Too late for Pres. Obama to change minds on health care?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
President Obama's speech to Congress tonight is seen as a turning point, one way or the other, when it comes to health care reform.
The month of August clearly didn't go according to the Democrats' plan; and even now, divisions within the president's own party threaten to stop his signature issue from moving forward.
Camille Paglia - who supports the president - writes on Salon.com that it's still possible for the president to turn things around with a strong speech tonight, but acknowledges that after a "summer of grisly hemorrhaging, too much damage has been done."
Paglia asks how a White House that couldn't even smoothly pull off an "innocuous back-to-school pep talk" will revamp health care, and criticizes the Democratic Party for becoming "arrogantly detached from ordinary Americans" and for not realizing that talk radio and the web is where the debate is at.
Maureen Dowd goes after the president in today's New York Times for not being tough enough:
"Sometimes, when you've got the mojo, you have to keep your foot on your opponent's neck. Civil discourse is fine, but when the other side is fighting dirty, you should get angry. Don't let the bully kick sand in your face."
Dowd suggests the president needs to be "less Spocky and more Rocky."
But despite all the gnashing of teeth, it's worth pointing out that the critical players in the industry are still at the table, and it's also worth remembering the political cost to Bill Clinton when reform didn't happen on his watch.
Here’s my question to you: Is it too late for Pres. Barack Obama to change people's minds on health care reform?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Susan from Birmingham, Alabama writes:
You know, he's had all summer to explain his health reform plan and he still needs more time? Please, if he can't sell it by now it’s too late. This is one of his most important issues and he can't get it done. I think it’s the substance of the plan and not the speaker that’s the problem.
Bob writes:
Unless the president adds tort reform (puts a cap on these medical lawsuits) and doesn't raise taxes on the middle class, he has no chance.
Joey from Ellenton, Florida writes:
With respect, Jack, I believe that the media have overstated the number of minds that need to be changed. From all I can gather, those who are disinclined towards health care reform are: health care insurance providers who don't want to lose their monopoly, Republican (and some Democratic) lawmakers who don't want to lose the donations of health care insurance providers, and a few hysterical, misinformed, Americans who don't know socialism from shinola. Even combined, these people don't constitute a majority. The president needs to express what he wants, state what America needs, and offer us a way to go. And he is well able to do it.
Cheryl from Houston writes:
Looks like we needed Hillary the fighter instead. She would not have allowed the Republicans to get away with all of this.
John writes:
It’s too late. He had his chance to be a changing force, but he proved in the first week of his presidency by making exception to no lobbyists in the White House that he is the same. I regret my vote.
Stephen writes:
Jack, I think we're finally getting into the health care debate and Obama might be releasing details that we can sink our teeth into. The real question to me is "Are the conservatives full of crack pots or are the crack pots just getting all the air play?" The country has gotten kind of weird as of late.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
No – this is the time to hear the truth from the source. The message got lost in translation along the way.
Stephanie – Jersey City, NJ
Too late to change the people's minds on whether thy WANT health care reform, or if they are going to allow the scaremongers and the insurance companies to bog down reform so that it never gets done?
The President probably can't change people's minds. And that is because the bombardment of ads against any meaningful reform are so successful. The ads play on the fears of the people. And the President just does not have enough money to run his own ads with the truth about what needs to be done.
I think if the spineless Democrats would stop acting like children and rally behind the President and try to do some GOOD for a change, maybe the people would respond and approve of the plan.
I PRAY that it is not too late to educate the public on the dire need for health care for ALL AMERICANS.
What I consider too late is what it will be if those against health care reform ever get SICK and get dumped by their rich insurance company. Then it will truly be too late for them. They need to imagine themselves with no jobs and no health care and with a diagnosis of cancer, then make the right choice!
I am just sick and tired of listening to him. Every time you CHANGE channels his voice is talking ABOUT WHAT'S CHANGING AGAIN. He absolutely is a gifted speaker but he is SO OVER EXPOSED it's numbing. He is unqualified except for his speaking ability and we don't need a "one demensional" president but we have one. Stop talking.
He said we'd get CHANGE AND THAT'S ALL WE GET IS CHANGE! please MAKE UP YOUR MIND!
THE PEOPLE HE SURROUNDS HIMSELF HATE AMERICA! That's a BIG CHANGE. from what we usually have in America as I remember it being.
We don't change our minds about what we want, like a flighty kid. We are adults with adult minds.
Former Scottsdalian, now residing in Parker, Colorado.
I dont know that much about health care.I do know that when I was living in Miami that the poverty I saw there was surprising, giventhat I was in the richest country on the face of the earth. Katrina also showed that there are certain details to which more attention needs to be paid.
From an economic point of view the West is growing very slowly. Would not a healthy America with more of the economic pie distributed as Health Care not produce a vibrant nation with more healthy mouths to feed, with more ideas, greater productivity and thereby more growth. After all Say's Law says that supply can creates its own demand. Switzerland is not a greater nation than america ,however it comes out on top in terms of technology and productivity and comptetitivesness these days. I dont see poverty here like i saw in my beloved Miami.
Maslowsays that if basic needs are not properly satisfied then gettingto thetop is not that easy. I agree with President Obama, the system needs improving.
I don't think it's too late to change people's minds. The last poll I saw showed that 70% of Americans want reform. So how much "changing" of their minds is required when the vast majority of Americans want change. Besides, all the facts are on Obama's side.
John
Anderson, Indiana
Every time the President speaks publicly, he gains support. Unfortunately for him, the return on investment has diminished to the point where it's almost negligible. That magic trick only works for so long.
He can get it done...... Its going to be difficult to get the Repubs on board... and Granny....How are you going to explain something to those who are,nt listening... most of the those people only watch Fox and they are,nt going to show it...... so the ignorant will remain ignorant.......I,m from a blue-dog... red state..... and if our blue-dog does,nt get on board......I,m going to be dog-less next election.....
Change will be good for everyone as the resulting economic pie normally shoudl be larger with more people worrying less about basic problems and
thinking collectively aboutthe fture of their great country.
It's not too late. However, the President needs to rein in the loud-mouths on both sides of the aisle by reminding everyone that he is the elected leader for everyone, not just one party. It would do the leaders of both parties good to remember that as well.
As we already know, many people will not change their mind even when given overwhelming evidence. Changing minds is not necessary. Obama was elected by a strong majority of progressives, democrats, independents and moderate republicans. He just needs to keep his base. Once the congressional votes are counted, we will see who needs to be replaced at the next election. The only downside is the missed opportunity to replace many of those same people a the last congressional election. That is clear, now. And we'll never get them all.
It's never too late....the American people still have faith in the President. However....tricks like the one Senator Baccus came up with today could kill it. Democrats are the problem here...not the President and not the Republicans. Can't wait until next election. My Democratic bluedog congressman will be replaced by a real democrat...did you hear that Congressman Jim Cooper!
If President Obama only plans on giving us sketchy generalities about his health care program, I don't think he will change many minds. Neither side of the issue has done anything to explain the truth about the proposal to the American people who will be paying for it.
Brownwood, Texas
Yes, I do believe it is too late to change the minds of the people on health care. I think his plan is vague at best, and until he can be specific regarding the plan, most will be against it. By being vague, he is instilling doubt and fear in Americans and this definitely will not help him when it comes to future issues.
B.K. Wright
Wichita, KS
Too late? Never. The question is: Is it too late for American business to step up and push for appropriate health care which will improve the health of their workers, lower their costs, hence improving their competitive position internationally?
The costs of our bureaucratic and bloated private health care providers include waste and the inefficiency of myriad record systems. I see four doctors and at times visit a clinic or hospital. None of them is on a shared system.
All this in the myopically self-induced distortion of the "best health care system in the world."
Is it too late for Pres. Barack Obama to change people’s minds on health care reform?
Look Jack, there are always going to be people that vote against their best interests and that is exactly what the GOP is doing for their consituients.
And when you have GOP senators and congressmen/women saying that no matter what is in the bill they will not vote for it is no way to act in a bi-partisan manner.
Obama has tried to get the GOP engaged and they have refused so he has no other choice to go it without them.
Good riddens to the GOP!
Jenna
Roseville CA
Looks like we needed Hillary the fighter instead. She would not have allowed the Republicans to get away with all of this.
Cheryl
Houston
No, it's never too late to change the publics mind. This entire situation is a result of a novice administration not knowing how to deal with the lies, untruths, and hyperbole used bu the Republican smear machine. The President needs to get some of the seasoned political pros from previous administration to help him counter the Republican unthruths and outright lies used by the Republicans, the Neocons and their health industry allies. Maybe there should be a federal law allowing those who spread these lies to lenghty mandatory prison sentences. Death panels, indeed!
Most people with common sence realize that the insurance premiums can get lower with large groups participating in that "group". A million people or greater can get a much better deal than just one person.
Besides it's the Media who has people confused by just showing the disagreements and not the agreements. I think most people want to save money on their insurance premiums and a "public option" or jumping onto the government employee insurance plan, might, be even a cheaper way to go.
It is no longer a question of Obama changing the citizens' minds, he now has to get Congress behind him and get the health care reform bill approved, and hopefully it will keep the government-run option
Jack, I think we're finally getting into the health care debate and Obama might be releasing details that we can sink our teeth into. The real question to me is "Are the conservatives full of crack pots or are the crack pots just getting all the air play?" The country has gotten kind of weird as of late.
Why give up Jack!
If it was as easy as changing minds Obama could probably do it. Unfortunately, what Obama is trying is about changing values ... and that's not going to happen !!
I'm tired of political campaigning and so is most Americans. Since Mr. Obama entered office, it's been a constant campaign for this or that in order to increase our taxes for his spending.
I'll totally buy into ObamaCare if and when he, his Administration, Congress and all Federal Workers sign onto it. Yet, every time one of his supporters are asked if they'd do it, they say "I invoke the option to remain with what I have." In other words, we'll keep the good stuff and give the slop to the pigs that voted us into office.
Whose minds must he change?
A far right who would only find something else to hate if there wasn't a health care debate?
We live our lives to often on assumption and misinformed judgments.
Let's see what is offered in the end and then form our opinions.
Does anyone really believe that the same people who ran a nearly flawless campaign could possibly be this inept getting their agenda passed? Things are going just the way Obama and his friends in the industry planned it behind closed doors. Baucus's plan is the White House plan. Wait and see.
Jack
It's not too late. But there are too many congressman for him to go to each one and kick them where they need to be kicked. He should start with the blue dogs and work down to the bottom of the pile where Bohner and Mc Connel are.
