Should Democrats go it alone on health care?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
President Obama and the Democrats may end up going it alone when it comes to health care reform. Democrats say they now see little chance of getting Republican support - and point to lawmakers like Senator Charles Grassley, who they say aren't serious about striking a deal.
Republican Sen. Charles Grassley of Iowa is negotiating bipartisan health care legislation.
The administration says it had hoped to get bipartisan backing - but it's looking less likely. Instead, they would have to get moderate and conservative Democrats on board.
Party leaders in the Senate may wind up using a tactic where they only need 51-votes to pass a health care bill... instead of 60. One Republican warns if the Democrats go this route - it would be "like a declaration of war."
Going it alone has pros and cons for the Democrats... It could mean crafting the bill they really want. For example, the public option, which the White House appeared to be abandoning this week, would likely be back on the table.
However, pushing legislation through without Republican support could also be risky, as the GOP might call it a power play and say they were merely opposing a bill that the public disliked. One recent poll shows nearly 60-percent of registered voters oppose passing a health care bill without bipartisan support.
But the White House doesn't seem too worried... one official tells CNN "If we have to push it through this way, no one is going to remember how messy it was... a win is a win."
Here’s my question to you: When it comes to health care reform, should the Democrats just go it alone?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Steve writes:
Absolutely! The Republicans never cared about health reform. The only thing they know about Benjamin Franklin is that he's on a hundred dollar bill. They're not going to vote for anything this president proposes, no matter how beneficial. This is all about destroying Obama's presidency, and unfortunately there are enough suckers in this country to do their dirty work.
Marilyn from Nashville, Tennessee writes:
Democrats should go it alone. The president has bent over backwards to include the Republicans. So far, the right has no plan, no platform, no strategy, no cooperation, no integrity and no truth - to say nothing of no concern for the citizens of this country.
JW from Atlanta writes:
No. If the package doesn't fly with bipartisan support, it should be postponed and rethought. The problem in health care is cost, and tort reform plus product pricing have to be addressed in a big way. We can't afford any political shenanigans on this matter. Best to cool down and try again later.
Bobby from Smyrna, Georgia writes:
The president and the Democratic-controlled House and Senate have no choice. Republicans never intended to help reform health care. After all, what did the Republicans do about health care reform when they controlled the White House and both chambers of Congress from 2001-2006? Absolutely nothing.
Rich in New Jersey writes:
Jack, I used to be a Republican, but no more. Think about the title "health care reform." How can that be bad? My wife and I have our own small business. Our medical insurance premiums are $14,000 a year. Between co-pays and a high deductible, figure $20,000 a year. The Republicans were Country First. What happened to that?
Frankie writes:
Bipartisan support has become a luxury, while health care reform is an urgently needed necessity.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Yes, yes, yes. The Republicans care nothing about doing whats good for this country. Their only concern is to make sure our country's president fails and if the country foes with him they don't care as long as they win against him. Terrible!
The democrats must go it alone. The Republicans are driving this policy debate, and their policies have been squarely defeated. The public opinion has not changed so much in the last 6 months that Republicans should be dictating what the policy is. The bottom line is that the public option is an incredible compromise, and the Republicans won't vote for anything that challenges the status quo anyways. Get it done.
Yes, its obious that the conservative based group is as selfish and racist as its always been ,this group will not have the exceptance for changeat all. The republican are afraid that this president plan
for the country is a good one, and they have been lying to the people
for the past 8 yrs.and will be held acountable for their decision.
kevin CA.
The GOP has no desire to see any Health Care Reform...They are the party of the status quo, they receive millions of dollars from special interests, Insurance Companies and are more concerned with A. Seeing Obama fail (Waterloo Comment) and B Preventing a "transfer of wealth...The GOP would rather a poor person die than spend a dime of "tax payer" money to save them...
So far the "bipartisanship" reminds me of Peanuts with Grassley holding the football and Baucus trying to kick it
I truly believe the republican party never had the intent on being bipartisan and never actually wanted to reform or gather a solution for the health care crisis in america. During the last couple of weeks all I have heard were lies and distortions about the bill the democrats proposed. I have'nt heard any ideas or any alternative solutions from the republican party. I honestly feel the republican party would rather see the President of the United States fail then see poor, sic and elderly americans without healthcare enjoy the benefit of having health care. I think democratic party has presented more than enough effort for bipartisanship, and I also think If the republican party put up the same amount of effort into being bipartisan as they have in spreading lies and stirring up the american people then I think we would have a bill already! So with this being said I think the democrats should do this thing by themselves.
Either way it wont work. It can't. It's far too Big..
Yep, why not? I believe in the end that the out there, either left or right democrats will come togethre just enough to do the right thing.
Health care is the single most difficult problem to solve that his country has ever faced. No other single system has so many lobbyists and money people vying for the influence of any person in government. That's why it's never worked before.
This time they should just shoot for the moon and take their chances. Hell, maybe it wil actually work.
Anything proposed by the GOP will be ridiculed and ignored anyway. Let them pass it and own it completely. They think people across our land are angry now – just wait!!
The Democrats should have to do it alone. That way they can reap the wrath of the American people at the next election.
They have to know that spending that much money during a recession is not good policy. Yet, it doesn't matter to them because they feel the worse the economy gets, the more the people will look to Washington for help. This will backfire on them during the next election
How many republicans voted with F.D.R. on social sec? None how many on medicare? one go it alone on healthcare--– hell yes
When you have had to live for twenty of the last twenty-four years without being able to afford to pay for health insurance if you were going to afford to pay rent and buy groceries, then you probably would be saying 'push it through'. I know I am.
You'll probably have to CLOSE COMMENTS for this one, Jack. I don't think you'll be able to sift all of the REAL comments out of this one – like you usually do. THIS is a REAL issue – and it affects more that illegals, and minority groups. It affects the whole country. I thought this president was looking to bring our country together – NOT divide it and create a revolution. Sure seems like this administration is hell bent on dividing the masses. SAD... very, very SAD.
If the "Do Nothing GOP" continue their "Do Nothing Ways", the Democrats might as well go at it alone, and let the war begin.
Hello Jack,
Do you think the american people voted for fun when they put the democrats in the majority?it's for a time like this and if they (democrats) miss this opportunity,they should just kiss their ass goodbye from their seat in the next cycle.
I wake up almost every day and start listening to the news. I want to cry. How did we get here? Our children will never know what a wonderful country this used to be. I blame lawyers and politicians for the terrible shape this country is in. Lawyers will sue anybody for anything if there is a dollar in it for them. Politicians are so into themselves and their power that they no longer care what the people have to say. They each have their own agendas and too bad what is best for the country. That doesn't matter anymore. I think they should all be voted out of office and replaced and definitely we should have term limits. God bless this country--we are going to need it!
I thought they were going it alone.
Democrats have been alone since Jan. 20th. The desires of Republicans is "to see the President Fail". The objective of Republicans now is to make Health Care President Obama's "Waterloo". I understand that the President wants support from Republicans but I get the impression they may not be mentally developed beyond the stages of all out war against countries that do not shake in their boots at the sight of the approaching US.
I guess we're putting the economy on the backburner, huh? Health care reform is only an issue because Obama says it is.
Go it alone, you say??????? They are voting for EVERY PERSON WHO VOTED FOR OBAMA....hardly alone by any standards!
Absolutely! Dems should go at health care alone. Whenever the Republicans are in power, they could care less about reaching out to Democrats. It's time the Dems recognize why they were elected and get about the business at hand, reforming our health care system & including a public option. And the media should be ashamed of themselves, always showing the health care detractors and not reporting on any displays of support.
