The Note: Progress Over Perfection? — Obama Allies Seek ‘Breathing Room’ on Health Care
Email By TEDDY DAVIS Progress over perfection. That’s how Paul Begala frames the choice facing Democrats. In an op-ed in today’s Washington Post, the former Clinton strategist implores his fellow progressives not to make a government insurance option a litmus test for health-care reform. Begala wants Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., and other members of the Senate Finance Committee, to have "a little breathing room" as they work to produce a health-care bill that can garner enough votes to pass the Senate. “The question is not whether I or other progressives will support a health-reform bill that includes everything we want but, rather, whether we will support a bill that doesn’t,” writes Begala. Begala says he carries a “heavy burden of regret” for his role in setting the bar too high the last time the U.S. tried fundamental health reform. “I was one of the people who advised President Bill Clinton to wave his pen at Congress in 1994 and declare: ‘If you send me legislation that does not guarantee every American private health insurance that can never be taken away, you will force me to take this pen, veto the legislation, and we’ll come right back here and start all over again.” Begala is not the only high-profile Democrat who appears willing to jettison a public option to get a bill through Congress and onto President Obama’s desk. Dick Durbin, the Senate’s No. 2 Democrat, signaled that he would not let the public option bring down health-care reform while appearing Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union." While Begala wants Democrats to give the Senate Finance Committee breathing room to come up with a compromise, Rep. Henry Waxman, D-Calif., tells today’s New York Times that the president has assured House members that he did not intend to let the Senate Finance Committee determine the final bill. “This is going to be a genuine conference with give and take,” Mr. Waxman said. He added: “The president has said he wants a public option to keep everybody honest. He hasn’t said he wants a co-op as a public option.” While some progressives are trying to lay the groundwork for a compromise, others are stepping up their case that a public option is essential to real health-care reform. Health Care for America Now, a liberal group which supports a public option, announced Thursday morning that it is expanding its advertising in a handful of states. The ad targets two Democratic senators — New Mexico Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D) and Delaware Sen. Tom Carper (D) — in addition to three House members: Pennsylvania Rep. Jason Altmire (D), South Dakota Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, and Virginia Rep. Rick Boucher (D). The group’s ad will also run in upstate New York. Watch the ads HERE.
White House tries to "go viral" on health care:
“Feeling victimized by misinformation spread virally through the Internet, the White House Thursday is launching its own ‘viral e-mail’ for supporters to spread,” reports ABC’s Jake Tapper.
“The e-mail outlines 24 points — eight ways the Democrats' health care reform measures will, in Axelrod's view, ‘provide security and stability to those with or without coverage,’ eight ‘common myths’ about reform, and eight reasons why reform is an urgent matter.” The e-mail also features a Web video from White House health care reform czar Nancy-Ann DeParle in which she refutes an opposition viral e-mail sent to one of her White House colleagues from his father, a physician.
PhRMA-Backed Coalition Makes Big Ad Buy
President Obama’s new “what’s in it for me” message is picking up significant amplification today from a coalition supporting health-care reform. Americans for Stable Quality Care, a coalition largely funded by the pharmaceutical industry, is launching a $12 million television ad campaign during the congressional recess supporting President Obama on health care. Coalition members include PhRMA, FamiliesUSA, the Federation of American Hospitals, and the Service Employees International Union, according to an SEIU spokesperson. “What does health insurance reform mean for you?” asks the ad’s narrator. “It means you can’t be denied coverage for a pre-existing condition, or dropped if you get sick. It means putting health-care decisions in the hands of you and your doctor. It means lower costs, a cap on out-of-pocket expenses, tough new rules to cut waste and red tape, and a focus on preventing illness before it strikes. So what does health insurance reform really mean? Quality, affordable care you can count on.” Watch the ad HERE. As of last week, Obama allies were outspending Obama opponents two-to-one in the health-care ad wars, according to Evan Tracey of the Campaign Media Analysis Group.
California: Gay-Marriage Advocates Disagree on Date for Ballot Measure
For several months, gay-marriage advocates in California have been trying to decide whether to pursue a ballot measure in 2010 or 2012. On Wednesday, one of the Golden State’s largest gay-rights groups, Equality California, went public with its conclusion, saying it was targeting 2012. Some headlines treat the announcement by Equality California as resolving the 2010 vs. 2012 issue. It doesn’t. The announcement from Equality California came an hour after the liberal Courage Campaign said results of an early fund-raising push had emboldened it to push ahead with plans to oppose Proposition 8 next year. Here’s more from the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and Christian Science Monitor.
Cheney v. Bush
As his memoir takes shape, Dick Cheney’s disappointment with George W. Bush is beginning to surface, according to a front-page Washington Post story by Barton Gellman.
“‘In the second term, he felt Bush was moving away from him,’ said a participant in the recent gathering, describing Cheney's reply. ‘He said Bush was shackled by the public reaction and the criticism he took. Bush was more malleable to that. The implication was that Bush had gone soft on him, or rather Bush had hardened against Cheney's advice. He'd showed an independence that Cheney didn't see coming. It was clear that Cheney's doctrine was cast-iron strength at all times — never apologize, never explain — and Bush moved toward the conciliatory.’”
Obama’s Thursday
President Obama has no public events today. In the morning, the President will receive the Presidential Daily Briefing, the Economic Daily Briefing, and meet with senior advisors in the Oval Office.
