Why won’t White House be more specific about health care?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Ever since the debate over health care heated up this summer... the rap on President Obama is that he hasn't given enough details about what he wants, how it will work and how to pay for it. And, despite the president's speech to Congress this week - many say he still hasn't.
For the first time in that speech - Mr. Obama referred to a set of ideas as "my plan"... but he continued to paint with a fairly broad brush... and critics say he still hasn't been specific enough.
Instead - the White House is pretty much leaving the details to Congress, saying they'll consider all options. Leaving this to the "legislative process" is what got him in trouble to begin with.
As for the hotly-debated public option, the president seemed neutral - although liberals insist he's completely committed to it. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi - who had previously insisted on a public option - now says she'll consider any plan that increases competition and accessibility for health insurance.
Republicans want what they're calling a "blisteringly specific plan" from the President. And some Democrats say they don't think there's enough focus on the cost. John McCain says Obama's proposal is an "egregiously expensive and expansive form of government-run health care."
President Obama continues to promise that health care reform won't add "one dime" to the deficit... but he has failed so far to explain just how that's possible, and a lot of people don't think it is.
Here’s my question to you: Why won't the White House be more specific when it comes to health care reform?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Alexander writes:
It's pretty simple, Jack. First, the president doesn't write the bills, Congress does. Second, when Bill and Hillary tried to get reform back in the early 90's, they gave a specific bill to Congress, which was completely shot down. Obama has to walk a fine line between shoving reform down our throats, and being so ambiguous that it won't get done at all.
Steve writes:
They will not say how they will pay for it, because they have no clue. When they say they will cut waste fraud and abuse in Medicare, they are disingenuous. Why don’t they do that now? No one in government has ever cut substantial waste fraud and abuse in any program.
Nancy from Florida writes:
Pres. Obama is taking a neutral stance as he is ready and willing to compromise. I think it is a bad move but it is his decision.
Madeline from New York writes:
I guess some of us are not smarter than fifth grader. How much more specific can Pres. Obama be? If you have insurance, don't worry you keep it. The only thing that will change is lower premiums. If you don't have insurance, then you will get insurance either through insurance exchange or public option. You can't be turned down for pre-existing conditions or be dropped, ever! This is so simple that my 4th grader understands it. I simply don't get what all the fuss is about.
Donna writes:
It seems obvious to me that when someone skirts around an issue and doesn't answer a question, they either don't have an answer or they know that the answer would not serve them well. The president does not have a specific plan or he doesn't want to play his hand for fear of objections in congress or negative public opinion.
Michael writes:
If you knew what was really in a hot dog, it would make you ill. You’re just supposed to concentrate on the mustard and swallow.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
It's not the job of the executive branch to develop the specifics. That is the job of the legislators.
simple as 1plus 1 jack they are hiding things we american don't and won't like in the bill
Jack because it's a work in process and the final product may or may not be how they wont it. Also to be sure that they have the Congress behind them it's the Political thing to do.
because they don't know exactly how it will work Jack. When you really stop and think about this-It's a hell of a job taking something that has evolved over 90 years with various factions (all independent) with huge dollars involved and trying to make changes.
It would be nice to just say: Lets do what the Franch, The Swiss (John Deans personal favorite), The Dutch have done. But that will only happen (if ever) over a long period of time. Call it transformation, reform whatever. It's a hell of thing to tackle in any case
Because our health plan system is so complicated and convoluted, it's seems impossible to break it down into a simple plan that everyone can understand and agree on. The first step should be not allowing insurance companies to deny coverage for pre-existing conditions and stop basing coverage on age. Everyone should be required to have health insurance the same way everyone who owns a car has to have car insurance. If the pool was larger and the risk spread out over a larger and healthier populationm doesn't it follow that rates would be lower? I don't expect health insurance to be free, but as self employed people, who had the misfortune to turn 60 this year and live in Connecticut which granted Anthem a 20% rate hike this year, I also don't want to pay more than 20% of our pre tax dollars for medical insurance.
When it comes to "waffling" it's "Let go my Eggo" in Congress. The don't touch my "medicare" insinuations and the like that keep anything concrete from falling into the batter.
The President cannot be more specific when the specifics "specified" by Congress are as secret as Colonel Sanders's special recipe and Bushs' Beans. You write:
Republicans want what they’re calling a “blisteringly specific plan” from the President.
Republicans are on every committee.The framers of the Bills are asking someone who wasn't there to provide "blistering specifics" and that is impossible. The President should hold a "show and tell" broadcast and ask the Republicans: OK, Johnny what did you do in the Senate today." Maybe we can all learn from their answers! I doubt it.
I think it's because we are in worse shape than they want to admit. Thirty-seven million people out of work and not paying into the Federal tax system is a staggering deficit. The outsourcing of our jobs along with deregulation of govt regulations, looks like it put us in a deep hole.
Those companies that have left our country for other countries, their "new imported" products should be taxed severely. Put a tariff on their "imported" goods equal to the loss of wages and benefits along with any "public assistance" that their former employees are encountering . We (the royal we) can use those tariff monies to help offset the costs of unemployment benefits and medical coverage.
We need to use the tough love philosophy that the Bush Adm used. i.e. We won the election, and if they don't like it, tough! Get this damn thing passed!
Doing everything the various interested parties want, with the resources that are available, is impossible. Who in their right mind would want to tell their constituents that?
I think that the White House has been very specific about health care.
Against the law for insurance companies deny claims based on "pre-existing" conditions.
Against the law for insurance 'caps' on coverage.
The President outlined how the plan would be paid for.
If I'm not mistaken, Congress has three bills ready, and we are waiting for the bill in the senate.
I believe this is just another stalling tactic by the republicans (and blue dog dems), and I'm sick and tired of them dragging their feel on this issue! Congress is allowing big insurance to dictate policy.
Another thing, if a strong Public Option is not good for the American people, then maybe Congress should give up their Public Option!
We Americans have suffered enough, it's time to stop these games and Pass Health Care Reform, NOW!
Just a note:
My heart and prayers go out those who lost loved ones on this the eighth anniversary of one of the most tragic days in American history.
God Bless You All.
Maybe its because there moving on with it without working out all the kinks first or else the kinks cant be worked out.
Did you turn off your TV on Wednesday night, Jack? He was fairly specific. He is also being respectful of the legislature, which I grant you is shocking after 8 years of George W. Bush.
I think the White House isn't as specific as some would like because, according to my understanding of the Constitution, the president suggests laws to Congress, and that is what he is doing. I've heard him identify what he wants in a health care bill over and over again, ever since he started running for president. Secondly, look what happened when the Clinton wrote the health care bill they wanted. Lastly, Obama is looking for a bipartisan bill. If he wrote the bill himself, he would not be leaving room for ideas from the Republicans. (He's not getting them anyway, I know) If Republicans would help write the bill, they would have some ownership in it and they would be more likely to vote for it.