Apppeasement of the enemy never has and never will work. The GOP is the enemy of the
Kathleen, Oregon:
Well playing nicely with others is always the best policy, however, sometimes the others refuse to play. Some of the tactics being used by the oposition, whom ever they may be, amount to not playing. Screaming at me and calling me a Nazi, obliterates any possibility of a civil discussion. The Democrates may be left with no choice, but to go it alone. We will have to see. The Republicans may come around and decide to participate in a civil discussion, once they see that a bill will be passed without their input. Being left out goes against the very nature of a politician.
It's a two party system and two parties should be involved.
Yes, Jack. The democrats should simply ignore the republicans just
like during the primaries.
I'll tell you one thing Jack, Barney Frank sure knew how to handle the
heathens at his town hall meetings. He was tossing it back as fast
as they could dish it out.
Polly, Virginia
YES! The healthcare mobs and the republicans have once again shown that not only are they misinformed (or lying) but that it's all about "getting their country back" because "one of them" is now our President.
I will never understand how this went from healthcare to the right to bear arms.
All the Democratic politicians should take a look at Frank's townhall meeting and go after these people who just come to scream without knowing what a socialist is.
Yes, and if were the Republicans who wanted to do the same I would also say yes. I'm tired of this bi partisan crap already. All it suceeds in doing is throwing a wrench in the gears.
They disagree with each other most of the time only because they can. You heard them Jack, it would be "like a declaration of war". Its a tug of war between two dogs with a rag in thier mouth.
They don't know why they are pulling against each other, they only know they are supposed to.
Jack if the republican cry babies don't want to get on board, push it through anyhow, who needs them anyhow, there just obstructionests anyhow, they will pay in 2010 trust me on that one.
It's clear that the Republicans and conservative Democrats just don't understand that affordable universal health care is much more important than profits for insurance companies.
Regardless of what the polls say and the American people 'think' they want, it is time for Democrats to stand up and lead the poor and discriminated to the health care they deserve.
Curtis
Udall, KS
I'm confused, I thought they were going it alone!
Continuing to expect Republican Congressional officials to lend substantive support that is not in their 2012 and 2016 electoral interests is an insane pursuit. Many times already, the GOP has played their true hand of delay, distract, distort and deny until they have effectively diminished the Democratic majority's efforts. It is page 1 out of their two-page political playbook of politricks. Page 2: Blame any failures of consensus or progress on the Democrats. It is time to end this wondering waltz of appeasement. Move on Mr. President, and lead.
I voted for Universal Health Care! I wish the Democrats would take a page out of GW's book and steamroll that baby through and worry about the consequences later. After all, it won GW a second term.
Jack, I don’t see why not. It’s quite obvious Republicans are not interested in a bipartisan agreement. When you have to get something done do it yourself. Republicans are bad interested in making the Democrats look bad than helping the American people. However, what they fail to realise is that they were make to look like complete idiots the previous eight years. Why should the American people pay attention to a leaderless entity that obviously doesn’t have their best interest at heart? Why should the American take their cue from a party that just sits on its hands when it comes to health care reform? The world would be better place without Republicans.
David M
Castries
St. Lucia
Jack, I say to the president, "Damn it, just do it." Bob CT
Damn right, Jack. Shame on the bullies who tried to turn this conversation away from what it was – how to help everyone who is not 65 or older. They have Medicare. The rest of us, their kids and grandkids, are not so lucky!
Yes because the just say no party,is gonna do that,JUST SAY NO
They do so at their own peril.
Yes, if the Republicans will not get on board then the Democrats should do health care alone.
Sorry, I meant NOT our President not NOW – god forbid
YES! The healthcare mobs and the republicans have once again shown that not only are they misinformed (or lying) but that it’s all about “getting their country back” because “one of them” is not our President.
I will never understand how this went from healthcare to the right to bear arms.
All the Democratic politicians should take a look at Frank’s townhall meeting and go after these people who just come to scream without knowing what a socialist is.
. Jack,
In the past I was a true Democrat, not anymore, the Democrats are just as Stupid and Greedy as the Republicans. Both parties never listen to the people, they do what will benifit themselves and to hell with the rest of the people. I’am really sick to death of both parties. It’s time for term limits and a third party.
Carl in Illinois
Jack, If the Democrats feel so compelled to go it alone, then they had better not impose a tax increase on this Republican. I will be working hard to unseat every Democrat that I can in 2010 and every election afterwards.
The Democrats should go it alone and forget about the Republicans ever making the slightests attempt at a bipartisan solution. If the Reublicans want to hold their breaths and stomp their feet, let them. In the meantime, there is a lot of work to be done on the Hill, not the least of which is fixing healthcare.
The democrats should go it alone. Republicans have shown that they are not interested in compromise. Their objective seems to be to weaken Obama for their own political gain. Health insurance reform is far too important to let the nay sayers win on this.
I think the Democrats have already been going it alone. It has just taken this long for President Obama to figure it out. I have to give him credit for trying but it takes two to tango and the Republicans just don't want to dance. Thus we either continue the gridlock or the Democrats actually get something done by going it alone. I voted for action not gridlock so you know where I am on this.
It should not be passed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely. The GOP clearly has no intention of putting forth any effort to change the status quo because they profit far too much off of the greed and avarice from the for-profit health care industry. However, getting the Democratic party to tow the line is like herding cats; the only thing I admire about the GOP is their ability to organize their party and their messages, regardless of whether or not it's based on fact or fiction.
Of course, Republicans moned and whined and changed the initial stimulus bill and made over 300 billion in changes to it to finally all voting against it.
Ever since Obama became President, Republicans showed little to no sign of working together with the Democrats. They never showed support or help, and probably never will. It was no surprise to me. I say the Democrats should go on this reform alone, because all Republicans want to do is argue and waste time in getting what's needed done immediately.
Absolutely Jack! I am glad to see Obama finally standing up to the Republicans. I do not care if the Democrats lose the House and the Senate and if Obama is not re-elected, health care reform is the right thing to do. It is so refreshing to finally see a President that will do what is right not looking at polls and focus groups. We have a President who stands on principle!
Of course Jack, if the kids don't want to play nice then send them home. We play better together on our own, without all the childist games.
We need healthcare reform with or without the republicans.
Damn right Democrats should 'go it alone' if thats what it takes. The Grand Obstructionist Party isn't serious – all they want to do is protect the Insurance Industry. Gop's have never cared about the working people or the poor – they stand for profit above all. We don't need them but we do need health care reform.
Yes the dems should go it alone, thats why they were given a majority to do so. It was NO secret that Obama wanted to reform healthcare, and that he prefered a single payer system, he still won by a large majority and given the house and senate to get it done... so just get it done.
I honestly think that the Democrats need to fight the Republicans on this. These "new" polls coming out are nothing more than more fascist GOP lies funded by the healthcare industry to shut down Obama's effort to bring relief to those who do not have any. I am sick and tired of this tug of war going on between both parties. There are more democrats and they need to unite and use their numbers to bring better healthcare to this country. The GOP used their numbers the last 8 years and ignored "the voice of the people". They continue to use the same fear tactics that they did during 9/11 and the lead up to the war in Iraq. It is time that America woke up and realized that the true enemy of the people are the GOP!
If the democrats have to go it alone, than they should. It is not a declaration of war, they are doing what needs to be done for the un-insured. When some of the republican party is more concerned with not passing a bill so that it will "break him" (Obama), than with lives of the American people, it is time to show the weight of the party. It's not about payback, but the republicans sure threw their weight around when Bush was in office.
