wealth and growth in the economy ANY health care change can only be regulatory. Unless we truly want a depression we cant afford the change now.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 11:56 am 11:56 am

“Then why mention Rush at all unless he is CHICKEN and cant justify the wealth destruction policies of his administration.”
Sure he can. He’s just not going to debate Rush Limbaugh. He’s too smart. Limbaugh doesn’t have ANY skin in the game and has no accountability to deal with. They would not remotely be on equal footing.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 11:56 am 11:56 am

Just like tobacco…why don’t we develop a seperate tax for fast food and use the proceeds for this health care plan. Hopefully, this will discourage those unhealthy eating patterns. Those that choose to eat poorly can pay for this plan. Lets not always ask those who make or have made good choices to sacrifice.

Posted by: ACF | March 5, 2009, 11:57 am 11:57 am

Look, illegal aliens are a strain, but they are not what’s killing us. Gouging and a lack of regulation (as someone posted, $10 aspirins) along with the false notion that “you get what you pay for”, implying that the reason we pay ridiculous amounts for our healthcare is b/c it’s superior is at the heart of the problem. My grandmother was in the hospital for 5 days recovering from a heart attack. No surgery. Her bill? $39,000 dollars.
Using illegal aliens as a scapegoat for a dysfunctional healthcare system is like citing earmarks as a huge drain on our system. While often wastleful, earmarks represent less than 3% of our budget, but listening to guys like John McCain bloviate about the subject, you’d think they represented a 1/3 of what we spend.
Arm yourselves with some facts.

Posted by: FCD | March 5, 2009, 11:59 am 11:59 am

Yes the Democrats always seem to have a better idea of how to run everything, but nothing they have ever done has worked. Health care will be no different. They only know how to spend money then look for scapegoats to blame the failures on. The liberals have picked a loser in Obama and our nation will certainly suffer dearly for it.

Posted by: AmericanPie | March 5, 2009, 12:02 pm 12:02 pm

THE CHICKEN IN CHIEF CALLS OUT RUSH THEN RUSH SAYS OK COME DEBATE OBUMA SAYS I DIDNT MEAN IT UM UH UM UH AH AND UM UM

Posted by: david reyes | March 5, 2009, 12:03 pm 12:03 pm

Chicago Boob wrote: “Impeachment is starting to sound better and better”.
Yes, that makes sense. Proposing healthcare reform is absolutely grounds for the impeachment of the President.
Sheesh.

Posted by: FCD | March 5, 2009, 12:04 pm 12:04 pm

FCD, you are indeed absolutely amazing and pompously arrogant. Me and the dinosaurs are fine. You really ought to try living in East (or West) Baltimore for while and see how a completely government-run city works. The highest per student public school funding and yet the worst schools. The high taxes mean the only successful businesses are tax-free illegal businesses like heroin, illegal guns, and prostitution. And there have been ZERO Republicans in Baltimore for over 20 yeas. Yep, you sure know what you’re doing with the nation. Brilliant. Keep it up smarty pants.

Posted by: govtdependentsRus | March 5, 2009, 12:05 pm 12:05 pm

Posted by: silky | Mar 5, 2009 11:56:51 AM
Just like tobacco…why don’t we develop a seperate tax for fast food and use the proceeds for this health care plan. Hopefully, this will discourage those unhealthy eating patterns. Those that choose to eat poorly can pay for this plan. Lets not always ask those who make or have made good choices to sacrifice.
YOU DONT GET IT WE DONT WANT THE GOVERMENT TELLING US WHAT WE CAN EAT

Posted by: david reyes | March 5, 2009, 12:05 pm 12:05 pm

“WELL good JOB Genius Obama trillions LOST. 401K’s , IRA’s all hurting average people and destroying their retirement.”
You’re funny. The market was diving already. Those dominos were set off before we ever heard of Sarah Palin. How is it that everybody sees this but a handful of people here? And you also understand that market will eventually rebound, right? It’s goign to take time. Blame people for their hysteria and paranoia. And blame people like you for your paranoia and hysteria. This is how we ended up in Iraq, too.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 12:06 pm 12:06 pm

If senior people with high income are to be excluded from Medicare part D, they could always resort to buy drugs from Canada and Mexico at much lower price than in US market.

Posted by: austin | March 5, 2009, 12:06 pm 12:06 pm

How quaint an argument “Just like tobacco…why don’t we develop a separate tax for fast food and use the proceeds for this health care plan. Hopefully, this will discourage those unhealthy eating patterns. Those that choose to eat poorly can pay for this plan. Lets not always ask those who make or have made good choices to sacrifice. “ A tax on food deemed by the proletariat to be unhealthy. Well after the Great Leader finishes taxing public school lunches maybe he can tax the poor for being poor after all that is a bad choice.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 12:07 pm 12:07 pm

Silky,
I choose that handle to get your kind of response, expert! Glad to see it riles Obama nitwits like you.
Have you seen the Dow since your Messiah was elected last November? The Dow is feeling the hope and change now, down to 6600.

Posted by: W. Axl Rose | March 5, 2009, 12:09 pm 12:09 pm

Posted by: SJT | Mar 5, 2009 10:30:50 AM
SJT you said; “Essentially, you seem to be saying that the entire health system should exist for the good of other people, and not for any of the people participating in it as suppliers. Absent a national medical corps to support a “for the general good” mission, why would anyone want to invest and produce goods/services?”
______________________________
The most thoughtful, accurate (by my measure) and intellectually balanced assessment offered here, to-date.
I Agree TOTALLY with “Stanley” 10:39:53AM.
Unfortunately, I sense a “sigh of frustration” from you – as you close. I believe it’s folks like you who should be encouraged to ‘offer up’ your IDEAS to resolve this National Problem, before it causes “Real Class Warfare!”

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 12:10 pm 12:10 pm

This isn’t that hard to figure out. We need to go to a system where insurance only pays for catastrophic care, and people pay for normal healthcare, like doctor visits and such out of an HSA. There is no other way to both promote more competition and control costs.

Posted by: Brian Levine | March 5, 2009, 12:11 pm 12:11 pm

American Pie – How about some examples to support your claim that “nothing democrats have ever done has worked”?
Nothing? Hmmm.
Also, I know objective reality is a area most of today’s repubs like to avoid like the plague, but how is it that you can accuse Obama of wasteful spending when the last admin more than doubled deb, including spending 800 billion on The Senior Prescription Drug Plan (a poorly priced program in which we (the Gov)pays twice as much for prescription drugs as the gov pays for the same drug for the VA) which is – ahem – socialized medicine? Boo!
You’re welcome to join those of us who reside in the reality-based community.