No, it isn't too late. He needs to get the Democrats on board and forget about the other party. Republicans could care less about us as long as the rich are taken care of. We need to get out and vote all of them out next election. They are the biggest liars and spreaders of hate that I have ever seen.
Dear Jack,
I sure sure hope so. Why? This is not a Obama Health Plan. It is a Pelosi Plan.
It was my hope that Hillary would become the president and she would have Obama as her VP. I thought that Obama had potential but totally lacked "any" experience. With experience he could have become not just the 1st. Black president but one of the countries best presidents.
Unfortunately, his complete lack of experience has resulted in his becoming nothing more than a puppet of Pelosi.
This is upsetting on the domestic front and scary on the international front.
I guess all good things must come to a END. God DID bless America and we have failed.
It was the land of the FREE because of the BRAVE.
Phyllis
Media, PA
The President has a tough job tonight. There is no bipartisanship despite his efforts. The Party of NO made that clear. He should have taken a page out of LBJ’s playbook to remind Blue Dogs they’re Dems and whip them into line.
Republicans and the bought and paid for Blue Dogs don’t want to be confused with facts. Fox News and many Republican Congressmen/women and Senators have been feeding boldface lies to people. Excerpts from an email Senator Inhofe, Oklahoma, sent to constituents: “a greater crisis is having a Washington bureaucrat get between you and your doctor, making decisions for you or denying you the medical care you need. I am committed to a balanced, common sense approach to health care that provides assistance to those who truly need it and keeps healthcare patient-centered rather than government-centered."
"I believe the Federal government has no place in our personal health care decisions, choices, and treatments. Even with our increasing health care costs and concern for the uninsured, we still have the best health care system in the world, and I do not want to jeopardize the quality of care that already exists in our country. Socialized, government-run health care, touted by many as the only solution, is not the answer. This is made evident by the state of health care in other nations that use this model, like Canada or Great Britain."
"There are many examples that show the failures of this type of system.”
And more...
No. However, I see a huge disconnect between what our politicians say and the reality out here. We’re drowning under health care costs while DC plays politics. It doesn’t even matter that there are real lives in the balance. If Obama can actually pull this off he is a better man that I ever thought possible, because there are some who will protect the health care/insurance industry at all costs, including the loss of their humanity. It's stunning, in the worst possible way.
President Obama will never please the hard heads at either end of the ideological spectrum, but I still believe there are reasonably minded centrists out there that can still be persuaded if a clear and detailed plan is put forth. That hasn't happened yet, but its early still and the big rush to get this done is arbitrary and unnecessary.
President Obama can still implement health care reform if he proposes a very specific program, at a reasonable cost, that is palatable to people in the political center. There is plenty of beneficial health insurance reform that could be legislated at little to no cost to the taxpayers. The "public option" should be tabled for a time when the economic bleeding has stopped.
Where's my death panel so I can convince them to put me down already? I'm sick to death of all the strangeness and misinformation and how the country seems to be embracing insanity these days.
Stephen
Virginia Beach
Well Jack That depends On what He says tonight . If He says something Like He will Veto Any Bill that is sent up to him That Dose Not have sever penalties for any one preserved to be on a Death Panels either In the Public sector or the privet sector Such As Any one In the Government or any one In the Privet Sector Like Insurance Companies That could give and am sure that they Do when they refuse to insure people because of pre existing condition Or By any Company That will not offer any employee insurance in other Words Any one any place that makes it impossable for some one to get the treatment that they need .
Then If any Of the Republicans Or Demacrats That would Vote agents any such Bill would wind up voting For DEATH PANELS
Ron Holst
TEX
He does not need to change people's minds. A majority want to reform health care INSURANCE. Preexisting condition discrimination ....dropped coverage..contested claims ..these are all very unpopular and need reform. the current hallaballoo is part of a well thought out public relations campaign opposing any reform .. now who would want that?? the President will get reform passed .. the media will provide coverage that is inflamitory and more suited to a sporting event.
He was never going to change the minds of the 30% who believe in conspiracy theories and wear tin foil hats; however, he can still influence the remaining 70% of Americans who are sane by informing them that, if nothing is done, they won't be able to afford health insurance.
yes ,i think it's to late to change people's minds. i feel no matter what the president's agenda is most people are against him. they want to see him fail. it's a shame. why wouldn't americans want there fellow neighbor to have health care? i just don't understand!!!! i have great health care, i try to put myself in someone else's shoes. why are americans so me, me, me it's all about me.
Its never too late Jack we have 10 years before health care runs out a little exsperimenting isnt going to hurt nothing if it dont work then fix it and if it turnes sour then put it back the way it was use it as a learning tool and limit its trial period if it dont work in six months then repair it and if it dont work in 12 months then veto it.
NO, I do not think it's to late for the President to change peoples minds on healthcare legislation. Obviously, tonights speech is extremely important, but I'm sure he understands that and is making every effort to be correct in wohat he says and trusts that people will pay attention. People I talked to over this past weekend still had many questions. I certainly hope his speech tonight answers the questions that people have. What seems to be most needed now is some compromises by various members of congress so we can move forward with a final bill to debate and vote on.
Obama has never changed his mind regarding healthcare. Everybody needs to stop with all the negativity! Healthcare reform will pass. The GOP will sulk and plot to stop another program Obama wants. It won't work, bt they will try.
No I dont believe its to late but without the public option included in healthcare reform real reform cannot happen. Healthcare the way that President Obama presented to the country during the campaign is how it should be. If you have health insurance and want a cheaper option or if you dont have any insurance you can go with the public option, this is what makes sense. We cannot have a healthcare plan with the public option as a last resort that to me is crazy. We need healthcare the way the President orginally presented to us Americans and if some American's are against oh well, if Republicans in the House & Senate dont support it oh well. Stop kissing the butts of the GOP just to make them happy. We need Healthcare reform now this cant wait. Its been explained on more than one occasion how it would work, how to pay for it so whats the big deal. Lets get Healthcare reform now, tell Republicans tonight "Us Democrats will stand with or without you"
Scott Stodden (Freeport,Illinois)
With the media exaggerating the wingnuts in the opposition, a Congress that is worried more about getting reelected rather than doing what is good and the fearmongering, probably not. Too many politicians sold themselves to corporations and lobbyists a long time ago to care about being bold and actually doing what is best for the country.
It is not to late but he has to change two of the three minds involved. He must change the minds of some in his own party now along with the minds of some Americans that have been scared by all the Republican voodoo. Trying to change the minds of Republicans would be useless as they have proven to be non-functional except for learning only the word "NO".
For the people that already getting their health insurance paid by the Federal government, yes. For those that are paying independently or by their employer, no. For equal debate on this topic how many politicians making these decisions are going to lose their insurance in their life time? Government death panels, get real we already have them. Their called corporate HMO's. The question is how to give quality medical help to citizens without taking profits away from those who make a living honestly in the health field. Those who make a living number crunching at the expense of health, I hope your not thinking it's a long term job. If the President can explain his reform in common language I think he may have a chance. Jim Logansport, In.
Jack,
you should suggest to Ed Rollins to stop comparing healthcare system with Canada and start comparing instead with Canada and the rest of the world! But then again, what have you got to learn from the rest of the world!
Jack, There's a percentage of the country (let's just call them the wing nuts) that the only only the President would have a chance to change their minds is if he could change race, change party and sing the praises of Rush Libaugh. I hope he can reach the vast majority of the population and convince them why we should support his plan. He MUST give us specifics and he MUST disspell the "scarepoints" being used – the death panels, government takeover.
I want to see a plan that actually does adress the problems the biggest of which is the Health insurnace industry. We all need to assess our moral compasses and decide if health care should be a for-profit industry. I don't think it should.
JACK , Not if Obama can clearly explain what he wants. But the opponents will need to be shown for what they are , a group of people bent on breaking Obama. A group of people who don't
want to give the people of the country the chance to decide for themselves whether or not they want to dramatically improve our healthcare system. It is becoming a case of "Don't confuse me with
the facts, My mind is made up".
I fear it too late for America, not for Obama.The saddest part of this equation is the under current of Ethnic hate. Show me your birtth certificate, He is arrogant and elitist. Evil coments about his family and relationships. Jack there is enough mud to go around. JEEZZ the man has not been in office a whole year yet. Where were they when the CHANEY bush administration was in power.
I think Maureen Dowd has it right! He must stress that the biggest players who oppose him are the few who stand to loose big money like the high paid officials in the health Insurance industry along with those senators and congress-people who they dish out money to, in fact who they have sent to both houses in congress to "lobby" for them (the insurance companies).
Obama can ask the simple question, why can't people be more humane and help those less fortunate people to get something which is not a privilege, when did America become so unfeeling, how could they have spent so much money on Iraq an unnecessary invasion and cannot help their own?
Ontario
Not at all too late for him to change the minds of those smart enough to listen and/or read (meaning those who are undecided). There are still a select few who will never change their minds. Those are the folks who are determined to see Obama fail (meaning those who are not smart enough to listen or read). That would mean our country will fail. I believe our prez will provide a very clear picture tonight. Let's hope there is a very large audience with open minds.
Jack –
Too late to change the minds of the average citizen, but thats not who Pres Obama needs to 'flip' – its Congress he needs to work on.
Unfortunately, the total lack of dicipline in Congress (his own party leaders can't even agree – Speaker Pelosi vs Whip Hoyer) has made this unlikely. Most Representative are most concerned about the following: how can I raise the most money for my campaign warchest, how I 'spin' my votes to maximize support from constituents, has my blindtrust been properly balanced to capitalize on the stock market swings health care reform will surely bring.
Pretty sad!
He can't even make up his own mind, how's he going to change ours? Public option, no public option...work with Republicans, do it without Republicans...don't impose fines on those without health insurance, impose fines on those without health insurance.
His goal isn't to help Americans, his goal is to say or do anything at this point to get any form of Health Care passed. He can't even get his Democrats to agree, how's he going to change anyone else's mind?
Jack:
No it is not too late for him to change his mind. Politicians do it in a heartbeat for survival, the public be damned. However, for real reform large new prisons would have to be built to handle prosecuted and sentenced fraudulent "impeders" (like "deciders") as in the current system any policy change is still subject to "authorized" crime and corruption.
Overheard a very nice southern lady say, "Ain't no fight in that dog – put him down!" when she was asked what she thought of Obama's healthcare prospects. I could not agree more. Obama has lost his way and seems destined to compromise away all of his values.
It's not too late, most people have no idea what is actually planned for the insurance reform. Only a fraction of Americans even understand what a public option means. The President needs to clearly articulate his plan with concrete facts. Anything that stays at the theoretical level isn't going to get the job done.