The Democrats clearly won the election with a mandate. However, just as in the Republican party, there are elements within that seek balance. The Blue Dog Democrats are the only hope that Obama and the liberal lef off the party will be reigned in and will reduce the chance of a piece of bread buying a bag of gold once our dollar goes even more in the toilet from out of conrol spending.
Jack, it's for the greater good. A win is truly a win; nevermind the mobs that scream false information. Obama was elected to bring about change. It's time he began what he said he would.
If the Republicans consider reconciliation "a declaration of war," remember: they precipitated this situation, they are all mouth and no conscience or brain.
YES Democrats just go it alone? we need something done now!
Jack i don't know where you get your poll info, cause everyone i talk to agrees with the administration, we need it and we need it now, actually yesterday.
Jack,
YES! The "rethuglicans" were never shy about this sort of thing dating back to when Regan held sway for eight years and again, when they had both houses during the Clinton Administration. I say to Pelosi and Co. shove it to the "rethuglicans" and when they scream about it, remind them they have 16 years of it coming.
Yes. America needs this reform. The Republicans are still practicing the same nasty, hatred-filled politics of old.
If the Democrats do decide to go it alone they will own this bill and have no political cover. The American citizens oppose this bill in poll after poll, and if they push it through anyway they will lose trust and the midterm elections and Obama's popularity will nosedive.
Absolutely – if the republicans are going to continue to be so pig-headed about it – just ram it thru. The republicans insist they are such Christian people – how can they turn their back on the poor and uninsured. Raise my taxes if need be – let's just get it done!
No, the Democrats should NOT go it alone. With the polls saying a majority of Americans are against the House bills, this will come back to haunt them.
The ONLY word the Republicans Know, is "NO"!
So the HELL with them!
Go it ALONE Democrats!
Nick. N.
Pasadena. CA.
The Democrats don't need to go this alone. The Republicans that oppose this bill need to make some constructive criticism and the bill needs to be redone so that everyone is happy. We all agree we need healthcare reform so it shouldn't be that hard to agree on what is not presently working and what we think will work. If the Republicans can only say "NO" without a reason, then the Democrats should say "YES" without a reason.
Yes. It is evident now that the Republicans will vote against anything that comes out, regardless of how many concessions the Democrats make. First, they wanted the Co-ops, and now even those are being called "socialized medicine" by some Republicans. Passing this bill without the Republicans will effectively cancel out all of the misinformation that is being put out by right-wing pundits and some Republican politicians.
They already are. The Repubs wont accept the plan even without the pubic option. They are not compromising, due to their large bribes from pharmaceutical and insurance lobbyists, so it is a futile effort to attempt bipartisan efforts. Americans voted for a Democratic majority and therefore the Democratic agenda will override. If the Repubs acted like adults, instead of acting like 3 year olds by throwing tantrums at town halls, lying, and calling people names, we would care more about their ideas, or lack thereof.
Tucson, AZ
Absolutely. That's why the American public put them in office last fall. Let's get on with it, including a public option, of course.
Whynot? Republicans will never be a party to bi-partisanship'
The republicans declared that the democrats were losers if they did not get a health care plan passed. Now they continue to do everything to kill any and every part of any plan. The democrats should do what is best for the country and forget politics. I hope they pass the best plan they can craft, with or without a republican vote.
Nothing like jamming a bad health plan on everybody as the Dems want to do. It affects all Americans (except the Congress) and should be a good bill, not just a health bill so that Obama said he got one through. This is the United States, not Russia or some other dictatorship.
Leave those obstinate Republicans behind! They offer no ideas, just criticism and watching their own wallets. They are selfish and evil.
We asked for change and we got it....time for us all to stand behind President Obama and CHANGE the insurance companies underhanded way of doing business. Pre-exist this!
Absolutely! the republicans have done nothing but try to undermine the success of ANY form of health care reform. The fear tactics they have used insult the average American's intelligence. Health insurance companies have been pillaging American's pocket books for years now and it seems the republicans expect us to feel sorry for them. I say go for it, Obama!
No, the Democrats need the support of Republicans to avoid an all out protest by the American citizenry. If there is no compromise, there will be demonstrations and a price to pay in the November polls. If they try to push this as a Lame Duck bill, people will revolt.
Go it alone? That is loaded language. How about asking, should the Democrats go FORWARD when their Republican colleagues refuse to go along and stay back promoting the status quo? Hell yes they should go forward for the American people.
Yes they should go it alone. This is why they were elected. Ignore the party of "No". They also opposed cash for Clunkers and it is working brillantly. We need reform now.
No. If the Dems go it alone on health care reform, they can count on losing the next two elections. they will lose my votes, for sure. The Dems and Pres. Obama are moving WAY too fast on this issue. Health care needs reform, but in a thoughtful and meaningful manner. Not this "you'll like it, or else" mentality that they are operating on now. that's how we get into financial trouble. Just look at California!
one word: YES
I definitely believe the Dems should go it alone! We voted for reform and voted the Dems into office in record numbers! The Republicans had 8 years and did nothing. They have no real ideas and have no intention of passing healthcare reform of any kind! It's time to say NO to scare tactics and ridiculous schemes such as comparing President Obama to Hitler. If the republicans had any real ideas they wouldn't have to resort to lies and bullying town hall meetings to get their point across! We've given them enough time to get on board – now it's time to say so long and do what needs to be done! 50 million people have no healthcare and that's the number that matters! Republicans believe only the rich have the right to good healthcare! Maybe they should give up their healthcare and try making it like the rest of us do. If any one of them would like to see my healthcare premiums and prescription copays and live on my income – I'll gladly switch places! they wouldn't make it one month!
Absolutely. The Republicans are tools of the insurance industry. And 48 million Americans deserve health care. The Republicans are nothing but rich, white, fat cats. And the Democrats were voted in to change health care
to me its very simple its a lose/lose for the democrats-no matter what-–i think the GOP will gain CONGRESS back in 2010–thanks
Absolutely!!!!!! Push it through.and certainly with the public option! .Did you say it would mean WAR with the Republicans? They are already dead. The people will love the new health plan once they know what it will mean in their lives.
Yes. Look, I understand the desire for bi-partisanship, I really do, but it’s hard to reach across the aisle in a spirit of bi-partisanship when the folks on the other side are ideologically constipated, intellectually dishonest, devoid of ideas, policies or solutions and heavily invested in seeing you fail. Sometimes you just have to lead.
What do you expect us democrats to do Jack?
When republicans declare that they WANT OBAMA TO FAIL.
It has been war since 2001 . We democrats HATE THE REPUBLICANS..AND IT IS ALL OUT WAR! I for one am totally ready
for combat on the streets even.
we democrats are READY do you get it???? bring them on!
kerry
alabama
Democrats pushed through Social security in 1933 and they pushed through Medicare.in a965.no one seems to be complaining about this. or maybe all the messy stuff was forgotten when it proved to be a benefit to all Americans.
Yes. I remember an old saying from my childhood. That is "the republicans are for the corporate good while the democrats are for the individual good."
Yes. Otherwise it will just be the same never ending fight and nothing will get done. Do it the way they want it and take full resonsibility for it. And in the end they will get hte credit for a job done, for better or worse, at least something will be done about the subject that causes under reported financial and social stress on the entire country. We are paying for the health care issue in so many ways anyway, nothing can be worse than it is now, even if it isn't perfect. We can always tweek it over the years ahead.
The Democrats control congress and this is their one chance to do something good for the American peopleThey should go it alone because if the shoe was on the other foot, you can bet the GOP would do likewise.It would send a message to big business, telling them to get to hell out of politics
Absolutely, republicans have never been interested in improving the healthcare system and will only do what they can to keep the system as is. Majority of people opposing this effort are not informed about the details and just buying what the talk shows are feeding them. The public option is a must.