The Kicker: “I’m always nervous, and I tell them to be nice to each other. And they’re not always nice.” –Joyce L. Woodhouse explaining that she can barely stand to watch her sons (Brad Woodhouse of the DNC and Dallas Woodhouse of the conservative organization Americans for Prosperity) debate one another The Woodhouse brothers appeared Wednesday on ABC's "Top Line." Watch them HERE. For up-to-the-minute political updates check out The Note’s blog . . . all day every day:
http://blogs.abcnews.com/thenote/
CPAC: Romney Struggles to Convince Voters 
Obama Backs Off Birth Control Battle?
One would think Grassley will be crossed off the list of workable GOP moderates…
Posted by: matt | August 13, 2009, 9:27 am 9:27 am
The Democrats & Obama are waaaay off message on the health care reform. The grassroots movement is increasing rapidly & is refuting Obama and his congress more adamantly than ever now. Claire MaGaskill seems to be stepping back on her lingo as she sees that this movement is REAL and is made up of Americans who are against it. Obama’s numbers continue to plummet, to the point that they are the lowest EVER for any president at this time in office. I would say that the Obama brainswahing has ended and reality has set in. It’s time to move forward Americans, continue to let your voices be heard!
Posted by: dk | August 13, 2009, 9:47 am 9:47 am
They really need to go back to the drawing board on this one. Why Obama let Congress have the responsibility of writing this monstrosity is puzzling.
The White House should have prepared the bill (a much shorter version, please) and then given it to the Congressional leadership to present.
Letting three or four different Congressional committees write different bills is ridiculous. There’s no way out of this mess now since so many people are angry and confused, and the right and left wing zealots are only adding to the chaos.
Posted by: BachisBest | August 13, 2009, 9:56 am 9:56 am
Obama’s numbers drop to 47% approval rating. The lowest rating for ANY president at this same time in office. The Dems have awaken a “sleeping giant”, the American public. Americans are refuting Obama and his lies and will continue to do so. The grassroots movement is alive and well and growing rapidly!
Posted by: Mary | August 13, 2009, 10:03 am 10:03 am
SLLEPING GIANT-fox news talk
The grassmovement is alive and well
RIGHT WING EXTREMISIM IS ON THE RISE THE MILITINTS ARE RISING UP VIOLENCE WILL RISE! In other words the nutcases are coming out!
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 10:18 am 10:18 am
Every time the public catches Obama in a lie, it hurts his credibility on the entire issue. Why does he have to lie?
This bill won’t survive the light of day. If anything is going to pass on healthcare it is going to be something that both parties and the general public can support. It appears they need to back to the drawing board.
Posted by: Jeff | August 13, 2009, 10:19 am 10:19 am
The strong public option better be there! It is the only thing that will hold health care in check. Vote public health care straight up or down then we the voters have a choice to make 15 months from now with plenty of time to find good replacements.
Posted by: rightbehind | August 13, 2009, 10:24 am 10:24 am
Obama’s ratings falling now to 47%. WOW! Rasmusen said his numbers have fallen faster than any other president in history. And I agree with you, Jeff. WHY does Obama have to lie? Why can’t he tell the truth to the people who voted for him? Why did he lie about AARP? Why does Gibbs have to cover up Obama’s lies? Mr President, deception is not a good thing!
Posted by: dk | August 13, 2009, 10:24 am 10:24 am
Vote strong public health care straight up or down. Then the voters have a choice to make.
Posted by: rightbehind | August 13, 2009, 10:30 am 10:30 am
This is a mess. The left let the republican naysayers get hold of the reform message and spin it out of control. Trying to get a “bipartisan” bill with neocons? Impossible and fantasy! When is the left ever going to learn that you can’t deal with crooks? Grassley is a backstabber that held up reform, but we all knew that! The democrats need to band together and get this reform passed! It’s been more than clear for some time now the repubs are not interested in reform. They are interested in big business like health insurance companies. Tell me right wing representatives…….how much $$ are you going to get if you kill health reform??
Posted by: had it | August 13, 2009, 10:34 am 10:34 am
Thank you Democrats and Obama….because of you, conservatives & independents are banning together better than ever before. Obama is a one-term President. The Dems will lose the house in the 2010 elections. Looks like the Kool Aid has worn off. Even the media has picked up on the deception the Democrats are spewing.
Posted by: dk | August 13, 2009, 10:39 am 10:39 am
Say what you will, but the grassroots movement is very strong right now. Even Claire MaGaskill, after her town hall meeting, stated these protesters were real and the Democrats had better pay attention. There is power in numbers and the Democrats has solidified the opposition to anything Obama presents on health care. I agree with dk, the Dems have united the conservatives and independents.
Posted by: PeterPaul&Mary | August 13, 2009, 10:41 am 10:41 am
Jeff
The “lie” you refer to is the fact that although the bill will allow people to keep their current insurance plans, there is nothing in it that will prevent employers from dropping coverage with current providers, just as employers drop or change insurance coverage at any time NOW.
Gee, that’s some “lie.” Somehow, I don’t think its up there, on the lying scale, with telling people this is a government takeover, or that abortions will be covered, or that doctors will be forced to counsel seniors about suicide, or that babies with Down’s Syndrome will be brought before a “death panel.” Those, my friend, are lies.
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 10:55 am 10:55 am
We do need change – - but, put down the signs and bull horns and stop all this juvenile foolishness.
Just sign me up for the exact same Healthcare program Ted Kennedy has.
Good enough for our elected elite, surely it’s good enough for me.
Posted by: JB Sr | August 13, 2009, 10:57 am 10:57 am
We can’t afford this healthcare reform that is being crammed down our throats by fiscally irresponsible politicians.