Because they don't know what the hell they are doing. Besides it's the lobbyist that are controlling the legislature – everybody has a price tag otherwise these fools on the hill wouldn't be able to stay in their position for 20-30 years! There are no real elections it is all decided for us – get rid of the lobbyist (isn't that what Obama said?)
"Lifer's" on the hill are making decisions for ALL of the people yet it's their pocket that gets filled and our pocket books get empty. Blue collar works will be a memory since US industries have abandoned the American worker for huge profits – this should NOT be allowed.
Obama wants the Congress to follow his lead from Wednesday night. If he says EXACTLY what he wants and doesn't get it, he'll look weak.
Under our form of divided government, it is the lelgislative body's responsibility to write the laws. Admittedly, during the Bush Administration the Legislature was reduced to a rubber stamp. President Obama may have given the legislature more credit for its ability to take his framework and produce a bill, but at least he is honoring its role. I thought Republicans understood our form of government; apparently not.
Jack,
That's easy. If the President gets too specific, the Republicans pounce like vultures looking for anything they can spin into a screaming issue. Obama is doing it just right.
Jim
Reno, Nevada
Unlike the precious administration, President Obama wants input from both parties since that is how government is suppose to work. Republicans want specificity from the president when they are given the opportunity to maturely add their two sense to the healthcare reform plan. They're so use to my way or the highway, they haven't learned the post ego-centric stage of being able to compromise. Big babies!
The President should be more specific about his healthcare plan. If he was, most taxpayers, seeing what it would truly cost, would expire immediately from massive heart attacks, drastically reducing the U.S population, making the Public Option more plausible.
This presidency was born between a rock and a hard place. After years of govenment obfuscation, everyone of us are tired of being fooled and manipulated. Call me pollyanna, but I believe in this president although he's beseiged by the multiple problems left unattended by the Bush administration. Now this cabal of jackals want us to believe that this child president lacks the credentials to unravel the disasters of their own making. Is this the twilight zone or has my mind failed me?
Jack, there is a simple explanation for the White House not being more specific about healthcare reform. While President Obama has won't waver on some very specific components he wants to see in the plan, he still wants to give members of Congress opportunities to contribute and even persuade him with their ideas. It would be disingenuous of him to invite members of Congress to submit suggestions and plans for healthcare reform while at the same time presenting to them his own fully detailed plan. I believe he is sincere in leaving the plan open to other ideas.
The poor guy just can't win, can he?
Well, at least not when it comes to health care reform. One criticism is that reform is "Obamacare", which implies too MUCH interference from the White House.
Now you are reporting that the criticsm in too LITTLE interference from the White House.
I believe the LEGISLATIVE process, the process by which LAWS are made is the process for CONGRESS, not the White House! So, how is President Obama doing wrong by allowing the process to go on, interfering as little as possible (probably to satisfy those who think he wants to run health care)?
I would be happy if (1) CONGRESS gets off it's collective butts and passes some form of reform that includes most (or all ) of the reforms suggested by the President and others and (2) then the PRESIDENT can do what the ADMINISTRATIVE branch of the government does, sign the bill!
Then, we can let the JUDICIAL branch fight it out over which provisions of any health care reform bill are thought to be "unconstitutional" by the radical nuts on both sides of the spectrum!
I guess what we need is another big rash of layoffs, so more people will be faced with losing their health care, and consequently become more involved in the process of fixing the health care system. Maybe layoffs should start in the MEDIA, and then we can see how the reporting on this issue changes.
If they got any more specific then you would need a degree in law to understand the language.
The President should be more specific about his healthcare plan. If he was, most taxpayers, seeing what it would truly cost them in new taxes, would expire immediately from massive heart attacks, drastically reducing the U.S population and making the Public Option much more plausible.
I think the problem right now is that there are currently about four bills floating about in Congress which have some core commonalities but, in some areas, various differences. Until a single bill makes it through Congress, it is hard to get too specific beyond the point that the President went to in his address.
jack, what difference does it make how specific he is. any answer that he gives is going to be re-worded, twisted around, and spun by opponents as to create more confusion and make it seem negative. that's the way it "works" up there in washington.
I am beginning to wonder if these people know what they are doing? They sure aren't inspiring a lot of confidence right now. Robert Reich explained 'The Private Option' in 70 seconds. Why aren't people like Reich and Howard Dean a part of this administration? It's like they are wearing clown shoes to a formal dinner. Right now I am hoping that the Progressives run a candidate against Obama in 2012.
John
Anderson, Indiana
The white house will not be more specific on health care because obama is waiting for the doctors, lawyers, hospitals, and health care insurance industry to tell him what to do. He is made of rubber and has no spine. Never listen to what he says just watch what he does with health care. He will always let you down.
nj
He has Jack, he said if we reduced the cost of health care by 1/10th of a per cent, we would be able to reduce the national debt by 4 TRILLION dollars in the long term..Now please tell me what the long term is ?? Oh I know!!! That would be well after he is out of office wouldn't it ??
The same reason why President Bush wasn't more specific with the war in Iraq. If the White house were to be specific about their health care plan people would not support it.
He is letting the House and the Senate to figure out what it will look like. It is will actually be the Congress' health care plan.
Its kind of hard to be specific when there isn’t a bill yet. The President told us what he wanted. And honestly who cares what McCain thinks? We let him know what we thought of him and his venom spewing VP pick last November.
Because the President hasn’t read all of the plan yet.
The president has been as specific as he can possibly be. But, no matter how little or how much he explains the bones of his plan, Republicans will never be happy! I doubt if he's seriously keeping secrets about the healthcare bill just to piss everybody off, Jack.
Why does anyone keep the facts from an audience. The don't believe they can reach their goal if the facts are known. You can be as cordial as you like but I don't know how to call it something other than " You Lie".
Jack,
Perhaps the rude Mr. Wilson actually had the right answer: They lie.
the answer is really simple. As Rep. Wilso pointed out, they are lying!! this is little more than an effort to make sure big government completely invades our lives and will lead to runaway deficit spending followed by massive tax hikes
I think over 1000 pages of content is pretty specific.
Robert
President Obama was very specific-if you do not understand the medical benefit language-I would say that this is a personal problem. He very specifically stated that the publc option-would be preventative care.
Obama won't be more specific because Billary was too specific. Our president is over learning from past mistakes. The reason it is being debated and drafted in Congress is simply, it is the only way you could get a bill that has a chance.
Mr. Cafferty, why did you refer to our President as "Mr. Obama"? He is not Mr. Obama; he is President Obama. I don't recall you referring to President Bush as Mr. Bush - or President Clinton as Mr. Clinton. Is this an honest mistake or ??? Sincerely, Mrs. Thompson.
For the same reason that killed the bill proposed by the Clinton Administration. The pundits and lobby firms will find a way to kill it. The Republicans are not interested in passing a bill that will Health Reform for all Americans.