I'm tired of all the distractions and un-truths being waged by the Insurance Industry and their Republican allies. It's simple. The US ranks 37th in the world for Health Care to its citizens (below Costa Rica). We also pay the highest cost for Health Care in the World. That is unacceptable for the most powerful and richest nation on the globe.
Something must be done now. The costs will continue to rise out of proportion with the cost of living if we do not fix the system right now. We have excellent models around the world that definitely show Heath Care is better and is less expensive when there is a Public Option to keep the greed down at the Insurance and administrative providers levels.
Congress, find one of the models that best fits our requirements. If the Republicans and "blue dogs" refuse to come onboard, then go around them. Pass the legislation without their support and we will deal with them at the polls in the next elections.
Dems, we voted you in to deliver on reforming the Health Care system. Grow a set .. pass Reform now including the Public Option or face the voters the next time out! Rick-in-Tampa
It's absolutly ridiculous that the democratic party would even dream of doing such a thing. Congress represents all of america, not just the democrats. Both parties should decide the fate of America's health care.
Dear Mr Cafferty,
I have been watching the health care issue for a long while now, i do not think it is such a bad idea for a public health care system. You know Mr Obama could have done what george bush did for most of his time in office and just pass new things "without" letting the public know about it at least mr obama has the respect and decency to inform the american people about anything that is going on in office.
When it comes to health care if its not going to effect your current policy and or insurance carrier why even worry about it? When there is millions of american's who cannot afford insurance and it would be a blessing to many people to have a public health care system.
Respectfully
Matthew Nalett
Chicago Illinois
Chicago Music Promotions
YES, we voted for hope and change. Now is the time to turn away from bullies, hate and fear-mongering. Those folks were never interested in real reform.
Yes...they should go it alone. The public option needs to be passed over the protest of politicians who appear to be in the pocket of the interests who will be injured by legitamate reform. Let the politcal chips fall where they may. Real social progress is made in just this way.
Vero Beach, FL
If the Republicans will not cooperate in the reform of health insurance then they will have conceded their right to complain and the Democrats will , hopefully, govern - which is what they were elected to do. Remember, elections do have consequences. And the President and the majority in the Senate should inform the Blue Dogs that if they do not vote for the "Public Option" they don't have a prayer in getting anything of their own passed - ever.
Going alone is the only way !
Republicans know they have nothing to gain from success of this bill, politically. A stamp of bipartisan support would only shine more light on Obama.
Even if some of them agree with the need of the reform, I don't see why they would support it. There are always good excuses to walk away from this bill.
-Manjeet Singh
Tulsa, OK
Yes, the democrats should proceed without the republicans! The bill could contain the promise of utopia and the fountain of youth for all Americans, the content is irrelevant, regardless of what the bill contains, republicans PRE-decided that they would not vote with the president or for the benefit of the American people! They should hang their heads in shame – they took an oath to serve their constituents, yet they have decided to serve their own best interests, particularly the mid-term elections – why can't ANYONE besides Kucinich or Sanders stand up for the average American!!!
I don't want them to go at it alone but the Republicans seem to want it to go that way so I say, let's cram it Down their throats. After all, they did the same thing to the Dems and nobody remembers that. Obama's right
Yes. I don't trust those polls. What REALLY happened was President Obama was elected as our leader by a majority – a majority who knew what his priorities were. Where are all those people? Not answering polls apparently. Or not getting the attention of their representatives in Washington.
Absolutely, Jack. The republicans only objective is to stop reform and damage a popular democratic president. It will be amusing to watch them decry the 'partisan' democratic bill when they gave no quarter in the majority as they nearly ruined our country.
The Democrats absolutely should go it alone and the bill should contain a public option as the president originally during the campaign said he wanted. How many times will Republicans insult the president by withdrawing their hand when he wants to shake it? There are times in history when compromise is NOT an option. This is such a time. President Obama, take the ball and run with it. There may be no other opportunity quite as good as this one to do it! Lives are at stake!
It doesnt matter if the Democrats go it alone to create a health care program. Whatever can be done to save a human life from illness and death is good in my book!
Margate NJ
Absolutely! Forgetabout the "Reds"....onward and upward!
Absolutely! The President's plan from the beginning has included ideas that will absolutely lead to better care and coverage for all Americans. I think it should be clear that the best interests of the American public cries out for the Democrats to move forward on this post haste. The experience of such a new program once in place will change the complection of the public and 95% of people will look back and praise Democrats for the move.
Think about it. Bush did this same sort of thing for eight years and nobody seemed to care.. We now know that all those things he pushed turned out badly for the most part. This change will turn out good.
Time for my President and the Democrats to LEAD.
Charles in WNY
It's about time they did. The Republicans have demonstrated over and over that they're not interested in anything besides tearing down the Obama administration by yelling "Socialism!". Good riddance to the Party of No.
Jack, option A. is to have it pass by partisan but if it seems impossible if not difficulty,then, option B. the Dems should go it alone because if it doesn't pass this time chances are it will never be pass in my life time.
Va.
As the saying goes: It takes two to tango! The President has gone out of his way to try and work with Republicans but you can't get blood from a rock and the way the Republicans are acting – they may as well be rocks...they just won't budge and refuse to work with the President in any way.
When he was elected, part of his platform was to revamp healthcare – he is letting all of us down if he does not get that done. Therefore, if the Republicans don't want to play nicely, the Democrats have to go it alone. That's the nature of the beast...and these days, the beast seems to be the Republican party.
Yes the Democrats should go it alone if the Republicans aren't going to help come up with a plan that everyone can agree on. What is the problem with a public option? It doesn't seem very Christian to me to turn our backs on those who need our help. I thought the Republicans were the moral/Christian party.
Yes. Why not? – Republican have been in a constant war against Democrats so what's the difference?
As you've mentioned, there hasn't been much of bi-partisanship as it is now and we need Real Reform now.
Republicans want the status-quo, I have no problems leaving them behind in this issue. The American People will judge them for what they are.
Yes the democrats should go it alone. If that's what it takes to pass health care reform faster, then they should forget that republicans even existed. Matter of fact, wipe out the republicans completely, what good have they done for this country in the past 8 years? Nothing! Obama all the way!
Yes! A similar bill was proposed four years ago and the republicans that are voting against the bill voted for it back then. These Republicans are doing everything in their power to ensure that Obama's presidency is a failure. The president should fight fire with fire and show them that he can be a success with or without them! The bill does not take away private health care, it simply gives the less fortunate the option of having public health care so that they may have access to the quality health care they can not afford through private companies.
The GOP during the Bush years brought this economy to ruin and so voters put them in the back seat where they belong. Now they cry foul because the democrats the voters elected are deciding to tell them to go stuff it. . We want good, reliable, reasonably priced health care and if the insurance companies and their GOP supporters don't like it they can go stuff it also.
the last administration went it alone for the most part and walked away from the white house while it was on fire they made no effort whatsoever to pass legislation that mattered or dident involve invading another country.
the partisenship that's preventing positive change should be pushed aside so healthcare reform can become a reality and in my opinion if the republican party isent on board the hell with them.
pass the damn bill.
george
chester,ct.
Republicans are so afraid there beloved insurance companies might lose a dime or two!!!!!
When it's all over people will be forever grateful and wonder what
all the fuss was about??
Go for it Democrats,go go go!
They don't have a choice. The Republicans have demonstrated that they have no interest in co-operation. Their idea of bipartisanship is getting their own way - even whn they lose the election. Unfortunately, it has taken President Obama too long to realize this.