• Medicare has a projected unfunded liability (the difference between the benefits that have been promised to current and future retirees and what will be collected in dedicated taxes and Medicare premiums) over the next 75 years of 32,000,000,000,000.00 (32 Trillion) dollars. Social Security also has an unfunded liability but it is nowhere near as large as the unfunded Medicare liability.
• Currently, Medicare claims about 11 percent of federal nonentitlement tax dollars.
• By 2020, Medicare deficits will claim one in every five federal tax dollars that are not already dedicated to Medicare and Social Security.
• This means that in just 13 years the federal government will have to stop doing one in every five things it does today if taxes are to remain at their current level and projected Medicare benefits are paid on behalf of the disabled and the elderly.
• By 2030, the deficits in Medicare will claim one in every three general revenue dollars; by 2050, they will claim one in every two.
In a July 26 letter to the Ranking Republicans on four key committees (Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce, Education and Labor, and Budget), the Director of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), Doug Elmendorf, made it clearer than he ever had before that the bill, in its original July 14 form, would dramatically widen the already large gap between long-term government revenue and spending. Here’s the key paragraph:
“Looking ahead to the decade beyond 2019, CBO tries to evaluate the rate at which the budgetary impact of each of those broad categories would be likely to change over time. The net cost of the coverage provisions would be growing at a rate of more than 8 percent per year in nominal terms between 2017 and 2019; we would anticipate a similar trend in the subsequent decade. The reductions in direct spending would also be larger in the second decade than in the first, and they would represent an increasing share of spending on Medicare over that period; however, they would be much smaller at the end of the 10-year budget window than the cost of the coverage provisions, so they would not be likely to keep pace in dollar terms with the rising cost of the coverage expansion. Revenue from the surcharge on high-income individuals would be growing at about 5 percent per year in nominal terms between 2017 and 2019; that component would continue to grow at a slower rate than the cost of the coverage expansion in the following decade. In sum, relative to current law, the proposal would probably generate substantial increases in federal budget deficits during the decade beyond the current 10-year budget window.”
In other words, CBO expects the spending in the bill would grow at a rate of least 8 percent annually into the indefinite future, while the revenue to pay for it will only grow at about 5 per cent per year. Hence the “substantial increases” in federal budget deficits beyond 2019.
The first things the idiots in DC need to do is get Medicare under control and then address the growing debt of the federal government. For over 60 years the politicians have been spending at a rate which exceeds the revenue the government has collected, we can’t do this in our private lives and the government can’t do it either as the bill will become due and the only out will be the bankruptcy of the United States.
Posted by: Sandcrab1612 | August 13, 2009, 10:59 am 10:59 am
PeterPaul&Mary
The “grassroots movement” is alive and well and enflamed by lies spread by media millionares who KNOW they are spreading lies, misinforming the very people who need health care coverage the most, but who are protecting the status quo because it keeps them in their air conditioned offices, and funds their golf trips to the Bahamas.
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 11:00 am 11:00 am
Sandcrab1612……..Good Post!
Posted by: Tim | August 13, 2009, 11:00 am 11:00 am
Here’s a bit of truth for all. Republicans over the past 4 years have been thrown out of office as fast as the election process will allow. We overwhelmingly elected a President with the middle name of Hussein. Any talk of alliances between this group or that are purely wishful thinking and these phony baloney poll numbers do not reflect the trend of events. This is a win win for us either way if we get them to vote strong public health care straight up or down. If it fails we now have a list of those to blame and send packing.
Posted by: rightbehind | August 13, 2009, 11:04 am 11:04 am
Amy B Maine, answer me this, please. Why did Obama lie about AARP in his town hall meeting? Why did he “stage” the little girl to ask a question, when her mother lead Women4Obama in his campaign? Why does Obama deceive and lie so much? You are a supporter, why is he like this. Americans aren’t stupid. Why did he go overseas and put down Americans? His numbers are the LOWEST in presidential history at this same time in office. Again, Americans aren’t stupid! We’re waking up and its not the GOP that is spreading lies, its Obama. Even MaGaskill (D) is saying the grassroots movement is REAL and the Dems had better watch out. Obamacare is over, it will never pass. I agree, we need reform, but not to the extent of deception like Obama is trying to do.
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 11:06 am 11:06 am
Don’t worry about bipartisonship. Who in their right mind would want a healthcare bill written by republicans. You might end up with lung default swaps, urinary funds, clavicles, scapulators and scapulus.
Posted by: rightbehind | August 13, 2009, 11:13 am 11:13 am
It’s going to be a long day, I can tell.
Janice
“Why did Obama lie about AARP in his town hall meeting?” He did not lie. AARP is a nonpartisan organization that fights specifically for seniors. If you go to their website, their CEO explains they cannot officially endorse the bill until they know for sure that Medicare, “on which seniors depend” will not be cut. Medicare, you know, that government run health insurance agency funded by tax dollars. The CEO goes on to say they support healthcare reform, they just need to know their seniors will still get all the taxpayer funded services they currently get.
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 11:17 am 11:17 am
Amy….sorry, but you’re wrong. Obama DID lie…he stated that the AARP DID support his proposal…that was an outright lie. AARP was quick to make a statement that they DID NOT support Obamacare. Speaking of lies being spread…you just tried to spread one! Now, why did Obama “plant” the little girl in the meeting that is the daughter of the chairwoman of Women4Obama during his campaign? Ur, right, Dems are having very loooooonnnngggg days now!
