Televised health care debate too little, too late?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
It was a campaign promise of President Obama's - and he's taken a lot of heat for not following through.
[cnn-photo-caption image=http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/images/02/08/art.obama.jpg caption=""]
Well, Mr. Obama now says he plans to hold a televised, bipartisan health care meeting on February 25. This move toward transparency comes after the president got strong reviews on the televised question-and-answer session he held with Republicans recently.
President Obama says he wants to go through "all the best ideas" that are out there on health care - including those of Republicans - and move forward with reform.
Leaders of both parties are praising the move - but Republicans say they want to start from scratch on health care reform, something the president says he won't do. Also, some worry this live, televised, half-day meeting will only prolong the process - the Democrats already have plenty of disagreements among themselves in the two versions of the bill.
Since the Democrats' loss of Ted Kennedy's Massachusetts Senate seat, White House officials have been sending mixed messages on health care; saying they might break the bill into smaller parts, or keep it all together, or hold off on action; or just "punch it through" Congress.
Meanwhile it's not clear how much the president's offer to open up the health care meetings will matter this late in the game. A lot of Americans have been turned off by the secret, closed-door nature of negotiations. They expected more from the candidate who vowed to broadcast it all on C-Span. And, don't forget, this televised meeting would probably never happen if Republican Scott Brown wasn't the newest Senator from Massachusetts.
Here’s my question to you: Is Pres. Obama’s plan for a televised, bipartisan health care meeting too little, too late?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Jeff in Houston writes:
You heard it here first, Jack. The Republicans will back out at the last minute. The moment they are backed into a corner by a well-spoken, educated man – who actually cares about people other than wealthy whites, someone that does not pray at the altar of money while pretending to pray at the altar of Christianity – they will not want to attend. And besides, Obama uses all those big words they do not understand.
Lia in Florida writes:
Actually, Jack, this is a brilliant idea! Instead of rumors, grapevine guessing, or blatant lies passed through the mainstream media and congressional websites, the public will get to witness for themselves just who's looking out for whom. Should prove to be a real eye-opener for the party die-hards on both sides.
Steve writes:
Of course it's too late. If our president and congressional leaders really wanted to have an openly-debated and negotiated health care bill, they could have and would have done it. This is all just political theater, what a bunch of nonsense.
Marion in Birmingham, Alabama writes:
How can the GOP debate when they have been shut out of all the meetings and behind-door secret deals and briberies for votes?
Steve in Philadelphia writes:
It's just another PR stunt from the propaganda machine. Obama got caught in a campaign lie, and now they're trying to mend the wound.
Sachincko writes:
Jack, No matter how you phrase the question, it is still better to have a president who is trying to do something, than one who does nothing. No matter how late in the game health care reform is done, it will be just in time to save someone's life; and that person will be thankful for reform even if you and your Republican friends are not.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
It is not too little, too late. Because it will be televised, CNN and other news programs can analyze the arguments put forth, and shame those which appear to be against the public interest. At least some portions of the health care mess can probably be reformed in a bipartisan way. Something is better than nothing.
Jack, your question implies that the Republicans actually have something to contribute to healthcare reform. I'm not convinced they do – their only goal is to make it President Obama's "Waterloo." Good for him for calling their bluff and putting them on the spot – this is a step in the right direction.
Health care will not happen and there should be no televised discussion to revive the DOA health care aganda. He needs to focus on the economy if he wants to be relected.
It's late but not to little. It is a good move in that everyone there will be heard and their position on the issue will be clear for all to see and hear.
The meeting between President Obama and the Republicans was just his cup of tea. The cameras were on him the majority of the time as he campaigned through the questions he really didn't answer.
He cannot be bipartisan. It's not in his nature. But he will make it appear that he is giving as well as taking, as usual. If he were truly willing to negotiate health care reform with the Republicans, he would accept their three major ideas on reform: Tort reform, Competition across state lines for insurance companies, and address the anti-trust regulations. If these are non starters, then there is no compromise.
I loved your comments about "Princess" Pelosi , and no, they ( congress) are not concerned about the American people. They are in "this" for their own welfare. I hope they all enjoy their last term in office.
You, my friend, are a breath of fresh air on a very Liberal Network, not to mention the program you were on.
I will buy and read you book!!!!!!
Too little, too late. For al of you unfamiliar with Chicago politics, the deal is done behind closed doors, then you have the hearings and the press conferences to let everyone know what agood job you did for them, and if it costs a little more than everyone expected, well, we had to compromise to get the other party on board, when what they'e really saying is that they divided up the money and there wasn't enough to go around, so we had to add more to the kitty, and don't worry Mr. Taxpayer, we'll only raise your taxes a little this year, it's the year after when you'll really get hit.
If people don't think this is business as usual, then they're intoxicated on hopium.
It's never to little to late. It would be great to watch President Obama and the Republicans and the Blue Dogs figure this mess out. This would eliminate the Republicans from using health care as a campaign issue. The sad part is, that even if it was broadcast, the ratings would be awfully low. No matter how much people complain about whether it is televised or not, most Americans would not take the time to follow the talks and educate themselves about such a critical program.
This would be a great thing to do I think every meeting should be on television and the debates that go with it if this was followed we the american people that some politicians say they speak for could see who was cooperating and why. We could also see which ones have favors attached to their vote. This would put an end to pork attachments and create a sense of pride in our lawmakers that they had accomplished something besides one upmanship.
Televising the meeting is a great idea. The Republicans claim they dont like whats in the healthcare bill so in front of the American people lets hear what they propose for healthcare legislation. The Republicans keep saying NO to every issue. We will all be watching to see what kind of healthcare package they propose...Stay tuned
Only for Republicans. Everyone else, that isn't stuck in the Dark Ages, stuck in their selfish religion, or glorifying selfishness as normal and good, has enough brains to know that its just "about time" so it isn't a problem.
No, it's not too little too late; however, it's obivous he is only sincere about saving his image and not doing what is right for the vast majority of Americans. Fear not though Jack, the Republicans will blow this opportunity to keep this boondoggle of an issue going for years to come. God forbid ANY of them try to pass common sense measures to lower costs (i.e. tort reform). Why haven't Libertarians been voted in yet?
Atlanta, GA
No not at all.
Nor is It too little or too late to have a televised, bipartisan meeting to explain why the costs for ophthalmology, optometry, dentistry and elective cosmetic surgery are not increasing beyond the rate inflation in spite of the fact that no government medical insurance plan exists for those services.
The democrat's idea of bipartisanship is to tell republicans what they want to do and then expect the republicans to vote for it while they buy the votes of democrats who don't want to go along. That's why losing one vote in the Senate was such a tragedy for the democrats.
If I was the Republicans, I wouldn't show up. Obama has designed this circus to make the Republicans look bad to the public. As the spider said to the fly, "welcome to my parlor".
Jack;
The time will not matter.
Whatever he says the republicans will use it against him.
I'm embarassed for your country.
No, although I think it is overdue. I think that by televising the meeting we can see where both political parties truly stand on the issues and what their intentions really are.
So what? Just because the meeting is televised the behind the scene deals aren't. This is Washington at it's best and frankly I'm not a fool.
Jack,it's never to late to get on the right track this is just a step in the right direction who knows some real good could come out of this I
can't wait to see this.
Not too little and late, but a great idea, Jack. This would give us a chance to see that the Republicans really have no ideas of their own, outside of obstruction. These clowns are allowed to parade their criticisms everyday on the news, largely unchallenged and insincere. For once they would be forced to explain why they are against reforming a system that a large majority of Americans want to see fixed.
Obama should have realized by now there's no reason to talk with the Republicans, they've made it very clear they are not interested in anything he has to say. If it doesn't involve bible thumping, guns, and war they just say, as Nancy Reagan would say, NO. Republicans don't give a damn about the population of the country. That's the mentality of a 3rd world country. The U.S. is in regression mode.
President Obama was in the pockest of Big Insurance while in the Senate and was working on backrom deals with Big Pharma and other donors al the while the well-financed lobbyists scared America into believing it was all some plot to kill your grandmother. It's all BS and our elected officials are lining their pockets with our higher premiums just like their crooked donors.