YES, we need a health care reform. Yes, the Democrats should do it alone, if the Republicans do not agree. THey are mad little boys because they lost last November. Everyone should have access to affordable health care and at the same time, I want to have the option to die with dignity.
Go ahead Democrats.
Ruth Orange, Va
It's so hard to understand this culture of fear and paranoia that appears to have gripped some members of the electorate on the issue of health care reform. The naysayers have resorted to making even more dishonorable attempts to swift boat this legislation than the swiftboaters themselves.
If we are no longer able to have a civil discourse on the matter, then I hope the Democrats do whatever it takes to change an absolutely dreadful health care system.
The President and the Democrats absolutely SHOULD NOT try to push the health plan through without Republican support This is just another example of this Administration pushing more Government control on all of us.
Definately -Obama has tried and given up several things Republican said they wanted and they still are saying no! No matter what else he would give up they would still vote no! They don't care about people who need health care they just want the President to fail. Health Industry lobbyists and their money doesn't help either.
yes,yes and yes Jack it a old saying when you have done all you can for co-op damit it time to go alone
I believe that the Democrats not only should go it alone, but have to. The Republicans don't want a 'bi-partisan' plan, they want what their insurance company lobbyists paymasters want, a continuation of the status quo. I think this is the greatest country in the history of the world, and its citizens deserve to reap the benefits of said greatness.
Democrats should obsoletely go it alone if they have to! They were elected to make change not friends.
Scott K From San Francisco
Yes they should Jack and here's why;
The Republicans have done nothing but piss and moan about "death panels" and "government take over" of health care. When is this nonsense going to end and things going to get fixed in that country?
I'm sick of hearing the CPR and others spew lies about the single-payer system. It works fine for us in Canada, with the only real problem being a shortage of doctors and equipment (thus the long waits you hear so much about. It's not the system it's the lack of funding!) The U.S. is ranked 37 in health care by the W.H.O. and is the richest nation in the world.
Obama should just do what he has to get things done, because it's pretty evident by now that the Republicans and even members of his own party are simply in it for themselves.
Of course he should go it alone.
The republicans will never get on board. They're doing the same thing they did to stop medicaire and social security...and who remembers that?
It's too bad that Obama's attempts at bi partisanship are being rejected, but so be it. I'd say "this train is leaving the station...either get on or stay behind"
Hi Jack,
I believe if the Democrats were elected in the Presidency and Congress, then they should push the Health Care Act. You can never make everyone happy! American history has shown that Americans tend to want change, but when confronted with it, they try to stop it in its tracks. Just like Social Security, Women's Rights, etc. The worse senario would be that everyone in our country has Health Care and what would be wrong with that?
Ann-Marie Clements (former New Yorker that moved to Canada 5 yrs ago)
Jack why cant we just have a nation wide yes or no vote and actualy let the people of America make the desicion .
The policy is more important than who supports it. As the commander in chief, you have to move your policies along with or without bipartisanship. If you can accomplish bipartisanship some of the time, that is moving in the right direction. Ultimately, the president's legacy will be determined by the policies he implemented and not the ratio of democrats to republicans
Yes.
Since Obama became President, the GOP has become the Grand Old Poopers; the party of "No!". Not offering alternative ideas, instead poo-poo-ing any ideas the Dems come up with. At some point, the Dems just need to do what they need to do.
Yes, the democrats should go it alone if they want health care reform. The vast majority of republicans have made it very clear that they are just raising "stall" objections, hoping to kill any real bill. They will never vote for any decent bill, just, maybe, a watered down unworklable republican plan. No republican "plan" has cost reduction measures in it, and without that, no plan will work. The public option is essential and democrats should not abandon it.
Nancy
Edmond, OK
Absolutely Jack its not like this tactic hasn't been used by republicans. During the Bush years the republicans used reconciliation and it eventually blew over. The American people told the GOP on November 4th to sit down and shut up I think its time for the democrats to take a chance and put in a policy that is completely theirs so either they can take all of the credit or all of the blame.
Jack:
If the Democrats go it alone on health care and force a bill on us the public largely opposes, they may find the loss of congressional seats in 2010 not worth the price. However, if they are able to pull off this scam, they may not care.
Go it alone, there is not other way, the conservatives will keep everyone in the dinner drinking coffee and talking until it is defeated, stall, divide and conquer. Offer amendments, play along some, but not one commitment of support. They don't want any health reform bill, nor universal health care, this is the slow bleed that will get them what they want, to kill any health care package.
Hi Jack: Very much enjoy your part in the discussions – honest and forthright!! I live in Saskatchewan/Canada and watch a lot of CNN. I have become increasingly frustrated with the debate on health care. What are you people afraid of!!!! We had this debate back in 1962!! We don't have to become bankrupt if we suffer from health problems. Yes, we have wait times but overall the health care is working for us. Get with the program people – it's a GOOD THING!!!!!
Scottsdale, AZ
Yes, the democrats should proceed without the republicans! The bill could contain the promise of utopia and the fountain of youth for all Americans, the content is irrelevant, regardless of what the bill contains, republicans PRE-decided that they would not vote with the president or for the benefit of the American people! They should hang their heads in shame – they took an oath to serve their constituents, yet they have decided to serve their own best interests, particularly the mid-term elections – why can't ANYONE besides Kucinich or Sanders stand up for the average American!!!
Of course, the democrats should go it alone. They have attempted to reach across the aisle to no avail. Republicans have forgotten that they have nothing to show for their eight years in power; and are trying to derail Obama's agenda as the next senate and representative elections are nearing.
People are not stupid. Republicans have forgotten that the most perfidious way of harming a cause consists of defending it deliberately with faulty arguments, as Nietsche apty wrote.
Jack,
Here's the problem for Americans. Neither the Democrats nor Republicans have anything to worry about because by the time this goes into effect, no one will remember who was in office during the actual vote. The Democrats don't really care about covering the uninsured or they would try to make implementation happen faster. The Republicans don't care either because they are just worried about gaining seats back in 2010. It's up to us Americans to put the focus on the real issue with Health Care Reform. "Health" and "Care" Reform. Why is no one talking about making Americans healthier??? This is the real reason for skyrocketing costs and will continue to be until we change it.
For the good of the Country and those of us without health insurance, YES. It is unfortunate that the Republicans cannot see past the politics and "man up" to draft bi-partisan legislation.
Absolutly..Pres. Obama and the Dems. have tried bipartisanship and look where we are. By the way didnt he win on Nov. 4th after expressing his health care plan. Thats the only poll I care about.
In short, Hell yes. The repugnants don't want health care for everybody–they want a defeat for Obama.
How many repugs voted for medicare? Get real, people, the insurance companies and pharma companies own the repugs. GAH.
The President made the mistake that the Republicans wanted to solve a problem that has been with us for over 100 years. I think that he now realizes that they have to reason to have a dog in the hunt. They are too busy trying to save the Republican party and they get further down that road by vilifying the Democrats and the President.
Yes, it is time to call the bluff. Past time. As we have been reminded, elections have consequences. Our President was elected with a mandate to solve some difficult problems. If the Republicans don't want to play, they can go find their own sandbox.
Ken from Atlanta
If the Democrats go it alone and ignore the very evident preference of the people, then they will alienate the democrats who put them in power. What effect do you think that will have in 2012? What happened to government "of the people, by the people, and for the people.?
Of course , President Obama has to do this without the republicans..
did the republicans helped his mother when she was dying and trying to fight the insurance cos.