Jack: Americans voted in the President due to his promise to reform health care. This has not changed. What has changed are the paid obstructionists who are told to disrupt Town Halls and other venues, and opportunists such as Sarah Palin who are spreading lies for self gain. Health care reform is on tract. Don't be surprised by what you hear tonight from the President – he's fulfilling his committment.
It's too bad the American people won't have the opportunity to simply vote for the president's recommendations after his speech tonight. I'm sure there will be polling, but unfortunately, that won't be taken seriously. I realize the HB is lengthy and possibly too complex for the congress members to comprehend. Maybe we expected too much of our elected officials to actually read the bill, but they should at least start at page one and try to move on to page two.
TOOOOOOOOO!!! late for me I don't want to live in the United States of France.
David
Jack,I have no idea whether the President can change enough minds, but I do know that the greedy health care industry is still at the table because they want 47 million new customers-and that is all the "reform" they are after.
We want fire and all we have is fizzle. Obama is not fighting for us anymore. We elected a president who came on strong and promised healthcare reform. Now he looks like a wimp. We were told we could have the same plan Congress has. Well, they seem to have decided we don't deserve the same plan, and they are keeping it for themselves. We were told we'd have a public health plan that's free from the evils of the so-called healthcare "industry". Now faced with the opportunity to have the reforms we've wanted for decades, Democrats are chickening out on us . That is a huge disappointment to me - I expect that kind of thing from republicans - but not my own party.
jack
No Jack! Look at all the poeple in goverment they say one thing in washington and other at home, then go back to washington and change thier mind agin. But I think the President is doing the right thing.
Bob
Washington has turned a deaf ear on millions of Americans. If you want to change other peoples minds, you have to open yours.
He never had a chance with a lot of minds on the right. You need two sides willing to compromise, if you are going to have a bipartisan bill. Bipartisanship was never a possibility. The President needs to work with the people who want to pass a bill.
Mountain Home Idaho
Obama does not have to change minds because the greedy skyrocketing cost of our broken system will do it for him. Besides, at a time when Wall St. is being bailed out with loans from Communist China, Republicans can’t be serious about rejecting a public health care option, setting an affordable base price, as a last ditch effort to save the private system from greedy self destruction.
It can't be too late. Lives depend on it. I can only plead with elected officials to listen and for our President to be firm on the national healthcare OPTION. This would make insurance companies competitive. The lies being told such as the "death panel" and others are disgusting. This reminds me of a quote from Aldous Huxley "The propagandist's purpose is to make one set of people forget that certain other sets of people are human." There are other sets of people who deserve a chance at healthcare.
Jack, It doesn't matter if the people are swayed one way or the other. Insurance companies have spent $400M to buy the outcome of health reform and as usual, it's the corporate checkbooks that are going to decide the vote.
It is not to late for President Obama to change the minds of some people. There are those that no matter what the President says will still oppose his health reform plan. Can you tell me one Republican President that even mention reforming health care during his term. They never wanted reform, and they don't want Democrats to reform it, if it isn't their way. So if they were so concerned why didn't they address it during the Bush years after Clinton was sideswacked on his proposal during his term in office. We have a bunch of greedy, egotistical, businessman, politicians, and Wall Street executives that love to rob the American people and don't care how they survive as long as they have got all the money in their pockets. So the more of us that die off early the more they can scare old folks into believing that there health care will be taken away. If older americans don't realize they wait for care already then just wait til Medicare & Medicaid, along with Social Security run out and they will really be looking for a lot of socialism in this country.
Jack, it's hard for Obama to promote 'The Sky's the Limit!' for change in this country that includes Heatth Care reform......when Chicken Little Palin is running around saying 'The Sky is Falling, The Sky is Falling!' People will listen to hysteria and innuendo easier than they will listen to the complex details of a plan that MIGHT actually help this country.
He will never change the minds of the people that are only thinking about themselves. I hope they are able to keep there jobs and there health and not wake up one day and wonder what happened because they took sick or a family member and they are on the verge of loosing everything. Wake up people and leave your me first attitude behind because you don't know if somebody has to reach behind and help you
Jack, The HB is derailed because of his other failures. Those failures being the Wall Street Bail-out, Credit Card Reform, accountability of trillions spent, buying GM, having AIG spit in our face. ..
Now I'm supposed to feel good about another proposal that he has not thought out, but given yet again to someone else to muddle through. Then when he speaks about the HB to the public, once he gets off the teleprompter, he fuddles around giving the impression that he is nothing but a pie in the shy type, with no real cluse as to what is going on with the American people.
I'd have to say that, and I voted for him, he is a President of "Nope" and not hope.
I am hoping it is too late. I believe President Barack Hussein Obama is trying to bankrupt the country. He has the audacity to blame George W. Bush for the deficit he inherited. The actual fact is he makes Bush look like an amateur. To make things worse, I thought he was going to provide free health care. I have no idea how he will be able to pass health care reform when the majority of the American people are against it.
The American Public has been waiting for the President to give us specifics on Health Care reform. We have been bombarded from the
Insurance industry and their stooges with fear ads and outright lies.
The only way for Health Care reform to pass is for the President to level
with us. Then our do nothing Politicians in Washington might get
pressured into doing the right thing. Though they will have some
explaining to do to the lobbyists whose money they have been more
than willing to take.
This has been going on for years, letting Republicans run what happens to our country, even though Democrats won the elections. Stop it, it's time for our President to get tough, use Conservative style threats and elbowing to get things done. What would I say if I were the President talking to the "Blue Dog" Democrats? If you want my support, and the support of the Democratic National Committee with fundraising for your next election, you'd better see things my way. Otherwise, we'll support someone to replace you. The time for action is now, not for being a whimp and cowering again!!!!
No, Obama is going to get something passed. He needs to cut his loses and get what he can. Maybe we can try it again in ten sixteen years.
The health insurance companies and other special interests have won again. As it has been said before, if you tell a lie often enough, some people will believe it is true.
Jack,
The only minds that need changing, our the Republicans minds, what liitle minds they have, I guess that just about decribes both parties.
Carl in Illinois
Hey Jack
The public option is just that an Option
GROW UP!!!
Obama Won the election with the promise of Universal Health Care. Those were the words used and he Won. So he needs to Step up to the Plate REPRESENT THE PEOPLE and Hit A Homer / Deliver.
Good by Walter that sould be the fair well because everything by Walter was good so good by Walter.
No it's not too late, in fact the timing is right now that we've seen and heard all the pros and cons on healthcare reform.
I wonder when we are going to start taking care of this country. The money we are spending on military and space could be put to better use in this country. Not only health care but mayby restoring the aftermath of Katrina.
I just thought America should have a higher priority.
The train has left the station. He will have to run down the tracks as fast as he can and hope it slows due to Congressional squablling. Maybe then he can flag it down and lead it to a siding where cooler heads might prevail. It's either that or wait for the next train that might follow after the unemployment express, the housing forecloser and the consumer spender go by.
I hope that he can. It will be ashame if the greed machines that we call insurance companies get a bailout by the very people that they are trying to rip off. Fear is a powerful tool and the GOP and insurance companies are using it well. That seems to be the only way they can keep their flock in line fear, fear and more fear.
It is never too late for truth. Obama only got 54% of the votes. So they are plenty of people are willing to spread lies and fear.
Jack,
Actually, the time is just right. The Congress has made progress, and all but the Senate have passed some sort of legislation. The Congress has had the month of August to go "home" and be re-educated by the people they work for.
Now the President can add his leadership to the project. Then we can move forward to some sort of resolution.
The only emergency in the process is that it does not fuel your 24 hour news cycle. The American attention span was created by the electronic media. In the days when people read their news from paper, serious thought was possible. Thanks so much.
Not too late... the people (fools) we see on tv that don't support healthcare reform don't work (have jobs), which is why they're not worried about its change. Those of us that can't afford it, don't have time to scream, develop bad lungs and eventually get denied a claim. Nothings wrong with public options... the people that think they disagree are the same ones that send their kids to public school on a city bus a tell them to go to the library and study... public, Public, PUBLIC.
so quickly we forget...
Too late to change 'Minds'? It depends which minds you are talking about. I'd say the majority of the GOP is 'out of their mind' and there really is nothing left up there to change. The President needs to do what is best for the country regardless if people like him or not. The GOP has made it clear that he can't do anything that they will ever agree with – even if it's telling American school children to do well, work hard and respect their parents and teachers. So give up on them and let them suffer the consequences. All the GOP has done is lie about death panels, rationing, illegal immigrants etc. They are in the pockets of the health care lobbyists and won't do what's right for Americans. let's hope he can change enough Democratic Congressmen's and get the job done. Doing nothing like the GOP wants only makes things worse.
Teri
Palm coast FL
his poll numbers may either go up or down on the health issue.. forget about the republicans and pass it anyway. the way it is now, in the minds of the gop he does everything wrong anyway. the gop whiners dont offer anything constuctive in the health care issue.go for it obama ben
It's not too late, but he's got to get up there tonight and show them who's boss.
If he's willing to stop his attempts at bi-partainship(a lofty goal), then get on with what this country wants and needs. Health care reform. Forget working w/pharamceuticals, the bray of lobbyists all over the DC hallways and just do what he wanted to do in the beginning.
Brunswick,MD
Yes,
President Obama has lost most if not All of his popularity and creditability with trying to push for to many things. The health care bill could be the cause for the lost of Democratic Senate and House seats in 2010
So long as the president decides that cutting of the profit spiggot is political suicide, there is no way in hell health care reform is going to work. So what if there is a public option, if profits to the corporate money whores of the medical field are not controlled, it will bankrupt the country. Capitalistic greed is what is killing real health care reform. But, oh no, Americans don't want to know about that, because we are sheeple, and that's baaaaad!
Give it to the Man!
I have followed the Healthcare debate, as I and my family are potential affected parties. While I have experienced the state sponsored healthcare system, I respect and require the delivery of healthcare services as in the USA, today.
Let us the plebians not underestimate President Obama, others have in the past, his astute ability to find direction and steer a clear winning course. They are today aware of their folly and they are where they are and Obama is where he is...
In one master stroke, President Obama has been able to create by deliberate design, enabling disruptive thought, a vast and seemingly complex scenario on healthcare. He mandated the legislative bodies to find a solution for Healthcare and put a completion timeline on it, before the August recess. And he gave a broad and general wishlist of statements on what he will want to see in the New Healthcare bill. To this he added a kicker – The public option.
The flurry of activity and the mud slinging matches, and some very close situations leading to heated exchanges and fist fights, has achieved exactly his desired objective. The President got what he designed and asked for...
