"There will be winners and losers." And there you have it. Not what is good for the country as a whole, but for the winners. Health isn't a zero sum game, sir.
10
The GOP created this mess and the Frankenstein called #45. They can now "own" it.
7
A suggestion for Trump: "Just rename ObamaCare into TrumpCare!"
4
Without exception, every elected official, from Trump down, should be on the ACA. Any additional insurance they buy is on their own dime and a matter of public record. No more special treatment and gold plated plans for Congressmen and Senators. Let them all eat their own cooking.
10
Guess how many of these frightened people who might lose their health coverage voted for Trump?
6
When the voting public stated (well, the minority of them, anyway) that they voted for President Trump (WOOOOOAAAAAACK! Sorry, I can't even type that without vomiting.) to drain the swamp, didn't it occur to them that the "swamp" was infested by a GOP led Congress? For the life of me, this defied any, and all logic. The do-nothing Congress of the last 6 years just continues to not do their sworn duty.
3
Press conference today with Ryan et al stated a great idea- they are turning ACA over to the states- we are all so screwed.
4
They'll repeal and replace nothing.
So many blue collar republicans are benefiting from the ACA it would be political suicide to repeal it.
Only reason republicans talk this gibberish is the hate former president Obama.
So many blue collar republicans are benefiting from the ACA it would be political suicide to repeal it.
Only reason republicans talk this gibberish is the hate former president Obama.
3
End gerrymandering. It is evil and only allows politicians to evade accountability and delegitimize the opposing party's votes.
3
Aren't these complainers (they don't deserve the name "protesters") the same people who were shouting "Lock her up!" last November? Didn't most of them vote for the political equivalent of self-annihilation?
6
It is disingenuous for Mr. Sensenbrenner to attribute the anger over a pending repeal of Obamacare to the organized, losing side of the election. Health care policy affects everyone, and people in his district are worried about it too. Dismissing these people, organized or not (and certainly, being organized is all the more reason to listen, not the other way around) as losers is a terrible way to "listen" to one's constituents. No wonder they're angry!
9
There are clearly high emotions surrounding the election results; justifiably so in my view, but ranting about the election results is of no value when it comes to ensuring that the next policy decisions do not do irreparable harm to our citizens, regardless of their political views.
The Republicans are foundering because they have a fundamental belief that the government has no business (pun intended) being your insurance company. Paul Ryan and others would repeal Medicare if they could, and in fact are trying to move in that direction using a voucher system.
As a former health insurance executive I have listened quite carefully to Ryan, Rand Paul, Susan Collins and others talk about making sure that no one will lose their current coverage and that the insurers won't deny covered individuals because of pre-existing conditions. However, if insurers are forced to meet these requirements they will be forced to exit the business. So what the lawmakers are really saying is during this transition (until the next election), all those who are currently covered under the ACA will be covered for pre-existing conditions but after the transition period you will have to qualify. Pay attention to this slight of hand - it could mean life or death.
In the end i recommend that we use our passion for an issue that we all care about - our health and children's health...and our ability to pay for it. This is a universal need, not a partisan one.
The Republicans are foundering because they have a fundamental belief that the government has no business (pun intended) being your insurance company. Paul Ryan and others would repeal Medicare if they could, and in fact are trying to move in that direction using a voucher system.
As a former health insurance executive I have listened quite carefully to Ryan, Rand Paul, Susan Collins and others talk about making sure that no one will lose their current coverage and that the insurers won't deny covered individuals because of pre-existing conditions. However, if insurers are forced to meet these requirements they will be forced to exit the business. So what the lawmakers are really saying is during this transition (until the next election), all those who are currently covered under the ACA will be covered for pre-existing conditions but after the transition period you will have to qualify. Pay attention to this slight of hand - it could mean life or death.
In the end i recommend that we use our passion for an issue that we all care about - our health and children's health...and our ability to pay for it. This is a universal need, not a partisan one.
5
Sensenbrenner may have won by a landslide, but that along with everything else can change. He should listen to his constituents, all of them.
3
The GOP calls for repeal and replace was never about healthcare. It was about disgracing a sitting president.
6
As I recall, the previous administration took two years to put the ACA together and had to rush even then to get it passed using reconciliation. The Democrat majority knew it wouldn't be around after the next election. I anticipate it will take at least that long to create new legislation and the Republicans will have their own re-elections to face. Regardless of the Rep's party, it is sad to see individuals looking to find solutions to his/her unique situation from the one person at the podium because a Big Government solution will still see a lot of citizens still begging.
"Representative Jim Sensenbrenner, a durable Wisconsin Republican who has served in the House since 1979, had little to offer in response."
We need term limits!
We need term limits!
2
I live in Sensenbrenner's district. He was born with a silver spoon and represents an upper middle class district safe for a Republican. He only had to show up for work to be re-elected. That is what he knows and how he has operated. He feels all of his constituents are like him. He has no clue that there is anything different. He hears from an orthopedic surgeon that Obama Care is wrong. Yet this same surgeon cannot afford health insurance so his wife works 30 hours a week to qualify for family insurance through her employer. Sensenbrenner thinks everyone has employee provided health insurance and their grown children also have that insurance. He is clueless to the fact that it is a different world in 2017.
9
Perhaps Representatives voting scores of times to repeal Obamacare should have announced their addresses, too, to keep them from embarrassing themselves.
2
Assuming he is intellectually honest, Mr Sensenbrenner might consider polling the attendees at his town meetings. I am sure he will find the people attending are a reasonably accurate representation of the full political demography. Republicans share the same health problems as Democrats. Both will age and eventually die. Both voting blocks have the same concerns as they confront the reality that aging and increased health care are inexorably linked.
Mortality is non-partisan. Perhaps recognizing this simple truth is the first thing that our politicians need to do.
Mortality is non-partisan. Perhaps recognizing this simple truth is the first thing that our politicians need to do.
6
The Republicans have an alternative. Single payer.
6
Too many pointed questions. Too much harsh reality. He had to hightail it back to the Elysian fields of Congress.
3
In January I wrote to one of my Senators, Jerry Moran, asking for details of the Republican replacement plan. I pointed out that, so far, we have heard much about the repeal part but that the replacement part is a little fuzzy.
I wrote that we hear about all the wonderful reforms that will somehow enable everyone to have a marvelous new health insurance plan once the damage (his word, from his Newsletter) of Obamacare is undone. But what, I wondered, will your wonderful new replacement legislation look like.
I told him I didn't put much stock in talking points like, "more choices," "tort reform," "purchasing insurance across state lines," that will result in lower prices due to "increased competition among insurance companies."
His reply included every one of the talking points above, plus a couple additional tired non - solutions like savings accounts and tax credits. (He mentioned that he has been hearing from a lot of folks about this. Not enough in my opinion.)
In other words, they've got nothing to offer but a return to the you're on your own chaos of the pre-ACA days. Alan Grayson was right, their plan is "Don't get sick. And if you do, die quickly."