President Obama, you have got to do this, remenber your mother, do you want to see all our mothers dying becasue they have to fight insurance companies, this is our obligation, we are the richest country in the world and we are seeing our mothers dying because lack of insurance's fear practices
Democrats should not go at it alone it is always better to be bi-partisan. Two heads are better than one right. Although it looks like the democrats are going to have to, the republicans can't stop the fear mongering. Looks like they are being well paid by the special intrests. The republicans have great government insurance and fat wallets!
Peter
New York
Absolutely! The Republicans will never agree to any meaningfull reform. The Dems need to push this through. Later, when all the propaganda and lies have been proven wrong, the Democrats will be able to stay in power for generations.
We, The People, voted for Pres. Obama and replaced Republicans with Democrats to get thing done such as Health Care Reform.
We all signed in on: Yes we can, Yes we will.
We want Health Care Reform NOW, with or without the Republicans.
Democrats are in power and they must fullfill their duties to the American People.
Yes, yes, yes! Most of those registering opposition in the polls you are citing are opposed to what they have been lied to by the Republicans. Let's have the strongest possible Democratic-only bill. We'll sort out all the Republican casualties later . . . or not!
Jack,
The Republicans are scared to death that the Dems will actually do something major for the American people and lock up their voting loyalty for years to come. It is time to tell the Republicans they can be part of it or not and let the chips fall where they may. We the people have had enough of the big insurance companies taking our money and not covering pre existing conditions or canceling our coverage whebn we need it most. The Dems should have the courage of their convictions to do what we elected them to do and too hell with your polls.
Bob
South Carolina
Sure the Democrats have to go it alone. A declaration of war? The Republicans have already declared war. They've said there will be no Republican votes no matter what kind of bill comes out of the Congress. So get it done. Why not put everyone on Medicare. I don't know any of my retired compatriots (I'm 79) who dislike it. Pay for it with the money that's now going nto the private insurance companies' coffers.
Yes, the President has tried to get Republican help on many things and they always say no no no. I find it astonishing that many of them don't think that Medicare is a government run program. I am a receipient of Medicare and it runs VERY WELL. I get to choose any doctor I want. People need to wake up and support the President.
Should the Democrats go it alone on Health Care without Republican support? Of course! The Democrats just need a little courage. It seems that for the really important and good things in life, we all have to go it alone.
Go it alone??? The Democrats are not alone - they represent the majority of American voters...hel-lo!! Republicans calling that an "act of war" only continues to fan the flames of burnt-out conservative extremists.
I am a Republican. However, in this situation I will support the Democrats to move forward alone.
As long as there is a "public option", then yes, shove it down there throats.
YES The Democrats should stick together and go it alone on health care reform. They were elected to do this.
AJ from Tracy, CA
An absolute–YES! They will never get the Republicans to go along.
That's why I voted for President Obama. Healthcare reform and a public option is necessary!
Jack,
President Obama has made many concessions to appease the GOP but it hasn't resulted in any more support from the right. They claim they want health care reform but show no actual desire for it. Actions speak louder than words. President Obama made these two promises: bipartisanship and health care reform. He's tried the former, now it's time to do the latter by any means necessary.
The GOP can chalk it up to losing the Election after eight years of partisan governance.
Yasmin
NY, NY
Republicans only want to play politics by effecting Obama's support. Forget the party of NO/NOPE. Go for it alone with MEDICARE for all and a LEVEL TAX CODE. Problem Solved!
Absolutely. The Republicians have made it clear that they support the current insurance dominated system and will not change. They can either get behind improving the system or get out of the road. If you are not part of the solution you are part of the problem.
Of course they should, and, in fact must, go it alone. The Republicans clearly will never cooperate, and have never had an inclination to cooperate from the beginning. The Republicans view any concessions made by the White House as weakness. Tyrants cannot ever be appeased. Or, to put it another way, you cannot teach a pig to sing. You only waste your time and anger the pig.
Alone or not, it shows that the powers up top do not care about the average person, just about how much money they can cram into there pockets. The gap between rich and poor is growing larger and larger and the government is letting it happen. What about all these people that have no insurance and can't afford it? They get to take a month off but people don't get a month of health insurance do they? Jobs in America are gone.
If one understands the story (biblical) "the dog in the manger" the Democrats are morally and spiritually obliged to pass the health care reform bill.
The Republicans indulging in gutter politics, the big lie as such, shall earn their rewards, someday.
Jack, what ever happened to the victor goes the spoils? The reason Bush won a second term is because Democrats are so timid. Grow a back bone. Git'er done!
If the Republicans and their fellow travelers like Rush Limbaugh have no intention of doing anything to help get many millions of people out of the idiocy of our current health care situation because it will hurt the profits of the medical and health insurance industry, then the Democrats are going to have to bit the bullet and do what seems to be unpopular but needs to be done for their people back home. More power to them.
President Obama and the Democrats have attempted to reach out to congressional Republicans, made significant concessions, been receptive to alternative solutions, and have been rebuffed at every turn by recrimination, mistruth, deception, and intractibility. It should now be clear that the Republicans have no solutions to offer and no contribution other than maintaining the status quo, so it behooves the Democrats to negotiate the details within their own ranks and deliver on passage of a moderate plan that includes a blend of public AND private reforms without the Republicans. The right has aligned itself with the reform-deniers and extremists by choice, that is where they deserve to stay.
Yes, If the President think the country will be better off without the public options. well so be it.
YES. The Democrats should go it alone. They won't get a plan without doing that, and any plan is better than no plan which is what we have had to put up with for at least the entirety of my 38 yeas on this planet. Between the "donut hole" lack of health care coverage (more like a "gaping chasm"), ridiculous prescription expenses ($1000/month), ridiculous insurance expenses ($400/month + $1500 deductible) and virtually no options for someone with a limited income like myself, that's bad. What's worse is that these insurance weasels will do anything not to pay my expenses even if I had their insurance policy. Time to stop bleeding the public dry and take care of our people. To hell with the Republicans, and to hell with any Democrats on their side. I can forgive an honest mistake. I can't forgive doing NOTHING.
Yes yes if would spend monied on a war that eeded to I know we could protect americans heath think about it????
Republicans do not want any reform. Instead of basing arguments on the truth and letting the people express their views, they abandoned the substance and direct the public to fat lies. I support a single Dem push through for, 100%
Of course he should go it alone, because it's clear the Republicans have no interest in passing Health Care reform.
He and the Democrats won a convincing victory in November on the promise of change. If he fails to use that mandate, he will have blown a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring about the kind of progressive change the country elected him to accomplish.
He should remind the GOP that he won and they lost, and that it's now time for them to get out of the way.
It seems that the 'spirit of compromise' can only go so far, and is now only on the table for the sake of compromise itself. If one side of a debate is sloppy, biased toward personal and professional gain and full of unjustified claims and fear-mongering, why should compromise be necessary? This is the exact situation presently, and the opponets of reform have a very flimsy case. Compromise in and of itself is worthless, especially if what it gains us is equally worthless, just like a bipartisan healthcare bill would be.
Jack,
Did you ever hear the expression about "fish and bait". Well this is NO
different. The Republicans don't seem to understand English. We,
the American people stated last November that we wanted CHANGE
in this country, the status quo was only benefitting the few at the
expense of the many and we were fed up. The Republicans were
on the losing side and they don't like it, well too bad. If they don't
want to participate and move this progressive action ahead which
will benefit the many and destroy benefits for the few Insurance
Executives and their excessive perks then that's also too bad. Its
time for the Democrats to grow some "cohones" and do the job that
we, THE MAJORITY EXPECT AND DEMAND THAT THEY WERE
HIRED IN THE LAST ELECTION TO DO enough is enough!!!!!!!!
Ron – Florida
You can't give CPR to a patient with a bleed out-first, ya stop the bleeding! And the current health care system is GUSHING!