The reason the White House won't be more specific is because they are a gang of weak weasels and the President won't consistently lead.
Unfortunately, the Obama White house has not been the paragon of transparency that it promised. I am a lifelong Democrat with now with reservations under President Obama. Rarely does this group take a firm position on anything.
Because, like Rep. Wilson said, "HE IS LYING". Heck, I just came back from the deli and when I asked for more cheese for the same price she laughed at me and said NO.
Jack,
I've heard and read enough about the healthcare plan for myself. I have finally come to the conclusion that it is a good thing for all of us.
Pres obama is taking a neutral stance as he is ready and willing to comprimise. I think it is a bad move but it is hia decision.
Nancy
PC Florida
Now that the President has made his position known, told the Obstructionists their party is over (in more ways then one) and drawn the Dumbocrats closer together, I think we’ll see a solid plan from the Senate by the middle of next week. With the elephants now out of the picture, there is no excuse to delay passing real health care reform. Inaction will be the end of the road for the Democrats and now they know it. No one will get everything they want, but everyone will get something and the American people will be the real winners. As for cost, anything will be cheaper then what we will face in 10 years or less with doing nothing.
Sadly the lack of specifics is because the executive branch is already posturing for running for a second term. This could not happen if we amend to allow a single term (6 years might be right).
Simply put, the White House doesn't know or care to be specific. The details are not important. It's only important to have a government controlled, single payer system, regardless of the cost.
Once specifics are announced, people from both sides who don't like the specifics will zero in on the attack. It is much more difficult to hit a moving target!
Dear Sir,
Two points. At this time why sweat the details of the plan, it truly does not appear that anybody is listening. If anything, Mr. Obama has shown a preference for efficiency.
As for all of the folks calling the President a Socialist and a Communist, he is not. On behalf of my fellow Marxists, I would like to say, we don't much care for him either, but it is his economics not his race that disturbs us.
Thanks,
Mark from Texas
Because it a huge step from conceptualization to implementation. It's time to be Presidential and lead the change Americans were looking for when they voted in November.
If there is so much money that can be saved by policing medicare and medicaid - why are they waiting? Let's do it now. Then we will know just how much of the proposed health care reforms the "savings" will pay for? Blanche Krall
It's pretty simple Jack, first, the President doesn't write the bills, Congress does. Second, when Bill and Hillary tried to get reform back in the early 90's, they gave a specific bill to Congress, which was completely shot down. Obama has to walk a fine line between shoving reform down our throats, and being so ambiguous that it won't get done at all
The White House can't be more specific because the bill is not finished. Congress is still fighting about it. Don't you watch the news? What have all these phony "grassroots" townhall meetings been about? What a stupid question.
Jack – its because they have to deal with the GOP and they cant get in a word in without having some idiot equating them with Nazi Germany. So maybe if people just let the White House do their job we can hear in great detail what the health care reform would entail.
Because both Congress and the White House are so compromised with millions of dollars in campaign contributions for interested parties that they will hide all the details until they've worked up a deal and hatch it on us like an adled egg.
Jack:
Simply because the "can't."
William
S. Carolina
They will not say how they will pay for it, because they have no clue. When they say they will cut waste fraud and abuse in medicare they are disingenuous, why dont they do that now. No-one in government has EVER cut substantial waste fraud and abuse in any program.
Of course he doesn't give specific details. "Blistering specific" details are those items that Congress needs to work out in committee meetings. Giving details before Congress has decided on them puts everything in concrete before its time, and just gives Republicans more details to distort.
If too many specifics about health care reform were itemized, the response, retort and outcry would be "T M I (Too Much Information) is confusing me, just give me the general outline." Thus: "damned if you do, and damned if you don't."
Jack;
Maybe I am wrong. But didn't WE elect our law makers to provide what we want? Not what they want. Don't we matter anymore?
Oh....I see. They forgot about us.
William
S. Carolina
Because if they gave all the details, it would be obvious that the real goal is government control of all healthcare (in the near future), including coverage for illigals.
We just fdon't believe anyone in Washington anymore.
They don't need to. The White House wants the right thing, which is national healthcare. The opponents want the thing that we have had for decades, which is health incsurance compainies running amok over the citizens. They had their chance to do right, but they don't want to, I don't think they even know how. Why can't people relax, and have a little faith in what is right. Some of these details can be worked out in a little time. Most of these people that oppose healthcare reform claim to be religious. Well, what would Jesus do?
Because they don't really know themselves. There is no concrete plan. Right now there is just a whole lot of rhetoric.
Wait, people have legitimate concerns about health care? This is the first I'm hearing about it from the media.
Because he doesn't want to antagonize the greedy, super-affluent, privileged members of American society who are going to lose the tax benefits that were one of the primary goals of the failed Bush administration. S-h-h-h-u-s-s-h!
You're asking for the stars, Jack. Everyone knows that you don't allthe answers up front. Nothing is ever done that way, including in most business transactions. John McCain and the Republicans are just making it more difficult because they want to play the "blame game." As it goes, I'm sure that many people are working on the cost effectiveness of the healthcare plan 24/7, and have been doing it for a while now. Think about it-uncovering years and years of overspending, studying the consequences, etc. Everyone wants instant answers. It is easy to ask the probing questions; even preschoolers can ask them.....but to get the right answers take time, especially when you're trying to decipher and follow the trail of misappropriations and overspending by your predecessors. Specificity will come.....but is the healthcare for the uninsured too much to ask for? The alternative is the status quo which in unacceptable, and that's why I'm glad John McCain and George Bush are not in the WH. We need to be a part of the change, not the complainers. Everyone needs to help to make it work–for all of us. Isn't that the America we all know? Perhaps McCain and his Republicans forgot.
My God, I heard the President say time and time again that he was going to CUT THE WASTE in health care and that is how he plans to pay for it. Why does he have to be so specific. When Bush sent us to war with his LIES of weapons of mass destruction, he gave no details, but we spent trillions of dollars. When Bush started a whole new department in government (Homeland Security) which costs our government billions of dollars, where were the details. They did it and that was that! Even if he gave more details, it still would not be enough. Let's face it, no matter what President Obama does, it will never be enough for you people.
That is simple any plan the White house draws up the Republican adversaries will tear it it apart. And it goes on and on. We the people are sick and tired and embarrassed by the media and Republican terrorists chewing it to death. It is discouraging how childish our government and media have become. You/they can ignore facing this fact and lose support. I believe the embarrassment will continue to grow among they American people who have even a small amount of common sence.
Oregon
we have tax breaks for the weslthy. we have dollars thrown around in iraq. we have billions for banks. is there anyone in washington who cares about others less fortunate?
A good leader would outline his healthcare plan in such a way that the average voter could understand and support it. The White House has done neither to date. What do they expect? Do they want we voters to vote for rhetoric only?
Jack, the White House can't release information they don't have. They have no definite plan and they have no idea how to pay for one that they might finally come up with. We need health reform but designed in a timely, thorough process.