I wrote that we hear about all the wonderful reforms that will somehow enable everyone to have a marvelous new health insurance plan once the damage (his word, from his Newsletter) of Obamacare is undone. But what, I wondered, will your wonderful new replacement legislation look like.
I told him I didn't put much stock in talking points like, "more choices," "tort reform," "purchasing insurance across state lines," that will result in lower prices due to "increased competition among insurance companies."
His reply included every one of the talking points above, plus a couple additional tired non - solutions like savings accounts and tax credits. (He mentioned that he has been hearing from a lot of folks about this. Not enough in my opinion.)
In other words, they've got nothing to offer but a return to the you're on your own chaos of the pre-ACA days. Alan Grayson was right, their plan is "Don't get sick. And if you do, die quickly."
4
It would have been a lot better for everybody if the Congress would have come up with 60 solutions to the ACA rather than 60 votes to repeal it. The ball is in your court to come up with 60 solutions that work now. Repealing it is no longer a viable option.
3
How about some incentives for avoiding doctors?Why should someone who exercises,eats well and visits a doctor,less than once a decade,have to pay for way more insurance than needed and pay for all the idiots who smoke,eat crap,don't exercise and love to visit doctors?I guess I'll never understand Democrats.I think that's a good thing.
1
I don't think Democrats have a problem with this idea. I've had more than one employer institute something like this and no one objected.
1
Yeah!! If we can't blame people who get sick, what fun is it being healthy?
5
Few things haunt us so much as might-have-beens. Ask the few Democratic survivors of the 111th Congress, who saw ALL their dreams of a better America along their own ideological axes burn up on the altar of ObamaCare.
Having decided to mess with America’s third-rail of politics, Republicans are risking doing to themselves what Democrats did 2009-2010 by owning the issue outright. Liberals simply don’t have the juice in America to mount their own version of the Tea Party, but they don’t need to just to flip a few U.S. Senate seats and freeze our politics solid yet AGAIN, just as Republicans succeeded at cracking the ice after SIX YEARS of a do-nothing, useless Congress opposed by a president utterly against Republican agendas.
Be smart. Get Trump to name a bipartisan commission that would work for two years (not the inadequate one year of the 111th Congress) to comprehensively redefine government’s interaction with healthcare, then an up-or-down vote in Congress and on to Trump’s desk for signing. DO NOT seek a “solution” that attracts ZERO Democratic votes, as Democrats did to Republicans with the ACA. We’ll NEVER be rid of this albatross.
Americans, whether they lean left or right, are NOT going to buy some “market-based” pig-in-a-poke that NEVER turns out to be market-based after you guys finish tinkering with it to play to constituencies. It needs to be a technocratic solution to our healthcare needs that attracts ENOUGH Democratic votes to be acceptable.
Having decided to mess with America’s third-rail of politics, Republicans are risking doing to themselves what Democrats did 2009-2010 by owning the issue outright. Liberals simply don’t have the juice in America to mount their own version of the Tea Party, but they don’t need to just to flip a few U.S. Senate seats and freeze our politics solid yet AGAIN, just as Republicans succeeded at cracking the ice after SIX YEARS of a do-nothing, useless Congress opposed by a president utterly against Republican agendas.
Be smart. Get Trump to name a bipartisan commission that would work for two years (not the inadequate one year of the 111th Congress) to comprehensively redefine government’s interaction with healthcare, then an up-or-down vote in Congress and on to Trump’s desk for signing. DO NOT seek a “solution” that attracts ZERO Democratic votes, as Democrats did to Republicans with the ACA. We’ll NEVER be rid of this albatross.
Americans, whether they lean left or right, are NOT going to buy some “market-based” pig-in-a-poke that NEVER turns out to be market-based after you guys finish tinkering with it to play to constituencies. It needs to be a technocratic solution to our healthcare needs that attracts ENOUGH Democratic votes to be acceptable.
3
My own preference (and I’m a Republican)?
Single-payer healthcare for every American, not insurance, for BASIC coverage, the kind of services you get in emergency rooms and outpatient clinics, plus regular check-ups plus life-saving care plus generic drugs related to the services. This DECIDEDLY is NOT “Medicare for all” – heck, we can’t afford the Medicare we HAVE! EVERYTHING above “Basic” is purchased on subsidized exchanges from nationally-chartered insurers, and the subsidies will need to be substantial for a long time to make our elderly and others whole, because in return we GET RID OF EVERYTHING ELSE – Medicare, Medicaid, the ACA, the healthcare elements of Social Security, the “basic” portion of employer-provided, VeteranCare. EVERYTHING. THEN talk about “Health Savings Accounts” and other means of lowering the subsidies over time. By getting rid of this immense bureaucratic weight and replacing it with one system, we’d save a fortune.
Argue with the Dems over what PRECISELY constitutes “basic”, and what we do with the nursing home expense that’s bankrupted Medicaid and our states. But get the basic transformation defined and get it with DEMOCRATIC votes, as well.
Then get the heck on with making a better America. It most assuredly is NOT just about healthcare. But if politicians blow it again on healthcare, that’s the only thing you may see before the bullet hits you between the eyes.
Single-payer healthcare for every American, not insurance, for BASIC coverage, the kind of services you get in emergency rooms and outpatient clinics, plus regular check-ups plus life-saving care plus generic drugs related to the services. This DECIDEDLY is NOT “Medicare for all” – heck, we can’t afford the Medicare we HAVE! EVERYTHING above “Basic” is purchased on subsidized exchanges from nationally-chartered insurers, and the subsidies will need to be substantial for a long time to make our elderly and others whole, because in return we GET RID OF EVERYTHING ELSE – Medicare, Medicaid, the ACA, the healthcare elements of Social Security, the “basic” portion of employer-provided, VeteranCare. EVERYTHING. THEN talk about “Health Savings Accounts” and other means of lowering the subsidies over time. By getting rid of this immense bureaucratic weight and replacing it with one system, we’d save a fortune.
Argue with the Dems over what PRECISELY constitutes “basic”, and what we do with the nursing home expense that’s bankrupted Medicaid and our states. But get the basic transformation defined and get it with DEMOCRATIC votes, as well.
Then get the heck on with making a better America. It most assuredly is NOT just about healthcare. But if politicians blow it again on healthcare, that’s the only thing you may see before the bullet hits you between the eyes.
3
You can't be serious! Who was it that opposed almost EVERYTHING Obama tried to do for the average American? REPUBLICANS; that's who! McConnell and Ryan are the ones to blame for this mess. I hope you're still happy with Trump six months from now; unless, of course, the Republicans gain back their courage and their minds, but I doubt that will happen anytime soon.
5
Really? The Republicans refused to work with Obama. His fault was trying repeatedly to work out a compromise, like Charlie Brown trying to kick the football Lucy is holding.
6
The voters are correct: Sensenbrenner voted dozens of times for repeal with NO replacement in place.
Sensenbrenner has found out that voters do not like burning down the house with NO plan to call the fire department.
Sensenbrenner has found out that voters do not like burning down the house with NO plan to call the fire department.
9
"Sensenbrenner has found out that voters do not like burning down the house with NO plan to call the fire department."