Totally meaningless. Obama has gotten a rude awakening with the loss of the 100% control they enjoyed for a year. Clearly the country has awaken from it's coma of the 2008 campaign. When they were holding their closed door meetings and cutting deals with the unions, they didn't want us to know what was going on and they didn't care that the majority of Americans are against it. Fast forward to the election of Scott Brown and how Obama has changed his tune.........because he has to.
Good Lord, you hammered him when he didn't do it, now you are questioning his motives when he does..You deserve another bout of Republicans running the show..He should do a Palin, and resign, write books and collect the cash...It would serve you right !!
I hope not, but this should have happened a year ago instead of the behind closed door stuff. The Party of No will be out in plain sight for everyone to watch now. Let's hear all those ideas, now. I would still rather see a single payer system instead of being jerked around by the large health insurers.
I should say, YES it is too little, too late. Obama's arrogance just will not permit him to start from scratch in a very positive and transparent
mannered way. But the "problem' goes far deeper, Health Care Reform is a distraction while underneath his administration gets
stronger. Socialism is always better organized tha freedom. Did Obama say BIPARTISASHIP? Remains to be seen.
Fred
Indianapolis.
I'm confused. About this time last year the media was starting to wring its hands over the possibility the Obama administration might not complete it's ambitious agenda within its first 100 days. Now, with almost three years left in his term, we get this 'too little, too late question' from some media pundit about every two weeks. Also, if, as many say, it's wrong to try to move this health care reform legisltion too quickly, the 'too late' part of the question seems irrelevant. The real question is this: "Are enough of the 85% percent of us who have some kind of health care coverage willing to give up a little so all can be covered and insurance company abuses can be curbed? Or will we want it all and just whine as we usually do?"
Let "Wiener lead the debate he made more sense in 5 minutes on the "Daily Show " than I have seen out of Washington in 1 year.Why the hell are you ignoring him?
Jack–
Who knows? We need healthcare reform, and with the media and the Republicans banding together to stop it–probably won't happen. No compromise is good enough for the Republicans or the media on any thing. Why bother to ask the question? You've already indicated the answer you want.
The GOP will never compromise for the good of America. Their only goal is to make Dems appear weak and ineffective (which so far is working for them) in order to regain power. Then we can have more Bush-era ,totally incompetent "leadership". The bi-partisan ship sailed long ago.Why,oh why, can't our President and Congress see this and push forward with what the country voted them into office to do?
I hope they are not going to sit and read the over two thousand pages of the proposed bill. They will have to put it on the same time as the infomercials. To bad Billy Mays passed away- he could be there to yell- But Wait-there is more. I never bought any of the products unles there was a least three butwaits for the product. There could be thousands with this discussion
A debate between two corrupt, morally bankrupt, parties. Gee, how interesting...
No, its the perfect opportunity for Americans to see the true GOP at their very best. I am looking forward to it.
Who cares. The GOP does not care about health care reform. Only in protecting the insurance companies and big pharma. Remember when Bush pushed through that great Medicare drug bill? The only thing the GOP cares about is money to their fat cat contributors. Not Americans. But they'll hide behind and wave the flag every chance they get. Unfortunately a lot of Democrats from small states like Montana get bought and paid for by big pharma and other industries and do their bidding not what is good for middle America.
No, the time is right. With the insurance reform "negotiations" being televised we will all see loud and clear who believes in reform, and who believes in the status qua. The only downside will be, will it get any viewers. After all another season of "American Idol" is on TV. Let's hope American will pay attention to this extremely important bill.
Jack, it isn't too late for me to televise the debates. I would love to see democracy at work as it happens. And I would watch it realizing that some of these people will be standing there giving political speeches while not contributing anything to solving our healthcare needs. If everyone would look at it in this light, we might be able to pick out all the phonies from the people who are putting forth a concern effort in trying to solve our healthcare problem.
I personally welcome it, but I think it is going to turn into C-SpanX with just more face time for everyone. It would not surprise me if we get some “staged” town-hall like shouting going on.
The main problem here is that the American public wants Free Healthcare at Zero Cost....you get what you pay for. So if it is Zero Cost, there's likely going to be Zero Healthcare, it's that simple.
Here's a question you should ask your audience.
Let's see a show of hands of people who will forgo their current or future Medi-Cal coverage and going solo? (or as the republicans would say) paying for everything out your own pocket.
Well Jack, the deal breaker for me was when he started making a deal or two with a couple of states, and then doing business behind closed doors. Transparency my rosey butt. Bascially he had a good chance to have "change". When he went with "business as usual" and then appointed a boxcar full of Czars, without public or House or Senate approval he became "Slim Shady" in my book.
I think this shows Obama's true colors. As long as the Democrats had the majority in the Senate, Obama did not really care about including the Republicans, or being transparent. Now, he is forced to work with the Republicans, and we are going to see a different president.
special interests have already determined that we will not get any health care reform. the debate should have been televised from the get go per Obama's promise of transparency and open government and it is too late now. Unfortunately, we will remain at the mercy of the greedy insurance companies/drug companies/lobbyists who have already derailed any hope of reform.
This is a waste of time at this point. It will be like switching back and forth between FOX News and MSNBC all day. Nothing will get done, everybody will feel good that they made their points, the politicans will go home and eat a $50 meal and the rest of us will still not have healthcare.
Probably. Let's just wait five years until the insurance companies go belly-up, which is where they're headed anyway, and want a bailout. That'll be the time for single-payer.
Susan
Tuscaloosa AL
"TOO LITTLE TOO LATE?"
I Think It's More Like
"RIGHT ON TIME!"
President Obama is a Shrewd, Shrewd Operator.
Watching Republicans Deal With Obama on TV would be like Watching 'Me' Going Up Against LeBron James in a DUNK CONTEST!
Then ask Me, 'So How's That Workin' Out For YA!'
I am delighted at the prospect, but, as usual, when the Republicans get what they ask for, they find some excuse to play their political games to avoid an Obama success. Americans don't want a Republican success or a Democratic success. We want a success for those of us who do not have adequate or affordable health care. Too bad that so many of us who think we do have adequate and affordable health care will find out when we get sick or lose our jobs that we do not. Why can't the members of Congress just work for us instead of for their self-interests?
Jack, He lost me, A. when he turned the whole thing over to Congress in the beginning and, B. when it DE-VOLVED into closed-door, Chicago-styled back-room B.S. Sorry Mr. President, but it's WAY too little, WAY too late. The only thing this is good for now, are the news agencies and those hoping a Tea Party revolt in Fall of this year. The only winners in this will be the insurance industry; MANDATORY, thru-the-roof-rated, minimal-coverage "health-care". Layne A. Antioch, Il.
Hopefully not. It's worth a try. Should have put Lieberman and the rest of the Republicans on the hot seat a long time ago.
You might as well have it now so the timing won't be off by a long shot.
this would not be to late and America would see the republican plan that they never showed us.
Oh Jack let me jump on this one.
We had Pelosi spewing poison behind closed door that the entire nation DID NOT WANT.............and we were called a minority of un happy people toooooo stupid to understand.SO NOW THE GAME IS PUT IT ON TAPE AND BLAME THE OTHER GUY.What a joke.........!!!!!
Yes Jack its stupid and too little to late and its pathetic
David
The Obamacare ship is sinking fast with the holes drilled in it by the public. This thinly veiled invitational ambush by Obama is ludicrous.
Everything that comes out of Washington is too little and too late. By nature, politicians are too cowardly to conduct business in the light of TV and full media exposure. They know that the public will see how juvenile they behave and how much effort they put into making things as complicated as humanly possible. Believe me, they fear the cameras.
While I am frustrated it hasn't happened sooner in his presidency, I don't think televising the debate is too little or too late. I think this should become the new standard by which we actually hear these overpaid, egotistical nuckelheads negotiating to get the job done on our behalf. Maybe we can actually catch them working.