Jack- the point at issue is that the GOP is road blocking everything. From trying to have a rational discussion, to actually passing a bill that isn't watered down by GOPs. As long as the White House and Congress tries to play this bipartisanship with the minority party of bitter Republicans, we wont get the details and in the mean time a person like myself, college graduate, young and without insurance has to hope that some major illness doesn't ruin my life.
Get on it and get health care reform passed.
Obama wants input. He stated what he wants in the bill but also stated that he wants to hear ideas from others. Imagine that, a POTUS who wants input !
Specifics will KILL the health plan.
The President has stated this is a pay as you go plan ... that is: no deficit spending.
The CBO indicates that $900,000,000,000 is an estimate of costs. Divide that by 150,000,000 tax payers and we get $6000 per tax payer [either as direct or indirect taxes].
The "rich" are not rich enough to pay that bill! So, every tax payer will have a share.
The only way it will work is to prioritize federal spending. Defense as number #1 priority, health as #2, and then cut every program that follows at a lowwer priority. Congress will have trouble killing PET projects [aka set asides etc.]
what you expect from an affirmative action president, who rose to be an eletist. Nobody will pay for this, just learn to speak chinese, as they will own us, can you say communism.
An ambiguous politician is an electable politician. This way he can claim victory no matter what happens, as long as a bill passes.
The White House doesn't give details because they haven't thought it through. This Administration is becoming famous for unintended consequences. The President's "plan" is based on unrealistic cost goals to pay for a new government money pit.
Jack, the president is just suppossed to set his policy objectives. It is the Constitutional role of Congress to put forth Bills. for to long we have had Presidents who extended their powers into areas that are the responsibilities of Congress. Like wars that are undeclared.
We are not having a national debate on healthcare, we are having national shouting matches over healthcare insurance changes being called "reform".
We have too few MD's. We have no coherent national policy on mid-level practioners..We have not demanded a coherent preventive healthcare and and managed healthcare approach. The patient outcomes and the costs will not improve until we address fundamental flaws in our healthcare delivery system regardless of who pays for it.
It is a good strategy to keep the radical right wing nuts off balance. We already know they would shoot at Florence Nightingale is she could be part of the plan. It is better to save the real details for the "sometimes" adult forums like the U.S. Congress where they "sometimes" play with real money and real facts.
President Obama cannot give specific details on the Healthcare issue because all of them have to be accepted from bipartisan input. If he says more than the general points he has outlined, people will say he is waffling!
The American people have to be patient! He is a brilliant man who will put every little thing in each part of the bill when he is fully ready. I am impatient with those on the one hand that say, "Don't rush", and those on the other hand, who say, "Hurry up and give all the specifics!"
Janet
Jack, the specifics are now running out my ears and on the floor !
Please pass it already and get on with it !
Correct me if Im wrong Jack, but aren't we missing the point somewhat with this question? Health Care reform is a change in law: Congress is in charge of MAKING law, the Executive branch is supposed to execute law. So, in the end, isn't it the job of Congress to present the solution and its specifics, not the President?
It's simple, Jack. He either doesn't have a clue how to do it, or he knows it isn't possible. His main goal is to further involve the government in our lives. This man has an agenda and it scares me.
Jack,
I appreciate your work. Thank you for stimulating our thoughts with different information about various subjects.
I work for a company that offers a health care plan with AETNA and many of my co-workers cannot afford to buy this health care plan and so they do not have health care.
Some have lost their jobs and are now without health care.
We need a government option in the health care industry to make it more affordable for those who cannot afford it now and to make it available for those who have none.
I went on-line and read the various proposed health care plans and I think many people will find the answers they seek in how to pay for the public option.
We need the government option and we need it now. We don't have time to debate and to talk and talk when so many good Americans are out of work and need medical coverage. Move forward now. Enough talking. Pass the proposed plan.
That's simple Jack. The White House knows that "we the people" no longer believe in Santa Claus. We've grown up and we're harder to fool so they will delay as long as possible to present the facts.
Jack,
There were protesters today against the 9-11 observances. There are more than enough folks who are against anything. Some even hate the law of gravity.
The time for debate about health care reform is over.
It is time to pass reform with a public option.
COST?? Why we have billions for war.
Billions for tax cuts for the millionairs.
Give us a break. We can afford health care for all.
It doesn't matter how specific he gets and he's done so over and over. Some people will never get it because they aren't listening and just don't want him to succeed. They don't want him to go down in history as the president who got health care for the American people. They will do and say anything to stop him. All the specific information will not satisfy the most ignorant people among us. Either they won't believe it or will deny it will work or say it costs too much and who's going to pay for it. Same old BS that stops us from getting anything accomplished.
They have been as specific as needed for time being. The Republicans only want more to attack. The need more ammunition to stand in the way of reform and the White House knows it. They have to play this smart or we may not get another chance.
The reason our President has painted Health Reform with a broad brush because he is determined to leave details to the Congress and the " Legislative Process"...The only specifics are the high points he wants to accomplish..NOW Congress get to work stop needing to be spoon fed ...Do your job... work together ... and come up with a better system ... Thank you
The reason the White House will not be more specific on health care, is becasue they really do not have a clue on how to be straight with the American people. When President Obama campaigned for president he promised that you and I would have no less than the standard of care provided to himself, and congress. In reality, under the current plan this is not going to happen. Some where along the way all his pals, and advisors sold us out again. Let's face it a 76 buick is worth more than our health and welfare. the billions used on that program would have been a nice start to insure the wrorking poor.
They just dont have the guts to admit they made promises they cannot keep.
But one thing is for sure, he better pull up his boot straps, start acting like the President, reign everyone in and get moving on healhcare NOW for every american citizen!!
Why the sudden concern about cost? Where were all these cost – conscious people over the last eight years.
Our tax money is continuously given away to large corporations; oil companies, energy, pharmaceuticals, foreign countries, etc. by way of corporate tax breaks, wars, foreign aid, etc.
This one rare time – VERY RARE – we have a chance to have our own tax money spent here on us – the American people – on mainstreet. What a novel idea !
HELLO!! If we don’t spend it – then the politicians will just spend it anyway – just not on you or me. You won’t know about it – but it will get spent. Late on a Friday afternoons they pass some law which gives a windfall to large corporations for sending jobs overseas or wall street or energy companies..
Me – I’m hoping for a STRONG public option that will invite competition and bring our premiums down – for mainstreet – not wallstreet.
So Choose your battles – wait for a better reason to fight government – stop shooting yourself in the foot.
Why is President Obama against the idea of allowing people the ability to buy Health insurance across state lines. It would give the marketplace more more competition (which both parties say they want), and would not cost the taxpayers a penny. It makes one wonder why they wouldnt even consider it, unless they plan a complete takeover of the health care system, and instituting a program that would provide competition and reduce costs through the insurance marketplace would interefere with the true goal of single-payer government run health care.