Posted by: FCD | March 5, 2009, 12:14 pm 12:14 pm

“YOU DONT GET IT WE DONT WANT THE GOVERMENT TELLING US WHAT WE CAN EAT”
Wow…your reading comprehension leaves a lot to be desired. And, while I agree that food that leads to health issues should be taxed, it wasn’t me who said it.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 12:15 pm 12:15 pm

silky I know you dont care about reading what people like Cramer has written or anyone else Cause god knows a democrat can NEVER take responsibility EVER.
But its time for you to wake up and live up to the fact Obama is Failing and destroying this economy. FOR what ends? So he can destroy the greatest economy engine in the free world.
http://www.mainstreet.com/article/moneyinvesting/news/cramer-my-response-white-house

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:18 pm 12:18 pm

The rose colored glasses that Pres.Obamas supporters wear offer very little long-range view. Perhaps” The Great One “should make higher education free, allowing all that savings and revenue to be injected back into the economy. After all the college savings plans will fall far short of the projected income revenues for the next decade.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 12:21 pm 12:21 pm

The real cowards are those who sit at a computer and hurl insults at people and ideas because they feel that they are invisible on the web.
P.S. I’d like to hear the proposal before I go and make any judgements. After all, judging something before you know anything about it usually called prejudice, the first resort of the stupid.

Posted by: Calis | March 5, 2009, 12:21 pm 12:21 pm

American Pie – How about some examples to support your claim that “nothing democrats have ever done has worked”?
Nothing? Hmmm.
WELFARE. It destroyed families.
The community reinvestment act which is destroyed is at the root of the Fannie and Freddie mess.
You need more?

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:22 pm 12:22 pm

Posted by: AmericanPie | Mar 5, 2009 12:02:09 PM
…….”Yes the Democrats always seem to have a better idea of how to run everything, but nothing they have ever done has worked. …”
_____________________________
Try beginning that assessment with “Running A POLITICAL CAMPAIGN!”
OBTW Gallup; reports the “State Of The Nation” 3/05/09 is at 21% – and slowly but steadly moving up. That’s up 133% from where it was in Dec. 2008 (it was at 9%, then!)

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 12:22 pm 12:22 pm

When anyone suggests “Universal Healthcare” you should be very afraid. All that means is “universally low quality and expensive healthcare” and a healthcare system that is corrupt, inefficient and out of date. It will give the government the right to tell you what healthcare service you can receive, whether you could pay for them or not.
Healthcare should operate in a free market and should be available to everyone in any amount they can personally afford . It is not a RIGHT given to you by your mere existence on this planet to have any healthcare service you want at the expense of the public.
On that point we will all face off in disagreement. But if we make publicly financed healtcare a RIGHT when will we make public housing, transportation, and free energy RIGHTS as well. And who the hell would work and pay for these costs if we can decide to NOT work and get them free?

Posted by: David | March 5, 2009, 12:23 pm 12:23 pm

American Pie – How about some examples to support your claim that “nothing democrats have ever done has worked”?
Nothing? Hmmm.
The Housing projects. I remember those.
WOW we almost finished ripping the last ones down.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:24 pm 12:24 pm

I am employed full time in upstate NY, collage degreed but my family is not covered by my employer. The State of NY covers my children under the states child health plus but my wife has partial coverage from NYS but her doctor or any other doctor in this town will not take. She has to travel 100 miles to see a doctor. Americans need better health coverage for the middle class.

Posted by: GENE | March 5, 2009, 12:27 pm 12:27 pm

Dan; In the days when hospitals were non-profit church or state supported, quality healthcare was affordable and doctors loved their work, but when the malpractice lawsuits began in the late 50′s hospitals were forced to sale to corporations. Then the corporate hospitals became profit seekers. Doctors, instead of having private practices, formed groups to distribute the cost of malpractice insurance. Malpractice insurance emerged as the result of lawsuits. That’s when healthcare costs began to escalate. Then insurance companies began to offer coverage to protect those in need of medical care from financial ruination. We prepay our medical expenses to insurance companies, but we still have to copay for services rendered by the medical profession. We’re paying double. Healthcare insurors are only in the game for the profits they can extract. So the excessive cost all goes back to lawyers and insurance companies. Doctors can’t afford not to charge as much as they do with all the additional expense of malpractice insurance and all the additional staff required to fight with insurance companies over insurance claims. The government did their part too by requiring hospitals to treat indigent emergency room patients. In the government’s defense, they had to do something. The free clinics operated by churches and state governments were closed due to the cost of operating such facilities.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 12:27 pm 12:27 pm

Chicago Bob..since the economy tanked BEFORE obama was elected..when the bottom dropped out in Oct, like the levees gave way in Katrina..How do you support your statements???The president was bush, the republicans voted for the bailout asked for by bush and the Fed..you having short term memory loss? It wasn’t that long ago..usually you republicans wait a little while to start twisting history…desperation i guess

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 12:30 pm 12:30 pm

Posted by: ChicagBob | Mar 5, 2009 12:22:34 PM
“WELFARE. It destroyed families.
The community reinvestment act which is destroyed is at the root of the Fannie and Freddie mess.
You need more?”
_____________________________
Fact = “A”
Logical = “B”
Possible = “C”
Remotely Possible = “D”
Uninformed Opinion = “F”
“Welfare”: = “D”
“CRA & Fannie / Freddie”: = “F”
Get some “Facts, Jack!”

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 12:34 pm 12:34 pm

funny how the Obamabots like silky was jumpin up and down yesterday when the Dow was having a short rally. they just made a wild assumption out of thin air that it will go up. LOL. Obama and his sheeple doesnt get it. We can not get back to prosperity by just borrowing and shuffling money. We need to create wealth in order to sustain our consumption . It was our production and trade surplus that made us a superpower and not this fake stimulus. we are currently having both trade and budget deficits and add the interests on this borrowed money we are going down. Now what are our products besides movies that the world wants to reverse this downslide? i am afraid except for the weapons and the ipods basically we dont have any.