Sorry, but the voters DID burn down the house by voting for Trump, with zero thoughts about any stinking fire department.
Sorry, but the voters DID burn down the house by voting for Trump, with zero thoughts about any stinking fire department.
3
Republicans have spent the last fifty plus years telling us our government is dysfunctional and ineffective and that if we elect them they will prove it. They are keeping their promise.
10
Sensenbrenner has served in the House since before I was born. That is much too long, as he is apparently decades out of touch with his constituents and the American people.
Wisconsin voters, you've got a chance to replace him with a fresh and responsive legislator in November 2018. In fact - we all do- each and every member of the House is up for re-election then. Let's make sure to kick the GOP to the curb. They've proven time and again that they cannot govern. They can only stymie, deny, delay, and lie while kicking the American people in the teeth.
Don't forget to vote.
Wisconsin voters, you've got a chance to replace him with a fresh and responsive legislator in November 2018. In fact - we all do- each and every member of the House is up for re-election then. Let's make sure to kick the GOP to the curb. They've proven time and again that they cannot govern. They can only stymie, deny, delay, and lie while kicking the American people in the teeth.
Don't forget to vote.
15
These multi-termers tend to get locked in because seniority gives them more power to bring government spending to their districts. But elimination of earmarks makes them less able to do so, and thus lessens the cost of voting them out.
2
People of Wisconsin. One of your problems in Washington is republican representative Sensenbrenner.
He’s all “talk” when all he can do is criticize former President Obama.
Now that the republicans control the government and should be able to get things done, it seems that everything Congress faces is suddenly “very complicated.”
Talk is cheap. Work is hard.
So, people of Wisconsin, why don’t you vote in a representative who will “work” for you?
And, oh, by the way, you did not put him in office to solve a 30,000 piece jigsaw puzzle. You put him in office to legislate health care for you.
One more thing, didn’t you place your presidential electoral votes on Trump?
He’s all “talk” when all he can do is criticize former President Obama.
Now that the republicans control the government and should be able to get things done, it seems that everything Congress faces is suddenly “very complicated.”
Talk is cheap. Work is hard.
So, people of Wisconsin, why don’t you vote in a representative who will “work” for you?
And, oh, by the way, you did not put him in office to solve a 30,000 piece jigsaw puzzle. You put him in office to legislate health care for you.
One more thing, didn’t you place your presidential electoral votes on Trump?
10
If this admin cannot enact an EO to protect this country that does not end up in federal court imagine the mess they will make with any repeal and replace! This will be the downfall of the GOP and will stain the party for years!
2
How about you give the rest of us the kind of government sponsored health care plan that you currently enjoy, Mr. Sensenbrenner?
9
Total disaster!!!!!!!
2
Mr. Sensenbrenner embodies the problems with the Republican thinking. Win/Lose is their only mine set. For someone to win someone has to lose. How prehistoric.
19
Looks like the GOP lies about the ACA are all grown up and moving back in with their folks, i.e. Republican representatives and senators.
Lies have consequences.
Lies have consequences.
6
An earlier NYT article stated that an estimated 1/3 of the population didn't realize that Obamacare and the Affordable Care Act were the same thing. And yet, many still voted to repeal it, without even checking to be sure whether they would lose benefits as a result! Anyone too ignorant to seek out information about something this important deserves what's coming to them.
6
We're still waiting for "something beautiful" - replacement of ACA that Mr. Trump had promised on Day 1 of his presidency.
6
There is only one answer to providing healthcare for every American: an efficient single-payer system. Medicare for all.
11
“It’s kind of like, you know, getting a 30,000-piece jigsaw puzzle for Christmas,” Mr. Sensenbrenner said..
LOL! My nearly 80 year old neighbor got a 9,000 piece puzzle a few years ago and it only took her a few months to finish it.
So, by Mr Sensenbrenner's logic, with all the years the GOP has been whining about the ACA, they surely could have completed the puzzle presented to them several years ago. But they don't seem to realize that they first have to actually open the box.
LOL! My nearly 80 year old neighbor got a 9,000 piece puzzle a few years ago and it only took her a few months to finish it.
So, by Mr Sensenbrenner's logic, with all the years the GOP has been whining about the ACA, they surely could have completed the puzzle presented to them several years ago. But they don't seem to realize that they first have to actually open the box.
9
I find myself quite amused by all of the comments calling for Congress and Senate to do their jobs. The only job that both houses are capable of is the job that they're doing on the citizens of this country. When voters finally wake, maybe we will have the smarts to vote them ALL out of office. Really, why should your representative care about your healthcare issues when they have platinum packages for life?
7
The code words and phrases for abolishing the ACA and replacing it with absolutely nothing are being mouthed each minute by the Republicans in Congress:
Health Savings Accounts (you pay if you have the money, not our problem)
Collapse of Obama care (no matter what we come up with, you needed it)
Reforms, not replace (it won't be a plan at all)
Competition between providers (the magic pill)
Control back to the states (let those sucker deal with it)
Doctor and patient centered (has nothing to do with costing less or a plan)
Between you and your doctor (has nothing to do with a plan)
Health Savings Accounts (you pay if you have the money, not our problem)
Collapse of Obama care (no matter what we come up with, you needed it)
Reforms, not replace (it won't be a plan at all)
Competition between providers (the magic pill)
Control back to the states (let those sucker deal with it)
Doctor and patient centered (has nothing to do with costing less or a plan)
Between you and your doctor (has nothing to do with a plan)
5
Why don't they just leave it as it is but change the name to Trumpcare and be done with it?
9
I should had it Copyrighted when I had the chance a month ago.
At minimum, that's what they're going to do:):)
At minimum, that's what they're going to do:):)
The Republicans are wise not to say anything while they are devising a replacement for Obama care, and then selling it internally. That's how politicians work. Their silence should not be confused for anything else.
Can we at lest wonder WHY they were so loud,..you know not silent for 7yrs prior?
And I know they're not CONfused, they're more than certain they have no idea on what to do.
And I know they're not CONfused, they're more than certain they have no idea on what to do.
My guess is that many of these Republican congresswomen/men long for the days of President Obama. They had to do nothing but screech and vote no on everything. They could leave the office by 5:30 p.m. and head for the nearest fundraiser. No, lord almighty, they actually have to do work! What a concept.
7
Republicans stand for eniriching the rich and depriving the poor. To say Republican party cares about family it is a naked lie.
7
"To say Republican party cares about family it is a naked lie."
No, it's not. They care a great deal about family -- theirs.
No, it's not. They care a great deal about family -- theirs.
1
Sensenbrenner is right, "these are not a session on who can cheer or boo the loudest". If people want to do that they should go to a Trump rally, where the cheering -- "America First, America First" -- and booing "muslims, the press" -- are organized.
4
Plan? What plan? It will all work itself out. We are in the land of magical thinking.
5
" I represent the Majority "
I am surprised any Politician, especially one that has "served the House" for 36 Years would say something so wrong and inaccurate in respect to his role and position as a Representative who is supposed to "represent" ALL Americans and protect their best interests and work towards their security, prosperity and potential.