You show me a congressional bill that is not full of ambiguities and misunderstandings to the average American reader; you will have found a quote from the graffiti on the walls of a Greyhound bus stations men’s room . Should any taxpayers funding be needed to effectuate this or any national health plan it will come from the same source that Bush found to fund the Iraqi war.
I think it's because they're openminded and willing to make concessions to get a bill passed, unlike most of us. We want our cake (whatever that may be) and to eat it too. "You can please some of the people all the time, all the people some of the time, but you can't please all the people all the time." Abraham Lincoln
If Obama provides more detail, Congress becomes the House of Yes or No rather than our nation's legislature. We already have a party of No. Do you want Democrats only to be the party of Yes? At least Obama is treating his counterparts on the hill as if they are adults. I think it is time for all of us to grow up, read actual proposals rather than the blogosphere on the commentary on the proposals, and advise our representatives of our positions. Maybe if more of us did that, debate in Congress would be more civil and...adult.
Where were the people asking for specifics when this waste of money,war started?How many years will we be in Iraq?How much will it cost?Are you sure the information about W.M.D's is correct?I'm sick of people setting Obama a standard, far greater than the one Bush was given.Here's a question that's specific,how much money are these "blue-dogs" and other opponents of health care reform,getting to deny people health benefits?Specific enough for you?Look it up,these so-called Democrats don't serve the people,they serve the lobbyist!
The Obama administration had the benefit of hiundsight, having observed the debacle of health care reform in the Clinton administration in which a coherent plan was presented only to be picked apart one piece at a time in the legislative process, So it was hoped that, under the umbrella of general principles, the legislative process would work through the magic of compromise to produce specific proposals to which people would bwcome committed through participation and contribution. This seems a little naive now, but the front-loadad approach tried fifteen years ago would surely have been greeted with derision and would have been no more successful than the current strategy. Unfortunately, the special interests and the forces of political obstructioinism which blocked health care reform are even stronger than they were in the nineties. That, is the problem, and it can only get worse.
Jack,
I am not going to give my stance on the health care debate because I honestly don't know any more about it than the next person. But, if what President Obama is asking for is an honest conversation about health care reform, then I think he should be honest about how much overhaul will truly add to the deficit. He has been vague with the numbers because it is likely that the more he mentions numbers, the more the American people will fret about overhaul. It seems like a deliberate tactic to avoid the numbers and slip one by the American people.
-Tommy – Fort Worth, Texas
The real question is "why does everything have to be dumbed down to a bumper sticker for some people, and the media, to understand it?" I understand everything in the President's plan. When I've had questions, I've researched it on this super-easy-to-use-internet-thingy until I'm informed.
Maybe Obama's next initiative should be to increase our nation's grasp of the English language.
Elimination of waste(Cost of Poor Quality) would pay for all changes.Not easy to predict ,however,it is at least 30% of total dollars and at least 1/3 or 1/2 could be reduced over 10 years.Unforunately the media,congress,and even economists don't understand Quality improvement.Health care system is last in USA to begin working on Q.improvement processes.
Jack,
Because this administration is really after a national health care program that will cover everyone... If they were to open up about what they really mean by health care reform, their agenda would be obvious!!!
The White House won't be more specific because that is not their job, nor the job of Congress for that matter. All our elected representatives do is create the general structure, the bureaucracy, and empower bureaucrats to fill in the blanks and really make the rules of the system within the contraints of the budget alloted by Congress. The White House won't be more specific because it can't be, it does not know.
I know Mr Obama is a great speaker but even he cannot deliver a detailed 1000 page bill in a one hour speech and thankfully he did not try. The President touched on each major aspect of his proposed reform and clearly stated his position on it. Is he now supposed to do the work of the congress and the senate for them as well?
David N, Barbados
Come on jack i would think you of all people would wait till they actually have a final bill drafted and then do a bit of research and talk about the results and THEN ask the tough questions! I am one (probably) of the few who reads the billing summeries i get from mediaare and medicaid and found that my dentist had billed over $1000.00 for basically a removable bridge called a stay plate and i had told the dentist forget it! After i was told it would need to be removed before eating! He never took impressions never extracted the teeth to be replaced yet billed medical for the whole process! I reported the fraud and two weeks later the sign saying "we accept medical!" was gone and a week after that the office was vacant!
Haven't you heard Jack...they are actually acting like government should be acting and asking governor's for cost input before getting all the numbers in place!!!! The President has said he will not sign the bill if it adds to the deficit!
Obama is going to ruin the United States of America, we are already Bankrupt. By the time this supposed crisis of health care is in effect, the tax rate for everybody will be higher than 50%,We'll all have crappy healthcare, waiting in lines,nobody will have any money except for Billionaires and ex presidents.Illegals will be overflowing here for free health care, Crime will run rampant. Thats what happens when you put the last money you have, banking on your or congresses health care plan works. We should be working on getting Americans back to work so they can afford their own health care again. Unless there is a plan of not putting everyone back to work again. Jerry/ Iowa
They won't be more specific because the legislative process doesn't work that way. Ultimately the president does not decide what ends up in a bill - Congress does - and there's a lot of back and forth over each decision before the final bill makes it to the floor. Republicans will get a specific bill when that bill gets to the floor - and no matter what's in it, the vast majority will vote against it. Were the President to give specifics now, then when the final version emerges, they would say, "Aha!! See!! That's not what the President said; he lies!" Of course, they'll say that no matter what – even though it is they who have been spreading atrocious and easily disprovable lies I have ever heard.
Give them a chance, Jack,
Joe
Tennessee
Why should congress depend on the White House to come up with all the answers? THAT'S why THEY were elected. Come on, why are they not writing the health reform? Why don't they come up with a reform plan? Congress should be WRITING policy, and the President signs it into law. I haven't seen a viable plan from those that we elected to MAKE the rules.
the white house wont be clear on anything on healthcare b/c they have no real specific plan. as we saw 2 months ago when everyone came out of the woodwork saying there was no bill. if they wanted this bill to work for the american people then we should have the right as americans to vote on a health reform bill. instead of being force fed a bill 1/2 of americans dont want.
why has noone brought up that businesses will yes have to offer insurance to workers but noone has set a standard on what they have to offer. the last time i was offered healthinsurance with a great plan only to be changed after enrolling to where they cover $250 a yr in prescriptions and after u met that u have a 20% discount. how is this health insurance how can the govt continue to play a game with peoples lives. and also the reports show 3 million people will be without ghood health insurance after a year of implementing a bill by the whitehouse or how many small businesses will have to let go of staff in order to provide health care for anyone they have not fired. to afford staying in business. smokescreens come in every color so why should we believe when the smoke clears will be any better off.
The health insurance(NOT HEALTHCARE) change is not popular and being more specific will not help his cause. I think as long as Congress is exempt from the plan, it will be difficult to gain the people's approval. Also, assuming waste and fraud will pay for most of the added 30 mil is a joke. Many of us were born in the morning but not yesterday morning!.