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 11:21 am 11:21 am
Interesting article, but why would the Democrats take advice from someone who failed to get health reform through the last time? Wouldnt that be like getting navigational advice from Amelia Earhart?
Posted by: Mark from atlanta | August 13, 2009, 11:22 am 11:22 am
Obama is a great unifier. He has THE PEOPLE, (the republicans and many of the Dems),saying NO to his healthcare Plan.
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 11:24 am 11:24 am
“You are a supporter, why is he like this?”
You mean why is he so patient with the liars, birthers, rightwing kookies, I dunno. They make me so angry I want to punch the TV set.
I think there are rational arguments to make against this bill, but I’m not seeing anyone making those arguments.
I like Obama and I am inclined to believe he is working hard on all our behalfs. There is an article on the front page of yesterday’s Wall Street Journal about how Obama questions everything his aides tell him, and makes notes in the margins of letters ordinary folks send him, then follows up. WST – not exactly a liberal rag, wouldn’t you say? Obama is not perfect, but he is very bright and very competent.
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 11:30 am 11:30 am
10 violations of our rights under HR 3200:
1. Forcing people to buy health insurance.
2. Forcing employers to provide health insurance for employees.
3. Forcing one group (wealthy, soda-drinkers, etc.) to pay for the health insurance of another group.
4. Forcing future generations to pay for the health care of the present generation.
5. Forcing patients to participate in a government-run plan.
6. Forcing doctors to participate in a government-run plan.
7. Forcing hospitals and other health care providers to participate in a government-run plan.
8. Forcing insurance companies to compete with a government-run plan.
9. Forcing insurance companies to write policies that offer coverage for specific conditions.
10. Forcing one group (older Americans on Medicare) to accept reduced benefits in order to fund other public health care plans.
Posted by: Sandcrab1612 | August 13, 2009, 11:36 am 11:36 am
Amy B Maine, you still did NOT answer my question: WHY DOES OBAMA HAVE TO LIE TO AMERICANS? He clearly lied about AARP, now matter how you spin it, he lied! It wasn’t a misspeak, he lied! If Bush had done that, you would be crucifying him right now. It is clear that America is fed up with Obama’s lies…..grassroots movement show that Americans are refuting Obama and his policies. Even Democrats are going against him now. You see, it appears, that Obama is in to “himself”, not for America. He’s made history, he’s the first black president, but now, stop the freakin lies and start supporting America….quit thinking we’re stupid and QUIT going overseas and putting us DOWN!
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 11:37 am 11:37 am
Amy B Maine…then answer my question: Why DID Obama lie about AARP? Did you know that a spokesman, said this morning, on CNN (Obama’s network), that they have had a drastic loss in membership because of what Obama said in his town hall meeting? These are senior citizens and they are afraid….Look at how Sheila Jackson (D) answered the question from the cancer survivor…she ignored the lady and answered her cell phone. Look at Specter, his numbers are down and will not be re-elected and now is sorry he switched party affiliation. You see, Obama has lied and is imploding. This is fine…he’s uniting the Republicans and Independents (1/3 have now switched to Republicans). The Democrats had everything going for them, but now, have lost it because they followed down the path of destruction by thier “Pied Piper”, Barack Obama.
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 11:47 am 11:47 am
MSNBC is un-popular; Obama is un-popular. Fox News is popular and Glenn Beck and Hannity are popular. Go figure.
Posted by: jogger | August 13, 2009, 11:49 am 11:49 am
hahah lol look at the Right Wingers now trying to back peddle saying the President is lying because the lies of the Republican party and Big Insurance compaines are starting to come out! All their lies and misinformation are starting to be exposed. THE TRUTH SHALL PREVAIL Sorry Right Wingers!
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 11:50 am 11:50 am
It has been pathetic the way Obama and crew have handled this. They have no message. They can tell me about the benefits of reform, but can’t tell me what reform is.
It seems he will take anything to get a plan, so much anything that what the hell is the point?
Now all I hear about is Death Panels, Kill Grandma, Socialism, Guns, and wackos. What has any of this to do with Health Care? But, even he is talking about it., not a plan mind you but the opposition to a non-existing plan.
Posted by: Thinking | August 13, 2009, 11:52 am 11:52 am
This issue will not go away. The skyrocketing cost of even minimal health insurance will destroy working people and the small businesses that employ them. If we put this off, it will be the same as with energy dependence. We should have been much better off to tackle the issue ten or even twenty years ago. We waited until it could destroy us.
I long for rational discussion on the issue of health care reform–not shouting and lies.
Posted by: JAB | August 13, 2009, 11:54 am 11:54 am
It has been pathetic the way Obama and crew have handled this. They have no message. They can tell me about the benefits of reform, but can’t tell me what reform is.
It seems he will take anything to get a plan, so much anything that what the hell is the point?
Now all I hear about is Death Panels, Kill Grandma, Socialism, Guns, and wackos. What has any of this to do with Health Care? But, even he is talking about it., not a plan mind you but the opposition to a non-existing plan.
Posted by: Thinking | Aug 13, 2009 11:52:18 AM
***************
The reason Obama is focusing on all these external issues is because he DOES NOT have a relevant health care reform plan and as has been mentioned, Obama CONTINUES to lie!
BTW…..EXCELLENT POST!
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 11:54 am 11:54 am
Janice: Obama lied! OK? Feel superior now? It’s not like they all don’t do it! We put up with 8 years of lies and now 7 months in to President Obama’s administration you crybabies are already starting. Reminds me of the Clinton administration.