Today in front of the nation we have an plethora of (I would venture as high as 95%+) possible positive directions the bill can take in achieving the much desired changes to our healthcare system. It also has, again an ambundence of possible directions some in the nation believe the bill should never ever take. The cat is out of the bag? or is it the dirty laundry in public?
I will watch with anticipation, President Obama's speech today on healthcare and if this plays out the way I see it, he is going to be able to beat a path out of this quagmire.
Post the speech, some sense is bound to prevail among the hot heads, and the liberals, hopefully creating the building blocks of a foundation on which will stand probably the most imporatant bill in modern times for the United States of America.
And guess what the President was the driver in the seat...all the time.
I am not holding my breath, but definitely keeping my fingers crossed...
Jack,
Let be realistic, 47% did not vote for Obama and healthcare numbers are not going to be different. So for the 53% majority who voted for him, lets do it without Republicans, government run option like Medicare for all U.S. citizens, get it done !!!
Absolutely not. I think everyone's just waiting for something clear and rational as opposed to the Klingon talking points we've been force fed lately. The polling still shows that over 70% want the public option. I think thats what they're waiting for.
If we do not get some sort of Health Care Reform.........Obama does not lose anything........the American People lose big time!!!!!
To para phrase a famous quote: Irrelevant. It's the political money, stupid.
You know, he's had all summer to explain his health reform plan
and he still needs more time? Please, if he can't sell it by now its
too late. This is one of his most important issues and he can't get
it done. I think its the substance of the plan and not the speaker
thats the problem.
Its too late. He had his chance to be a changing force, but he proved in the first week of his presidency by making exception to no Lobbyists in the White House that he is the same. I regret my vote.
Its still scary to read how some people still don't see what Obama's true plans are. They honestly think that Obama's main goal is to improve healthcare and that is just simply naive. Why would Obama be in such a hurry to pass a bill that doesn't take effect until 2013? If it is so urgent, why wait until after his own presidency to put it into use? If its not that urgent, why don't we have a chance to review it before its completed. The only alternative is that he wants to get this massive government passed before the public knows what it is. Even more, he wants to get re-elected beforte the public actually experienced the actual consequences of his bill. Why don't more people wake up to this. We could get into Obama's associations which make this socialist agenda even more obvious. Its all quite scary actually. Please wake up.
Well, we have had eight years of Bush spending money in Iraq and running up the debt, now we are so far behind in the USA with domestic needs, Obama has no choice but to spend trillions here. Republicans cut domestic programs for the poor and spend borrowed money, Democrats prefer to raise taxes – thoses are the only 2 choices that we have. The Republican borrowing for the war has done its own to mortgage our children's future for many years. Health care is a basic right and deserves to get passed, and the government option will help keep private insurance company premiums lower.
yes its too late. If they didnt listen before they dont intend too now or ever. He should have just done it. They got their waterloo. Sad day for America
Jack, on this pivotal day in the quest for quality affordable health care for all, my hope and prayer is not for a dramatic speech or even a breakthrough on historic legislation, but rather that there will emerge in the hearts and minds of our people a spirit of care and compassion between each of us and our neighbor, and a sense of responsibility to truly love one another as our self.
Yes, it's too late. .People have made up their minds, the majority of Americans and the majority of Congress do NOT want a public option. If he tries to push for that, his speech will have no positive affect. However if he come up with alternative, cost effective measures, well then maybe we'll get some where. But try as he may, he will not change the minds of Americans, is it even his job to do so?
Unless the president adds tort reform (Puts a cap on these medical lawsuits) and doesn't raise taxes on the middle class, he has no chance.
bob olson
No. When the Healthcare Reform Bill is passed, all of liars (Republicans) will pay the price at the voting booth in 2010.
No Jack he got them right where he want them confuse and over confident. I do believe that there are a lot of hope Jack, he started off a little rocky but he will bring it home within the next couples of weeks. You heard it here first Jack stay tuned to coming attraction.
David
Martinsburg,WV
Jack, President Obama has only been in office a little over 8 months. He's just getting started. Let's give him some slack to shine. He's still immensely popular with the silent center. In our culture of immediate gratification, we would do well to learn some patience and thoughtfulness.
Health care can wait and has waited for two decades. Any rush on this problem will result in no real measures being taken, or rash decisions – neither of which we are in the position to suffer. I trust Obama's business savvy, and the extensive knowledge and experience of his staff to find the right solution for our country.
Yes, it is too late for him to change the minds of people who weren't open to President Obama in the first place. The christian right has closed their ears and are running on him like they...er the pharisees did Stephen. I used to go to church with these people and act just like them that's how I know they are deciding Obama must be the anti-christ and no matter how his programs are presented, the next thing you'll hear is that they've gnashed (bitten) on him with their teeth. It's crazy!
For Obama's speech, he should demonstrate for us some 'hope and change:' Hope for squaring the circle. That would be change.
Jack –
It's out of the people's hands now, Obama needs to convince congressmen, many bought off by the insurance companies, to put their bickering and partisan politics asside and do the right thing for the people.
And good luck with that.
After all – they already have public health care.
Rob Shelton
The MSM hardly ever convers substance. For instance, no one in the MSM has actually discussed what selling health insurance across state lines would actually mean. The Republican says "being able to sell heath insurance across state lines would solve all of our problems" and the Democrat says "we need a public option." The host says "There you have it, everything you ever needed to know about the health care debate." All the MSM ever covers is process.
You're right, Jack. There's really nothing Obama can say in this speech that he hasn't already said. But that's not what I'm looking for. What I and many other Americans are eager to see tonight is not so much what he says, but how he says it! Will he stop pulling punches and lay down the law to fellow Dems? I'd like to echo what Dowd said: Obama needs to be a little less Mr. Rogers and a little more Mr. T.
The time to persuade America has passed, just as once again the Democrats have been caught unprepared for the Republican campaign to kill reform and have let them dictate the conversation. Obama and his team have failed to find the language that will make a difference. What began with so much promise is about to collapse into a one-term administration.
Steve
Jericho, NY
Short answer: Yes
Long answer: The debate was taken over by well-organized, but poorly informed groups through the blogs and talk radio. The president is an excellent communicator. He has used the US Post Office (a "public option" for parcel services) and how it does not undermine UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc. He needs to assert this sort of information.
He's going to have to step off the bank to see if he's can walk on water, and it's safe to say that's not gonna happen. Otherwise he has to acknowledge other proposals on the table, and not dismiss them like he did in his speech yesterday.
I, think it may be to late to change Americans minds, were becoming worn out on the debate, the problem is it needs to be Bi- Partisan, It's the same dance just differant song!
Vero Beach, FL
Not at all. It is in fact the perfect time.
The Congress has been given its chance to define the debate and to craft the solution. The debate has been characterized by fear engendered by lies and the solution proposed is inadequate.
Now is the time for the voice of reason to triumph over ignorance and prejudice.
Yes, it is too late for him to change the minds of people who weren’t open to President Obama in the first place. The christian right has closed their ears and are running on him like they…er the pharisees did Stephen. I used to go to church with these people and act just like them that’s how I know they are deciding Obama must be the anti-christ and no matter how his programs are presented, the next thing you’ll hear is that they’ve gnashed (bitten) on him with their teeth. It’s crazy!
Susan
Louisiana
It is not at all apparent that health care is not going according to Obama's plan. If all seems to be going well, you have overlooked something. I don't think that Obama has overlooked anything. Now that the subject has been thoroughly discussed and the Republicans have largely made fools of themselves, pick the right package and push it through. This is very difficult to do but Obama seems to have exactly the right strategy and despite appearances, things are probably going according to plan.
Jim, Craig, CO
Jack, to be brutally honest, I don't often agree with your strong opinions; however, I have never been so inclined to stand up and clap at a point you have made. Obama will not say anything new. It will be the old arguments spun with new thread. This late in the health care debate, the sides are set: people agree or disagree. A small, select, indesicive few will be swayed for or against, but the battle line are drawn, and this will only add firepower to both groups.
No....absolutely not! The problem is he spoke too soon. He just needs time. This is a huge problem frought with greedy insurance companies, pharmaceutical giants and (dare I say it) doctors. I had a small skin cancer which a doctor charged my insurance company $15,000 to biopsy! They paid it! Tell Sarah Palin and Sean Hannity to shut up and get out of the way. We need this big time!
The short answer is, no, it's not too late. But it is too late for him to successfully defend the public option or to take a firm position on a financing option, and the people want to hear firm positions on everything. He simply lost the initiative in August and it will be difficult for him to regain it.
Changing people's minds first requires evidence that said minds exist. Based on television news coverage in recent weeks, those minds have been lost.
Your WRONG Jack about Obama being a GR8 speaker. Obama is a GRRRRR88888 Smoke Blower & America is sick & tired of HIS BS & Him thinking we want to hear him stammer on about nothing continually. Revelation chapter 13: tells of the coming Socialist WORLD government & its health care program, so NO, its not to late for Obama as it will happen & soon.
Jack, if Obama is arrogantly detached from America, it's because he's an intelligent person with the ability to form arguments without relying on the use of labels and out-of-context soundbites to make his point. Dumbing down the conversation by going eye-for-eye with these people doesn;t do us any good. People in this country need to get back to basics by getting their facts from unbiased sources, reading once in a while, getting an attention span longer than 8 seconds, and by learning that throwing out phrases like "Death Panels" and brandishing pictures of the President with a Hitler mustache only dilutes the rhetoric of the discussion. Shame on him? No, shame on US.
I truly hope not!!! It is past time for the insurance companies to take a cut in pay. We NEED the public option in order for them to get a clue. Insurance companies are out to make money, that will never change. Let them go out of business, it would be a better world.
No trigger either, they had their chance. Time for them to just go away.
Co Op's won't work everywhere. Especially where I live.
Heard a lot of fear from citizens about how awful a "government run" option would be – they should see how messed-up our situation is dealing with our private insurance; we still don't have bills paid since January '09 and we keep getting told it will be done in 45 days. We try to keep on top of it all because we are both retired; but how on earth could a young couple with full time jobs and other responsibilities handle it? It is almost a full-time job keeping it all straight.
Well lets see?
He is going to tell us he has a plan !!! Same thing he told us for almost three years. I have not seen a plan! Have you? Has anyone? He can change my mind by showing me something I can read and understand. We are not buying anymore 800 page bills full of pork. Keep it simple and get it done!!!!
Sure, he can change my mind. One thing I'd have to hear is a plan that excludes an intrusive 'individual mandate' and eliminates forcing private business to spend money on health care. Let all insurance providers – the government included – design health insurance plans where the cost/benefit – as analyzed by ME – is to MY advantage, and I'll gladly fork over my money to the provider that is most competitive. Until then, I should be the one who decides how to spend – or not spend – my wages and savings.