Hey Wolf's Man Jack!
Maybe I heard wrong, but I thought the President stated it would cost $900 Million per year. They should have somebody forcast numbers and ball park it. Given that the government botches spending anyway regardless of what party is in power, The cost will always go up from original figures. It's called PORK.
Until both Democrats and Republicans get representatives who are truly there for the public, and the public educates themselves about government policy, protocol, and if the candidates are truly qualified, this problem will continue.
Transparencey works only when the truth is accessible to all. So the history of government reporting figures are always fudged. As in business, employees are a reflection of management, the government is a reflection of the American public who vote.
Washington will not changed because there are more people there who have a vested interest in keeping the status quo. Until that is changed all things remain the same.
Daniel Martinez
Austin, TX
Maybe Obama is afraid of looking weak if he gave specific proposals that are not passed by Congress.
Obama could have told how the public option would benefit those who have insurance now. Private insurers would be carefull about raising premiums and losing customers to the NEW competition.
Probably Jack for the same reason he won't come out and say what really needs to be said, how the insurance company's are the only dealth panels out there and are the only ones that have a vested interest in really sick people dying and getting off the books so they can get back to making money.
Don't get me wrong Jack, I realize that insurance company's need to make a profit, but just like fixing a fight, horse race, or game is wrong, if you're going to be in the gambling game you have to eat your loses like the rest of us!
Dave from NH.
Come on Jack! Has anyone EVER heard of a specific bill? How about a lawyer ever being specific? Politics, Bills, everything we have built this country on has a million loop holes, trap doors and ways out. I don't expect it to change now.
We need a change in heath care, and it could only change for the better. I trust my President.
No one has explained where the insurance companies will find savings to offset the increased costs of the insurance reforms. The pre-existing condition and recission reforms are good ideas, I think most can agree, They do have implications if e.g. a person (on low public plan) signs up in month 8 1/2 of pregnancy to a cadillac plan, then drops coverage a week after delivery, then they will pay a few weeks of premiums leaving the current policy holders with thousands unpaid. Similarly, expect people that believe they are healthy to carry cheapest, weakest coverage then sign up for Blue Cross when diagnosed with cardiac, diabetic, oncological conditions - the law as written drives costs as much as possible on to the private insured patients - driving business to sign up on the basic/low public options or just pay the 8%.
I know we need a Health Care Program in this country. It would be good to have a plan supported by both parties. I believe the President is trying to get this done. And he truly wants to get this done on his term in office. Instead of all the oppositions to Health Care we, the public, need to know the facts of any proposal. Everyone needs to get on the same page. Let everyone stop bickering and just git er done.
It's really simple. Obama wants government healthcare and government solutions to the healthcare. He doesn't want market-based solutions to healthcare. It's one of the reasons why he voted against the plan to enable people to buy insurance across state lines during the Bush administration. Obama and the Democrats want government socialized control of everything including healthcare.
The White House won't give us specifics on the health plan they want because they don't want the real uproar we'll have when people realize what will be in the plan. For example, Obama keeps repeating, if you like your health insurance, you will not have to give it up. However, he has already said he will eliminate all Medicare Advantage plans. So, I guess he is taking my health insurance away. And that's just one example! Another example, he keep saying tax payers will not be paying for abortions but we certainly will, if there is a tax payer funded public option. Get the idea? Mum's the word!
The President should not be quite, revealing reasons for the governhrnment envolvement. It's so obvious. Cost of managing is reason enooug. Civil Serviceemployees working for salary vs CEOs and profit margin being a mustt with any private plan.
Will everyone please make up their minds. First, you want the White House to be more specific about it's (Obama's) health care plan (so that you can accuse him of trying to have the gov't. take over health care. Then they say that they (the republicans) must have their way, which it appears to me to be, "no changes in health care unless we get to make them"
Did no one listen to the speech??? The President said, "I welcome any USEFULL input of ideas and suggestions from either side of the isle, as long as they are presented peacefully. Is there no one who understands that there are both Democrats AND Republicans working on the reform bill??? Is there no one in our government who has any spark intellegence at all?????????
Just like Obama – Every time they lie, they get caught!!
Haven't you heard Jack...they are actually acting like government should be acting and asking governor's for cost input before getting all the numbers in place!!!! The President has said he will not sign the bill if it adds to the deficit!
I guess the President cannot spent one day without making the news that he has his hands in the healthcare bill! And if he did, people would say he is too much on tv!:>)
If Obama provides more detail, Congress becomes the House of Yes or No rather than our nation’s legislature. We already have a party of No. Do you want Democrats only to be the party of Yes? At least Obama is treating his counterparts on the hill as if they are adults. I think it is time for all of us to grow up, read actual proposals rather than the blogosphere on the commentary on the proposals, and advise our representatives of our positions. Maybe if more of us did that, debate in Congress would be more civil and…adult.
Jim
Davis, California
Because the truth is frightening; the country cannot afford current medical costs. The only solution is to reduce care; the reduction will fall mainly on end of life care, joint and organ replacement for seniors . All the politiicians are afraid to state this. The rich , of course, will continue to have whatever they can afford.
Jack the W.H. has been very clear it just seems that you and the repubs aren't listening. A huge chunk will come from medicare waste and part from a tax on wealthy americans.
Tsk,Tsk,Tsk, The constitution provides that Congress shall write the law, the President shall enforce the law. If the President was more specific wouldn't he in affect be writing the law, and thus in violation of the Constitution? The best that the President can do is suggest what He wants in the Law and ask Congress to write it accepting it or vetoing if Congress fails. But the real question is why would the media give credence to the suggestion he needs to be more specific? It would appear there are more than the former vice-president who thinks the wording of the Constitution be damned.
1.4 million of anti-reform insurance dollars per day seems like a pretty good reason to hold the specifics until they are agreed upon. What they really need is about 90 to 100 billion per year. Is there going to be a public option? Do you know? Neither does he. Do you think that might change the numbers a bit? Between Medicare savings, payments from Pharma, potential premiums and eliminating the Bush tax cuts, that money shouldn't be too hard to get.
Where were you when the Iraq war didn't even make it into the budget? Where were the 10 year budgets under the previous administration. If the Republicans cared about Health Care reform at all why didn't they even talk about it during the first 6 years of Bush's hierarchy when they had the majority in both houses and the Presidency?
Jack, let's face it, the White House isn't being mre specific about the Health Care plan, bevcause they can't be. Nne of them has had any experience with it other than to present the doctor with their health care card. Another reason is that they are leavinfg the door open so they woun't sound like idiots if they have to change their minds about some fthe details. Surely there must be some expert in this field who could give them the correct scoop. Hillary is one person who comes to mind. She has been working on health care snce she was in her early 20's. Sure, the plan didn't pass when her husband was president, but then again she had Newt Gingrich with his monkey wrench to contend with.