Posted by: get a life! | August 13, 2009, 11:58 am 11:58 am
The woman that questioned Specter on health care reform is now recieving death threats. This issue is spiraling out of control. And, Obama has done nothing but ADD to the confusion. Blue Dog Dems and other Dems are now pulling their support of Obama. Independents & Republicans are joining forces. The grassroots movement in increasing rapidly. The town hall meeting in my city is going to be on the 25th. Originally, there were 500 people signed up to go, now there are almost 3000 people going. They had to move the meeting. Obama BETTER wake up and LISTEN to America….we WILL NOT LET HIM DESTROY OUR COUNTRY!
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 11:58 am 11:58 am
I think Democrats badly misjudged where moderates and independents were as far as willingness to accept another massive change in how we live our everyday lives. The stock market and thus people’s 401ks tanked last fall and have yet to recover even a third, unemployment skyrocketed to over 9%, the huge run up in deficit spending from the bailouts and stimulus programs, the takeover of GM. Since October of last year, it just seemed as if all hell was breaking loose day after day and the administration did nothing to reassure the country. Crisis was the MO to get all these programs passed. The fear and uncertainty from all that is going on in the economy and people’s personal lives made one more massive change untenable made worse by both extremes but really to be called un American etc for asking questions and expressing those fears was repugnant. They badly misjudged the timing and tenor on this.
Posted by: bct | August 13, 2009, 11:58 am 11:58 am
JANICE
And the Republicans arent telling lies? PLUUZE! The Republicans are being good little Puppets for the Lobbisit and Insurance compaines telling lies spreading Mis-Information and putting the FEAR OF GOD In people, Especially the Elderly they are doing what their being PAID TO DO!!!
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 11:59 am 11:59 am
Just remember, BO said that the AARP back this healthcare bill…..Now who did you say was lying?
Posted by: Boxcar | August 13, 2009, 12:06 pm 12:06 pm
Not going to call you anything. I just wish you would realize that the opposition to Obama is not fabricated, its REAL! Saying our senior citizens, who are scared to death of this health care reform are being paid to protest! C’mon, thats not right, and you know, deep down, that is a lie. $500 billion being taken away from their medicare IS scary! I agree, we need to do something about health care, and I actually applaud Obama for trying to do so, but DON”T lie to Americans and think they are going to believe you when they know better.
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 12:09 pm 12:09 pm
Boxcar
For the millionth time, AARP supports healthcare reform, they are just not ready to endorse this bill until they know for sure Medicare, that taxpayer funded government program will not be cut.
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 12:11 pm 12:11 pm
Amy B Maine |Sorry Amy but the AARP’s offical statement is they have not endorsed any healthcare bill. BO said that they have…..Which part is incorrect?
Posted by: Boxcar | August 13, 2009, 12:18 pm 12:18 pm
Lisa- the “pile of crap” parts are what the republicans put in the bill!
Posted by: jake | August 13, 2009, 12:25 pm 12:25 pm
I have been parts of the bill also. Their are parts of it that can be taken to mean so many things. When they are brought forth to be discussed the first thing out of the diehard obamas fans mouths is “thats not its intent”. If so ,then it needs to be rewritten before it goes any farther. I got into a discussion on another board yesterday with someone that admits the bill has flaws but that we need to pass it right now and fix it later……insane.
Posted by: Boxcar | August 13, 2009, 12:27 pm 12:27 pm
jANICE
I am not saying the Protesters are being paid to protest some but not all but they are being lied to People are brainwashing them arousing their anger telling them their Medicare will be cut when that is a LIE! Death panels A LIE!!
socialized medicine A LIE!
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 12:32 pm 12:32 pm
Boxcar
AARP will not endorse any bills until they know that it will not effect Medicare, the government run, tax payer funded program for seniors. AARP is in favor of healthcare reform. AARP is a non-partisan group that wants to keep their reputation for not favoring Democrats. Is this too complicated for you to understand?
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 12:34 pm 12:34 pm
Jake: Who really cares who put what in the bill?
Posted by: Lisa | August 13, 2009, 12:37 pm 12:37 pm
Angie,
The common folk are not in favor of this mess. So you like the perfect
Lemming, resort to the talking points…
If it were not so sad, it would really be funny. You have the Presidency, Both houses of Congress, virtually every special interest group with a stake in this …
“As of last week, Obama allies were outspending Obama opponents two-to-one in the health-care ad wars, according to Evan Tracey of the Campaign Media Analysis Group. ”
ALL THIS, AND YOUR LOSING!!!!!!!
Yep, time to back to the time honored liberal prinicpals…
Posted by: Mike_C | August 13, 2009, 12:42 pm 12:42 pm
Good post, Mike_C !
Posted by: Timothy | August 13, 2009, 12:45 pm 12:45 pm
I hope none of these marxist democrats in congress get any breathing room at all if they continue to try and shove an UNWANTED healthcare system down our throats.
Posted by: BOstinks | August 13, 2009, 12:46 pm 12:46 pm
“Why did Obama lie about AARP in his town hall meeting?” He did not lie. AARP is a nonpartisan organization that fights specifically for seniors. If you go to their website, their CEO explains they cannot officially endorse the bill until they know for sure that Medicare, “on which seniors depend” will not be cut. Medicare, you know, that government run health insurance agency funded by tax dollars. The CEO goes on to say they support healthcare reform, they just need to know their seniors will still get all the taxpayer funded services they currently get.
Posted by: Amy B Maine
——————————–
WOW….this is good…
Next I suppose you will redefine “IS”….