Posted by: Debbie | March 5, 2009, 12:34 pm 12:34 pm

cowgirl I have some used cars for you. >>>
You have totally bought into the idea that I thought Tarp which Obama was proud of was a GOOD idea. And if you even BOTHER to read the Wall Street Journal OR Jim Cramer or heard any of the other folks who have SKIN in the game then you would know that Obama is destroying the economy and the country with it.
AND Now he wants to talk about another huge entitlement program?
How insane does anyone think we are.
Read Cramer he explains it much better than I and he is NO rightwinger/conservative.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:35 pm 12:35 pm

bobj72 Koolaid drinkers are usually the the last ones to get it and even then choose to live in denial.
Read CRAMER.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:38 pm 12:38 pm

“funny how the Obamabots like silky was jumpin up and down yesterday when the Dow was having a short rally. they just made a wild assumption out of thin air that it will go up. LOL.”
What? “Sell crazy somewhere else…we’re all stocked up here.”

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 12:38 pm 12:38 pm

FCD, You’re folks have been living in a reality-based community in Baltimore and Detroit for the past 25+ years. You really ought to re-located yourself to East (or West) Baltimore and live amongst your reality-based friends in a high crime, high tax, urban disaster zone that has been SOLELY run by Democrats for years. Brilliant. It’s a wonderful reality you’re taking the whole country towards.

Posted by: govtdependentsRus | March 5, 2009, 12:39 pm 12:39 pm

All these rush-listening cretons on here need to realize that it will take years to clean up the HUGE mess created during the last 8 years. President Obama did not cause the current problems we have but he is doing an excellent job of putting brilliant people in charge and providing leadership that this country has not seen for a long long time.

Posted by: pt | March 5, 2009, 12:40 pm 12:40 pm

How hollow an explanation can Pres.Obamas supporters have for healthcare cost? Next they will try to convince the country that a more liberal supreme court would not have ruled in favor of http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=7005335 . Perhaps the Obama bloggers are used car salespeople, it would explain their persistence to blog.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 12:40 pm 12:40 pm

Let the government run everything. HAND IT ALL OVER TO OBAMA/PELOSI/REID and BARNEY FRANK TO MANAGE AND RE-DISTRIBUTE. I wonder how much of the $200 I give to the soup kitchen will make it back to them IF I send the money to OBAMA/PELOSI/REID/FRANK to distribute. Wonder how much of that $200 in taxes will make it to the soup kitchen??

Posted by: govtdependentsRus | March 5, 2009, 12:42 pm 12:42 pm

pt want a cracker?

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 12:43 pm 12:43 pm

Another creton tries to make a joke. GO back to losing brain cells by listening to rush & sean insanity.

Posted by: pt | March 5, 2009, 12:46 pm 12:46 pm

First comment: Why is this author sooooo wordy?
Second comment: I would rather have a plan that cuts costs rather than having government pay for those costs. We have a great health care system but that is definitely too costly.
My ideas: Scrap patents on drugs. Lower liability insurance for doctors and hospitals by lowering the amount people are able to sue ($7 mill is way too much). Eliminate Group insurance so individuals can buy into a plan and thus making insurance companies more competitive.

Posted by: BT | March 5, 2009, 12:46 pm 12:46 pm

Debbie
We need to create wealth in order to
sustain our consumption . >>>>
Adults understand this but the democratic children just dont get it. They are not living in the real world they are living in fantasy island. Obama kind of looks like Mr Rourke. They cant deny the market numbers so they deny being responsible. Children do this. Children ignore facts and try to say tax cuts dont work and yet the market with all the announced tax increases has done what? OH YEAH increased taxes for everyone obscene spending while the public sector is sinking. And the market tanks. You declare WAR on the earners and NO its not the democrats fault the market and 401k’s, IRA’s and Pensions have been destroyed and Obama isnt concerned about market gyrations. WOW that is compassion isnt it? Cap and Trade will increase EVERYONES expenses by 100′s of dollars a month and that is seen as a good idea? Health care ? Great idea but now? HOW? The democrats have totally crushed the economy by their actions.
YES it only took the planes how many minutes to destroy the 2 towers in NY?
HOW long did they take to build.
I dont have to want Obama to fail he already has. I want someone to stop him from continuing to destroy America..

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:47 pm 12:47 pm

If Pres. Obama wasn’t doing something about healthcare the Repubs would be screaming. He is the first in a long time who is actually doing something, he invited doctors and patients to the White House to discuss it…This is brilliant…why wasn’t this done before? He is getting ideas directly from the people involved. He is trying to fix it because for you geniuses who are bashing him this will help the economy! Health care is so costly and so many are doing w/o.
I’m soooo tired of the critisism of a president who is actually doing something and talking to the people directly. These Republicans are running scared…They should grow up..remember they said Country first? Right!

Posted by: Barb | March 5, 2009, 12:48 pm 12:48 pm

Needless to say, by simply reversing the improprietous changes that have occurred over the years, as mentioned in my 12:27 post, we can restore our healthcare system to a functional state.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 12:49 pm 12:49 pm

pt AT 300 points a day loss the market will by wiped OUT in about 20 days.
Years? WE DONT HAVE Years. I dont even think we have MONTHS before the unemployment EXPLODES. Carter 12% unemployment and the misery index.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:49 pm 12:49 pm

I get a charge out of you who say the Dems have ruined us. HELLO!!!! Bush and company were REPUBLICANS and so was Congress for SIX YEARS with him and a majority of ONE DEM for two years.
Grow up!

Posted by: Barb | March 5, 2009, 12:51 pm 12:51 pm

Barb He has done too much. You think we can afford any more change? WE CANT..
As the downward trend continues you me everyone will be OUT of work. I have already been downsized.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:51 pm 12:51 pm

AND Obama is in for five weeks. None of you people are that stupid to believe this all happened in five weeks are you?

Posted by: Barb | March 5, 2009, 12:52 pm 12:52 pm

Barb,
You need to get educated on what went on and the what started this economic implosion. Here
http://ktar.com/?sid=1087479&nid=17

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:53 pm 12:53 pm

Since Obama was a senator prior to becoming president, it’s awfully hard to buy into the notion that he somehow “inherited” this mess …. uhh …. since he uhhh … ummm was part of the problem. Just be honest with yourselves Democrats. Obama is up to his eyeballs in blame here. He’s surpassing his failure as a sentaor with his failure as president. Truth bothers you, doesn’t it?