Perhaps the best one to ask this question of is SC Rep. Joe Wilson!
HE INDEED HAS THE ANSWER!!
Jack,
Why provide citizens with details, when those pesky things can get in the way of what could be hidden? Remember the President wanted to pass a Healthcare Bill in two weeks without most people, let alone Congress reading it, That was the real tell, which gave away the players hand,.
Wilson is correct. The rest is politicians Bearing False Witness.
The facts about the profits-before-people insurance companies, AMA and drug companies are reason enough to fix this problem at any cost. Why did we spend a trillion to attack Iraq?! Again, profits before people.
The White House won't be specific because the whole plan is short on specifics, even at this late date. Since July he has counted on an expressed need for quick action to get a bill, which hid the lack of details. Why did such a HUGE step require action by the August recess? That is a factor in why the center right in this country mistrusts the spector of big government. What the administration seemed to want is an outline of a bill which would be a foot in the door to control the whole health care function, with too many details to come later. It's way, way too big a step- especially in light of the fuzzy answers on cost impacts- to trust this vague process so far.
As an economist I can tell you that except for highly competitive employment fields, a huge number of employers would be better off and at lower risk to pay the 8% fee and let employees assume the risk of buying insurance. Even then, anticipate that employment growth will be reduced by 2 1/2 to 4 percent over the next decade as employers minimize the "payroll" subject to the tax. I would expect by 2022 (7 years after public option launch) that everyone making under $150,000 per year except govt. employees will be on a public option plan with or without subsidies. Further, in large areas there will be few or no doctors willing to accept the reduced fees, increased documentation, and govt audits and lawsuits related to these plans.
Oh, Jack. If the Obama administration had presented a detailed health insurance reform bill, the same people squawking because he hasn't been more specific would "interpret" or most likely "misinterpret" every line of the bill and spread lies and misinformation and scream about the fact there wasn't any bipartisan input into the bill amongst other squawking complaints.. And the media would stand with their thumbs in their mouths and report the lies and misinformation as if it had some basis for truth. Oh, they have already done that with the current situation.
Those who prefer the status quo in the health care and insurance industry have taken advantage of people who are caught up in emotional outbursts, put forth for a variety of reasons, and you know it, regarding this new president. The opposition would attack what ever approach President Obama took, you know it and if there are people watching who don't know it, they probably watch too much "fair and balanced" TV and listen to too many radio talk shows which are nothing but propaganda!
Jack,
Obama was very specific about his health care plan Wednesday night. But the President is trying to negotiate several different versions of the bill and the one from Senate Finance is not done yet. They are working on this all while the radical right is spouting lies and crazy conspiracy theories. It is easy to take shots and make simplistic stupid statements when you are not responsible for getting this done right.
That possibility has now become a reality in our national consciousness. Pearl Harbor is still a background reality probably until all of us baby boomers have passed on. We need to be vigilant without acting like victims. We were sure jumpy today....including CNN....
Our legislative process has many filters to assure what comes out in the end is consensus and is palatable to most citizens. The process seems unending, frustrating and sometimes to be lacking common. sense. I applaud those in the thick of these discussions, many of which take place very late at night after long days. I pray we end up with a plan which improves what we now have. Thanks for your coverage of these important issues.
Hi Jack!,
Why? Because they know damn well that Joe Wison is right. The House Democrats led by Pelosi, gutted any provision requiring proof of citizenship. Rep. Wilson owes nobody an apology. The President LIED to Congress and America.
And I had such high hopes for this president.
Have A Great Weekend Jack!
Rory Murray
By The way, I'm 50 today and I'm taking my birthday (9/11) back. OK?
Jack,
What is it with us Americans? Can't we read? I don't know how many times I have had to explain some of the erroneous crap that is out there. I have even posted HR3200 on various blogs for those to read. Now I will probably have to post Obamas speech last night so people can read it.. People are like the old tail around the campfire. By the time it gets down the block its WW3. Take the time to be really informed folks. Everything I have read so far is pretty self-explanitory.
Read people, read, quti listening to Joe Blow down the block who did'nt even watch the speech.
I do however question how they are going to "police" illegal aliens from getting health care. Are we going to have the ER police now?
What happened to all the transparency? It seems to be more and more transparent Obama doesn't want anyone to know anything about it.
Last December during congress's hearings over the $15 billion auto industry bailout, Nancy Pelosi stated repeatedly that the auto companies must become "viable, transparent, and accountable" or else government funding would stop. I think she should propose the same requirements for the public health care option being discussed.
Health Care reform is a very delicate issue. The White House portraites a somewhat nonchalant feel to it by not being specific...either they are skeptical or whtever. Either ways this too important for just words (they need to act on it soon – the longer they take the harder it will get).
For all of the complainers about the Republicans in this issue. Maybe you need to read up on how govt works. The Democrats have a clear majority in both houses of congress and the last itme I looked Obama was a liberal Democrat. The Republicans could yell and scream, run naked down the street and it wouldnt matter. If the Dems had any cajones they would pass whatever they want. The only thing they want to share in this battle is the blame for the disaster they are trying to inflict on the country. For all of you who keep saying the republicans are the holdup, please shut up!!! Obama is about as bipartisan as Rush Limbaugh
I think they are being as clear as they can given the scope of this task. I must be some kind of savant but I understand the plan and the objective. Maybe it is my years of working behind the scenes in HR where I was exposed to what is really going on with these for-profit insurance companies that makes me understand. I would suggest that people quit listening to this dribble at town hall meetings and some of the confusion stated by the media and open up a book or look at the annual reports of these companies and maybe they will see more clearly.
Republicans called everyone traitors (or worse) if they questioned any of the terrifying motives of the Bush-Cheney Adimistration, from Colin Powell's frightening presentation to the UN using artist's renderings of what Saddam Hussein's mobile WMD labs probably looked like, to pleading for us to have more patience for The Surge to work in Iraq, to their color-coded anxiety meter, to Bush & Cheney's secret testimony and Condaleeza's EMPTY testimony for the 9/11 Investigation, to artificially lowering interest rates for people to reach the American dream of buying their own homes, etc., etc., etc.
Do you actually wonder why President Obama's team cannot be more specific about their thoughts on revamping the country's broken healthcare system?
No matter what (repeat: no matter what) President Obama and his team says, the stubborn staunch block-and-blame Republicans will continue their defeatist baloney because Democrats are, once again, cleaning up after them.
You see and hear their Block And Blame baloney all the time.
That's why, Jack.
He can’t because he doesn’t have a plan, just a lot of talk, TV appearances and a speech. No substance, no plan and not much truth as we have seen the other day. I think we have another one term president, unless he wakes up soon and starts to at least try to keep a few of his promises. So far all he has done in take money out of my social security and given it to a few billionaires and thieving banks, not to mention throwing billions down that rat hole called GM.
Jack,
I feel they themselves don't have a clue, they are just making it up as they go.