Hey Jack,
Like the ole' saying, "it ain't over until it's over and especially when when the over-weight female starts humming a tune." The issue is still a heavy concern that all Americans need to know and accept. But when you least expect it, EXPECT IT!
Jack...It is too late for those narrow-minded extremist who won't listen to anything he says. Hopefully he can reach some of the fence-sitters. America needs health care reform before it's too late.
The problem is clarity. A straight explanation about what "public option" means could make a difference to the listeners tonight.
The opposition has used dirty lies and misinformation to turn a large part of the population against the Presidents plan for healthcare reform. These people feel threatened because they think it will hurt them personally and infringe on their choice of providers. That's not true.
This is really too bad because people listen to the loudest squeaky wheel instead of getting the factual truth.
We elected President Obama based on his campaign promises. He is trying to fulfill those promises but it's unreasonable to expect him to undo the damage done in the previous eight years in just eight short months.
The minds of the American people aren't that hard to sway. We live in a country filled with a generation who define their way of living and perspective of life on tv, media, and other economically motivated fields. They don't know wrong from right, or the full facts of the Healthcare plan. Half are tricked into fearing the plan the other half are tricked into supporting it. Whether or not it is a trustworthy plan to support is irrelevant. One side wants money over national well being, the other side wants national well being over money. Its up to Obama to trick the american people into helping themselves, since the truth can't penetrate their heads.
Jack,
Is it too late for Obama to change peoples minds on healthcare??
The time has never been right for him to promote his healthcare plan.Obama has shown Americans just how incompetent he is with this botched agenda.....IT'S THE ECONOMY STUPID!! Has Obama heard this one before??
If he had tackled the economy first, he could have had Americans eating out of his healthcare hand!!! Guess that's what we get for electing a community organizer whose own big head is in need of medical attention!!!!
So, we want President Obama to get on his bully pulpit and act like a bully. It ain't happening Jack. President Obama is a good guy. He's more Jimmy Stewart than he is John Wayne. He's going to always take the higher ground and give his enemy a chance to work with him. We've got a President with a conscience. But I don't mistake that for a weakness. I think it's his strength. Obama's decency eventually undermines his enemies. People like President Obama are not to be underestimated, it only gives him the motivation to exceed expectations.
It was too late for President Obama to get health care legislation passed the moment he was elected. The insurance industry has had our elected officials (democrats and republicans alike) in their collective pocket for the last sixty years. Every president who has tried to implement health care reform hasn't stood a chance.
Yes it's too late. It reminds me of Wyle E Coyote on the Bugs Bunny Road Runner show. Week after week, he came up with all sorts of great plans to catch the Road Runner but never did. Instead his plans always backfired on himself. That's exactly what is happening with Pres. Obama's plan.
Come on jack give me a break, you know as well I do that no matter President Obama does or says won't make a difference in the minds of those whose goal is to derail his entire administration. Thank God we do have some rational electorate remaining. Were it not for that for that the right would have thrown him out by his shirt collar months ago. keep up the great commentary Jack you're the man!!!!
He's trying to do too much at one time, yes this is important, but there are people in the country who are unsure of what will be changed and how this will effect them, they aren't getting their answers only "We need it" from the democrats and "It will be the end of America" from the republicans, Obama's best bet is to start small, and focus on one part of health care reform at a time, maybe start with health insurance reform and leave the public option for last so that the things that need to be done get done, and people can get fair health care while politicians fight over free health care.
No. It is certainly not too late. In fact tonight's national forum is exactly what the president needs. The problem with most Americans is that they never know all the facts. In the face of lies, deception, and misleading information engineered by the opposition to confuse and scare the American public, the president needs to take full advantage of his opportunity tonight. Perhaps once the record is set straight regarding the actual plan and what it entails then I feel we will see a game changer.
Jack, it is definately too late to change MY mind about health care. If we don't get something with "universal" health care access to ALL Americans, I'll still be a Ph.D. who's been without affordable access to health care since 2005. A tax break won't help me because I don't have an income high enough for that to be a solution. And I have no employer who would be helped by a tax break. So, maybe if the President can explain to the rest of the country that they are being very un-Christian to deny access of health care to people like me and to their neighbors, maybe he could change some of their minds. I would say he might be best off by doing a kindly "guilt-trip" on them.
The only reason Obama's numbers are down and the healthcare debate has lost momentum is because Obama has been too Lincoln-esque. It is high time for him to take the gloves off, tell it like it is, how it going to be and how we are going to get there with or without the opposition. By asserting his strength and conviction he can revitalize the base and all those lossed souls who are drowned out by the NEGATIVE SPIN.
On another note, Jack you rock!
Well, I first love all the numbers people throw out there from polls, whereas 53% of the public voted Obama into office, 60% of Americans oppose Government run healthcare, so it's not that you won the election, it's majority rule....a democracy. You see when a person wins the election, he wins the Whitehouse, but that doesn't mean that he gets all the Bills passed that he wants....oops democracy again. Healthcare reform cannot continue because we haven't tackled the big questions of TORT reform, government provided insurance for malpractice for physicians, finding waste and fraud among our systems, reforming basic health care and mandating insurance companies comply, and give these powers to the individual States, and finally getting the LAWYERS our of medical care, it's the lawyers who run Washington, with over 92% of all representatives and congressmen being of the legal background...hence why we have lobbyist, because ALL lawyers can be bought for a price........ So many say do it without the Republicans...you better start reading....the Democrats aren't all on board with this program, because those BlueDog Dems are fiscal conservatives.... The President in this fight will not get what he wants, Bill Clinton didn't get it, Hillary didn't get it, three strikes and you're out.
American citizens pay mandatory taxes. How much of that tax money do american citizen really control. I mean if 80% of american say houstan we a have a problem with health system, shouldn't this be a priority. I mean we are sending Nasa shutles every other day, among other unimportant projects but we don't have money to provide better health system to a fellow american. I think gov't should protect american citizens from preditorial tactics such as fine prints, buyer be aware, hidden charges. These are the loop holes that need to be patched and filled so there is no room for fraud. Transparency is the way to go. Enough is enough. i think we need a revolution.,
Jack,
The problem is media outlets are turning up the microphones of fringe thinkers that are distractive and noisy. Not once did the media present an average American in favor of reform.
Tell me, why are health insurance providers rejecting tests authorized by the very doctors performing them?
I think the way they rammed the Stimulus through with a bunch of the democrats pet projects poisoned the water for this.
It seems like they're just using old worn out scare tactics to pass another one of the democrats old worn out pet projects.
The problem is that the President didn't control the conversation on healthcare. He allowed the Republicans to make the argument that he and the Democrats refuse to cooperate because they won't drop the public option when, in actuality, since Dems. ultimately want a single-payer plan that is government controlled, and Reps. ultimately want the insurance industry to remain as is (privately controlled), the plan the President suggests IS a compromise. He should have started the debate by arguing for a single-payer, government controlled plan, and then "compromised" with his current legislation, and then the Reps. wouldn't have had a leg to stand on.
It is not too late for the President, but he really has to own this speech tonight and be ready to go it alone, without Republican support.
Of course not! When does his program kick in – and – what do the 48 mil do until then?
I think that President Obama is going to dazzle us as usual tonight with his speech. We all know that Obama is extremely intelligent and knows what is best for this country and what can and can not be sustained in regards to health care. Let us simply allow him to do his job and follow through? I just don't understand those people (town-hall people) who don't want better health care – pray that they watch tonight.
I voted for "Change" which gave the Democrats the Presidency and control of the House and Senate because I wanted them to pass their agenda.
Why are Obama and the Democrats still letting the Republicans run the country! I voted for Obama the fighter, not Obama, the spineless, gutless, wimp! Maybe I should have voted for Hillary?
Jack, I first voted for Ronald Reagan. Then as now, every presidential candidate has won the presidency making some promise to either clean up, save, of fix the political hot potato of the day. They will either save Social Security, clean up wasteful spending, fix the tax code…. blah, blah, blah. This time it is healthcare. And the ONLY reason why it is healthcare is because healthcare is costing Americans an arm and a leg. Next political season it will likely be Social Security again. Unfortunately, we suck up to these candidates thinking this time they will actually keep their promise. April Fools !!!! It was too late the minute he stepped into the Whitehouse.
Whats wrong with Obama and the Dems?! When Bush and his chronies controlled our beloved country, they carried out the vast majority of their agenda...swiftly and very decisively. They were a run-away freight train when they lost control of our country, after having flipped off the Minority Leader of the Senate and threatening the Dems with their "Nuclear Option" to stop fillibusters! Yeah, it was that kind of party for them.
Obama and the Dems?! Their head car is popping springs and parts at the seams, just now trying to get their train to start rolling, still stuck at the station!!
A few people going to townhalls and screaming at the top of their lungs DOES NOT negate the majority vote of the people. America gave Obama and the Democrats a good majority to effect change to repair the damage AND DISPARITY imposed upon our country by Bush and the Republicans.
Get the job done!! America is getting sick and tired of hearing excuse after excuse after excuse for all the inaction of the democratic and controlling party.
The only people who are happy with the health care situation are the ones with "Cadillac" plans or who own stock in the health care industry. If you talk to anyone who has been denied health care coverage due to a pre-existing condition, they'd see things differently. If this doesn't get done within the next 6 months, it'll be 50 more years. Republicans don't care about the health care bill, because they have health coverage. Take that away from them, and see how fast they'd sign a bill.
It's not the American public that need to be convinced that health care and insurance reform are needed. I think we get it. What the Republicans and the the special interest have done is scare the public with mis-information and lies. The fact the Sarah Palin can get an op-ed published in the NYT that still talks about 'death panels' is a clear indication of what the Republicans have done to the public with propaganda. The President and the Dems need to push the bill through with the public option or go down fighting, standing for what they believe in. And perhaps try again after the mid-term elections, with less Republicans in Congress.
I believe the people voted for health care on November 4 last year. Its whether the government listens or cares what the people want.
Oregon
Too late Jack!? It's not over till its over! 2/3 of the American people are for single payer and don't know it because they're ignorant and don't know what sinlge payer means. All they hear is the word "pay"(bad buzz word). "Public option" people don't understand either and it sounds horrible. As for the far right, they're either too greedy or don't understand as well. First of all, in the greatest country in the world, healthcare should be a right and not a resposibility. And about the phony outrage over cost, just put thing into perspective. 2/3 of the cost has already been negotiated with the AMA(lobbyist group). Medical records will now be electronic and as for the remaining cost that should be taken care of by promoting healthy lifestyles and further taxing things like soda, cigarettes, etc. Also by improving FDA standards.