Rather than "serve the house" he should serve the people.
A cynic could think and some might even say that when a Politician says that they serve the majority, whether they are talking about people or perhaps money.
At the very least, they might think it is the very small but influential group of people and vested interests that get most of the services provided by representatives that are in no way or by any means compared to most Americans who are of course the Majority by far, but so often served the least by even further.
I am surprised any Politician, especially one that has "served the House" for 36 Years would say something so wrong and inaccurate in respect to his role and position as a Representative who is supposed to "represent" ALL Americans and protect their best interests and work towards their security, prosperity and potential.
Rather than "serve the house" he should serve the people.
A cynic could think and some might even say that when a Politician says that they serve the majority, whether they are talking about people or perhaps money.
At the very least, they might think it is the very small but influential group of people and vested interests that get most of the services provided by representatives that are in no way or by any means compared to most Americans who are of course the Majority by far, but so often served the least by even further.
8
He, as the POTUS serves all citizens to the best of their abilities, and not just the people who voted for them....Or else, we would have government by the few, which seems the way it's going!
4
So for nearly seven years all they accomplished was voting 61 times to repeal Obamacare, no plans, no ideas, no direction.
8
I wonder how many Republican voters were hoping to see groups they don't like--people of color, GLBT people, left-leaning people, immigrants-- "put in their place." I wonder how they feel now that they are learning that today's Republicans are equal-opportunity authoritarians and greed-heads.
6
"Pressed by one questioner to oppose a replacement for the health care law if that replacement would raise costs for sick people, he explained that “there are winners and losers” .."
Dog? Meet bus!"
Dog? Meet bus!"
7
The State of Wisconsin had 3,725,985 registered voters on February 1, 2017, according to the Wisconsin Elections Commission's statistics for February 1, 2017. More than three million, seven hundred thousand voters. So bragging - aggressively - that "I won by 146,000 votes" means this politician believes that he is a public master, not a public servant.
"Blunt and unapologetic" is the worst possible description of a man who pretends to be interested in the well-being of the people of his state.
But it is a perfect demonstration of the fact that this man's position was bought for him, gerrymandered for him, and handed to him because he is useful tool to a tiny minority of the population of Wisconsin.
Speaking as one whose own state has been taken over a tiny oligarchy which thinks the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the ordinary tenets of Christianity are all silly and old-fashioned: good luck, Wisconsin. Like that carefully gerrymandered (minority, *not* majority) group of voters in North Carolina, you've thrown away your, and our, rights as a citizen for... what, exactly?
"Blunt and unapologetic" is the worst possible description of a man who pretends to be interested in the well-being of the people of his state.
But it is a perfect demonstration of the fact that this man's position was bought for him, gerrymandered for him, and handed to him because he is useful tool to a tiny minority of the population of Wisconsin.
Speaking as one whose own state has been taken over a tiny oligarchy which thinks the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the ordinary tenets of Christianity are all silly and old-fashioned: good luck, Wisconsin. Like that carefully gerrymandered (minority, *not* majority) group of voters in North Carolina, you've thrown away your, and our, rights as a citizen for... what, exactly?
8
Another commenter here made a great suggestion. Democrats should propose the kind of fine tuning the ACA needs moving forward, and which would have been made along the way if the Republicans hadn't spent all of their efforts trying to destroy it at every turn. Many of the problems the ACA faces are a direct result of Republican efforts to undermine it, case in point is yesterday's ruling on risk corridor payment defaults by the federal govt. The ACA is a flawed but comprehensive law, which contains many important consumer protections beyond the well known ones. My suggestion for a fix moving forward would be to increase the spread between what consumers pay to have coverage and what the maximum out-of-pocket limit is. RIght now, for unsubsidized silver level plans, the cost of an average monthly premium ($500/month) and the $2000 deductible = $8000/year, before the plan starts paying anything beyond preventive care. But the most the same consumer will pay if they need a lot of care (i.e. serious illness, cancer, surgeries), is the monthly premium ($500 x 12 months) + the max out-of-pocket limit ($7150) = $13,150. So for $13,150 you have 100% of your healthcare costs met by your insurance plan. It is an incredible protection against bankruptcy. But maybe there should be some actuarial analysis to push up that number and to lower the $8000 number.
14
Obama looks so relaxed because he knows these know-nothings, have nothing to offer. If they offer nothing, then the ACA wins and if they replace it with something worse, then they will lose - if the Democrats can organize against this juggernaut of recklessness and ineptitude that is sweeping through our land.
And if they replace it with something better, which Obama genuinely welcomes, it may vindicate his achievement anyway. Legacies are made by achievement, not by bragging. Trump will never learn that, no matter how rich he grows from his hostile takeover of the US.
And if they replace it with something better, which Obama genuinely welcomes, it may vindicate his achievement anyway. Legacies are made by achievement, not by bragging. Trump will never learn that, no matter how rich he grows from his hostile takeover of the US.
10
Barack Obama must feel like someone relieved of having his head hammered for eight years.
4
The Republicans along with Trump should have had a well thought out health care replacement plan at least a month before taking office. Trump ran for 2 years almost. Thats enough time to have put something down and present it to the American people before day 1. And the GOP has opposed any Democratic plan for the last 100 years. Teddy Roosevelt was the first president to see that the marketplace was not meant for healthcare. Thats when progressives or shall I say liberals proposed the single payer system that is now used in most advanced economies. The Republicans opposed it then and they oppose it now and have refused to work with democrats to carve out a good healthcare law. Thats why Obamacare is is so flawed. the Dems had to do it alone.
7
Gaming the flaws of US election processes seems to demand all of the intellectual capacities of the Republican Party.
3
The only thing they could conceivably replace the ACA with that would be "better" is single payer coverage for all through Medicare, to which of course they are unutterably opposed.
No wonder they're squirming.
No wonder they're squirming.
12
After years of maligning the ACA, on should assume that the GOP has a better plan in its drawers ready the go. What we are seeing here is intellectual laziness -- no plan. The question is then, what were these guys doing all the time while they were opposing the ACA? Just enjoying they cushy salary, including the nice health care benefits they enjoy as elected officials? Shame!
8
The problem with every plan is how do we pay for the sickest 5% of people who use 50% of all healthcare spending
2
Easy. First, take short-term profit for the executives out of the picture via single payer, which likewise motivates the health provider to negotiate lower drug prices. Next, emphasize preventive care by not charging for physician visits so people get help when the start feeling something's wrong instead of not until they have to go to the emergency room because it's too expensive to go see a doctor for preventive care. Price the premiums according to age, with a low starting rate for young adults that goes up a few dollars every few years, and have a tax credit for people below an income threshhold, and with far fewer lower-income people overall because businesses will thrive when health insurance is taken off the table as a cost of doing business. My monthly premium, in Canada, is under $70 US dollars per month and I'm over 60. And don't believe all the lies told by Ted Cruz and others about the Canadian system. Sure, it covers fewer plastic surgeries and some wait-times are slightly longer, but employer in Canada has to go out of business because they can't afford to insure their employees, and no small-business owner needs to do without because she can't afford it for herself.