Posted by: Mike_C | August 13, 2009, 12:52 pm 12:52 pm
When Bill Clinton said Barack Obama was a “fairytale” and was trounced for it, Democrats should have listened.
Posted by: SlickWilly | August 13, 2009, 1:08 pm 1:08 pm
Mike c
And dont worry Healthcare reform will get passed with or without Republican support. Like you say Democrats own the Goverment and the Only ones rejecting this are People of the Republican base!
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 1:08 pm 1:08 pm
Look – The “Health Care Issue” is not about health, it’s about obama securing control of the American system. As he said ” American traditions and history
must change, and will if I am elected”
What could be more important this very minute, than getting jobs created and people back to work? Now he needs “breathing room?” Sure we need health care – 80% of the people who voted for him are satisfied – We need jobs! than health care.
Anyone out there ever heard of “Tax investment credits?” They work. There are billions on $ of capital equipment that needs to be replaced, and most of it US manufactured. What difference would it make to use even 25% of the stimulas money as tax incentive, instead of political pay back?
WHY THE BIG RUSH?
Tell me where we are wrong to question US tax collections down 18% and a defict increase of who knows what.
obamas approval rating is now in the 40′s, and it got there basically because the “Trust and Confidence” factor. This is the real issue being expressed at the town hall meetings.
Posted by: ZK | August 13, 2009, 1:13 pm 1:13 pm
Amy…perhaps FACTS will refresh your liberal view of recent history.
Obama in Portsmouth:
“we have the AARP onboard because they know this is a good deal for our seniors.” He added, “AARP would not be endorsing a bill if it was undermining Medicare.”
Now, take off your liberally polarized glasses and actually read the words.
On board what? There is only ONE bill that has been voted on and passed any part of the congress (HR3200). He did not say AARP WILL not be endorsing a bill if it WILL undermining Medicare.”
He said “AARP would not be endorsing a bill if it was undermining Medicare.” … indicating past tense (i.e. having already happened)!!!
I realize that you & everyone else is now conditioned that this administration will say something, then come out with 24 hrs and deliver the now famous
“he meant….’
“she meant….”
“he was not implying…”
He SAID IT, if you want to play games abou the meaning, feel free to go right ahead. The rest of us will be here to bring you back to reality!
It is an even more stupid statement when you factor in an AARP spokeperson was on national TV the night before re-enforcing the fact they has NOT endorsed any bill !!!!
Posted by: Mike_C | August 13, 2009, 1:21 pm 1:21 pm
rightbehind; I believe most people have gotten your point by now.
Posted by: LongT | August 13, 2009, 1:23 pm 1:23 pm
You Right Wingers forget about the LIES Bush told ya, WMDS Maybe their under his desk pluuuze and you people fell for that BS
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 1:30 pm 1:30 pm
Mike C
You want to rant on and on about Obama Lying? but are you suggesting none of your Party people lie (Republicans)? Please they have been doing nothing but Lying since President Obama got Elected and some of the Lies are a little far fetched.
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 1:33 pm 1:33 pm
Angie – Bush is out and obama is in. He is the star “Hood winker” now. So is correct to say that obama is no better than bush?
Posted by: ZK | August 13, 2009, 1:35 pm 1:35 pm
EVER HAVE a salesperson come to your door and try to shove something down your throat before you had time to consider it ? That’s what we’re getting from Emperor O’Babble. All that is needed is cost reductions in healthcare, there is no need whatever to turn the best system in the world on its head. This is all just a baldfaced attempt for the government to take over another large portion of the U.S. economy and to take more of our freedoms away from us all.
Posted by: Ron | August 13, 2009, 1:39 pm 1:39 pm
ZK
Obama is way better then Bush wished he could be besides Bushes lies killed innocent people 1000s of them,Nearly Bankrupt this country so the answer to your question President Obama is way BETTER Then that sleazeball Bush ever was!
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 1:40 pm 1:40 pm
Hey all you people against healthcare reform…your premiums have gone up 3 times faster than your wages..just wait another year and another year…you might just be paying 50% MAYBE MORE OF YOU GET YOUR WAY..of your salary for health care…nice huh. After all, how will CEO STEPHEN HEMSLEY OF UNITED HEALTH CARE KEEP EARNING $102,000.00 PER HOUR (NO NOT A TYPO) UNLESS YOU PAY ‘EM THOSE WONDERFUL PREMIUMS FOR THE WONDERFUL SERVICE YOU GET FROM THE INS. COMPANIES…YOU GOTTA LOVE IT.
Posted by: mackie | August 13, 2009, 1:43 pm 1:43 pm
This administration and this democratic congress have nobody to blame but themselves. They have done nothing but alienate the American people with their arrogance and classification that if you are not with them you are a mob. These people have lost their mind. They had a chance to show the world the new Democratic Party but their own stupidity is getting in their way. Have these people ever been leaders or managers in the real world, probably not for long. Because in the real world you are held accountable for you actions and the workforce today doesn’t deal with idiots. President the buck stops with you, it is clear your actions (lack of leadership) are speaking louder than your words.
Posted by: shocktroop | August 13, 2009, 1:47 pm 1:47 pm
Gibbs is being destroyed by reporters because he is trying to defend Obama’s lies. The media has turned on Obama and are now getting the truth about him. FINALLY!
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 1:47 pm 1:47 pm
Angie -
Bush nearly bankrupted us —–
Obama most certianly has —-
Angie this is a great country, in that either of us can express our own personal opinions. If we were in sunny downtown havana you can bet we would get what their leader decrees.