Posted by: Kitty | March 5, 2009, 12:54 pm 12:54 pm

pt; Are insults the best you have to offer? How about some new ideas? You say the same old official party political statements over and over and expect respect as a thinker? Parrots get crackers only.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 12:54 pm 12:54 pm

BARB
read the wallstreet journal and Cramer before you comment.
http://www.mainstreet.com/article/moneyinvesting/news/cramer-my-response-white-house

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:54 pm 12:54 pm

“destroying the profits in healthcare companies (one of the few areas still robust in the economy)”
LOL. Yes, that is because it’s a RACKET. F the healthcare companies.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 12:55 pm 12:55 pm

I’m reading it…what’s your point, ChicagoBob?

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 12:55 pm 12:55 pm

Chicago Bob: You really honestly don’t think this all happened in five weeks because of Obama? He is finally doing what should have been done by Bush, investigating and trying to do something. If he had done nothing, we would be in the same position. And of course Bush did nothing because he knew what was going on and both he and Cheney covered it up. Now it has reached a breaking point and blown. This is a huge mess and anyone who blames Obama needs their head examined.

Posted by: Barb | March 5, 2009, 12:57 pm 12:57 pm

The Democratic lemmings believe you cant destroy something in a few weeks. The two towers took a couple of hours after being struck. The Two Towers took a very long time to build. Destruction of wealth which Obama is achieving is easy. Creating wealth is a LOT of hard work. Obama a failed president with failed OLD tired democratic policies.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 12:57 pm 12:57 pm

pt: we know this crisis was not obamba’s creation. actually, some experts are saying the root cause of this started with the carter’s community reinvestment act of 1977. what the problem is, obamaba is copying some of those bad policies that brought us here. isn’t it the definition of insanity: doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results.?

Posted by: johnny | March 5, 2009, 12:58 pm 12:58 pm

“Since Obama was a senator prior to becoming president, it’s awfully hard to buy into the notion that he somehow “inherited” this mess …. uhh …. since he uhhh … ummm was part of the problem. Just be honest with yourselves Democrats. Obama is up to his eyeballs in blame here. He’s surpassing his failure as a sentaor with his failure as president. Truth bothers you, doesn’t it?”
He was elected as a Senator in 2006. He barely had time to find the bathroom before he started running for President. He’s about as responsible for this recession as you are. This has been in the making for a long, long time.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 12:58 pm 12:58 pm

Barb,
Chicago Bob: You really honestly don’t think this all happened in five weeks because of Obama?
Did you even read Cramer? and the answer is YES. When the economy was extremely sensitive as Obama entered into office. Instead of being careful and reassuring he was reckless and Destructive. Its easy to destroy..

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 1:00 pm 1:00 pm

Barb; Remember when he invited economists to help with the economic crisis? While they were meeting and offering their ideas, Pelosi and Reed and company were hovered in a back room writing the stimulus package. Makes for good PR holding a conference doesn’t it?

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 1:00 pm 1:00 pm

Ordermonger from 11:34
They also forgot to mention that Hillary Clinton was on the board of Wal-Mart who stands to save a fortune if they can get us to pay for their employee health care costs instead of paying for it themselves. They really don’t care if they destroy Medicare in the process. The leftist theory is that the proletariat should have only what the elite allow them.

Posted by: Oonogil | March 5, 2009, 1:01 pm 1:01 pm

He was elected as a Senator in 2006. He barely had time to find the bathroom
So Silky you say hes not qualified to be President. Right

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 1:02 pm 1:02 pm

“Barb; Remember when he invited economists to help with the economic crisis? While they were meeting and offering their ideas, Pelosi and Reed and company were hovered in a back room writing the stimulus package. Makes for good PR holding a conference doesn’t it?”
Give me a break.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 1:02 pm 1:02 pm

Silky: I think some of these people just believe everything they read…and don’t think logically.
I can’t keep repeating myself for them, they can believe what they want, but people like them who voted for Bush not just once but twice, what can you expect?

Posted by: Barb | March 5, 2009, 1:02 pm 1:02 pm

I nominate mmonroeliveson to be the face of the Republican Party. At least he makes reasonable arguments and he’s funny.

Posted by: Amy in Maine | March 5, 2009, 1:05 pm 1:05 pm

“So Silky you say hes not qualified to be President. Right”
No, I did not say that.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 1:05 pm 1:05 pm

Barb
but people like them who voted for Bush not just once but twice, what can you expect? >>>>>>> You offer no reason to trust the president and if the democrats could have put up a decent Candidate in 04 I would have voted for him. But they out in Kerry the arrogant.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 1:05 pm 1:05 pm

Its not worth posting to koolaid drinkers. When you are in line with me at unemployment I will see how you feel then.

Posted by: ChicagBob | March 5, 2009, 1:07 pm 1:07 pm

The Democratic fervor has formed a cyclone..or rather a circular farce “He was elected as a Senator in 2006. He barely had time to find the bathroom before he started running for President” a reversal of his heralded “experience”. Just give him 8 years that’s how many the last presidents had…please no bell curve we promise.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 1:07 pm 1:07 pm

That’s funny…Kerry the Arrogant. Considering the guy who won was the poster child for arrogance.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 1:08 pm 1:08 pm

chicago bob – while a comedy show, I couldn’t help but think of your comment, “listen to Cramer”,when I caught this Daily Show segment.
this is funny.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/03/05/jon-stewart-eviscerates-c_n_172057.html

Posted by: Azzurri11 | March 5, 2009, 1:10 pm 1:10 pm

“The Democratic fervor has formed a cyclone..or rather a circular farce “He was elected as a Senator in 2006. He barely had time to find the bathroom before he started running for President” a reversal of his heralded “experience”. Just give him 8 years that’s how many the last presidents had…please no bell curve we promise.”
No, because this guy can actually walk and chew gum at the same time. No bell curve, although he certainly was dealt the worst hand a President has been dealt since FDR.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 1:10 pm 1:10 pm

sally, You really need a break. You’ve been awhile here at this site defending your Messiah.
BTW, since you are areally defending your Messiah tooth and nail, I am guessing you are either:
a) a clueless Obamabot
b) a paid blogger by the Obama’s administration or
c) a porkulus benificiary like an acorn member.