6
This is how insurance works. The majority of car insurance people are paying for the few who crash their cars. Let's hope that not everyone is crashing their cars at all times. Back in healthcare, that 5% is rotating based on need.
6
"The problem with every plan is how do we pay for the sickest 5% of people who use 50% of all healthcare spending"
I assume that was a question, so I'll just say that is just the way things are. If you're so concerned with having to pay for "those people" (which is what you imply), why not just move to a deserted island (of your choice), so you only have to worry about yourself. That's assuming that, when you say "we", you mean "me".
I assume that was a question, so I'll just say that is just the way things are. If you're so concerned with having to pay for "those people" (which is what you imply), why not just move to a deserted island (of your choice), so you only have to worry about yourself. That's assuming that, when you say "we", you mean "me".
2
One problem with the "rubber stamp" Republicans is they actually need a policy to defend. As a party they can rant and rave in opposition, but when the buck stops with them all they can do is pass anti-abortion legislation, defund a major source of birth control, and try to suppress voter registration and voting itself. No policies that are constitutional, no policies that fulfill campaign promises, The state and national Republicans can't come up with a health plan that works (given 8+ years) because they aren't fit to govern. And Trump's chaos just proves it.
8
Let's keep in mind, Republican voters--the majority--like Medicare, they like Social Security, many who qualify for Medicaid like it, and despite the outliers the media love to find, quite a few love Obamacare in its numerous versions. It's called a social safety net, and given how both the GOP and the neoliberal elements in the Democratic Party have together gutted the middle and working classes and funneled ever more money to the superrich, we badly--very, very badly--need some semblance of a safety net.
The GOP has repeatedly talked about Social Security going bankrupt, though it isn't, and they want to privatize it--and give the money to guess who? Wall Street. They want to privatize or eliminate Medicare, and funnel the money to private corporations and middle men (which is already happening, and raises costs). They want to "block grant" Medicaid so that GOP governors and legislators can carve it up for their cronies. And they want to "repeal" Obamacare because...they can, but after EIGHT years, they have no, absolutely NO, viable alternative, since Obamacare is a conservative plan, THE conservative plan, and the better options are off the table.
Why people keep voting for the GOP is beyond me. Keep demanding answers from these con men and women, and tell them their non-plan is just that!
The GOP has repeatedly talked about Social Security going bankrupt, though it isn't, and they want to privatize it--and give the money to guess who? Wall Street. They want to privatize or eliminate Medicare, and funnel the money to private corporations and middle men (which is already happening, and raises costs). They want to "block grant" Medicaid so that GOP governors and legislators can carve it up for their cronies. And they want to "repeal" Obamacare because...they can, but after EIGHT years, they have no, absolutely NO, viable alternative, since Obamacare is a conservative plan, THE conservative plan, and the better options are off the table.
Why people keep voting for the GOP is beyond me. Keep demanding answers from these con men and women, and tell them their non-plan is just that!
27
My question to our representative will be HOW MANY TIMES did YOU vote to repeal Obamacare and had NO idea what would be the replacement.........and still don't after 8 years of healthcare debates
17
Replacing Obamacare is hard? Who could have ever guessed such a thing??? Poor Republicans. SO UNFAIR!
14
“I won by 146,000 votes,” he said in the interview. “I represent the majority. Now, they’re a vocal minority.”
He represents ALL of his constituents. Where does it say that you leave out people who didn't vote for you? They have no voice? And yes, he is responsible for what comes out of Trump's mouth as well as what he tries to enforce. He supports Trump, he voted for him, he will pass anything Trump comes up with. The majority of people in this country didn't vote for Trump. When will their needs and voices be heard? They have no representation?
He represents ALL of his constituents. Where does it say that you leave out people who didn't vote for you? They have no voice? And yes, he is responsible for what comes out of Trump's mouth as well as what he tries to enforce. He supports Trump, he voted for him, he will pass anything Trump comes up with. The majority of people in this country didn't vote for Trump. When will their needs and voices be heard? They have no representation?
18
We can and should improve Obamacare as it morphs into Trumpcare. The way to do it isn't going to please the One Percenters, but it will help the rest of us. First, merge ACA, Medicare and Medicaid into one program, with equal health care benefits for all. Second, premiums, co-pays and deductibles should be based on gross income of each participant so that those with more income subsidize those with less even as the cost to taxpayers goes down. It's not socialism. It's exactly what started under Bush II for Medicare Part B and Medicare RX premiums. Third, transfer administration of the new and improved Trumpcare from political control to a private insurers who will control health care costs because it will be in their financial interest to do so. End the politicization of health care.
5
They, Republicans, truly have no ideas on health care--save for the one where the country tolerates millions of uninsured. But that ship has sailed. The ACA is the new normal. Good luck with that, GOP.
9
I suspect a lot of the people in those town hall meetings are not Democrats but Republicans who voted for these people.
As much as I don't want the ACA to be repealed and people left to suffer without health care, I'm angry at those who voted for Republican congressional candidates and Trump without paying attention to what they were saying (and in Trump's case, not saying) about their intention to repeal it.
If you stuck your head in the sand and pulled the lever for R, then you have no right to complain now.
As much as I don't want the ACA to be repealed and people left to suffer without health care, I'm angry at those who voted for Republican congressional candidates and Trump without paying attention to what they were saying (and in Trump's case, not saying) about their intention to repeal it.
If you stuck your head in the sand and pulled the lever for R, then you have no right to complain now.
11
The GOP has no idea of how to replace the ACA. They have no plans because Trump's win caught them unawares and they thought hey could continue saying it was a failure (not true) and keep calling and voting for its repeal without having to "put their money where their mouth is". They now are finally being taken to task. So, yes, there is anger at being g decieved.
29
Medicare for al!
7
Of course the failing NYTimes neglects to report on the FACT that Trump has this covered.
Trump has told everyone this, multiple times. Just one example from his interview with the Washington Post on January 14, 2017...
"It's very much formulated down to the final strokes. We haven't put it in quite yet but we're going to be doing it soon."
See? It's coming soon! Ok? Soon.
Mr. Trump has this all under control. His beautiful healthcare plan will be released. Soon.
Trump has told everyone this, multiple times. Just one example from his interview with the Washington Post on January 14, 2017...
"It's very much formulated down to the final strokes. We haven't put it in quite yet but we're going to be doing it soon."
See? It's coming soon! Ok? Soon.
Mr. Trump has this all under control. His beautiful healthcare plan will be released. Soon.
9
The health care plan will be released as soon as the IRS audit of Trump's tax return is finished.
8
"Seamless" was the word he used. Cant wait.
1
He followed up saying only rudiments might be available next year
1
Face it Trump voters, you have been sold a bill of goods by Trump and his party. And it took less than a month for this to become clear. Please, please remember that next time you vote.
7
Its actually quite simple... change the name to Trumpcare and declare victory.