Posted by: ZK | August 13, 2009, 1:50 pm 1:50 pm
Grassley is an embarrassment to Iowa..my State…I think he has a screw loose. Remember the twitter awhile back…Obama thinks he’s a hammer and were the “nails”, well Obama “I’m no nail”….wow, nutso.
He needs to get out his Medicare card and use it for some psych counseling… NOW!!!!…then retire on his mega subsidized farm ($225,000 I believe). You gotta love it people.
Posted by: mackie | August 13, 2009, 1:52 pm 1:52 pm
Why does Obama and the Democrats think that Americans are stupid? Gibbs is stammering all over the place in the press conference. He can’t even defend Obama’s health care reform. Why, because there’s NOT one!
Posted by: TiredOfTheRhetoric | August 13, 2009, 1:53 pm 1:53 pm
Mackie
Grassley as well as the whole Republican party are being good little Puppets for the Lobbisit,Healthcare Ceos,Healthcare company. He as well as the Party are doing what their being PAID to do Scare the Daylights out of the Elderly and kill Healthcare Reform.If no one can see this then I feel sorry for them!
Posted by: ANGIE IN PA | August 13, 2009, 1:56 pm 1:56 pm
Gibbs is sinking! Now avoiding questions! The media is running the Dems and Obama out of town! Wow, what a GREAT press conference!
Posted by: Janice | August 13, 2009, 1:59 pm 1:59 pm
TIRED OF THE RHETORIC…KEEP PAYING THE INS COMPANIES PREMIUMS,,WHEN YOU GET STUNG BY THEIR GREED AND DENIALS SO THAT CEO’S LIKE STEPHEN HEMSLEY, (‘MR. I MAKE $102,000 PER HOUR’) GREED MONGERS…AND IT WILL HAPPEN CUZ THEY DON’T GIVE A RATS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH…ITS ALL ABOUT PROFITS…PERIOD. WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND AND SOMEONE IN YOUR FAMILY WILL BE AFFECTED BY THEIR GREED. WAIT AND SEE.
Posted by: mackie | August 13, 2009, 1:59 pm 1:59 pm
First time in 2 yrs, Americans trust Republicans more than Democrats according to Rasmussen. Gibbs avoided answering questions, Obama’s numbers continue to plummet. This IS Obama’s Waterloo!
Posted by: Tim | August 13, 2009, 2:04 pm 2:04 pm
Obama is tanking!
Posted by: Alice | August 13, 2009, 2:05 pm 2:05 pm
Another fact about GRASSLEY…my nutso Senator….he TOOK 2,200,000 MILLION IN CAMPAIGN DONATIONS FROM….DRUM ROLL PLEASE…..THE HEALTH INDUSTRY!!!!!YOU GOTTA LOVE..OH YAH.
Posted by: mackie | August 13, 2009, 2:07 pm 2:07 pm
Hey Timmy…don’t think so dude. You can’t trust either party..they are corrupt and beholding to them wonderful lobbyists…not you and not me. you know thats true, don’t you Timmy.??
Posted by: mackie | August 13, 2009, 2:13 pm 2:13 pm
Mike_C, Boxcar, Janice Soprano
I’m glad to see you guys care so much what AARP thinks. You do know that AARP wants health care reform? You do know the one reason they are holding off endorsing this bill is because they want to make sure Medicare is not cut….
not because the bill will kill grandma, not because the bill will ration health care, not because health insurance companies may go out of business ….but because they want to make sure seniors get all the services they currently get in their government controlled, tax payer funded health care system. Get it now?
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 2:50 pm 2:50 pm
Everyone keeps saying that Obama is lying. I do not think he is. I think he honestly does not know what the hell he is doing. He does not know what is in the health bill, he does not what cap and trade will do and now the Marines have been ordered not to fire on any enemy that has women or children with them. This will cause deaths amoung our troops. Like I said he does not know what he is doing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: LEE | August 13, 2009, 2:58 pm 2:58 pm
Angie,
Good Try…This is NOT about Republican lies…
This is about Obama telling a bold face lie. If your going to use Republicans and there lies over the years to justify Obama’s, go right ahead. People from BOTH parties have lied, WE ALL KNOW THAT. GROW UP ALREADY!
Try to stay on topic, I know thats hard for you, but try! We are talking about the here & now, since you always get the facts wrong about that (I.e. your lack of knowledge that its the independents that turning the tide on this issue), you have very little credibility when it comes to the past.
Amy,
Yes, I am very very much aware of AARP’s position. My parents & In-laws are members. Guess what all 4 of them are life time Dems and extremely angry at the Dems & Obama. They have been since the bill first appeared. It was actually my father-in-law who emailed the link when it first appeared. He was the one who first brought up to me the FACT that this bill was not a healthcare plan at all but a very vague outline. All that before any “town halls”.
This is the thing you lemmings are missing completely! People who ordinarily just go ith the flow are looking at this one in detail. They do not like what they see, and they are voicing that fact.
Obama mis-fired again in Portsmouth. The AARP lie, the incredibly obvious plant of an 11 yr kid, Can you imagine the flaming out here if a Republican did that?
Posted by: Mike_C | August 13, 2009, 3:09 pm 3:09 pm
I don’t see a “Sleeping Giant” related to this matter that somehow the Democrats have enticed. I see the bitterness of a bunch of immature, reckless morons who only care about themselves. The last time I checked, Medicare and Medicaid were government run systems who is subsidized by tax dollars. Every excuse will be used to say no and yet in Los Angeles they are having a Medical Health Fair for thousands of people who cannot afford health insurance. By the thousands these folks have do not have coverage and yet you want to deny these AMERICANS this right? In the bowels of Hell there will be those who turn their back on their brother just because of they were poor!