Unfortunately, the idea is way, WAY too late! If any health care plan ever comes out of Washington, it will be so watered down that it will be as good as nothing. The health care industry will spend billions to stop any kind of public plan and have the Republican Party Of No in their pockets. There are far too many people out there who have sipped from the lobbyist kool aid and have lost all reason and intelligence.
I don't think so. Maybe this might be our best calculator. Imagine involving the real majority of the voters and hoping it's not like the Bush/Gore election. What a turn! I for one hope it's possible.
Probably too much too late. It would be nice to get a synopsis of the debates but to televise all the action is a step too far. You can't reach compromise solutions when everyone is looking, the first POLITICIAN that weakens to move toward compromise will be an object of scorn and ridicule regardless of which side of the argument he/she may represent. What we really need is a leader that can lay out what is to be accomplished and a leader that can make a decision quickly when a compromise or new solution is reached.
It's never late to discuss this important issue.
The private health care companies are funneling millions of dollars to prevent the current administration from passing Real Reform.
Those corporations are afraid of competition, because then we will find out that they are overcharging for everything, and "nickel-and-diming" the American people.
Why they funnel some much money to the GOP senators and congress?
Because that amount they are "investing" is a drop in the bucket compared with the money they are making.
Those companies are greedy, and do not care about the public. Health Care is a service not a "for profit business".
Is it too little, too late? By now I think the plot of the tv series is to embarrass the Republicans into supporting the Democrats health care bill. But the Democrats haven't figured out what they want in the bill. So the health care tv reality show will be cancelled for poor ratings. Old men fighting just doesn't appeal to me.
Jack: Televising the health care debate will show the Americans just who of them are the dumbest!
Of course it's too little too late!! Beside himself, who else does he think he's kidding??? If it wasn't for the Dem losses in recent elections he wouldn't be doing this at all. He's out of touch with the country!! I think he's just going to blame the Republicans for his Obama care not getting enough backing from his own party. Wake up Owebama!!
Obama had a chance to trasform the way things work in Washington. Instead, he has turned out to be another political hack. Too little, too late, too much slick talk, too little action. Too bad, Mr. President, you blew it.
Denis Duffy
Upper Saint Clair, Pa.
I think it's a great idea. The fact is that we have needed comprehensive health care reform for a very long time. The system we have is really screwy and it costs way more than it should. Let the republicans put forth their sound bite ideas forth in a very public way just like they did at the GOP retreat & so that we can all hear the President explain why they are not in the bill. Let Joe Leiberman explain why he is opposed to a public option that would save a hundred billion dollars and that the majority of the people in his state and across the country support. And just a word of advice to the President - he should go right ahead and act like a professor - he explains things well - He should bring a chalkboard. I am totally serious about that.
Jack,
Now the scared republicans are worried about a podium visual! Format could be an issue but 'best ideas' is what is being looked for in a forum–bipartisan ,please. Let us see how the intestinal fortitude quotient comes out for the Congressional people!
Obama has three years. Congress- maybe not.. Both sides are going to take a beating for inaction and rightly so! It has been 4 decades since any meaningful legislation has been passed that the American people want or need- that would have been Civil Rights. The remainder of the time they have worked with their corporate donors to deregulate every Corporate safeguard on the books.
I no longer have faith in the 'inside the beltway' crowd–they have betrayed us for too many years. Obama can try but both sides are exhibiting anti Amercian behavior! He has his back against a wall–with do nothings in the well!
No, it is not too late! We need to remember all those who every day loose their coverage or go bancrupt, because of healthcare cost, or have no coverage. Please also forward a message to Ms. Bash to only report the facts, and not give her "private" input in to this matter. I have been turnig off more and more Cnn (which used to be one of my favorite news programs) because of the "sensational" twist on everything. Please have the commentators/reporters only report the facts, it may help this country more, to actual get something accomplished in Washington!!! I am certain our forefathers did not imagine how our two party system is influenced by money (lobbying) and the media, no wonder it is not working!
Thank you for listening Jack.
Christa
Republicans are going t boycott it 4 sure,watch and see
Yes Jack it is too little too late! The Democrats argued among theirselves until they no longer have a majority. The Republicans have sat on their hands like we can wait on Health Care. Neither have to worry they have good Health Care Plans. Meanwhile all other important agenda has taken a backseat. Looks like another 4 years of do nothing Congress. I predict all incumbents, Democrat or Republican may see the rath of the American people when they come up for re-election! Don from Wapakoneta, Ohio
Jack – I think placing the summit on television is a good idea. Let us see and hear what they are talking about since it impacts us. I support the President and what he is trying to do.The fact that previous discusssions were not seen by the public does not bother me. However, I want to see what they are talking about going forward and I hope the President allows us to see all the health care debates/summits.
Jack, I doubt the Republicans will show up. There would be too much exposure.
Whether it is too little too late or not–the American people need relief and it has to happen-but it wont with the current crop of idiots-we need to get rid of them at the ballot box and let the new guys know that this has to get done. Tis current crop of conservatives especially need the boot.RIGHT YOU KNOW WHERE!
Republicans will come up with an ecuse not to show face,because thier real intentions would be for all to see
Republicans will come up with an excuse not to show face,because thier real intentions would be for all to see
Jack,
Way too late Jack, Unless Obama and the Democrats scrap entirely the 2000 plus page abominations they have put together and start from scratch with the Republicans and Independents. Totally open discussion with all parties participating live on C-Span would be great for the general public to see what our "employes" are doing for the money we are paying them.
Walt
Salt Lake City
No, not when everyone's health-care cost could easily go up by 50% to 70% this year. Doing nothing could have most of America People without any health-care to speak of in the next two years, all because of the fear and hate that the right has fostered across America, by calling any proposed bill Communism and/or Socialism!
Jack,
We must apologize to our real human-citizens. There will be no meaningful health care reform.
Gets in the way of corporate-person's profits. And they own the money and buy the legislator-traitors we have and will continue to have in power.
Please don't put it on TV, there is too much stupid junk on there anyway. Maybe they can tape it and sell DVD's to whoever wants them.
I think the president should just expand Medicare to include everyone who wants public health insurance. Medicare already has everything in place. Then, there would be a need to make it much tougher to cheat and defraud Medicare and that would require closer monitoring to prevent. Still, it would be easier to expand an already existing plan that has been successful for years, rather than start from scratch and create a whole new bureaucracy. Also, the president should legalize marijuana and tax it and use these taxes to pay for the expanded medicare insurance. This would be a win-win plan because it would be implementing an already existing health plan and would not cost the public any money and also would end the senseless drug war.
Much too late!! This is laughable at this point!!
And Obama calls this morning meeting a Summit????
By the time he thanks all the guest it will be over for lunch!!
A Summit requires months of dirty work by technical staff
and a week of meetings with leaders!
This isn't a Summit it's a Tuesday brunch!!
Isn't it just too slimey how Obama wouldn't think of doing this when he had enough Dem votes to just cram it down the throats of 90% of the country that doesn't need or want his ObamaCare???? Use just a tiny bit of logic and common sense and maybe discuss plans to cover just that 30% that need it..............without bankrupting our country, that is......
Yes it is Jack,
Congress can't agree on a bill, most Americans don't want a government reform, and they lost a HUGE seat in Massachusetts! A televised meeting would be a wast of time and money.
It's definately a good idea, but unfortunately too late in my opinion. President Obama needs to start being a proactive President instead of a reactive one. This televised debate I have personally thought of over a year ago. Am I smarter than these folks on Capital Hill? I want to hear the pros and cons from both sides and how true or ridiculous their views may be. Perhaps this is a good way for us Americans to finally hear what goes on behind closed doors and move some of these Senators "out" next time around.
Jack,
When it comes to giving our fellow Americanas an opportunity to live for themselves or their families, it's never too little or too late to work a viable program out.
However, if the Republicans want to stay in the pocket of insurance companies to the detriment of the American people, then Obama might as well shelve the whole thing and place the burden on the Republicans with an all out media war showing the Americans who died and those that are dying just in the time that the Republicans spent obstructing the Bill.
Chris
Benson, AZ
Obama needs to see a shrink. He has an unhealthy FIXATION on passing so called, "health care reform". He should be helping the American people through the economic depression we're currently in.
Wow Harvard Education must have come in handy again for Obama!!! "Too Much too early" as far as I am concerned.
Yup! 2 Little 2 Late. He hasn't wanted to be transparent until Scott Brown delivered his message to the Democrats. Hes the height of desperation now. He was too busy letting Pelosi and Reid run the show, and poorly at that. They operated from "we're in the majority" so sit back take what we dish out. He needs to denounce their behavior publicly and then maybe, just maybe, we'll belive in his transparency and not his desperation.
No Jack it's not too late. The timing is perfect to show everybody on National television the true character of the Republican Party. Expose them for what they are. Politically impotent and intellectually challenged.
Too little and too late for what? Helping seniors pay for their medications? Insuring 30 million people? Stablizing our long term deficits? The Republicans have sabotaged health care for one reason and one reason only, they want to protect the special interests who define who and what they are; their solution is to screw you. If you think differently ask yourself why they oppose finance reform. Ask why they oppose cap and trade? This week Congressman Ryan the ranking Republican on the finance committee has advocated ending Medicare. That's what you hear when you bring Republicans to the table. Take the money away from common citizens and give it to the rich. Health care reform is v ital to America's economy and vital because it sets the priority, citizens first business second.
I don't know if it was the President's shortcoming or those who advise and guide him who are to blame, but when Obama was campaigning, he promised to have those types of public televised meetings all along with health care and anything else that would impact Americans' lifestyles and financial situations. Better late than never, I guess. After all, if he's going to finally start living up to his campaign promises, the sooner the better, preferably a few months ago; but since that didn't happen I say, "Any time now, Mr. President."
Jack,
As one who was riveted by the GOP exchange with president Obama, I think that this type of dialogue has resonance with the American people. All will be tempted to score political points during these healthcare meeting,however, all would be better off if they just realized that Americans want them to work together to get things done, and, if transparently, all the better.
Presidents (all of them–including some of our nation's finest) have to learn and grow in the job like anyone else. You could say too little, too late. But I would say, "better late than never."
It is NEVER too late to kick Congress in the hindquarters. Granted, most of us wish he had encouraged the Democrats to do something worthwhile sooner, but better late than never!
As a recent cancer patient, I have had the oppoertunity to talk to many doctors about healthcare this past year... and they ALL seemed to agree that expanding Medicare to include the uninsured and uninsurable would be the best possible solution.
The cost could be subnsidized for the poor, and charged on a sliding scale for higher income levels... but it would at least be a "single payer" option desired by health care professionals and over 70% of the voters.
Not to late. He just waisted a year with the democrats bak room strategy. Now with all watching some of the republicans ideas will finnaly get in the bill or the dmocrats will have to answer why not. Maybe Tort reform will be in , and not catering to insurance and union lobbiests woill be out
It is never too late and the President still wants it to pass. If the so called blue dogs would do as the republicans do.."stick together even when they are wrong" and get behind their president...it will pass. The people want it and need it. If this fails...those blue dogs can forget their own election...this will go down as a democratic failure and it won't matter who opposed it...all democrats will pay for this failure. It will show the country the democrats are ineffectual.
Too late for what? There was no deadline, was there? There is no deadline for reforming health insurance and giving people cheaper and less discriminatory access to healthcare. Sure some people would like to make it look like if Obama did not get the reform yesterday, then it is too late to do anything about it today. Fact is, we have waited ages for this kind of initiative and it can never be too late to get the reform that is long overdue.
No, Jack, it is absolutely not too late. I hope it shows the republicans as what they are and makes them look as irreponsible, ridiculous as when President Obama met with them.
It should show they are of no substance and full of fluff.
Health Care Reform is vital for our country and the majority
of Americans realize that, Jack, no matter how you spin it.
Jack
No maybe not to late but at least we can see the plan those who are for it and what those who oppose it and what they have to say but will the truth set the it free? Only god knows and he’s not talking so let proceeded.
The reason the republicans do not want this to be televised is that they can't keep putting there trist on what is going on. They've had chance after chance when there party would be in control( the most resent is from 1992 until the last election ) too put there idea's on the table and make a change in health-care..... they haven't. Its because they no idea's or wishes to change anything, not when 81% of them are being paid off by the companies that americans want them to go after. Big business will win, it has..... until wil change the structure of government, we are doomed.
Who is he trying to fool, even the people that were suckered into voting for this unqualified man can see who he is now, well most of the people with a original thought in thier head can. This is nothing more than a photo-opt, the american people sure need more of those to make us forget our troubles!
They have not passed anything yet, so it's not too late. However, if the debate is not a debate, then it will be recognized for what it is which was an appeasement. That will pretty much sink Obama's ability to govern as well as sink the Democrats' chances of coming out of the mid-year elections without a debacle.
When is it ever to late to begin to move forward in an honest fashion?
We cannot keep judging from what happens in the past, this is what Palin and her cronies keep doing, making outdated judgment and misguided assumptions. And the results are always the same, contention and an atmosphere of contempt. Get's us nowhere Jack.
Lets hope not. Even though we spent a year being inundated with health care debate, there is a lot of (deliberate) misunderstanding about the subject. The more the erroneous arguments are torn down, the more people will understand that opposing universal health care is simply killing people. I doubt that that is what most opponents really want.
Jim, Craig, CO
February 8th, 2010 3:32 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Jack, I don't think it's ever too late to try to make our government work as it is supposed to, i.e. for the good of the citizens.
It's too bad we can't have the cameras rolling without the Congress members knowing it. It would be real interesting to see how many GOP congressional members would show their real colors.
The aliens from outer space must be looking down at us and thinking, what is wrong with this race where they don't know how to provide health care for themselves.
We are a stupid race and all this bickering over health care proves it.
We should all have free health care without the worry that we might die because we cannot pay for it or have to give up everything we ever worked for to pay for it.
Make it work. What a bunch of crash dummies.
End of story.
He should just pass Universal health care and ignore whatever the GOP says. Republicans are just in bed with the Health care industry, they do not care about the people suffering out there..
A televised, bipartisan health care meeting is very long overdue but better late than never in my opinion.
However Obama has to know exactly what he is talking about to the degree of a health care expert during that meeting. Obama will be outnumbered by many more Republicans and if he cannot give good answers to serious questions, then that will let the Republicans push their talking points and help to get them off of the hook.
In order for Obama to be able to pass health care, he has to understand that he has almost no room for any margin of error when he confronts the Republicans meaning that he had better be able to give them a rock solid answer to any talking points that the they bring up.
Obama in my opinion has to come out of that meeting with a clear win in order to have the political capital that he needs to pressure the Republicans to seriously work with him on health care. If the meeting ends in a draw where no side clearly wins, then the Republicans will have done enough to automatically win because they will have the political cover that they need to not seriously work with Obama.
Obama also has to understand that the Republicans who he meets with will be under a lot of pressure from Rush Limbaugh, Sarah Palin, and from their hard core activist GOP base to not seriously work with Obama. They know that they will be taking a very big risk of getting primaried if they ever do seriously work with Obama which is unfortunate.
I really do hope that Obama succeeds because health care is a very important issue!
It's just another PR stunt from the propaganda machine. Obama got caught in a campaign lie, and now they're trying to mend the wound.
stevegee in philly
No, never to late for the people to see how the Republicans and extreme liberals are playing politics with their lives. Like the Q&A session with the GOP and Democrats, it helps to inform the public on the process and not have them believing the crap that comes from the mouth of Sarah Palin.
How can the GOP debate when they have been shut out of all the meetings and behind the door secret deals and briberies for votes?
Undoubtedly the lack of bipartisanship from the republican side has been hindering any possibility of progress on this incredibly relevant issue that health care reform is. I do hope that, if such a televised debate happens, we can see some advance on this subject but I just simply doubt it.
Now that Washington is "rethinking" not necessarily restarting the heath care debate, I don't think its too little too late. In fact, since we as citizens have gotten no progress from our stand point on this issue, now is a better time than any to begin more in depth televised coverage.
On the contrary, it's right on time, since that congressman at the Republican retreat was so dissapointed that the whole health care debate was not put on c-span. It's time to put their money where their mouths are.
yes, the fact he allows budget increases to make the non working shareholders happy speaks volumes to the abuse the 2 party monopoly plays against the people when they allow the big pharma to inflate healthcare rates so some can get a capital gains tax break while having nothing to do with actual healthcare other than shaking down the budgets..... who by the way.,, give kick backs in form of political donations....
Its just the first quarter of the game; its never too late to pick up the offense... These guys have been talking out of both sides of their mouths, so its time for them to put up or shut up!
It is not too late. As long as there is progress towards it. WoW, just over a year and we're asking if something like this is too late. If we could stop having to listen to lies and posturing on both sides and actually stop with the "No, because it is coming from them" BS, we may get something done on that. The GOP hasn't been shut out of anything. They need to walk into these situations they are being paid to be in and be a positive part of the process...
I am tired of the health care debate. The President needs to take their hands and lead the children in the formation of this legislation. It is his plan and he should steer the course. I voted for him becuase of his vision, not for him to accept congresses vision.
I really don't care if it is televised or not, however, it is never too little or too late for health care reform. I am so tired of people saying that this president isn't moving fast enough, or didn't follow through with a promise...give the man time! There is no way he could have changed the world over night and I am not sure a different president could either, having to work with this impossible Congress. Never give up!
Unfortunately is is too late, but it's always important to clear up GOP/Conservative/Tea Party talking points that have made the debate impossible.
Jack, not matter how you phrase the question, it is still better to have a president who is trying to do something, than one who does nothing. No matter how late in the game health care reform is done, it will be just in time to save someone's life; and that person will be thankful for reform even if you and your Republican friends are not.
Obamas and his cast of Characters are trying to do what they do best-trying to trap the Republicans into a small mistake so they can spend the next 4 months giggling about it on MSNBC with "Legs" Chris Matthews and Keith "I have few viewers left" Olberman.
The right just just let them continue to duck behind their closed doors and hide until the elections. Then like roaches, they will be exterminated by the voters.
Too little Too late unfortunately, but I guess it is worth a try - perhaps he can change the minds of some of the public,. but I wouldn't hold my breath - I really do not understand why no one there doesn't take a long hard look - and HONEST long hard look at the Scandinavian Health care and social systems - they cost a whole lot less than what you have there in the States
Jack, do I detect a change in your tone? It seems you've come out from under the ether and seen "hope & change" for what it really is. You're starting to sound more like an independent every day. Congratulaions! I'm tired of hearing heatlh care wasn't "explained "well for the ignorant masses to comprehend. Bah! Arrogance, secret deals for unions, bribes to senators killed heatlh care plain and simple. Guess 'we the people' ain't so dumb after all.
I don't think it is too late. However, I do think the president should roll up his sleeves and get the bill done himself. He should have his staff write the bill that he promised us during his campaign instead of relying on Capital Hill write it.
A republican called him out health care at the meeting he gave them recently and mentioned allowing people to have the option to get the same coverage Congress has. This is what the POTUS said he wanted all during his campaign. Whatever happened to that idea?
I like the transparency, I think its a great thing. These meetings are exactly what needs to be done. That being said it seems to me that the issue isn't the lines of text on the bill but the mission. Democrats and Republicans don't seem to agree on what type of reform we need and the scope of this reform and thats going to take more than a couple of televised meetings to fix.
NO it is NOT too late
They have been fighting for this for years and have come this far
The proganda machine (GOP) have done all they could to confuse, stop and hold up
We have few Dems that should have just changed colors
Sick of hearing about this being ..quote hidden from us...MY GOD that is ALL we have seen and heard about this past year
Who wants it to stop..GOP...who wants to start over..GOP
IT HAS NOT BEEN SECRET...House and senate PASSED THE BILLS...REMEMBER THE 5000000 PAGES THEY GOP COMPLAINED ABOUT FOR MONTHS
Never too late to pass a bill that will HELP people is there...come on...all those insrunace rates gone down, no one going bankrupt any more
Stop the madness.....get it done and if showing the world why they are blocking it...so be it
Pass it and have it written in simple language.....thats is what people need is very very SIMPLE point blank language....
Fight and and DO not stop.....ever...we are dying out here
68 million voted ...lets go
It is more than too little too late. Mr. Obama's complete lack of convition and the devisiveness that he brought to the table may very well mark him as the worst President in history. His inexperience and incompetence has never shown more than the path he is currently taking on major issues. The goverment led by this President has never been more out of step and out of touch with the American people.
Jim in New Port Richey
Jack, the President's touted televised meeting is not only too little, too late, but it is too fake to pass the laugh test. He wanted to shove it down America's throat, but with Scott Brown's election, he has to go public with the deal making, and that's the deal killer. And don't think this is about appendix surgery or beta blockers. It is about the largest cost and tax increase in US history, and federal control all the way to your next prostate exam.
Better late than never!! Give the guy a break, he's trying hard to deliver on his promises.
Barbara, Seffner, Florida
It's not too late. Healthcare reform isn't something we can just kick down the road again. As David Walker has pointed out many times on CNN, we have to change our current system or it will simply bankrupt the country. Action is not a choice, but a necessity.
What a crock, it's never to late how can it be, nothing has passed so why not open this to the republicans if this will make them happy. The Republicans have never tried to give America health care so give them their time in the sun and then lets see what they do or ask for next.
Too late! He's playing politcis with himself
It's beyond too little too late. This is a pathetic act of a desperate President to those of us who think they should solve the underlying problems instead of throwing money at overpriced, underachieving, and unsustainable plans to address the symptoms.
I think that not only is it too late, it's still to little. There is so much more he could do then just take questions from the GOP. He should just start a new and stop acting like he actaully has a leg to stand on. When Sen. Brown won his seat, Obama lost any power he had to force this so called healh bill through. The GOP now have the seats in the senate to block any bill they think that the US people don't want. And with the growth of the Tea Party we can now see what the US people want.
Absolutely not! It will bring out the good, the bad, and the ugly for all to see. Personally, Health care reform is a necessity, and our law-school educated president knows it. But our wonderful representatives have so many special interests to kiss, that what's good for the people takes a back seat. I enjoyed watching the Pres field questions from Republicans- this could be the ultimate reality tv show!
Kathy, Sarasota Fl
Absolutely NOT too little too late. President Obama needs to look at this issue from every angle and keep at it until he has a Health Care/Insurance Reform bill on his desk. This is just too important. There also needs to be some acknowledgement that the Republicans have no intention of allowing health care reform to pass, whether they start from scratch or continue where we left off. I believe the President recognizes this and is gradually and cleverly exposing the Republicans as the obstructionists they are. Also, in spite of the Scott Brown issue, the Republicans did actually lose the 2008 election.
John,
Your very cynical,
It is understandable, However we are where we are so lets make the best of it.
It is starting late, but it is starting. Let get behind this and start making it mandatory that our politicians have open door meetings on all bills and explain, in front of the cameras why they are for something or against it and why. And open cameras on who is putting in Earmarks!
This could be the start of a new political age.
How many regular citizens are going to watch CSPAN or any other channel to watch congress at work? I have tried and just can't for any period of time. People have families to care for and jobs to get done. It is more important that the politicians are honest and forthright when talking about the negotiations.
I believe that his proposal for health care is long overdue and I believe that both parties of this bill, hearing the bill proposed by different government officials. I believe that O'bama still believes in this bill and he plans to pass it as said by the recent State of Union. This bill should have been passed already because people are suffering from present illnesses and are not being accepted by the favored insurance companies. Another way people are suffering because of people that are in such povertous conditions cannot avord such health care. I believe if this bill is going to be passed it should be passed NOW!
Jack NO it is not to late . I feel this is what, all the complaints from the right has been, about so lets see where this goes. Republicans put up or Shut up.Jeanie C
Mr. Cafferty,
President Barack Obama inspired change over a year ago, and for all of his efforts he finds himself in the middle of "you know what" He is like a "pendelum" now and whenever he goes to far to the left all those who join him arugue and complain about not getting their way?, whenever he goes to the distant right, they act like he started all this mess. There lies the problem with this country!. The president is trying to please his fellow democrats, now trying to please the republicans. I really believe his intentions are good about bringing people together, unfortunately this country decided back in November of 2008 that we were still divided. So my answer is not about the debating issues on health care, jobs, or education, how about the problem solving!. There are always going to be different viewpoints on legislation, the question is will these overpaid congressmen decide to vote on behalf of the american people. I hate to sound like a Nike commercial but could all you congressman "just do it" for the AMERICAN PEOPLE!! Good Luck Mr. President! and may your organizing skills go full throttle with some much need results!!
No, it's only too late for the dying or near dead
Yes, too little too late. How about Obama hold a televised town meeting with real working Americans and let us ask questions? Why does congress have a different health plan than the military? Let's get our country out of debt before we start spending more money...just a thought...
Debra in Gaithersburg - No, it's not too late - because for all of the uninsured or underinsured Americans, we still believe better late than never. By televising both the GOP and Dems, both parties will have to air their pros and cons for all the country to see. It is also a chance for the Obama administration to finally illustrate how "Lean Healthcare strategies for Lean Times" can help reform to pay for itself. Nearly half of U.S. hospitals have implemented some form of Lean which minimizes errors, cost, waste while optimizing performance, patient safety and outcomes - and... hospital bottom lines. The AHA and other leading hospital organizations are advocating this, so now - before it's too late, the Obama administration can cite proof positive that reform must prevail and in a way that both the GOP and the Dems can embrace.
This whole mess reminds me of a family waiting around for a terminal loved one to miraculously get well. The Death Panel Republicans are advising everyone to "pull the plug" on Health Care Reform. The hand-wringing and otherwise impotent Democrats are just hoping Health Care Reform can survive.
Meanwhile, more people lose their jobs; more lose the health insurance; and more uncertainly plagues markets from Main to Wall Street.
Both the Democrats and Republicans should be ashamed of their disgusting self-centeredness and childish lack of cooperation during this whole debate.
Of course it is too little too late. Our government wants to do everything behind closed doors. How else would they be able to get away with doing what is best for them than what is best for the American people. It is about time Obama does what he says he is going to do and if the Republicans dont show up, they are worse than he is. Get it together Washington!
Democrats, Republicans, independents and all steadfastly refusing to include & discuss healthcare proposals (Medicare for All) from groups like Physicians for a National Health Program are neither honest nor serious.
Jack,
Let me try to catch up. Obama told the nation (several times) that no alternatives have been offered. He told the Republicans that he had read all their proposals. He tells Katie Couric that he wants to look at the Republican proposals before speaking to any specific points. Too little, too late? No, it is a matter of ‘What is he up to this time?’ Does he think that people don’t see him contradicting himself when he misinforms?
Ah, a breath of fresh air. This will give Republicans a chance to learn to work with others, something they never learned while holding congressional majorities for a dozen years. Too bad Obama took so long to come up with this idea, but hopefully some real political changes may come of it.
I don't think it is too late, but it sure may be too little. I thought all of government was going to be open, honest, and available for the world to see and appreciate. What we have instead is a government that makes raw deals, and plays games with our trust, our money, and our loyalty. This is not the transparent government I thought I was voting for...not even close.
Televised Debate on Health Care?
Isn't that what they had a few months ago.
On CNN didn't we catch what a few Republicans and Democrats In the Senate Yelling at each other about.
To Little, To Late?
Now republicans want Obama to Debate against Senate Republicans?
OKay.
But when did Regan Debate against Senate Democrats or Congress?
When did either (father or son) Bush Debate against Senate Democrats or Democrat Congress? When did Nixon?
It seems Republicans are complaining much about nothing.
But since you Republicans insist, BRING IT ON!
It is too late. Insurance companies and big pharma already made thier back room deals with congress. The corporate friendly language in the bill most likely won't be changed . If any meetings are make public congress and thier corporate sponsors will only find a more private back room.
Jack I answer your question with a question - Is the next breath you take too little too late? The President has at least 4 years to accomplish any promises he made during the campaign. I believe he has three more years!! Enough with these comments "he hasn't kept his promises" I know the majority of America understands this fact! If they don't then nothing matters anyway!!
Jack, Obama is just looking for a photo-op. Republicans have long stated 2 things – one malpractice reform and second – make insurances available beyond state-lines. Let the current Congress pass these two into law and then Republicans can believe that Obama really means bipartisanship this time.
Way to late just like being twelve months late on addressing the job crisis..
Jack,
I reject your framing of this issue. Have you forgotten about the Senate Finance Committee debating health care for hours and days on C-Span?
Have you also forgotten about the larger debate that took place on C-Span when the Senate debated the final bill?
What about the debates in the House?
I think the upcoming debate with Democrats and Republicans will be a welcome addition to the debates that have already happened on live television.
Of course it's not too little, too late! Everyone has been up in arms that the President hasn't been doing everything EXACTLY as he'd said he would during his campaign and now that he's giving it a much more serious effort than before, people are going to say "Oh it's not enough!" ??? This is ridiculous and it's playing politics. Everyone says they want solutions, but no one (democrats and republicans alike) is willing to listen to what the opposite side has to say – even if they have sensible answers for all the people in America that are hurting. WAKE UP, AMERICA!! The party lines need to disappear and instead of seeing red or blue, we need to start seeing congressmen for what they really are – people! If we all made a little more effort to really listen to what eachother is saying, I don't think our country would be in near as much deep .... as we are in right now.
I don't think it is too little. It is a move in the right direction. And, it is not too late. Remember what Winston Churchill said, "Never give up. Never, never, never.
Come on Jack
The President invited the Houses to come up with a bill. They did!
100 ammendments were added by the Republicans who then refused to vote in favor of it.
The President is now bringing the whole process out in the open to show America how this thing has gone down.
The Republicans want to start from scratch because they don't want the Americans to know how much they have been involved from the beginning.
Perhaps America will now see how the Republicans have blocked the efforts to bring affordable health care to the majority of Americans.
I hope so!
Obama was elected on "Change You Can Believe In." Then he caved in to typical Washington politics and pandered to Wall Street. Anybody look at the campaign contributions?
American really needs "Change We Can Believe In". and we need a people's politician, not a pro, to make that happen. The first change is to ban lawyers from politics and return to Socrates' example of the citizen politician.
We also need to return to "Separation of Church and State". Anybody who believes a book full of pre-medieval fairy tales just isn't playing with a full deck of cards!.
Ling Yai
Phuket, Thailand
Transparency is what we need. The country can hear the suggestions and issues from each side and see the reactions from each side. I think it will become obvious if any side is being obstructionist for political purposes. Surely they'll be able to find SOME common ground. Our system of medical insurance and the cost of medical care and pharmaceuticals are absurd when compared to any other in the developed world.
I think this is a great idea, it demonstrates the White House's transparency and shows the public the facts. I do think it is too late though, many people have already lost hope for the health care bill.
NO! The Republicans have taken upon themselves the job of obstructing every positive effort this administration has made. They are now in the process of blaming the Democrats for all the country's problems. The tea party is a group of people with simplistic answers to all the complex problems our country is facing. I'm sick of them all!!
I think this is a good idea! It would allow the public to see what party is actually working for us, an what party is obstructing good progress,Jack. Even if you think it's a stunt, it maybe a stunt that will force more transparency in the future! I did listen to 300+ sheets of the HCR on the senate floor when they were forced to read it out loud. It was very rewarding an educational. I think our children an educators could use it for school also. Either the way to solve problem, or not to-whatever way it may turns out! It's a important issue! You can't complain about back room deals, an than also complain about steps to transparency! that makes lilttle sense!
No. I think it's about time we saw some civil discourse. We need to see a good exchange of ideas and compromises made by each party. It is too easy to be rude, obstuctionist, and dishonest when nobody is watching, maybe having the people see them work live is what Congress needs.
Mountain Home ID
Jack! why are you so cynical? Suppose you did not take the best care of your body and suddenly suffered a major heart attack. Do you think that performing resuscitation would be doing to little to late. I don't think you would say yes. Whatever the president needs to do to resuscitate the dying dialogue I think he should do! No effort he makes is to little to late as long as he and we are still alive. Thanks and quit being so cynical!
Never to late. I'm still waiting for Pres. Bush to apologize, for the war he got is into, with Iraq...
It is never too late for healthcare.Maybe the big pharmaceutical lobbyists will love to appear on tv before they won't be able to and demonstrate that all this is about is just that: Money Money=Power, Power=Money.
Canada is not perfect but here if I get the flu, a lobbyist does not tell anybody,on the air or off the air, what, where and when I should see my doctor or buy my medication.
Jack, you are beginning to sound just like the Tea Party Activists. Everyone wants "instant gratification" – you included.... it took Bush/Cheney 8 long ugly years to destroy a once booming economy from Pres Clinton – now you want Pres Obama to fix everything that's wrong in record time...!! Wow – where were all you Tea Party guys when Bush/Cheney were ravaging, pillaging, plundering our ecomomy for 8 years. What about the enabling Republican Congress for 12 long ugly years? How quickly we forget.. .Must be something in the water..!! Now you guys want to elect Republicans to send a message? Does NOT compute....we're headed over the cliff.
Since the media won't focus on the Republicans' year of unprecedented obstruction, maybe a televised summit will inform the people about what's really going on.
At the GOP meeting with President Obama, all the Republicans could talk about is the Dems not listening to all of their great ideas for Health Care Reform. Okay, so now the President has set a meeting to listen to their ideas and consider including them, but now, no, no, no! We don't want that! Now we want you to start all over from scratch! They truly run the risk of making themselves look like idiots! Ya think??
Vicki
Waterford, MI.
Jack, it is about time there will be another bi-partisan debate on health care. It has been nearly 6 months since the bi-partisan talks broke down last summer. Hopefully, we will get some meaningful debate on health care reform.
Harry – Baltimore, MD
Jack,
I am a self employed 40 year old 1st generation American (Son of an Irish Immagrant from 1947), I have had to relocate 500 miles in order to keep my business afloat, and I pay for my own health insurance each month. What is wrong with the rest of the country expecting the Government to provide them free health care. I hope this legislation never passes. We need to take responsibilitiy for our own well being in this country. I hope the new Senator from Massachusetts is blessed with good health, and remembers to go to work everyday.
Bill from Tampa
Polls show that most American really don't have any idea what is in the healthcare bill. Maybe this will help them hear directly what is in the bill outside the filter of all the partisan banter.
It could be a teachable moment that cold be the cure to getting this done.
Obama has recently declared that 2009 was his year of focus on jobs and that 2010 is the year of focus on healthcare. If you believe that one, you are part of the Democratic twilght zone. His spurious attempt at reviving the healtcare bill in its present form is not only too little and too late but an act of legislative necrophilia.
Its about time! I think health care and all meeting held in public office should be open to the public so that the American people can see how the people we send to offices handling our business and we can get it from the horses mouth instead of letting someone explain in their opinion how business was conducted. PUT IT ALL ON THE TABLE and let us see who's doing the job.
When it comes to our healthcare system, we need to start from scratch and do it right. The best solution is Single Payer Universal Healthcare. Anything less won't fix the healthcare mess we are in.
President Obama said he is open to solutions. Talk is cheap. We have tried to meet with President Obama and give him our letter outlining our solution to fix our healthcare system, and he won't even give us the time of day. Instead, our representatives were thrown in jail. If he is ready to listen to all ideas, we need to see that. Lip service won't do. It is time to stop campaigning and start acting like a President. We need to see that he is sincere and he will carry out his campaign promises. Otherwise, we just elected Bush 2.
ILona Anderson
Edmonds, Washington
This bill isn't worth saving. Rahmobama have done their jobs well behind closed doors, helped by the most corrupt congress in history. The bill they will be discussing isn't worth saving. It is nothing but a sop to the insurance and pharma industries. Oh, he's going to debate it on C-Span NOW? What a lame attempt to try to regain some credibility. It won't work, and who needs in now anyway?
There are millions of people depending on health care reform or did everyone think this was just good for ratings. There seems to be a disconnect from the people to the politicians. Obama is one of the most educated presidents we've ever had...to bad the people in congress hate him to much to work with him. It would'nt matter what he does the establishment will never help him. The skin is off the chicken now
I don't see what the problem is with making sure it's "universal". Same care for all LEGAL Americans, regardless of their stature in life.
This book of travesty's is just another example of government getting "TOO BIG".
There's an awful lot of FAT that needs trimming, and it needs to start on Capitol Hill!
The Republicans' brief from their paymasters, the insurance companies, is to make sure that meaningful healthcare reform which will truly benefit all Americans will never see the light of day as it would mean that control of American citizens' health issues would be wrested from them. Democrats, of course, have not communicated the importance of reforming healthcare to the American people in any coherent manner. It should be that this issue is too important for people to say they are "sick" of it. What about the 30 million and more Americans who do not have healthcare and would benefit from it? Are they a "silent" minority or a "voiceless" minority?
No, the timing is perfect. President Obama let the Republicans' chicanery in the form of misinformation and nonsensical roadblocks go on long enough. They have had a chance to make all kinds of comments and assertions about what they would do and how much better their ideas are than what has been proposed so far... Well, let's see those "bright ideas"–clearly and in detail. My guess is we will see the Republicans back-peddling madly by retreating into the absurd idea that the Administration should urge Congress to just start all over. The don't have any real ideas that would hold up under the light of honest consideration and scrutiny–and we are about to find that out, unequivocally. ...just hope the mindless drones who have followed blindly behind their semi-tea-partying Senators and Representatives will have enough cognitive ability to realize it!
Its never too late to have a thoughtful, enlightening debate. Its one of democracy's true characteristics and one we should champion and support no matter how late its arrival.
"Too little, too late?" First of all, we're only barely through the first year of his first term. Based on that alone, "too little, too late" means doing something like this in the beginning of his third year, at the very minimum.
Second, it seemed like the only thing the republicans wanted to do when this issue first came up was stonewall any and every idea any and every democrat came up with. With the relative "success" of the republican Q&A, maybe it's a good idea to put the cameras on everyone in this debate at the same time. Up to this point, the GOP members could say "no" all they wanted to, and only be in the public eye when they had a planned comment on "death panels" or whatnot. Put everyone in the same room, turn on the cameras, and you'll find every politician, regardless of party, will want to have their moment in the health care spotlight.
Since when is too little too late, We need to start looking at the positive things that are happening. Sara Palin, and others try to turn us all into negative thinkers. We are America, leave the President do his job and quite allowing those with a negative agends dictate to us what they want. We need to make progress is this country, lets get rid of the nay sayers.
It's never too late to do "house cleaning" after all the dismantling that has taken place by the hands of the Republicans.
Jack, quit writing health care off! You sound like a republican! When Miss Palin said that the American people do not want it... YES WE DO! (I recently read on the net that Palin is the anti-christ. Works for me!) You are usually our voice of reason... support us in this one!
Way too little, way too late. The President's credibility is shot – no change, no transparency, just the same old Washington greed and broken promises all around. He's toast.
The question should be "can we dump all 485 senators and representative that are up for election this year?"
IT'S NEVER TOO LATE. It's important at this stage of the game to go for the win. President Obama needs to leave it all on the table if he is to sway the American public into believing this is the change we voted for in what seems like "way back when".
The worse ecomomic crisis in since 1929 occurred under the Republican watch. The Republicans have evidently put their political hopes before all the millions of Americans out of work and without insurance. The current catch phrase is the Republicans are the party of "no". The truth is the Republicans have become the party of complete denial and refuse to accept any responsibility. Televised health care....I don't care about any party blabbering anymore. Instead of "Yes, we can" ...I want Americans to chant... "Just do it."
Jack: With your tone, and the tenor of your questions, you seem to have morphed into Lou Dobbs. There are two matters at play here: one, that health insurance companies need to thoroughly regulated, along the lines that Congress has been debating; two, that the GOP has no other political purpose than to ruin this President and his administration, regardless of the cost to the nation's future. Please allow Obama to demonstrate the Republicans' lack of good faith and common sense by televising their cynical approach to governance.
Reading these comments and others, it is obvious liberals have no citical thinking faculties – they are easily fooled by their hypocritical leaders.
I hope not. Republicans have used every means at their disposal to drag their feet and slow down the process of moving health care legislation forward. They appear to have no interest in working with the President to craft a solution to the health care problems that people in this country face. It's a sad commentary on our society that we can't provide all of our citizens with basic health care coverage like every other developed nation has been able to provide.
Allen Edwards
The Feb. 25th bipartisan meeting on Healthcare won't be too late IF
All the earmarks on HR3590 are posted online a week before the meeting, explaining each earmark, including the offical that added it, and the overall cost of the earmark,
It won't be too little too late if the President is willing to make a considerable amount of changes to the bill.
The group of Medical experts cannont be anyone President Obama spoke to before.
This group must include some ordinary citizens! It will be our healthcare coverage, so we should have an equal number of citizens for every other represented group at the meeting.
Short of this, everyone who watches the meeting will catch the President making yet another lie.
Ruth
NC
Come on Jack, This fiasco would happen when Pres. Obama would do it or not! What is the big deal. Talk about miling the cow!
This is total despiration. The Republicans were not the reason the health care bill failed. He had a clear Democrtic majority. He could have passed anything he wanted. He just screwed it up.
As an independent voter, I voted for and was hoping for change. If not for the republican victory in Massachusetts, democrats would have been able to shove this health care bill down our throats, contrary to the numerous polls that showed that most americans did not want it. I think that it is too little too late. I do not trust Obama and his cronies anymore. The independent vote in this country wields a lot of power. we will use it for change.
James B, Manitou Springs CO
Way to late just like being twelve months late on jobs.
Obama made a huge gamble that he could use his super-majority of 60 votes in the Senate and a huge majority in the Congress to ram his agenda through without the need for a single Republican vote.
OBAMA GAMBLED BIG AND LOST EVEN BIGGER.
His mistake was assumoing he could get all his Democrats to supporrt the most liberal agenda in American history brought to us by the most liberal president in American history. His own party was not on board and now he needs Republican support to get even the smallest initiative to pass the Senate.
Instaed of courting Republican support he now turns around and blames the Republicans for obstructing rather than acknowledge it was his lack of Democrat support that caused his failure.
Hope and Change is as dead as Obama's Healthcare Bill and the rest of his agenda. He needs to embrace that reality or else it's all downhill from here for Obama and he is one step from becoming a lame duck president for the next three years. Without any Republican support he will fail big, drive the economy down even further and likely cause Hilary to quit as Secretary of State and run against him in a Democratic Primary in 2011 and beat him severely.
It is not too late. People need health care. I think this meeting will show everyone who is serious about helping get insurance for all. We all know President Obama has been trying hard to get it passed. The republicans will not be able to just say, "no" without giving a plan of their own. We will all see!
Anything, would be good at this point. Maybe we could finally find out, what the real progressive socialist agenda Obama is trying to push through.
Hi There Jack
No. It is never too late for Pres. Obama to seek the bipartisan support for the success of the US Heath Reform Bill. He may have to compromise more than he wishes to, but if there is success in the end, it will be worth it. Remember 30million Americans will benefit from the Bill when it is passed. That's more than three times the total population of Haiti! Croydon, South London, England
Barry is in love with TV and hopes someday to be a movie star. He still
does not get it and never will – – the people want jobs first and a better economy before health care reform. He is beating a dead horse and losing touch with the American people. Also, he needs to stop lying and consider voting for Sarah Palin in 2012.
Well Jack..I'm a registered Democrat and I voted for the guy. Considering my choices at the time, who else seemed more full of energy, a strong "leader for change" (God we needed that), and promised "Health Care Reform" .? Well, while I am a little dissapointed at ALL the issues he took on SO soon, I respect his latest approach. Bottom line Jack is, life is a learning curve. So is the role of the Presidency...I believe he continues to extend the hand across the aisle and attempts to make things right. Too Little-Too late? Let's hope not. The Country needs to turn away from this bickering and come together in the spirit of cooperation. It starts with the 'boys and girls' in Washington!
Jack,
Obama's transperency train derailed right after the election. However, now that he knows were watching, he moves to have the health care meeting televised. This type of behavior shares a likeness to Eddie Haskill from the show "Leave it to Beaver". Not that he realizes were in the room he decides to play nice. To late!
JW (Mn)
Why is the world of politics so stupid? We all realize that Obama didn't leave up to his promise about televising the health care debates. He admitted it, and also apologized.
But take a stop back and be honest, How many politicians even would admit that. Present Bush even says that Iraq was the right thing to do. After all we know about this mistake and lie. Never has any one of the Republican Party or the rep. president apologized or admitted mistakes.
And yet thousands of Iraqi people or dead and thousands of soldiers who relied on the commander and chief (President Bush) for leadership. No one has died because Obama didn't fully keep his promise to televise every health care debate on cspan.
That's just putting things in proper perspective. By the way that's the job of the congress to check the power of the president, democrates and republicans.
No, it's not too little too late. However I'm a little worried that that "Televised Health Care" will end up being the best idea.
If so Jack, can you save me some time and ask Dr. Gupta to make the first "how to show" on how to remove a gallbladder ? I'm running out of time. Thanks ! this will save us all a fortune.
This is a blatant attempt by the Obama administration to play politics and try to make itself look good and get out of the mess it created for itself on health care. You may hate the republicans but the reality is they were LOCKED out of the Health care debate by Pelosy and Reed. It is ridiculous to expect them to bail Obama care out now. Tort reform and open insurance across state lines is NOT something Obama wants to discuss. PERIOD> barb in
sunny phoenix, arizona
TOO LATE!
He had a super majority for a whole year and he passed nothing. Before they voted for him nobody even vetted him. He has never run anything.
He is a professor and entertainer and has never read the healthcare bills. In his defense who would want to.
For those of us who did, his admission the other day that some things were snuck into the bill is evidence that he has been trying to further his agenda and continue to blame everyone else.
Why did he punt this and everything else to Congress? Why does he want to constantly set up commissions to study everything? It's all a rouse to deflect any blame from him and if he plays his cards right he can blame the next 40 years on Bush.
No, it is not to late if the Republicians are really willing to work with the Democrats. But of course that will never happen. Even if the bill was everything they wanted, they would still vote no, because they want this to be the President's waterloo. The Republicians do not care one bit about the American people or what is good for them. They just want power to do the same things they did during the Bush era, ruin our country. Anyone who would vote one of them into office is just as bad.
The only reason Obama's televising it is because of the pressure thats been put on Him by the people. Nobody that I've spoken to want's this bill passed the way it is now. They hid behind closed doors and made deals to buy votes just to get it to the floor. No wonder they don't want to televise it they'll have to keep theeir mouths shut until the cameras leave, before they can go right back to LET"S MAKE A DEAL .I'm A Union Member and this is not good for my family.It just seems that when either party takes office they bow to the lobbyis,the right, or the left. This stinks especially after they promised that they'd clean it up and work for all of us. THEY ALL LIE!
@Lew
If you remember back to Jan. 2009 all the economists told the United States that JOBS are the last to come back from a recession. I am glad it is only 9.5 to 10%. The past administration with a new Pres. from their quarters the unemployment rate would be at 25% and the wealthy only would be getting another tax break.
Jack...
...Nothing could be more on time than another debate on Television... How excitingly productive... !
Well people have you got the Change you voted for? The answer is you have no change left in your pocket. Are you happy now. The lefties are running for the hills and even to Canada where they really love standing in line for their health care. Just think when the Tea Party takes over Obama can get back on the debating team at Harvard. How about that for some real truth and transparency!!
maybe it will stop my party from covering up the fact that they don't have a plan for health care reform and that all they really want to do is stop anything the president tries in order put themselves in a position to win back some seats in the 2010 elections