I really don't believe so many minds NEED to be "changed" in order to pass health insurance reform legislation. It seems like the democrats have the majority in congress. The biggest problem, as I see it, is, Obama has done a poor job of "managing the message". He's let the lunatic fringe control the dialogue.
As for the American people, I think this entire Anti-Obama movement in this nation is largely based on lies. For instance, last night, Fox News reported a crowd of "8,000-to 10,000" at a Teparty event in Troy Michigan, yet Americans for Tax Reform, a group that certainly has a vested interest in those proceedings, reports an attendance figure of 2,000. This "resistance against change" seems to be, for the most part, overstated.
Look, depending on your financial situation, you're on one side of the fence or the other. You either have or can afford health care, or you can't I can't afford it. I make too much to get state health care and make too little to buy it. I don't care about any damned speeches, Jack! I just want to be able to go to the doctor. Okay?!
Greetings: All the fluff-bells and whistles is what Obama has been about. I truly don't expect him to be about facts (because the facts in the bill are liberty robbing-an rfid chip implat, real time access too peoples bank accounts and the like) as he hides them with razzle dazzle. Thank Jesus Christ he is real and keeps it real because Obama sure doesn't!Soothsayer-an ear tickler. He has no fear of God-He scoffs Gods direction-he is as a blind man leading the blind!
come on, most people still want reform. what the president needs to do is be very clear about what it is he is proposing, why he is proposing what he is proposing, and make sure people understand that medicare is protected. people need to understand that current insurance cos. do ration health care by denying all sorts of treatments because of their expense so all thin nonsense about socialist health care rationing is a joke also. the president needs to counter attack a little more, i agree with mixing in a little more rocky into his spocky.
He can remind us that we are suppose to be a Christian nation. What would Christ say? I don't see him siding with the attitude of "I'm not paying for this, or change to accommodate anyone" over "Let's do whatever is necessary to get care for these millions who are suffering". It's not about law or "government" personified and demonized taking over anything. It's about how we feel towards our fellow man, and what we can (or won't) do to ensure our brothers and sisters are cared for equally. I'm not a theist myself, but I recognize that our religion is what keeps us civilized. I'm scared Jack, really scared.
Unfortunately, the President hasn't convinced some people that he isn't related to Saddam Hussein. Many of those on the right will not be convinced that he isn't trying to kill everyone no matter what anyone says.
Jack,
I think its too late for President Obama to change the minds of people who already have it that they will not change their view on health care. I will say though that President Obama on his campaign did run about bring CHANGE, now he has to change the american people minds if he can. With the republican PITCHING up "DEATH PANELS" and "REDUCTION OR ELIMINATION" of medicare. President Obama needs to enter into THE PARTY OF "NO" stadium and hit a grandslam tonight against the PITCHES the republicans are using against the american people with their scared tatics. I voted for Obama and i voted for CHANGE...now i want my president to change the ignorance of what is being perceived about HEALTH CARE REFORM. Since the republicans are against a public option, since they have so much money from their lobbyist in the health care field. I have a suggestion we will tax all the republicans and from their checks they can pay for the uninsured
The president has wisely left the congress to bring before the american people the on going debate on health care. If our eyes were not open before as to which which congressman are in the pockets of the insurance companys, this debate did just that. kudos to our president in getting the truth out to the public, using his own congress. We are so fortunate to have a president who thinks!
It's not too late to change minds, but he has to snatch the debate ball away from the loudmouth minority of Americans and the very rich insurance companies. I always wonder, how many of the people screaming idiocies in the so-called Tea Bag Revolt are on Medicare?
I am optimistic President Obama can change the minds of skeptical Americans. My hope is that he addresses his base, independents and open-minded republicans. The arguement is a no brainer. Obama will be argueing about healthcare reform against no reasonable alternatives that takes into account real problems "uninsured", decreased access, reduced quality, high cost.
Highlighting the short and long term effect of the current health system and not trying to be bipartisan is the way to go. If Kenedy were alive he would slap those conservative liberals shifting positions for political reasons rather than pondering on the essence of the reform, increase access, lower cost (from competition), improve quality.
I just hope it wouldnt be too late reform healthcare after the private business systems puts the country in its worst deficit ever and even a 007 trigger will have no impact then.
One of the main functions of the President is to focus the national agenda, and President Obama is doing a fantastic job of that. While the push for health care reform has occurred in the past, it has never received as much focus nationally as it is right now and that is due to the efforts of our President.
Change is an animal with varying speeds. Sometimes change runs like a gazelle; other times it bumbles along like a turtle. Whatever the President says tonight, I am confident that it will help, regardless of whether or not we have heard it before, because it will sharpen the focus of the national agenda even more clearly on health care reform and push the turtle along a couple of more steps..
And besides Jack, what have you told us lately that we haven't heard before? Love ya big guy!!! Keep up the good work!!!
The president doesn't have to convince the nation to support the public option. Numerous polls show that the public supports it by 72% to 79%.
Obama's support began to slip only when he began to waffle on the public option.
What Obama needs to do is stand up to the health insurance companies. If he can't or won't do that, health care reform is dead.
It is too late for him to push anything. His approach to healthcare reform and the people he has selected to surround him has alienated the majority of the population. This segment of the population will never return to support him.
Those who voted for Obama wanting "Change" voted for a change from George Bush, not a change to our system of government and socialism.
Obama's "Czars" are a who's who of radicals who are intent on destroying the America that we know. The views of the people Obama has selected to represent him says everything we need to know about Obama.
His vision of "Change" is not the vision of America or the world for that matter.
Over 60 percent of all bankruptcies in America (an estimated 700,000 a year) are caused by CATASTROPHIC MEDICAL BILLS!
This tragic and shameful situation does not occur in any other developed country in the entire world.
Why are Republicans and Blue dog Democrats not concerned about this atrocity?
I hope President Obama will put this issue on the front burner when he addresses the Joint Session of Congress this evening.
It's never too late to change someones mind, but if someone hasn't made up thier minds by now than they must be living under a rock. If healthcare doesn't pass I'm gonna be pretty pissed after wrangling in all this debate for so long, however, I am not too hopeful due to the obvious corruption involved in politics that makes the health care debate look like a backroom sidebet. If I could view a check being passed to a politician than that would certainly change my mind.
Too late to convince us that he knows what's best? That is truly hilarious, Jack. I'll be convinced that socialized healthcare is working in Canada when we start crossing the border for their help and not visa-versa.
More than likely we will all state the same thing again "what the h__l did he just say".
If he loses his teleprompter it becomes much more interesting.
Interstate sale of Ins, tort reform, CUT THE FRAUD AND MISMANAGEMENT IN INS, MEDICARE, AND MEDICAID. Whatever happened to "I'll go line by line and cut out wast"? Obama's Stimulus was full of waste...disgustingly so.
Jack C
WA
Damn–if you lose this opportunity to offer health care to all your citizens without the insurance companies you now use–what a loss! What a huge loss! As a happy Canadian, I wish you well. But folks–somethings stinks down there.
It's not too late to try to set it straight. It may be too late for those who have already made up their mind that socialism is right around the corner. Socialism is already here, Globalism is right around the corner and that is worse. People who believe in stupid things who don't know the facts are just that, stupid. "I'm not letting my kid be brain-washed by Obama..." People like that have their minds already made up. So I think the real question is, Is it too late for the stupid people to actually get it. We have to change health care so that it's more affordable and leaving it to the insurance and drug companies to lower their costs on their own is a fantasy. Government has to force the issue and maybe use the Public Option as a trigger if the big companies don't bring down their costs. This would seem smart. I wonder what the stupid people would say about that?
I don't think there are really that many minds to change – the uproar is yet another peception created by his right-wing opposition and the insurance industry.
People seem to be ignoring the organized resistance to the public option is funded by the insurance industry. They have more $ at stake than everyone else put together. Consider their media ads, collusion with the GOP legislators in their debt, and the well-orchestrated town hall outbursts.
Of course, Americans are easily duped and many just march slack-jawed in lock-step with their ideology. I am struggling to believe, as Obama does, that there is hope for this country.
Vicki
Bend, Oregon
P.S. In my 62 years, I never met one person who adored their insurance company, so pardon me if I don't buy that "85% of Americans are happy with their healthcare plan." Who makes that stuff up? Oh, yeah...I remember.
The President needs to make a very strong moral argument for health care and insurance reform. I think the moral dimension to this debate has been missing. Who are we has a people? How along will we allow the special interest with huge wealth guide our moral compass? How long will we allow thousand of our brothers and sisters die because of inadequate health care? I hope the President poses these questions tonight.
I have been on both sides having health insurance and not. Why can hospitals and other healthcare providers just pass on some of the discounts that they give medicare and other big insurance companies. I would think that if they except less from them, it makes since that they are grossly over charging us.
I agree with you Jack. Put up or shut up!!! Sometimes you can't be the nice guy. It's like being a parent of a teenage; your not there to be there best friend, your there to make sure they do well in life. Whether you are a republican or democrat, this is a national crises that we know we cannot sustain. Health care should be an individual right. Every other industrialized country has nationwide health care. Do we really want to walk around in the midst of a bunch of sick people? We are better then this and I pray we are finally getting smarter as a nation. President Obama needs to what we voted him in to do.
Jack,
It is not too late for the President to pass Health Reform…If you and folks like would take time to check the facts; you’d find that the debate is very much alive. Waiting with baited breath to pronounce the Health Issue dead is a fool’s game. At this point nearly everyone in the country is engaged it the discussion. This is a good thing. President Obama promised Health Reform and open debate....that is exactly what is going on.
Curt
it doesn't matter one bit if Obama came up with a Perfect Health Plan for everybody. The Republicans are out to stifle his every move.
I`m not sure where liberals get this idea that free health care was Obamas main campaign promise, ummmm no, it was not! His main campaign promise was to help out the middle class and clearly this is where Obama will lose because middle class tax payers cant afford to foot the bill for 40 to 50 more millions health care! Liberals live in a dreamland when they try to convince us middle class guys that the program will pay for itself, its foolish to even try! Most of the 50 million if they lived within their means could afford their own health care but that would mean giving up luxuries like suv payments, credit cards, cell phones, high-speed internet, satillite tv, weekends out at the bar, you know things one should give up to be healthy????????