Posted by: veronica | March 5, 2009, 1:13 pm 1:13 pm

“Its not worth posting to koolaid drinkers.”
Yeah, it’s us who are irrational. You refuse to acknowledge the most blatantly obvious truths, but it’s us who are irrational. The recession was set in motion long before Obama even got on stage let alone became President. If investors are unsure about how his plan is going to work, that’s understandable and it’s their prerogotive. But that is a relatively short-term issue and rest assured there are plenty of investors with money waiting to pounce. It’s coming soon.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 1:16 pm 1:16 pm

In the spirit of a true rug merchant the sheiks of the Obama bazaar post “
No, because this guy can actually walk and chew gum at the same time. No bell curve, although he certainly was dealt the worst hand a President has been dealt since FDR.”. You forget “
“He was elected as a Senator in 2006. He barely had time to find the bathroom before he started running for President” . My friends it is the door with the picture of a person on it look near the water fountain. Salaam

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 1:16 pm 1:16 pm

Medicaid…Over whelming especially when Illegals get it free. Health care is and has always been costly. Socialized Health Care does not work,and Everyone with common sense knows if its free it will be abused.AS long as you can wait weeks for a test and weeks for a doctor’s visit,then by all means move to Canada,or England where they have health care.

Posted by: stormerF | March 5, 2009, 1:18 pm 1:18 pm

“a) a clueless Obamabot
b) a paid blogger by the Obama’s administration or
c) a porkulus benificiary like an acorn member.”
You forgot KOOL-AID!! And BIRTH CERTIFICATE!! But that post is awe-inspiring in it’s faithfulness to the memo. Outstanding.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 1:18 pm 1:18 pm

“My friends it is the door with the picture of a person on it look near the water fountain. Salaam”
Care translate that for those of us who aren’t on acid?

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 1:19 pm 1:19 pm

Silky; You don’t scare me. We all know you don’t have a gun and I’m packing…legally…licensed. Only kidding. Wouldn’t take any pleasure from seeing you bleed. Keep ‘em honest. It’s all we can do. People are gonna think crazy no matter what. We are just hedges against the liars. Have a great day in the sunshine state for me. It’s where my heart remains and my soul belongs.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 1:22 pm 1:22 pm

Posted by: ChicagBob | Mar 5, 2009 12:38:03 PM
“bobj72 Koolaid drinkers are usually the the last ones to get it and even then choose to live in denial.
Read CRAMER.”
____________________________
I ‘hold myself out’ as being a bit above “name calling.” But facts are just that; facts. “They’re stubborn little things” that really get in the way, when YOU are misinterpreting them (intentionally or not.)
You would really be well served by completing your research on the claims you assert before “going public.” Credibility isn’t granted, simply by ‘pecking away’ at a keyboard!
I’m not familar with your Cramer, and I should tell you; I’m somewhat selective in the news sources I SELECT, so I’ll pass on your offer….. Thanks anyway.

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 1:22 pm 1:22 pm

If Obama….means the kind of change in Health Care as he did in the Stimulis package Spending and his Budget Pork plan? Than its hands down,”WE CAN NOT AFFORD IT”…Free health care,Hey A$$ hole nothing is free,Grow the hell UP.

Posted by: lash larue | March 5, 2009, 1:23 pm 1:23 pm

There’s ONLY 545 Members of Our Legislative Govnm’t. 100 Senators; 435 Representatives; 1 President; and 9 Supreme Court Judges FOR YEARS NOW they couldn’t come to ONe Solid Agreement therefore offer any Positive Actions. If they wanted it “Changed” they would have done so 10 yrs. ago or more. Until We stop the Political Lobbying & Perks, We’ll Never Get 545 People to Put Country & Mankind First.

Posted by: MPass86 | March 5, 2009, 1:30 pm 1:30 pm

To the one who professes to be from the noble Bombyx mori, “My friends it is the door with the picture of a person on it look near the water fountain. Salaam”
Care translate that for those of us who aren’t on acid? He needs to be shown the door. In plain terms he and you are polyethylene terephthalate.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 1:32 pm 1:32 pm

“Have a great day in the sunshine state for me. It’s where my heart remains and my soul belongs.”
75 and sunny today, brah! C’mon down.
“In plain terms he and you are polyethylene terephthalate.”
I stand corrected…that’s obviously glue you’re smoking.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 1:34 pm 1:34 pm

bobj72
Cramer is another entertainer, a la Rush Limbaugh, a guy who was a successful hedge fund manager and now has a frenetic show on CNN called Mad Money. Cramer purports to give stock tips to short term investors (not the long term investing financial advisors recommend to build wealth.) Short term investing is more akin to gambling, and should only be done with money you can afford to lose (hence, the title of the show Mad Money, although Cramer doesn’t always make it clear people shouldn’t bet the farm on his advice,)
Cramer is an entertainer, as I said, and I would not look up to him as an expert on all things economic, but folks like ChicagoBob need somebody who shares their views they can invest with authority. PS. Cramer is such an authority on stocks, his 10 top picks for the year (tech stocks) a decade ago, no longer exist as companies.

Posted by: Amy in Maine | March 5, 2009, 1:53 pm 1:53 pm

Obama speaks, the NYSE drops another 200+ points. Without a doubt, this is the worst President in the history of the United States when it comes to inspiring confidence among investors and within the economy as a whole.

Posted by: South_Texan | March 5, 2009, 1:53 pm 1:53 pm

Just had another brainstorm that will fix all the problems. It only requires two steps. 1)Kill all the lawyers 2)Scour every nook and cranny for surviving lawyers and kill them too, lest they lie about their background and worm their way into politics.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 1:54 pm 1:54 pm

Since polyester needs a translation and is at home with her drug references I will translate so you can understand – Wa gweh clean da Man ,go bupps your fren till dutty gal is all you hab , gweh Jancro . -

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 1:56 pm 1:56 pm

Chicago Bob….step away from the “stock Traders”..you must like Cramer cause he is a screamer and entertainer…the last person i am listening to is a 1) a banker..2)wall street portfolio manager, or anyone who has “skin” in the game..they are trying to CYA because there lack of vision, tanked their portfolios..yeah the are desperate all right..the guy that was a trader is now working for $12.oo an hour as a janitor..morning news…they only people i want to listen to -are the whistle blowers who say this coming and were labled “quacks”, no one else has any any credibility

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 2:00 pm 2:00 pm

Dow’s headed for 3500. Could make it today. The sooner the better. Then recovery can begin. Hold onto those trillions Obama. We might not have to spend them. We don’t have to make something happen. Just let it happen.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 2:02 pm 2:02 pm

“Obama speaks, the NYSE drops another 200+ points. Without a doubt, this is the worst President in the history of the United States when it comes to inspiring confidence among investors and within the economy as a whole.”
Luckily, him inspiring confidence in the market right now has little to nothing to do with the long-term recovery of the economy.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 2:04 pm 2:04 pm

Well, to put a mildly partisan swing on this, it is about time we took the burden of health care off our major corporations, and spread that cost over a larger portion of the population.
It has always seemed to me that conservatives, while doing all they could to maximize corporate profits, have been very short sighted in forcing the cost of health care onto those same corporations.
If the nation creates a tax paid health care system, along the lines of the Congressional System, and makes it universal, all businesses would see their costs of operation drop appreciably. BUT, the tax has to be collected from a very broad base, and it has to be based on means, not per capita costs.