Posted by: Anthony Ravenell | August 13, 2009, 3:48 pm 3:48 pm
Mike_C
The level of discussion about the health care reform bills in the media is about an inch deep.
I have been listening to dicussions on NPR’s Fresh Air among people who actually know what they are talking about, and it makes my head swim. This stuff ain’t easy.
Some people just want to resort to throwing up their hands, and sticking with the status quo: but, problem is, costs are rising and it’s affecting our entire economy, not to mention the people going bankrupt over medical bills. It would be helpful if the right would stop spreading rumors that reform means euthanasia, or government take over, or rationing. I can only think this is some people’s reaction to complexity: they just get scared and reject reform out of hand. I wish Obama would speak to the smarter people, who can handle complexity, but it looks like the White House has been distracted, trying to rebute the wild rumors. Sarah Palin is not helping. It’s very frustrating.
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 4:10 pm 4:10 pm
To the nutjobs that keep saying that the republicans are holding this bill up……uh, Both houses of Congress are TOTALLY controlled by the DEMOCRATS. Not ONE SINGLE VOTE of the republicans is needed to pass the bill. The DEMOCRATS can’t even stomach this bill to pass it……no pun intended.
Posted by: Boxcar | August 13, 2009, 4:22 pm 4:22 pm
amy,
As usual, your so quick to blame just one side, this is why you have ZERO credibility.
BOTH sides have extremist views! Can you actually say that or is your brain in such a liberal lock step that you simply cannot think for yourself?
From November until a few weeks ago, liberals were pratically orgasmic over the idea of owning the gov’t. You guys were constantly out here telling us how we were no longer relevant to the process.
Yet, with all that, you still screwed it up! you over reached and under promised. EVERYTHING was a crisis about to become a catastrophe. Little did you realize the real catastrophe was the path this administration was determined to follow.
“but, problem is, costs are rising and it’s affecting our entire economy, not to mention the people going bankrupt over medical bills.”
this adminstration’s wishful thinking is not going to solve it either.
Why are you not pushing for Tort Reform. Common sense tells everyone that Tort reform will help. Yet Obama wont even look in that direction.
Should we institute price controls in healthcare? The is no magical savings from a universal database. That is going to take years & billions to create and setup for everyday usage.
Obama has apparently gotten the Pharm Co.s to throw 80 Billion in, but no more. thats good, but what happens after that 80 is used up? Back to regular pricing ?
The American people have spkoen , they DO NOT want the system overhauled. They know changes need to made, but not the ones on the table right now.
Posted by: mike_C | August 13, 2009, 4:39 pm 4:39 pm
mike_C
“The American people have spkoen , they DO NOT want the system overhauled. ”
If all you watch is FOX News, that’s the impression you get.
The screamers and the liars and the rightwing pundits have kicked up a lot of dust, but its not entirely obscuring the rest of us: the smart people, the thoughtful people, the knowledgable people, The American Medical Association, The American Nurses Association and Catholic Charities USA and ME!
Posted by: Amy B Maine | August 13, 2009, 5:27 pm 5:27 pm
Amy B Maine | Aug 13, 2009 5:27:12 PM The screamers and the liars and the rightwing pundits have kicked up a lot of dust, but its not entirely obscuring the rest of us+++++ Those people are few and far between. Most have legit questions and concerns and are from both sides of the aisle but the media likes to focus on those few.
Posted by: Boxcar | August 13, 2009, 5:45 pm 5:45 pm
Amy B Maine | Aug 13, 2009 5:27:12 PM I watch ABC evening news and Good Morning America on ABC EVERY day.I also catch alittle Fox news in between to get another viewpoint. I can make up my own mind thank you very much.
Posted by: Boxcar | August 13, 2009, 5:48 pm 5:48 pm
By the way, James Carville….what a nutjob.
Posted by: Boxcar | August 13, 2009, 5:50 pm 5:50 pm
Today Gallup reports that 49% of Americans dissaprove of Obama’s handling of healthcare. Only 43% approve.
Posted by: Boxcar | August 13, 2009, 5:58 pm 5:58 pm
49% of Americans think walking from the parking lot into McDonald’s instead of using the drive through window counts as exercise. Doesn’t mean they aren’t still going to get heart attacks and die early.
Posted by: Amy | August 13, 2009, 9:45 pm 9:45 pm
The UHC bill that should be getting attention and isn’t is HR 676 the Expanded and Improved Medicare for All Act or the United States National Health Care Act written by Representative John Conyers a Dem in MI. Insurance companies and Pharma in the back room closed door deals they’ve had with the administration are shaping how those bills will effect our country and they will be the only ones to profit. HR 676 is the same type of Goverment run health care that people in the Senate/Congress have. If you want the same type of UHC they have, support HR 676 when it’s debated in the house in September.
Posted by: Baddawg00 | August 14, 2009, 7:13 am 7:13 am
Edit:Insurance companies and Pharma in the back room closed door deals they’ve had with the administration are shaping how those bills……should read…Insurance companies and Pharma in the back room closed door deals they’ve had with the administration regarding the 5 or so bills now being looked at in the media are shaping how those bills will effect our country and they will be the only ones to profit. .
Posted by: Baddawg00 | August 14, 2009, 7:16 am 7:16 am