I agree with you Jack. Put up or shut up!!! Sometimes you can’t be the nice guy. It’s like being a parent of a teenager; your not there to be there best friend, your there to make sure they do well in life. Whether you are a republican or democrat, this is a national crises that we know we cannot sustain. Health care should be an individual right. Every other industrialized country has nationwide health care. Do we really want to walk around in the midst of a bunch of sick people? We are better then this and I pray we are finally getting smarter as a nation. President Obama needs to do what we voted him in to do.
Yes, he can. I think it's about time the President shows them whose boss. Not the pharmaceutical or insurance companies. They've bullied us long enough! He can turn this around, he needs to get tough and no smiling or jokes.
Teri (an American in Canada)
The answer is to USE RECONCILIATION and PASS HEALTH CARE with a PUBLIC OPTION
Let people see how that works
As a Democrat, I think President Obama has been a COMPLETE IDIOT on HCR
Why keep trying to 'compromise' with Republicans when they won't compromise?
President Obama has disappointed and disgusted me iwth his cowardice and stupidity
Jack Americans seem to want High Insurance cost and they deserve it. I hope insurance cost keeps skyrocking and Americans loose there healthcare.
I used to be a Union organizer representing hospital workers and so the exact same arguments against healthcare reform when some of the represented hospitals were set to come under the Union's healthcare plan.
Now you think people are scared of a government-controlled healthcare plan, imagine a Union-controlled healthcare plan! There were many meetings/shouting matches leading up to the change in coverage.
But within two months after the change, practically everyone was happy with the change! The plan gave them free healthcare with no premiums, no deductibles, and no co-pays.
If people would relax and allow the President bill to happen, they'd find it isn't nearly the horrible monster Republicans are making it out to be.
Yes we need to set guidelines for the health care industry but we dont need another free to those who will use public option! This countries middle class can NOT afford to support these people. Take personal responsiblitiy and go without so you can afford your own insurance! Lobby for insurance reform, this will serve all Americans who intend to support their own health care costs!
Yes but not now, only when they start working. Americans have had their heads stuck in the sand for so long and we aren't known for trying anything new. The majority of naysayers don't want to take responsibility for how deep we allowed the hole we are stuck in to get. We trusted politicians who let us down. I don't agree with all of President Obama's policies but he inherited what has happened. The past is not yet the past. Business as usual got us here, not President Obama so he can't do business as usual. Only his policies working will change minds. ANCHORAGE, AK
We all need health care
Not just for the 90% and nothing for the 10%
And the 10% uninsured will be paying for the insured,
while geting no coverage..
And why is it costing the government so much
if the employees and employers pay for the premiums?
Tony
From Ohio
Yes, the president can turn this around. What everyone seems to forget is the quiet American has not been out there yelling and screaming ridicules statement at the town hall meeting. It was the quiet person who went to the town hall meetings to learn but could not be heard because of the attention that the ridicules people were getting. The media prefers to focus on the yelling and screaming idiots it sells papers and get advertiser.
Unfortunately the quiet American has not learned from their pass mistake of being quiet; allowing Germany invasion of Europe, the lynching and murder of civil rights demonstrators, and the terrorist murder that occurred on 911. We cannot sit by and allow ourselves to be bullied into not doing anything. It is obvious that too many American need our help and if you are religious, “we are our brother’s keeper”. We need to pass health reform for the American people.
i think deep down people know President Obama wants to do something good. Even the dumb ones fed on lies and acting like russian revolutionists in the town halls might have a change of mind . I think the hidden reason is his race. I think some people are still dis-illusioned about who runs this great country. The republicans know this and are taking advantage of this significant group of noise makers just to ensure Obama fails in everything even at the expense of the country. These town home demonstrators are the type that say "dude men, i dont care men" Change the minds of these?..
I think that a good deal of us that voted for Mr. Obama wanted a single payer healthcare system and that was taken off the table and we got nothing for in concessions from the other side. Now we are talking about a five year trigger!!! for a public option. We will not be in control of both houses of congress 5 years. This is really frustrating.
I hope we do achieve the necessary changes in health care. If we don't get them now we can then work on changing the composition of congress and boot out the nay-sayers and foot-draggers. One way or the other, change will happen.
Jack, the problem with most of us that oppose health care reform is not because we are extremist; it is that like so many things this is being rushed with very little thought on how it will be paid for. The President, whom I did vote for spent more time deciding on the family dog than he has on how we are going to pay for health care. He admits to hundreds of billions of dollars in savings, I say great – go after the saving and THEN we can launch the program. Adding 50 million Americans to a system that all parties agree is broken and far too costly before realizing the savings will bankrupt us. It would be like rushing into the Cash for Clunkers deal to get your car BEFORE the program goes into affect almost like avoiding the savings.
Next, why not go after tort reform? It is a major cost to health care, but this will not happen because it is a political gold mine to people like Reid and Palosi. Also, what market can be efficient when they compete in 50 different markets, this alone adds unnecessary cost. I hate the politics behind this, if the politicians truly had the American public’s interest at heart they would go after the saving, eliminate the 50 separate markets and go after tort reform as a first step.
Honestly, politicians do not stop and ask "What If I Am Wrong?" What if a public option does destroy the private market – over 80 million people lose the benefits they want. Finally, the democrats insist that illegal aliens will not be covered, but if illegal’s continue to visit our emergency rooms they are in fact covered because we will continue to pay for it.
Liberals say what they want but the majority of Obama deserters have been the conservative Independents! Which in reality is the majority of Americans! These people dont want public option because they know they will get stuck with the bill and thats a fact Jack!
I don't think we'll hear anything different. Retreat is not an option for him. I think Dowd has it right, we'll see Rocky tonight. Only a dictator has the uncomprimising gall to proceed as I expect he will which will cause Americans to react stronger than before.
Jack, the people screaming at the townhall meetings are mostly white Republicans. They probably don't care about healthcare reform. Its silent racism. You didn't see these same concerned citizen protesting when President Bush waged war in Iraq looking for weapons of mass destruction or when he failed to react swiftly after Hurricane Katrina.
Jack if I were the President and giving a speech tonight wanting people to change their minds on the health care issue, I would first ask the members of congress for a show of hands if they receive money from the drug, insurance or wall street, that would tell people why they are against an option plan. The members of congress need to wake up help the people instead of stuffing their pockets with money from the special interest groups.
What he needs to say is that we are pushing this through even if many americans can't understand why.
He should put the notion forth that they facts are out there and that not having reform will adversely affect too many people and that it would not be fair to them to pay for the ignorance and fear of the opposition.
He needs remind people that Americans aren't always the brightest....remember we elected Bush.......TWICE!
Perhaps a poll should be taken on how many people oppose the reform propositions and see how many of them voted for Bush.
I really hope that that it is not too late Jack.The United States is in desperate need for healthcare reform and this time your country is as close as it ever has been.
I and many other Canadians cannot understand what the fuss is about – no matter what you have heard, this type of system DOES work and benefits every citizen no matter what your income.
It really is nice just to present your health card in a hospital and know that you will have top quality health care without being presented with a bankrupting invoice or services rendered before you leave.
The Republicans support selling insurance across for one reason – the rich who own the insurance companies will get richer. It will not lower premiums for the little guy, nothing Republicans do ever does.
Jack, why hasn't anyone noticed that when Republicans are complaining that the 'public plan' will destroy the competition, they're basically saying that this new plan will be so good, that everyone will want it. Really, these guys are complaining that the government plan will be TOO GOOD, like that's a bad thing. Ridiculous.
The train has left the station. If the Dems try and back door this through more than a few of them will be looking for new jobs in 2010.
Yes, it is too late. Those that have been slow to learn in the last 2 months cannot learn anything tonight. Republicans that have made up their mind to make this issue Obama's waterloo would not even allow any logic or fact change their minds. Obama should cut through the chase tonight, tell us what he considers the best he considers as the leader and proceed to do it.
Bring some people who have no health care or who lost their health care . Insurance companies charge 35% mark up . the government mark up for med a care is 3%.The system is broken what is the Republicans answer???
It’s never too late to do the right thing for the good people of America. We may be a little tired of hearing ridiculous addendums being attached to appease those who will never vote for any health care reform of any kind. Obama can light up the screen tonight. He can explain in words that even Sarah Palin can understand the meaning of the bill that he endorses. He can clearly speak out his support for a health care and insurance reform plan. He can explain why we need to insure a person for health care for the 47million who are without support. He can explain why it’s important that we need to not go into bankruptcy because a long term illness took a life. He can explain why you are covered for a pre-existing condition. He can tell us the details of everything until he is blue in the face. But he can’t change anybody’s mind. They have to do it themselves.
As a Canadian nurse, who has lived and worked in the States, please support public health care for all Americans. I am a nurse, had to leave because I had to deny care, on the front line, lack of insurance, or I took valuable time to determine coverage, "deny or delay care" to the point of patients dying. A huge game. It sickened me. You need nurses–but I would never go back.
Dear Jack,
"Good Health: the right of All Americans." This is the title of a paper I wrote as a senior in high school.-the year was 1984, and although I don't remember the details, I strongly supported, and do still, a one-payer system.
President Obama must convince people that insurance companies now make decisions about our health care, coming between the doctor and patient – I call that rationing.
He must convince people that there is no so-called death panel. Indeed, most people I know who have seen loved ones die a long drawn-out painful death, would welcome a conversation with family and doctor so they could become well informed.
Once these lies are addressed, perhaps people would be ready to hear details of a workable plan.
Jeanne
Malden MA
knowledge that would apply to their individual cases
Is it me or have you noticed also that repuplicans are judgemental groupies, violent gangsters and self righteous extremists. How do you get their followers to heed to change
Jack,
Apparently the real ignorance about the health care problems is ingrained and profound. The public does not know and apparently don't want to know what it will take to fix the problems. And it is equally apparent that the public has no idea who is paying for this health care problem now!
Yes, we are all paying right now every day in sales,city,county, state, and federal income taxes. The problem is the insidious rise in the taxes is not as apparent as Obama's face!
So nothing Obama says and no way he says it will change people's mind that refuse to listen,debate, or compromise for the better of all of us.
Leona Dumfries ,Va
Americans have proven to be the most selfish ,selfcenterd people on earth ! To actually fight about how they do not want to save there nieghbors life, is just mind boggling to me. Healthcare should not be an issue at all, but since it is how to set up a new and better way to get healthcare to every man, woman and child ,should be the only fight not wether we should do it or not. And I guess what really kills me is most of these people call themselves Christians. Not one person that is yelling.... no healthcare, and I am not paying for that guy ! is not a person with God not one.