Posted by: Karl Leuba | March 5, 2009, 2:05 pm 2:05 pm

Monroe…I know you are too smart to be a dow watcher…It is going to take getting the banks in order and actually enforcement of regulations before anyone but Buffet puts money back in the markets..including me…I was willing to go with the market swings, but not the uncontrolled greed..no checks and balances…no market..if we the public..don’t trust the market…its going NOWHERE..it takes buyer confidence to drive the market..confidence that there is a consumer to buy the products those corps are selling

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 2:10 pm 2:10 pm

CBOB) can i have some of what ur smoking…….

Posted by: madashell | March 5, 2009, 2:16 pm 2:16 pm

ChicagBob I clicked your link and it took me to a transcript of Obama’s speech on home foreclosures. An excellent speech, it was, I didn’t know only 12% of mortgages are subprime, but they account for half of all foreclosures. Those preditory loans really are responsible for most of this mess. http://ktar.com/?sid=1087479&nid=17

Posted by: Amy in Maine | March 5, 2009, 2:18 pm 2:18 pm

Pres. Obama is the best

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 2:36 pm 2:36 pm

Uh-Oh tirekicker..think the tire must have kicked back….LOL, we know you don’t mean it…

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 2:37 pm 2:37 pm

Republicans have no answer to anything. All I see is a bunch of opposition.. Ok, so you oppose everything President Obama does or says.. So tell us please, what is your actual position on any of the matters that you cowards are opposing? We still have not heard any solid solutions to President Obama’s agenda(s) that you all find opposition with.. Help me understand that please !!!!!! WHAT IS THE REPULICANS SOLUTION TO HEALTHCARE. Oh that’s right, let it work itself out!!! Stupid is as stupid does.. Republicans are a mockery with no leader, no foundation, and no direction…

Posted by: Obamaall theway | March 5, 2009, 2:44 pm 2:44 pm

cowgirl; Without a bunch of technical mumbo jumbo, in plain common sense terminology…When the Dow bottoms out, serious investors, not day traders, long term investors will jump all over the cheap stocks. Serious investors want to earn dividends on their investments. Investors know Americans are ready and willing to be productive. That money from stock purchases flowing into companies will trigger production. The jobs they provide is what gives consumers confidence. We’re a greedy society. We want to buy now but are patient enough and scared enough to hold off until prices go down. We will spend only when we feel secure about future income. Consumers can’t do without forever. Just waiting for bargains. As long as the government continues to prop up the false economy we have known for the last couple of decades, recovery will be delayed because everyone knows eventually downward adjustments are coming, with or without stimulation.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 2:47 pm 2:47 pm

Actually i believe some of the big money men have already bought cheap stocks..waiting for that boom on the other side…just my opinion..it is going to be a very slow climb out…and i don’t think the smart money is going in until they feel confident we are somewhere close to the bottom..don’t think they are there yet…this isn’t in any way or form what kind of downturn or recession we have had in the past…Its hit people who don’t play the high risk games…its their retirement and they are going to be alot slower to come back..during the dot com bubble, alot of us decided real estate was a safe bet…property would always have value…right now i stand to inherit alot of property which i am going to have to sit on and pay taxes on for the forseeable future…

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 3:14 pm 3:14 pm

Silky…Bad News on the “buy a bar investment” Budweiser, the largest brewing company in the world…just reported profits fell by…95%….its enough to make you want to take a drink…things are too bad to even drink your way out of it…

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 3:21 pm 3:21 pm

I drink Guinness and Jameson. =)
And how do profits fall 95%??? That can’t be right.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 3:35 pm 3:35 pm

THAT’S FUZZY MATH!!!

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 3:36 pm 3:36 pm

Posted by: Amy in Maine | Mar 5, 2009 1:53:21 PM
“Amy in Maine” Thanks for the info. I occasionally have the opportunity to take in a “heavy dose” of CNN – and never heard of the guy. He must be a “C” Player.
So, Cramer was a successful hedge fund manager? I’m not impressed. Were you aware that SOME of those types of “Wall St. Player’s” (Brokers, Traders & Fund Managers) earned better than $1B in commissions in 2007 (individually?) Saying Bill Gates, Warren Buffett or maybe some Wealthy “Titan in industry” invested and received a return at that level, maybe. But some guy, gambling with someone else’s money and “walking away” at the end of ONE YEAR with One Billion Dollars, in commissions??? Absolutely ludicrous!
I do believe in Capitalism, but that is obscene and absurd! And they have NO Idea how many “Little Bernard Madoff’s” are yet out there.
I guess Monroe captured it in his earlier comment, saying; “We’re a greedy society.” (I personally ‘think better’ of our society. I guess that’s why I rarely agree with Monroe.)

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 3:44 pm 3:44 pm

In response to the Obamall diatribe: What Republicans generally oppose is universal health care managed by the Federal Government. Health Care is a personal choice that should remain with the individual, not the government. Government run health care tends to have only the “bottom line” of the least expensive treatment as the overall guiding factor. Most government health care systems are inefficient and inferior in services when compared to private health care plans. Personally, I want any medical attention that I or my family need to be the decision of my family and our doctor. Obama’s plan will inject a burecratic nightmare into the mix that will prevent most individuals from obtaining proper care in a timely manner. In addition, government run health care programs tend to have the least qualified or experienced professionals involved in providing the medical care. Just say NO to ANY government mandated health care system and you’ll probably live a longer, fuller life.