4
TH meeting with folks filling out forms to attend, leader with a gavel,& armed guards. HC is puzzling, get some educated advice, and if the man is incapable of solving this puzzle, vote some one in who has the ability to solve the problem. And when you're elected to office you're repin' all your constituents, not just the ones that voted for you.
President Trump only has 24 hours a day to work on making America great again. He can't fulfill EVERY campaign promise immediately. Things have to be prioritized.
Rest assured, President Trump already knows the general outlines of the "something great" that's going to replace Obamacare. He'll have time to work out the details after he implements his secret plan to defeat ISIS, and Mexico starts making payments on that wall.
Rest assured, President Trump already knows the general outlines of the "something great" that's going to replace Obamacare. He'll have time to work out the details after he implements his secret plan to defeat ISIS, and Mexico starts making payments on that wall.
7
Good joke.
1
Are you attempting irony? Or do you truly believe this?
1
"Are you attempting irony? Or do you truly believe this?"
Irony? No. Try sarcasm.
Irony? No. Try sarcasm.
1
“It’s kind of like, you know, getting a 30,000-piece jigsaw puzzle for Christmas,” Mr. Sensenbrenner said..
Hello. The GOP has been saying for 7 years they wanted to repeal Obamacare. Trump and the GOP said they would repeal it on day one of his administration. You had 7 years to be ready to move on this, it's not a Christmas present that got dropped in your lap a month ago. If you're unprepared Mr. Sensenbrenner, it's your fault.
Hello. The GOP has been saying for 7 years they wanted to repeal Obamacare. Trump and the GOP said they would repeal it on day one of his administration. You had 7 years to be ready to move on this, it's not a Christmas present that got dropped in your lap a month ago. If you're unprepared Mr. Sensenbrenner, it's your fault.
8
The Republicans NEVER had a plan to replace the Affordable Care Act, despite what they said to their constituents. Their lies are coming back to haunt them.
9
After 8 straight years of screaming Repeal and Replace. After nearly 60 votes to Repeal and Replace, the republicans have ZERO in terms of a viable solution. Amazing!!
What the GOP has been touting is NOT a comprehensive, well thought out and cogent replacement to the ACA. It's a hodgepodge of fragmented solutions, all of which have been tried and failed in the past.
I'm with Obama on this. If they have something that is better than the ACA, then I'm all for it...just show me. Unfortunately, just as with their new leader, the GOP is all hot air.
What the GOP has been touting is NOT a comprehensive, well thought out and cogent replacement to the ACA. It's a hodgepodge of fragmented solutions, all of which have been tried and failed in the past.
I'm with Obama on this. If they have something that is better than the ACA, then I'm all for it...just show me. Unfortunately, just as with their new leader, the GOP is all hot air.
11
There are many better plans. It is time to look at the provisions for healthcare in all the other advanced nations where the insurance providers are not in control, where healthcare is a right, where individuals chose their doctors, and the cost is half that paid in the USA. I lived in one of those nations.
1
"It is time to look at the provisions for healthcare in all the other advanced nations where the insurance providers are not in control, where healthcare is a right, where individuals chose their doctors, and the cost is half that paid in the USA."
Actually, they don't have to look very far -- it's in their own backyard. It's called Medicare.
Actually, they don't have to look very far -- it's in their own backyard. It's called Medicare.
1
We had a system before Obamacare... just go back to that.
Sure, who doesn't love medical bills being the leading cause of bankruptcy.
2
The GOP claims Americans had the best health care system in the world before the ACA came in and ruined it. Why no just repeal the ACA from root-to-branch, no need to replace it? This will get us back to where we were, when everyone was happy.
Change the name to trumpcare and keep it moving.
These people must be dogged every single minute,of every day,everywhere they go.
8
Isn't it obvious that the GOP will replace ObamaCare with I-Don't-Care but simply hasn't yet been able to come up with sheep's clothing for this wolf ?
Here's a plan that meets all Trump's promises : gradually, but decisively, extend Medicare to All.
Here's a plan that meets all Trump's promises : gradually, but decisively, extend Medicare to All.
3
To all Trump supporters: Be careful what you wish for.
4
Face it, folks. All your Republican congresscritter will do is sell you as a captive consumer to some rentier. You might as well be cattle.
5
Listen up Democrats! Who will be winning Mr. Sensebrenners, Mr McClintock and Mr Chaffetz seats in 2018. There are three more seats toward the majority we need then. The campaign starts now.
3
"Who will be winning Mr. Sensebrenners, Mr McClintock and Mr Chaffetz seats in 2018."
They've got some free ammo, in the form of direct quotes from this uncaring clown. Just start using their own words against them.
They've got some free ammo, in the form of direct quotes from this uncaring clown. Just start using their own words against them.
1
“I won by 146,000 votes,” he said in the interview. “I represent the majority. Now, they’re a vocal minority.”
So...he only represents the people who voted for him?
So...he only represents the people who voted for him?
5
“I won by 146,000 votes,” he said in the interview. “I represent the majority. Now, they’re a vocal minority.”
Well, yes you did...and your party repeatedly said you had a plan...WHERE IS IT?
Well, yes you did...and your party repeatedly said you had a plan...WHERE IS IT?
3
Let's face it. The GOP only cares about life if you are in the womb. Once you're out, let the market decide who lives and who dies (and I guess who tells your story).
But remember, you Republicans who have years to come up with a replacement plan for the ACA but clearly have not, that history has its eyes on you.
But remember, you Republicans who have years to come up with a replacement plan for the ACA but clearly have not, that history has its eyes on you.
3
I just want to note all the "winner's" hot air coming from the right. They have nothing, no ideas. They are rank blowhards who have DONE NOTHING for decades but degrade our nation. It's telling that they have no answers about our health care right. Their imminent defeat is encouraging. They are sunk.
2
Few Republicans have ANY answers to any important questions. All we are getting right now, is the trump lies, drama, and tweets, while important issues go unaddressed, and illegal, unethical stuff goes on in the background, in the dead of night. Dumpster trumpsters are you enjoying it, yet? Got a new job, new found respect from your hero, a subdued Wall Street, and reliable health insurance? Oh, right! You still have the hated Obamacare, also known as the Affordable Care Act. Too bad about the rest of it.
3
I was at the meeting and Mr. Sensenbrenner held the party line-although he does support gun control laws. He's old, he's a party line tower and will back the current side show administration all the way. If he thinks his next election is going to be an easy in (which by the way would NOT have happened if the state of Wisconsin wouldn't have had the gerrymandering that we did-and now have to pay through the nose because Fitzgerald thinks it's a good idea to fight the court ruling! UGH) he really IS crazy. And the notion that we are paid protesters is ludicrous, NOBODY has that kind of money, not even Emperor Trump.
5
So for the past six years Republicans have yelled repeal-repeal with no plan for replacement or to improve the ACA. You have threaten or shut down the federal government over the ACA. All talk - No action. Now you are in control of both houses and the White House and you still have no plan, except repeal it.
It doesn't matter your actions can harm millions of families - many of whom voted for you. Well like it or not - you now own what use to be called Obama care and it is now TrumpCareLess. You own it - lets see what the voters do in 2018 in response to new program.