Take action, fix the primary problem, with or w/o assistance
They certainly should. The republicans got their way come hell or high water for 8 years through fear-mongering and manipulation. Most of the public opposition to reform has been spawned by more misinterpretation, misrepresentation, and outright lies repeated like gospel to the voting public. The republicans aren't serious about cooperation or negotiation. They simply throw those terms around as a distraction and as an insurance policy so that when reelection time comes they can stand up and say they tried to work together. It's all showboating and doublespeak. They're spoiled children and should be treated as such. Let them stand if their corner of the capital and shut up until they have something genuinely constructive to say.
The Democrats should absolutely push forward and shove it down the throats of the Republicans and their financial backers. The Democratic Party is long overdue to show something resembling a spine...and President Obama can silence the critics that say he is too weak at the same time.
Let's face it, the citizens who are most loudly protesting health care are far from beacons of the American educational system. And that is the nicest way I can describe them.
Sometimes people need to be saved from themselves...and this is a clear example of that. Once the public option is in place and the reckless greed of the insurance companies is tempered, people will only care about how much better things are.
Well...most of them anyway. The "birthers" and others like them would still despise Obama if he gave every one of them a 10K per year raise and a shiny new huntin' rifle.
Absolutely they should go it alone! I voted for Obama because of his policies and because he favored a Single Payer system. I am a little disappointed that he did not fight for this plan as he promised. But there are obvious ideological differences between the Democrats & GOP. The GOP has worked against everything Obama has attempted to accomplish. The liberal & independents out there who voted for Obama because of these policies are fading because Obama has not been fighting for his policies that he ran on. Those of us who supported Obama need to be louder at voicing our anger at the GOP for not supporting his policies than those whack jobs who think this is socialism or that Obama is Hitler. The GOP love to scare people, that is all that they have to offer and I am tired of being pushed aside by their fear mongering. Democrats must become angrier and dish it back the way Barney Franks did to some rude town hallers. Don't tolerate this Democrats. You have the voice of the people who voted you and Obama in. History will prove that you were right in wanting reform and not the same old mess the GOP provide.
The democrats need to go it alone. Republicans have finally shown their true colors: can't stand the fact that there is an African/American democrat in the white house. No matter how good a health care plan might be they will oppose. Their only goal is to destroy this president. When republicans storm town hall meetings like the gestapo their true goal is shown (besides their ignorance).
Jack when you try to get bipartisan support for something , and then the other side just don't want to support anything.Take that gaint step alone, and hopefully things will work out. Either way something need to be done with health care. My opinion Jack go for it
David
Martinsburg,WV
Absolutely!!!! I am sick to death of this bi-partisan nonsense. President Obama was elected on his promise to pass health care reform including a public option. The electorate already rejected the do-nothing, fat cat Republicans. Just who are you polling??? Anybody who actually does have health care is of course happy - I would be happy too if someone else was paying for my health insurance. But I am one of the 50 million Americans without ANY - and the only reason my husband has it is becasue he just turned 65. Thank God for Medicare. But I have to wait 8 more years! Enough of all these lies and fabrications. Do what you said you would, President Obama - and any of those now spineless Democrats who try to block you will find themselves where they belong - out of a job.
ABSOLUTELY!!! What will it take to make the Democrats understand, WE WON ? Lead, Follow, or Get Out Of The Way!! Would the GOP ask YOUR permission? Then why should we ask theirs? Git er' done!!!
YES, Go it alone.
Once again we got sucked in to delaying health care beyond the recess based on lies of cooperation from the party of yes to big business and no to individuals.
publicly they seem to be on their own anyway,although there are reports of bipartisan talks.No Republican in his/her right mind would dare come out publicly and say they were able to reach a consensus on health care.The GOP base has spoken,"No Health care reform".Then what can the Dems expect from their GOP colleagues.Why wait for them?The GOP can stay behind,insulting instead of discussing while the country progresses.
Yes they should go it alone. The Republicans have a choice. Govern or play politics to what remains of their base. They can join in an intelligent discussion and find the best solutions including things that they would want like tort reform or continue to create hysteria. They can behave like adult representatives or like children. Children do not have the wisdom to decide complex issues.
As for the dems..... well, they continue to eat their young.
Yes, the Democrats must now go it alone. I suggest they take a simple route of giving access to the Medicare Program to those who want to choose it.
Democrats should proceed with Health Reform without the Republican vote, if that is the only way to get it done. We, the people, elected the Democrats and health reform was one of the key reasons.
Dems should ABSOLUTELY GO IT ALONE if that is the only way to get health care for all. Republicans have shown they care more for the GOP than their country. People can complain now, reap the benefits later. If we'd listened to Reagan in 65, we would not have Medicare now. He said it would make us "socialists." Ring a bell??
Diane Griffin 64yroldMWF
Sullivan, MO
Of course he should go it alone, because it's clear the Republicans have no interest in passing Health Care reform.
He and the Democrats won a convincing victory in November on the promise of change. If he fails to use that mandate, he will have blown a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring about the kind of progressive change the country elected him to accomplish.
He should remind the GOP that he won and they lost, and that it's now time for them to get out of the way.
Steve
Jericho, NY
I think that is exactly what President Obama should do if that is what it takes to bring health care reform. People all across America are unable to pay for their health care. We need a plan, like the Obama plan, that ensures that Americans like me can get affordable health insurance. The Republicans are bickering that this is nothing but a partisan bill, when in fact, it is the Republicans who are being partisan.
Jack, absolutely. President Obama is just wasting his time dealing with Republicans. They have no good intention of being part of any vision the president have for the country. Republicans just wish the president fails in everything he does. For all that is happening at the townhalls shows that is a personal hate or bitter feeling they have toward the president and not their concerns about health care. They are just hiding behind the mask.
To go it alone would be a mistake of monumental proportion. What does go it alone remind us if not the last eight disastrous years under the Bush Administartion?
If going it alone does prodiuce a so called victory, the result would be t winning the battle but losing the war. Although this reform is very important for the Obama Administration, the long term impact will forever destroy the bipartisan initiative promised by Barack Obama providing the opportunity for the country to unite and not act in separation as experienced the last eight yeatrs!
Yes. This time the win would mean a win for the American people, even those who can't comprehend the benefits. Though I do tend to believe these protesters have motives other than protesting against their own best interests in support of corporate America.
Going it alone would be very sad.
Our country needs and wants vigourous debate on this issue. Why not set a balanced bipartisan commisson to vet the pros and cons of various health care concepts, then a engage in legnthy and vigourous open debate with significant public input.
Then a final decision could be put in place by our elected bodies.
We as citizens are entitled to that approach.
Yes!!! Yes !!! Yes!!!
This should have happened 4 months ago. The President should craft the reform we need and leave the paid for by insurance company Angry White Men alone in their little corner. We saw this Republican charade with Social Security, Medicare and the Civil Rights Act. We're better off as a nation, without the anger and with the programs that focus on people. Go Mr. President...Get Er' Done!! We're with you!
Democrats should go it alone–Republican leadership is doing its best to be irrelevant!
Yes Jack. The Dems should go in alone. The Rep got 8 years to do something about Health care and they never did. Right now they only want to oppose anything that Pres Obama is trying to do.
It is selfish on the part of Rep.
We cannot afford to have the insurance companies command our health and decide who gets good care and who do not. I support the public options as this will keep them honnest. It is unfortunate that many people do not see the real benefit of a public option.
If one of those people would look at one of their health care bill or hospital bill and see how much they are paying for a pill or simple glass of water they will understand how much money insurrance company are making on taxe payers money.