Posted by: South_Texan | March 5, 2009, 4:00 pm 4:00 pm

Silky…I saw it on the noon news..west coast time…since we are a large brewing area..lots of miro brewries and bars here…(little Aspen) it makes the headlines…abc news local

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 4:04 pm 4:04 pm

The world’s biggest brewer, Anheuser-Busch InBev, has reported a 95% fall in three-month profits, blaming costs of restructuring the business . reported by BBC 11 hours ago

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 4:08 pm 4:08 pm

blamed costs linked to InBev’s $52bn takeover of Anheuser – completed in November – mainly redundancy payments.
The brewer of Budweiser, Becks and Stella Artois is in the process of cutting 2,400 jobs.
The company said it planned to cut another $500m of spending from its US operations this year and reduce capital spending by $1bn, but that it did not anticipate further job losses.
It is also trying to sell about $7bn of assets this year, but has not said what it plans to offload.
AB InBev said it had already begun refinancing the $45bn loan it took out to pay for the takeover.
I am going to miss those good commercials….

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 4:18 pm 4:18 pm

Posted by: cowgirl | Mar 5, 2009 3:21:27 PM
“Silky…Bad News on the “buy a bar investment” Budweiser, the largest brewing company in the world…just reported profits fell by…95%….its enough to make you want to take a drink…things are too bad to even drink your way out of it…”
_____________________________
“Cowgirl” somethings out of whack. I just scanned the SEC filing of the Anheiser-Busch Consolidated Balance Sheet (reporting 2008 performance); it indicates $117M Sales Increase Year-Over-Year (’07 to ’08) + 3.3% on overall sales at approx. $3.5B.

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 4:21 pm 4:21 pm

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 4:25 pm 4:25 pm

Thats what happens when you sell a good american company to overseas…bet those clydesdale horses are headed to the auction block as we speak and will end up on a canadian/frenchmans plate..and who knows where the dalmation dogs will go–into chinease food i suppose

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 4:26 pm 4:26 pm

cowgirl; I have an acquaintance whose family owned tens of thousands of acres from the 1700′s until the great depression. They sold off all except about 50 acres at $50/acre because they couldn’t pay the taxes on their land. Real estate prices will rebound in time. I think a lot of serious investors got out of the market early. That would account for the sudden decrease in stock values we saw last fall. If the profit takers now stopped trading the market would probably plunge right away. About that Budweiser profit drop, foreign sales would logically be way off. Most country’s citizens aren’t as crazed with credit cards and spending as US citizens. More fiscally conservative. They weren’t as affluent as Americans before the recession.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 4:29 pm 4:29 pm

Every obamabot needs to realize that they voted for reverend wright when they voted for barry.
Barry and reverend racist hate every thing about this country. Michelle’s “I have never been proud of my country” comments were not gaffes, they were her true feelings.
Barry wants to destroy this country the way it is, so that it can be rebuilt under his marxist/socialist agenda. It really is that simple and that scary. He is even willing to sacrifice a second term in office so long as his insane agenda gets passed through.
Wake up America!

Posted by: Dave | March 5, 2009, 4:30 pm 4:30 pm

“Cowgirl”, sorry I didn’t get your posts after the 4:04:57 PM. Your information is obviously accurate.

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 4:33 pm 4:33 pm

Dave…go get a beer before the price goes up..make that a sixpack..see and you thought we were all kool-aid drinkers…i consumed alot of tequila to get me through the 8 years of bush, and am happy to be on the wagon now…LOL

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 4:34 pm 4:34 pm

He dare not go to Michigan 14.75% unemployment projected. At this rate the President may be bald in 6 months. I am not pleased that Carl Rove call John Coyners a canibal. I am more disappointed that Sen. Coyners did not catch it.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 4:38 pm 4:38 pm

Silky; As I recall beer and liquor licenses are expensive in Florida. The state issues them on a per capita basis, so if you want one you have to wait for an owner to go out of business. Then they’re put out to bid. Another way government dicourages people from owning businesses. Dadgummit. How does it feel to go from Broadway to the boondocks?

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 4:42 pm 4:42 pm

Monroe, yeah my moms family sold off tobacco plantations and moved west, lost all of their money when the stock market crashed, never really recovered..the land was gone-the money was gone..hopefully the income off the property will pay the taxes until the real estate market turns around…I am pretty much a realist with a positive attitude so i am sure i will survive..I hadn’t really planned on retiring anyway..

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 4:44 pm 4:44 pm

Some areas of our state already have 20% unemployment-and those are ranching areas-where they don’t draw unemployment if you own a ranch..Little Aspen-where i live is very affluent…and unemployment is close to 10% and rising…brand name stores are closing, small businesses are closing..for sale signs everywhere on property..property here kept topping the list of “most overpriced in the nation” so we have a long way to fall…

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 4:51 pm 4:51 pm

Hey look WV, a state that voted for McCain has an unemployment rate of 4.3%. Looks like they cling to their jobs as mich as their guns.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 4:54 pm 4:54 pm

Bobj72 & cowgirl – You know the economy is bad when Budweiser sales go up. You would have to be dead broke and in dire need of a beer to drink that stuff.

Posted by: Oonogil | March 5, 2009, 4:58 pm 4:58 pm

“How does it feel to go from Broadway to the boondocks?”
Warm, with a shift in stimuli. And yes, licenses are outrageously expensive around here. Particularly, liquor licenses. As a result, there are many places that sell only beer and wine.
What’s funny is that dave keeps calling us Obamabots. I’m beginning to think that “dave” is an autobot.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 4:58 pm 4:58 pm

“Hey look WV, a state that voted for McCain has an unemployment rate of 4.3%. Looks like they cling to their jobs as mich as their guns.”
Never mind they’re minimum wage paying jobs.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 4:59 pm 4:59 pm

Bobj72; What I meant by Americans being greedy is that most of us who are now old as well our children and grandchildren have fallen for the lure of instant gratification. We want it all and we want it now has been the mindset. Credit was the means. My parents ended up with way more than most would have expected of a couple with a ninth grade education. But they worked and saved their money, always kept an emergency fund set aside and paid cash for their possessions other than their house and cars. They married during the great depression and understand what it is to be without wants, even needs. Through it all they tithed. I have never known them to spend money on vices of any kind. So now you know I come by my views honestly.