It doesn't matter your actions can harm millions of families - many of whom voted for you. Well like it or not - you now own what use to be called Obama care and it is now TrumpCareLess. You own it - lets see what the voters do in 2018 in response to new program.
1
“there are winners and losers” when bills are passed.
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Typical Republican thinking. How about health care for all, so there are no "losers"?
The fact is, Republicans have had 7 years to come up with a replacement for the ACA, and they've failed. They cannot guarantee that millions won't lose their coverage, that the poor and elderly won't pay more, that those terrible plans which were practically useless won't come back, that people won't go bankrupt, that many will live shorter lives thanks to Republicans.
Republican voters don't listen to Democrats, but they're listening to their representatives now, and they don't like what they're hearing. Perhaps people like Sensebrenner are little less dishonest than people like Ryan and McConnell, so the message is getting through: your health care is at risk.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Typical Republican thinking. How about health care for all, so there are no "losers"?
The fact is, Republicans have had 7 years to come up with a replacement for the ACA, and they've failed. They cannot guarantee that millions won't lose their coverage, that the poor and elderly won't pay more, that those terrible plans which were practically useless won't come back, that people won't go bankrupt, that many will live shorter lives thanks to Republicans.
Republican voters don't listen to Democrats, but they're listening to their representatives now, and they don't like what they're hearing. Perhaps people like Sensebrenner are little less dishonest than people like Ryan and McConnell, so the message is getting through: your health care is at risk.
2
Mr. Sensenbrenner seems to have forgotten that he represents ALL his constituents.
1
Didn't you hear, Kellyanne Conway says Trump will show us his great healthcare plan on the same day he shows us his tax return.
3
No, Congressman, you do not represent the majority. You represent everybody in your district.
1
“organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.”
If you believe that, Mr. Sensenbrenner, then have the courage and grace to stand up ask "How many of you want Congress to Repeal the ACA without providing a replacement that provides affordable insurance coverage to the people who will lose it due to repeal?"
You know the answer, Congressman - there is no majority behind you who want their neighbors, family members and others that the ACA is providing for thrown onto the mercy of a unregulated private insurance, with no government backing for sane, affordable coverage. So, yes, do your job: if the ACA is broken, then come up with a plan to fix it. You and your Republican colleagues have been telling us for years you want to do that, so now, tell us your plan.
But be prepared to hear from your constituents until you do. And they are people you represent whether they voted for you or not - Republicans are responsible for the country, not for the bare fifth who actually voted Republican in the last election.
If you believe that, Mr. Sensenbrenner, then have the courage and grace to stand up ask "How many of you want Congress to Repeal the ACA without providing a replacement that provides affordable insurance coverage to the people who will lose it due to repeal?"
You know the answer, Congressman - there is no majority behind you who want their neighbors, family members and others that the ACA is providing for thrown onto the mercy of a unregulated private insurance, with no government backing for sane, affordable coverage. So, yes, do your job: if the ACA is broken, then come up with a plan to fix it. You and your Republican colleagues have been telling us for years you want to do that, so now, tell us your plan.
But be prepared to hear from your constituents until you do. And they are people you represent whether they voted for you or not - Republicans are responsible for the country, not for the bare fifth who actually voted Republican in the last election.
Republicans don't want the ACA to work because it has the Democrats' stamp on it.
1
People don't deserve answers.
This is what they voted for, and this is what they deserve.
Oh whoops, you're sick, and you're gonna lose your health insurance?
Gee whiz. That's too bad. Maybe next time you shouldn't vote republican; that is: if you survive your current illness of course...
This is what they voted for, and this is what they deserve.
Oh whoops, you're sick, and you're gonna lose your health insurance?
Gee whiz. That's too bad. Maybe next time you shouldn't vote republican; that is: if you survive your current illness of course...
2
“From a political standpoint, we Republicans know that we will own whatever the replacement will be..." It's worse than that Mr. Sensenbrenner; republicans, with every lopsided Congressional vote, are owning everything the current Administration proposes. Every time House members voted to repeal the A.C.A., every time republican leadership exhorted their acolytes to go to Faux news for their "facts" and every time you and others held your tongues when your allies made barely concealed racist comments directed at Obama you bought in further. Now you fully own the policies of the Trump Administration.
Just like the A.C.A. you can't pick and choose which aspect of the plan you like. It is a whole and you and your republican colleagues are an integral part of this republican administration. Growing up and actually having to rule the country is , difficult, isn't it? Particularly when you have to explain to your uneducated supporters, you know, the Faux watchers who didn't realize the A.C.A and Obamacare are one and the same, how you don't actually have any idea how to provide healthcare to your constituents.
So when income inequality reaches the stratosphere through tax cuts for the rich, when the environment finally melts down because we abandon treaties and cooperation with other countries and when this country has alienated even our most reliable allies it's on you guys, 100%
Just like the A.C.A. you can't pick and choose which aspect of the plan you like. It is a whole and you and your republican colleagues are an integral part of this republican administration. Growing up and actually having to rule the country is , difficult, isn't it? Particularly when you have to explain to your uneducated supporters, you know, the Faux watchers who didn't realize the A.C.A and Obamacare are one and the same, how you don't actually have any idea how to provide healthcare to your constituents.
So when income inequality reaches the stratosphere through tax cuts for the rich, when the environment finally melts down because we abandon treaties and cooperation with other countries and when this country has alienated even our most reliable allies it's on you guys, 100%
30
The American people have to realize that universal health care is just a dream. It's too expensive. It's too impractical. It's impossible. No other country in the world has been able to establish it, except for Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Brunei, Canada, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Hong Kong, India, Iceland, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay and pretty much the entire civilized modern world. No other advanced country has ever copied or attempted to copy the USA health care system.
7
Republicans have gotten schooled on what the ACA does....from the 22 million newly insured, the 10-20 million self-employed, and the 90+ million benefiting from other structural changes. You have to repeal it to know what's in it.
2
Healthcare should be a RIGHT for every citizen! Why do Europe and other countries get this right for their people but we: "America the great" not get this right? Why do we allow insurance companies to profit off of our sicknesses? It should be profit after health not the other way around. In our capitalist country profit must come only after good healthcare. We don't allow our utilities to overcharge citizens. Why would you allow the actual life and death/health of a person to be determined by any less of a regulation or law?
Yes, ACA needs reform/fixing. First of all it should have the public option in it and it would have stabilized the costs long ago. There should be rules about how much profit an insurance company can rake (and how much their CEO/Sr. Execs can profit off of it) since it's HEALTHcare not an optional or vanity product.
TO ALL YOU PEOPLE at TOWN HALLS etc in every state: VOTE for a democratic or independent congressman/ senator in the 2018 mid terms. Haven't we given these GOP folks enough of a chance? If I performed at their level at my job I would have been: FIRED.
Yes, ACA needs reform/fixing. First of all it should have the public option in it and it would have stabilized the costs long ago. There should be rules about how much profit an insurance company can rake (and how much their CEO/Sr. Execs can profit off of it) since it's HEALTHcare not an optional or vanity product.