Carl in Illinois
Jack , I am a South Carolinian and I am getting so fed up with Sanford ,Wilson and all the other good ole boys who make the news here that it's almost time to move out of the state.
Jack, it wouldn't matter if obama is more specific with his pan. The republicans would totally falsify every aspect of it to all there brainwashed supporters. Doesn't the bible say we should love thy neighbor? I guess all the republicans live next door to those that can afford health care.
As I watch the town halls and see all those getting upset, I wonder how many really pay attention or investigate on their own. Instead of reacting wouldn't it be better to use our ability to reason on the information that is and has been out there?
They don' t want to get the John Kerry Treatment Jack. For some reason in politics once you make a choice you have to stick with it no matter what. Even if you have new information and make a different more informed decision after gaining new knowledge you are called a "flip flopper". Like the public Option debate the president likes it, but it might not get thru Congress. So the White House must state a general goal and direction for health care reform until solid Bill is generated that President Obama can sign into law.
The plans drawn up by house and to lesser extent by Sen. Baucus, do not restrict employers from buying their employee plans from the public option or exchanges, while buying their executive plans from a more comprehensive private insurer. Even Congress is trying to exempt itself so they may keep their ability to have the nice plan (which today is better than other fed employees because it adds to the usual fed benefits package the access to Bethesda Naval Hospital, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, and all similar top flight military funded source, and federally funded research center hospitals either fee gratis or accepting the fed insurance without copays!!!) This is a huge scam, but that is how the bills are written, and no one is going to rewrite them - the House is going to conference with a blend of the bills out of their committees if they can keep it on track. (Note: Pelosi (and Kaine) have indicated to all Dems in House, that they will vote how she tells them on this or they will face a primary challenger next year - see if she will admit that, but I can assure you I have that on good inside source.
Most people wouldn't understand the specifics if they heard or read them. Take for example, Rep. Joe Wilson's outburst, an elected official expected to understand what he reads but responds like he's illiterate.
I think the White house has given Congress the points they need to cover. I Find it interesting the Party that wants specifics from the White House can't produce any – what Hypocrits!
Apparently Pres. Obama is still in bi-partisan mode with the "just say no" GOP.If he doesn't toughen up, he will be eaten alive by them.As for the neo-cons, they never met a war they couldn't support,no matter how expensive and expansive- but health care reform is another matter.
95% of the population of the industrialized nations (virtually all have universal health care) are watching in disbelief as the debate in the US drags on.
We are concerned in Canada about the overall well being of our best neighbors and trading partners. We have nothing to gain by offering any advice except the satisfaction of knowing that we have tried to share what is for the most part working so well for us.
Just do it.
The economic and humanitarian benefits will become evident in time. The rest of the world is moving on.
Craig F McCaw
Vancouver
Canada
The President said in his speech on Wednesday night that there were "some significant details" that still need to be worked out. Might how to pay for his health plan be one of them?
Don
Maryland
I believe he has made more than enough points for Congress to "build" a useful, reasonable, functional, and most importantly, affordable Health Care Reform Bill. What else can he say. If you have the specifics Jack, then by all means, please tell us what they are. I could ask a lot of questions, but I believe you have to have a joint Bill proposed, before you can begin to debate and ultimately fine tune it for an initial vote. This is, withoutquestion, one of the most complex and comprehensive Bills ever to come before Congress and the American people. Some "models" are going to have to be built and re-built, before they can get something we can all "live with".
Gary,
Lexington,KY
When the President tries to do anything the Republican's immediate reaction is to reject it and make it anti-American. It's quite clear to me that the President isn't asking for government run healthcare but I keep hearing Republicans say it is so. I keep hearing about the President being willing to compromise but not the Republicans. If he gets specific they'll drive it all into the ground at once and they will have their victory by making him fail.
Sharon in Colorado
There are alot of nuances and unanswered issues as I noted in prior comments, that Dems do not want publicized and are trying to leave the bills silent on these things so it is deniable - alot like their approach to ensuring illegal aliens are not paying their govts or private crooks money to forge US docs so that the sickest of the South Americans may come here, get insurance, get hundreds of thousands of "free" health care, then move back and disappear from the bill collectors. Hey, I have a great idea for a new business!!!!
Jack, how can you be specific before the plan is done. I heard the President lay out some things that must be in the plan. I heard him lay out two new ideas that sounded good to me. Now they did to work out the specifics. We have, I believe, five proposals that will come together for consideration and conpromise. Once that is done there will be specifics. Its been, what, sixty years in the making. Can't we wait a couple of more months?
Jack, Because , no matter what the WH says , the Republicans and
their supporters will twist and corrupt whatever is said. What needs to be done is to have CNN run 24 hour coverage of the actual things that go on in congress. Every reporter of CNN should be made to cover the proceedings live and explain what is going on.
Then , maybe we citizens , who pay taxes, would see what actually
goes on in congress.
Simplistically tIhe Constitution is clear on this. The principle is clear. The President PROposes and the Congress DISposes. It's called the power of the purse. The President has told the Congress what he wants to see in the legislation. It's up to the Congress to write legislation to include those things the President listed. That's why there are 535 members of Congress. Each one is supposed to give h/h input to the legislative bill. That's why they are called a LEGISLATURE.
The White House won't be specific about how their Health Care Bill will be paid for because they have no idea.
The reason Obama won’t give us details on where the money will come from is simply because he doesn’t know himself. He’s a salesman, not a financial wiz. Sign me up for a Joe Wilson t-shirt.
Jack, I'm for health care reform, even a public option, but the white house is not showing or revealing enough details. I don't know why! Not knowing the details is making me very skepical about the whole plan. The president makes it sound to easy!!
I don't remember all this concern when Bush was spending a trillion dollars for a war against Iraq or tax cuts for the rich. All of a sudden, when President Obama wants to do something for the people who actually pay the taxes, we owe too much money? Shame on the media and republicans for daring to talk about money being spent.
Jack, they psychological reform to help them form a plan, because I have not seen one specific thing that not negotiable, that include life or death.
The only reason to hide stuff is so they can pass a pile of welfare pork without letting us see the details first. Remember those AIG bonuses that were buried in the stimulus and didn't come to light until after it was passed? Same concept only 1000 times more expensive.
Jack where was all this outrage when the Bush administration was spending us into this economic crisis by driving up the national debt & now there are some who wants to know instantly every detail of how HCR is going to be paid for. Give the President some time to work out all the details with the senators who really care about the American people & not the insurance companies.
Health care is too complicated to try and overhaul the system with one massive bill. It needs to be broken down into logical pieces according what needs reform. The size of this bill has caused the problem. Congress doesn't think it can read a 1000 page bill, but hand them five 200 page bills and they will read the material and discuss it intelligently.
Jack
Did I miss something in school? Isn't it Congress that is charged with writing law?
Good question! It would be nice if it was all spelled out in simple, plain English.