Posted by: mmonroeliveson | March 5, 2009, 5:01 pm 5:01 pm

What is this “little Aspen?” I’m more Telluride than Aspen, fwiw.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 5:01 pm 5:01 pm

Yeah-well lets all move to WV along with the rest of the clampetts..tie the chicken coop to the top of the truck with granny on top…maybe (I am not an expert on WV) they didn’t have much employment to begin with,,,

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 5:01 pm 5:01 pm

WV is beautiful…just don’t get out of the car.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 5:07 pm 5:07 pm

Well, “little Aspen” used to be one of the greatest places on earth to live..and like all those places..become an expensive playground…I try not to be grouchy about it, and remain a progressive/capitalist… which some people consider an oxymoron..but money can never replace what we lost.I wanted to keep it all to myself…

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 5:11 pm 5:11 pm

“I wanted to keep it all to myself…”
Happens everywhere cool.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 5:17 pm 5:17 pm

No wonder Colorado is in such bad shape , it has too low of a sales tax, 2.9% , what is that ?? Not even equal to a locality tax for the rest of the country. How about before there is universal anything all the states should charge at least 6%.No wonder these left leaning states have problems. If the Pres has a 62% majority it should not be an issue.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 5:30 pm 5:30 pm

Coloroda is not a left-leaning state.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 5:34 pm 5:34 pm

TireKicker..who would have figured you for a” tax em more kinda” guy??? Yes out west..we progressives believe in less taxes-not more…several of our states have no sales tax, and washington and nevada have no state income tax…but hey we are not looking for more republicans out here…i am hoping a few migrate to arizona, or texas where they have low wages, i guess you might have noticed those liberal states have higher wages???

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 5:42 pm 5:42 pm

Colorado Voted Democrat. Interesting how many of the democrat states lack proper sales or local taxes, some do not have state income tax. There is alot of revenue that could be put to good use by taxing everyone equaly. They should have a meals tax also. We are all in this together so all states should be tax it people the same or forgo that amount in federal aid. The stares currently with low sales taxes could pay the difference directly to the Fed. That would bring in alot of money.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 5:43 pm 5:43 pm

Colorado went Obama simply because of how horrid things have gotten in the Republican party. It’s a conservative state. Not Wyoming conservative, but conservative, nonetheless.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 5:44 pm 5:44 pm

I live in a state that doesn’t have state income tax, but has no problem taking federal money. It’s baffling, really.

Posted by: silky | March 5, 2009, 5:46 pm 5:46 pm

These states that have deficits should not recieve a dime of federal money until they tax their populations accordingly. It should be similar to Sen. Pelosis state min 8.25 -10% for prepared foods, 14% for hotels and rentals and localities can add an additional 2.9%. That would bring the state coffers back up. California had an issue because it did not tax utilitys high enough. Why should the Fed make up for the states not taxing enough?

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 5:51 pm 5:51 pm

Look at the tax table , many of these “hurting” states do not even charge a fair gas tax, most less than .50c a gallon, come on , it should be at least .55c . If you want to encurage less oil it should be at least $1.00 , even that is too low. Its time the Democrats start working together with everyone and pay their proper share of taxes. It will help the economy.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 5:59 pm 5:59 pm

guess what tirekicker…all the states are in deficit spending right now…Loss of tax dollars…you know people that have lost their jobs, no one can pay their property taxes, businesses are closing…generally speaking….states make up for it in fees for consumption taxes, motel taxes, gas taxes, licenses and fees..every state makes its own law…which is why we don’t want republicans to be in charge -because they do what you do…say one thing and do another

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 6:35 pm 6:35 pm

TCF financial banking group gives back —361 million in tarp funds..does not need it or want all the restrictions and is solvent….give that bank a ROSE

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 6:39 pm 6:39 pm

Posted by: cowgirl | Mar 5, 2009 6:35:01 PM
“cowgirl” you said to “tirekicker”; …”which is why we don’t want republicans to be in charge -because they do what you do…say one thing and do another…”
_____________________
Now that’s “Classic congitive dissonance.”

Posted by: bobj72 | March 5, 2009, 6:58 pm 6:58 pm

All states should be required to have a sales tax, local tax, gas tax and utilities tax.They should also have a income tax and property tax, if it is not equal to the highest 3 states average then there should be a national tax on those states to make them equal. The difference of what those states should be charging and what they do charge. Why should one states taxpayers pay less than the others when they will recieve the smae “national” benifits, like in the case of healthcare or mortgage assistance. It is not a violation of conservative values it is paying for what you use. Are democrats now afraid of fair taxing??

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 7:16 pm 7:16 pm

Heck, tirekicker, you know democrats just love taxes…My democratic state gives us a kicker check, when they take in more revenues than expenses..it is redistributed back to the residents of the state…do you not understand the concept of federal tax being seperate from state tax..there are more residents in california…their federal taxes may be going to help your state, their state taxes pay for their state services…which part of taxation don’t you understand???

Posted by: cowgirl | March 5, 2009, 7:39 pm 7:39 pm

When states depend on Federal bailout dollars they should tax their ste populations equaly or the fed should determine that it is the fault of the penny wise pound foolish states for their position. If one states local hospitals are better than anothers because of local funding then the “universal ” coverage for people who belong to other states should be adjusted or charged the difference if they use those facilities. Its amazing how democratic states who do not have a a proper tax program are alway tinkering with the federal program. To fix it correectly it should be a national tax to make equal services. Just how are any contracting programs going to be evaluated when standards of service vary from state to state. The tax lax states should remit the revenues to the fed and have them redistributed, or else raise their own taxes and depend less on the fed.

Posted by: tirekicker | March 5, 2009, 8:00 pm 8:00 pm

I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
Sarah
http://www.craigslistdecoded.info

Posted by: Sarah | March 7, 2009, 5:51 am 5:51 am

The health care system in the United States is so expensive. People cannot afford it. Even people who are employed have to pay for huge medical expenses because employers are telling their employees they have to help pay for their health care and insurance premiums. That is why it is time to do something to fix this terrible situation. The ones who gain here are insurance companies. This is the greatest country on earth (at least that is what I hear). Give me a break, we cannot afford health insurance premiums and we are the greatest country on earth!! Please read the following article:
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/03/07/young.uninsured/index.html

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Posted by: Dnebiviza | March 31, 2009, 3:25 pm 3:25 pm

If this is so great, why all the backroom deals?
I know it is just a coincidence that a MC’s bro was nominated to the federal bench the day he met w/ Obama.
OC it was also just a coincidence that the Watergate burglars had ties to the WH.

Posted by: Miri | March 5, 2010, 12:02 pm 12:02 pm

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