TO ALL YOU PEOPLE at TOWN HALLS etc in every state: VOTE for a democratic or independent congressman/ senator in the 2018 mid terms. Haven't we given these GOP folks enough of a chance? If I performed at their level at my job I would have been: FIRED.
5
"You voted against the ACA without knowing what you would replace it with, putting our lives at risk"
"I won the election"
What an answer.
"I won the election"
What an answer.
2
SIMPLE, as it has ALWAYS been, but the greed, careerism, and fear that reeks from all politicians, and their puppet masters, the insurance industry, keeps getting in the way - UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE. Politicians should quit obeying "money" and making such fools of themselves, or they are going to start looking for another job, when they don't get re-elected. Even people from other countries ask me why in the world we are so foolish as to not have it already.
3
Republicans would prefer to shut down the ACA and use the funding to pay for a tax cut, period.....
4
I love how all these Republican congresspeople want to get rid of the ACA while enjoying the BEST health insurance in the nation paid for by WE the taxpayers.
9
Seven years of wailing and gnashing of teeth, and the GOP still has NOTHING. If anything should tell you an=bout the GOP, the fact that they complained and obstructed the entire time and failed to come up with an alternative.
Was it PJ O'Rouke who said that the GOP claims that government is ineffective, then gets elected and proves it?
Was it PJ O'Rouke who said that the GOP claims that government is ineffective, then gets elected and proves it?
4
John /Hartford: you might want to read the excellent article by Jose Del Real December 3 2014 in the Washington Post. Senator Tom Harkin(democrat Iowa) said with reference to the single payer unitive before the A.C.A. Was enacted. "We had the votes to do it and we blew it." He also said If you have the votes vote. If you don't talk. We had the votes but we talked. He was the Senate Chairman of health, education Labor and Pension Committee. We didn't have to end up with the A.C.A..
3
In the midst of all the news about the Russian takeover of the White House, Flynn, #CrookedConway, DK’s hero Stephen Miller…(the list goes on and on), let’s not forget about the GOP health care scam finally revealing itself to folks who were ____ (fill in the blank-ignorant, dumb, stupid or just not paying attention) to believe the GOP was going to provide a better plan (maybe ANY plan) after 7 years of hysteria and promises to REPEAL AND REPLACE ON DAY 1.
Well, those chickens seem to be coming home to roost now at Congressional town hall meetings across the country. GOP congressmen need police protection, getting heckled off stage 45 minutes before the end, banging on gavels in attempts to maintain order.
This story today is worth reading, particularly because of the question posed to Sensenbrenner, which just about sums up the lies of the GOP in one succinct question:
“During Mr. Sensenbrenner’s exchange with Ms. Roelandts, a man yelled to him: “How many times did you vote to repeal without knowing what the replacement would be? How many times? Dozens!”
The congressman, who prides himself on his prolific schedule of town-hall-style meetings, banged his gavel and insisted that his rules for civility be obeyed.”
Sensenbrenner’s response was to dig into the old GOP playbook for the “they were all organized opposition by the side that lost” play. That play’s not working these days Mr. GOP.
Well, those chickens seem to be coming home to roost now at Congressional town hall meetings across the country. GOP congressmen need police protection, getting heckled off stage 45 minutes before the end, banging on gavels in attempts to maintain order.
This story today is worth reading, particularly because of the question posed to Sensenbrenner, which just about sums up the lies of the GOP in one succinct question:
“During Mr. Sensenbrenner’s exchange with Ms. Roelandts, a man yelled to him: “How many times did you vote to repeal without knowing what the replacement would be? How many times? Dozens!”
The congressman, who prides himself on his prolific schedule of town-hall-style meetings, banged his gavel and insisted that his rules for civility be obeyed.”
Sensenbrenner’s response was to dig into the old GOP playbook for the “they were all organized opposition by the side that lost” play. That play’s not working these days Mr. GOP.
3
Of course they don't have an alternative. The fundamentals of the ACA are THEIRS. They callously misrepresented it to beat BHO over the head with, and now they are stuck. Vipers. "What's the Matter With Kansas?" and for that matter, the rest of the US?
2
Aren't you glad, Wisconsinites, that you voted for 45?.
2
"“It’s kind of like, you know, getting a 30,000-piece jigsaw puzzle for Christmas,” Mr. Sensenbrenner said, “and, you know, cleaning off the dining room table and seeing how long it takes to put all the 30,000 pieces together in the right place. It’s not going to be easy.” What pathetic nonsense. First of all, the "jigsaw puzzle" was delivered SEVEN years ago and instead of dealing with it, Republicans in Congress just whined and held almost SIXTY meaningless votes to get rid of it. Secondly, the ENTIRE country knows that there is NO Republican replacement and never has been - it's all been about opposing Obama with political theater. Thirdly, these information-challneged voters are only NOW understanding that the ACA and Obamacare are the SAME thing. Whoops, ignorance has consequences.
1
The Republicans have done NOTHING but obstruct for 8 years, why do you think they can do anything but hold onto their chairs?
3
This is rich! Those of us who depend upon Obamacare and the subsidies are sore losers! What were the Republicans then, when right after the 2008 election McConnell vowed to obstruct EVERYTHING Obama was for??? Give us a break! We don't believe that anymore than we believe Flynn can't remember talking to the Russian ambassador about the sanctions on 12-29-16! There seems to be anew pandemic affecting only republicans - memory loss!
Did they seriously think we wouldn't remember how they held our federal government hostage? How they shut it down a couple of times? How they threatened to allow the US credit rating to substantially slip by refusing to increase the debt ceiling which allows the government to borrow money to pay for services already performed & entitlements already approved by congress???
We DO remember. Just like we remember no republicans seriously engaged in crafting the ACA. Their alternative facts about death panels sentencing Grandma to die. Their false concern about deficits and insistence on tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations?
Warning republicans: DO NOT insult us by dismissing us as disgruntled voters, sore losers. You dismiss and insult us at your own peril. YOU are responsible for half of Americans thinking that the ACA & Obamacare are two different things, that Obamacare is bad, but the ACA is good.
Alternative facts & false news are from YOUR playbook! Hold those Town Halls & hear what we have to say! You OWE us that much!
Did they seriously think we wouldn't remember how they held our federal government hostage? How they shut it down a couple of times? How they threatened to allow the US credit rating to substantially slip by refusing to increase the debt ceiling which allows the government to borrow money to pay for services already performed & entitlements already approved by congress???
We DO remember. Just like we remember no republicans seriously engaged in crafting the ACA. Their alternative facts about death panels sentencing Grandma to die. Their false concern about deficits and insistence on tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations?
Warning republicans: DO NOT insult us by dismissing us as disgruntled voters, sore losers. You dismiss and insult us at your own peril. YOU are responsible for half of Americans thinking that the ACA & Obamacare are two different things, that Obamacare is bad, but the ACA is good.
Alternative facts & false news are from YOUR playbook! