A concerned citizen writes, and I agree:
I’m really concerned that whatever health reform plan passes could dramatically backfire on the Democrats, because in one of their many bargains with the devil, they have designed many of its consumer-helpful aspects to not take effect for years.
Lots of people are assuming that this health reform package will immediately become popular like Medicare.
But they may be wrong; benefits if any may not become visible to the consumers for years, if ever; meanwhile, the providers and insurers hike prices.
Administration priority seems to be “get a plan passed, any plan, or we’ll pay at the ballot box.” Maybe with a concealed sub-text of, “We’ll fix the substance later, after we get re-elected.”
That’s the difference between Rahm Emanuel and LBJ: LBJ willing to give up actual political advantage for perceived progress; and Rahm willing to give up actual progress for perceived political advantage.
Another difference: LBJ’s bargain worked, in that citizens got something out of it; Rahm’s bargain won’t because one of the things he has given away in trying to get a plan passed is quick results for the people.
I was talking with my father last week, and he mentioned LBJ, I had only bad memories of LBJ dating from Veetnam. I wasn't aware that LBJ set up the system that allowed my father to see a doctor for mostly no cost. One of my father's comments was that LBJ really knew how to work the house and senate, but at least he was able to provide something that people appreciate, even at this lets date. The current crew, in my estimation are fluff from the president on down to my congressman who sent me a canned pat on the back, are we not great for passing this reform, email.
Posted by: slothrop on November 16, 2009 5:12 PMThere is no question in my mind that any bill that resembles the one passed by the House or any of those circulating in the Senate must be defeated if America is to ever get a proper national health plan or if the Democratic Party ever hopes to win another election.
I am really sick and tired of "the way Washington works" and I insist on a "change I can believe in". This is Obama's fault from day one and he and the Democratic "leadership" are going to pay at the polls while all of us pay at the insurance company. We have a dysfunctional Congress and Obama is smart enough to know that. If you really want them to do anything you kick ass and take names - read out from the White House press room the bribes each of the obstructionist assholes has taken from the illness profiteers. Tell these Stupaked morons that they get on board with real health reform or their fat asses will have to find a new seat because you'll pull that Congressional one right out from under them. If you are unwilling to play that kind of hard ball, the STFU with the talk about hope and change. I have had it.
Posted by: Charles on November 16, 2009 5:49 PM