As far as the President goes he has started to cave under the pressure from people that he should not even consider credible,these fanatics and ignorant individuals are whats been tearing at Americas fiber for years now, slowly changing our Country into something very ugly. The insurance companies do not even need to exist at all ! and the President knows that, hell they know that.They serve no real purpose they shove paper work around and charge all of us ungodley amounts of money and for 40 yrs. have maimed and killed Americans by denying tests and proceedures that would have saved there lives. What fools we are, and we will pay for our selfish greedy ways ! For every American that will die this next year that did'nt have to, each American that fought this should help shovel the dirt on thier nieghbors grave.!!! I AM ASHAMED OF MY COUNTRYMEN...... FORGIVE THEM FATHER FOR THEY NO NOT WHAT THEY DO..............
I hope people start thinking instead of letting the ones who will profit do their "thinking" for them.
The Republicans in Congress/Senate all use the arguement of not having govt run health care because "govt cannot be trusted " need to quit their jobs. It sounds as if they are admitting that they are only their to collect our taxdollars and continue to do NOTHING. We have already seen and heard from them that some one needs to do something. Ho hum dee dumb, are they kidding. WHAT are THEY DOING? If it is nothing, then they need to put there money where their mouth is and leave. We have seen all too well what letting business do as they please has done for this country!!!! Enough already. WE the taxpayers elect these people who do not work for us! We already know Obama has seen first hand what happens when you are not born into money and are at the mercy of the insurance company. His own mother died and I m betting he has not forgotten, and neihther have the American people about to lose more of what they have left to what INSURANCE will NOT COVER or the high cost of having insurance to try to protect their health.
No Jack,I don't think it's too late to change people's mind on health care reform.I believe it's the right time,for people to finally come to their senses, and finally realize,that health care reform is long overdue,and can no longer be kept hidden in the closet,and needs to be reformed. More doctors and nurses are needed,as well as better and more efficient medical procedures,and more legislation is needed to control all these greedy medical insurance companies,who are totally out of control,and keep increasing the costs of medical care.As an RN,I support President Obama,and believe the time is now, for total health reform.
President Obama is the President I think He should keep talking about health reform until we get it , we should not close our ears to positive options , we need health reform change.
You and Wolf, are the BEST!!!!!
We Canadians's trust YOU, in Broadcast News.
What more can I wright?
Keep it upFather George (R.C. Priest)
Blue dogs,gang of 6 let's call them who they are...elected officals bought and paid for by lobyist.Between lobyist and republicans(for big buisness)what we need we will not get.our health care is out of control and needs rebuilt.the bills that are being pushed around may not be the answer but it is a needed start.we can spend money to invade a country and kill people but not to keep our own people healthy in this country. Is somethin upside down?
Jack,
The one thing the President can do to change my mind is to inform the country that Congress, the Supream Court and his office will drop their govenment benefits and sign themselves AND their families up under the proposed public option. Next, have every signer of the bill agree to resign from office, never to hold public office again and forfeit all govenment benefits and retirement entitlements IF this great program they are praising cost the tax payer a single dollar.
Do that and he has my vote.
There seems to be a lot of misinformation on both sides, and I notice a lot of it coming the folks who believe the health care proposals will result in the government providing health care coverage for all people ... the government won't provide anything in this proposal – they will force you to buy it. Americans will be forced to buy a health insurance plan or PAY to enroll in the public plan - either way, the people pay for the plan or they are fined.
We do need health care reform, but folks, this isn't the way to do it. Start by addressing those who need/want insurance but can't afford it - stop focusing on those who simply don't want it. It's none of your or the government's business if your neighbor chooses not to buy health care insurance because he prefers alternative medicine, or likes going to Mexico for treatments or simply pays cash for prescriptions and office visits while saving money in a Health Savings Account (which, by the way will be outlawed if the house version of the bill is passed.).
No it's not too late. There are plenty of rational people who are supporting President Obama's plan but are not making public spectacles of themselves unlike his opposition. The President and our lawmakers shouldn't allow the ignorant rantings of the uninformed to dictate public policy, including Sarah Palin. Who are they kidding..their only goal is to defeat the President because they're still bitter about the election. What about doing what's right? I say don't give up this fight, it's much too important to our future. And, yes, I do have good health insurance but it's now more accurate to call it my second mortgage. Hang in there Mr. President, we need you to stay strong!
Jack, people make up their own minds whenever they want to. Obama can try to convince them at any time about important matters like health care, but ultimately, people have to decide what to do. THIS BATTLE IS NOT OVER UNTIL CONGRESS PASSES THE HEALTH CARE REFORM BILL OR DECIDE NOT TO!!!!! WE STILL HAVE A SHOT AT THIS!!!! WE GOT TO "KEEP KEEPING ON"!!!!!!!!!! WE'VE COME TO FAR TO LET THIS BATTLE GO TO WASTE!!!!!!!! STAY STRONG!!!!!!
Royal Oak Mi
How about taking a vote from the taxpayers?
Many people did not go to town meetings because they do NOT want to be attacked by rude "people" that do not care about others that know first hand why the need for regulation on insurance is a necessity.
No one is complaining about schools, colleges etc that have public and private funds. The one lame excuse is that only rich can have insurance if this is passed. The truth is only the rich can afford to buy insurance now. My spouses employer pays half, which cost us over 10grand a year by the time we pay all our co-pays. I don't know how many people can get pay cuts and drive nearly 100 miles to work making 1/3 less and continue to pay for insurance, I suspect and fear they may find out if health care reform is NOT passed. If it passes our auto rates should go down as welll, the medical portion and bs about who is to blame will no longer be the issue or reason for price gouging us to death
Nonsense! You rightwing nuts are so pathetic. No, we the USA, are not a center right country. We proved that in the last election. The true majority will no longer pander to or be bullied by a minority who would dictate and indoctrinate their party’s greed for mere power, the country be damned.
You’re town hall meetings are about to be trumped by full force liberal advocacy and demonstration. We will never let you bullies dictate to our country again. Healthcare will be passed with public option and yes, insurance companies will pay the 4 billion to include and start health coverage for all – it will in time pay for itself so lead, follow or get out of the way, no one wants to listen to your power play, whinning and total lack of solution.
This comes from a person who thinks Obama is nothing short of a lame photo op, and should be investigated for voter fraud in the caucuses. We needed a Madam President not a little boy “mr. present” who has no cajunas to weigh in on anything noble, courageous, truthful or even constitutional (yes, he was a constitutional lawyer for 12 years and has yet in invoke it!). 132 times in the state senate he voted “present” – you get the record you vote for (he’s too busy working on his wife’s campaign as the first female President in 2016: back to you right wingers, oh nevermind ;o) goodbye!
Maybe Its time for Obama to change the tune on Health Care Reform which now has failed by contributations of the House & Senate they have been beaten around the bush favoring & listining to Health Insurances Companies, Prescription Companies, Hospital companies, Doctors etc. Lobbyists & Special interests. These Politions are not listining to 300 billion citizens in the USA & maybe now President Obama. Maybe now its time to change the tune name of Health Care Reform to Health Care 100% Major Reform
With the "government" running the post office (losing money), Medicare (going bankrupt) Medicaid (costing too much) fannie mae and freddie mac ( we all know what happened with them), why should we trust the government to control up to 1/3 rd of the nations economy?
There's no reason to overhaul the entire system at one time. Go one step at a time.. first cut mutiple testing, overbilling from doctors, and waste.. then see what needs to to done next
Jack
can someone please discuss WHY there are so many folks that are quick to criticize anything that is government run when we have experienced and continue to experience so many absolute failures on the part of BIG business. GM, Chrysler, Banks, Financial institutions, and Wall Street have all ripped off taxpayers, so where is the indignation of these folks. Do they really this will change if not forced.
Steve
It's ridiculous that this is even a question. All the information you ever wanted to know about the health care plan is available to you in a couple of mouse clicks. The problem is that people are too lazy to go looking for it. The proof of that is all the people concerned that elected officials aren't going to give up the insurance they currently have. Wake up, the President has been saying for 3 months that, if you like your plan, you can keep it. No one is going to force you to give up your plan so why do you want to force our elected officials to give up theirs?
It's never too late for a President to act Presidential, but pattern to date suggests that President Obama doesn't get it. He may have a bully pulpit, but that doesn't mean he can be a bully, and that's what he and his party have tried to do with his proposed Health Care Reform, or should I say Health Insurance Reform as they've recast it. Wolf in sheep's clothing. We understand that there are people in the United States that don't have health insurance, but as I understand our Medicaid and Medicare plans, those were intended to cover a lot of what the President wants to cover. Wouldn't it make more sense for him to focus on making what we already have work? Why does he has to recast the world in his own image? I'm sorry, but this whole debate seems more ego-driven than addressing the practical needs of the American people. I sincerely hope that he gets off his high horse and listens to all the American people, particularly the middle class who will pay for all this "reform", and makes practical and affordable suggestions, and not the power grab that his Health Care Reform clearly was.
Jack,as a Canadian,I say that it had better not be to late.I have benefited
from our health system in enormous ways but above all it gives me peace of mind.I know that in my old age I will not suffer the anxiety that
Americans feel under the same conditions.That folks is worth everything.
Jack, you an all the other liberals still are wanting to share the wealth from those that work to those that won't. No more government wellfare nanny care! We already take care of the loafers at the clinics and emergency rooms for FREE! Now you and your crowd wants the workers to do more for the drones and Welfare Queens. Look at government housing and its mess before you wish more government missrun programs. Government or "Teddy care" should go and take a late night swim.
I am for health care reform and reducing health care costs. But how can adding millions of uninsured to a plan and running up huge budget deficits reduce costs. I hope Obama explains how cutting 500 billion from Medicare will not affect the health care seniors are presently getting. It doesn't add up.
Since the Democrats have pretty much given up the farm on Healthcare Reform before negotiations even start, the only real suspense during tonight's speech will be to see whether the President and Senator Max Baucus will announce that they have officially switched over to the Republican Party.
Where are the voices of American nurses in the media? They work in the trenches!! True voices of care are not being heard, how do they feel? You are covering "suits" and reporting from no-one who actually has to work with the mess of paperwork and the insurance regulations that the American health system offers. I want to tell the insurance providers, that as a caring nurse, I billed them for hundreds of dollars of costs in supplies–took what I needed from those who had coverage, dressing supplies, equipment used on others, and hot damn– boxes of kleenex and dozens of disposable diapers and I used the needed supplies for those who had no coverage. A game–a huge uneccessary game. Will never go back.
It's never too late, Healthcare is comething that should be discussed, debated, tossed around, and eventually addressed and reformed.
Steve, in case you don't understand, government doesn't have to clean up the mess of big business, it has chosen to. The American people, however, will pay for the mess of big government, and, as is proven from the bailout of big business, there is no reason to trust government with our tax dollars.