It would be tragic if the public option is not included and in my view it will be any change from status-quo.
I hope the Dems go in alone and pass the bill on Health care.
San.
If necessary, yes. I live in Iowa and Grassley doesn't speak for an awful lot of us, but of course, Grassley does what he wants to, and his mouth embarrasses a lot of us, too.
It's not a question of should they or should they not, Jack. They've got to. I'm getting a little tired of hearing about "bipartisanship" from this administration. President Obama needs to realize that no matter how hard he tries to get support from the other side, they simply won't budge. And I'm not worried about the other side making a fuss about this in the future. How many of President Bush's tax proposals were passed via reconciliation?
Mason, Mount Vernon WA
In my opinion they should. I don't understand why there is so much divisions between both parties people are suffering while these knuckleheads fight over the bill.
I think the Democrats have no choice but to go it alone. The Republicans are not doing anything to help fix health care. The only idea they seem to be able to come up with is the same one McCain used in his campaign. The public didn't buy it then and we don't buy it now. Health care stipends will not solve the problem, especially for the uninsured or underinsured. Real, radical change is needed. That is why Obama was elected, and that is what Congress must pass, with or without the support of the GOP.
Yes. Defintely yes. This is too important to the future of the country to let it be held hostage to political operatives willing to sacrifice 45 million people for a political "victory." Since when do we have to accept that the financial success of a few companies is more important than the well being of our own citizens? I think that ultimately whatever short term pain Obama and the Democrats feel, ultimatley the country will respect and thank them for putting the needs of the nation over the narrow self interests of insurance companies and wacky right wing Republicans.
Yes, because if not then " death panels " will be in the years to come.
At this point, I say the Administration should do whatever it takes to get health care reform passed. But no one asked me, which is why I have a problem with "polls of registered voters". I've been a registered voter for 16 years, and I've NEVER been officially polled for my opinion. Nor do I personally know of anyone who has. So, as far as I'm concerned, the "poll" the President needs to listen to is the one taken on election day!
If republicans can't get their heads out of their ...absolutely the dems should go it alone. Republicans and wing nuts need to stop under estimating Obama. Any one who has read his books is fully aware that he is anything but naive.
I strongly believe that dems should go it alone because Repluicans want to take the healthcare reform bill on slippery slope and will never be satisfied no matter how many amendments are made within this bill. Republicans are playing games. Period.
Any bill without public option as one of the choices to Americans is not acceptable at all.
Thanks,
Tanvir Hasan
Sure,
Hope they do go it alone. The blowback will be so intense the dems
can forget about 2010 and 2012. The problem with the crap they come up with is they lack public support.
Democrats should go it alone. The President has bent over backwards to include the Republicans. So far the Right has no plan, no platform, no strategy, no cooperation, no integrity and no truth to say nothing of no concern for the citizens of this country. We need health care and America comes in way down on the list worldwide. My family and I have no help, despite working all the time. The poor are just out in this country.
I say YES. The Republicans have been obstructive since day 1. It seems as though their definition of "bipartisan" is that Obama needs to continue to be polite, try to accomodate, and include all of their ideas, while they, on the other hand, get to be belligerent, mean-spirited, and in constant attack mode. If it takes shoving this down the collective throat of Republicans, then so be it. As long as we get health care reform with a public plan.
Eve – AZ
Yes! If that will bring about the reform we need!
It's time to work for the people and stop trying to get the Republican's
to come along! All most of them want is to see Obama fail.
I BEG the Democrats to stand up and stop cowering at the noise from those at the meetings who were sent simply to put a negative spin on healthcare reform! I'm convinced that the majority want the reform...unfortunately the majority continue to be walked over and on and don't have a forum for their concerns! Go out to the people living on minimum or no wage and ask them!!!
Yes, I think that the Democrats should go it alone. The Republicans have no intention of being bipartisan on healthcare or any other issue. The Republicans main goal is to take President Obama down, regardless of the cost to America or her citizens. They proved it the last 8 years, when they shoved everything down the Democrats throats. It's time for the Democrats to grow a pair and do what the American people voted for them to do and stop playing with both the Republicans and the Healthcare lobbyists.
Frank,
Tucson, AZ
Jack, lawmakers who are rational-minded and make evidence based decisions should go it alone and leave the irrational behind. Right now, the rational-minded are the Democrats, but they must stand up and better articulate the facts. If they want to know how to do it, ask Barney Frank....give em hell Barney!!!!!
While I feel it goes against President Obama's original claims of bipartianship, this Healthcare plan is too important not to pass. Its sad that people believe the lies of the GOP even as America pays more per person having medical insurance and currently having more uninsured people that the other countries with a public option. What are we, 29th in the world in healthcare? Its time for change.
Absolutely! The Democratic party needs to stand up and put up and support our President – it's now or never. President Obama has reached across the isle to work with the Repubs, but they have offered a fist, not a hand and have demonstrated yet again they have no interest in doing the right thing for the people they are supposed to be working for. My Mother always told me that if you don't have anything nice to say, say nothing at all – so the Republicans should either stop the lies about what a public option really means, or just shut up!
The party of "NO" has decided that they will oppose any meaningful health care reform by misrepresenting it to a gullible public. Passing meaningful health care reform is essential to controlling the deficit, essential to provide health care for the millions of Americans who do not have it, essential for stopping Medicare fraud. If the Republicans stonewall reform, President Obama must press ahead for the welfare of the American people.
When the truth about what is in reform is known, instead of the lies pushed by Republicans, the American public will be glad it happened.
It's high time the dems showed some backbone. They absolutely should go it alone. The republicans cannot stand cooperating with a democratic president, let alone a black president. They had their chance and have shown what they do when you give them an inch. Given them one bite and they want the whole pie. Remember that bullying tactic "nuclear option" flaunted by former Senate Majority leader Bill Frist during the "W" presidency? I would like non-partisan support for health care reform also, but you know the old adage: you can lead a horse to water.............
Rochester HIlls, MI
The Dems should definitely go ahead and push through the Health Care Reform Bill. The Republicans did nothing for the last eight years, and are now doing everything in their power (which is mostly pond-scum tactics and tricks) to block one of the very important points of Obama's platform when he ran for President.
The Republicans don't give a damn about the American people and will do anything to embarrass the President and keep their pockets lined with insurance company donations – or is that bribes? Obama needs to write his own plan – including a public option – and submit it. Some good old fashioned arm-twisting wouldn't hurt, either. You just can't be nice to some people.
Susan
Tuscaloosa AL
If need be, the Democrats should go it alone. Their potential manuver is exactly the way George W. Bush passed his huge tax cut for the wealthy. Who cares if they call it war – they are good at starting them and the worst at finishing them.. Keep up the good work.
Of course the Democrats should go ahead and do the job we elected them to do, in the face of Republic foot-dragging, misinformation, and bullying tactics. The public option is essential, and action now is crucial.
Yes, yes, yes. The real majority of taxpayers want the public option and the best package our "representatives" can craft for us. Those in Congress, both Democrats and Republicans, who are standing in the way of this do so because they don't want to lose campaign money from the insurance and pharmaceutical industries. Make a choice Congress...campaign money or our votes. Support us or we won't support you come election time.
Richard in Toledo
Supposable in a democracy the majority rules and if they have a majority they make the rules. Everyone thinks
obama is a lame duck president here is a chance to find out if reform works and if it shows results right away they were right and if it don't
the next congress can change it.
The Republicans represent the big corporations, not the good people of this country. It would be very naive on the part of the President, or any other democrat to think that Republicans would budge on the issue of health care. Democrats should go ahead and approve a health care that includes a public option; this is why they were voted into office!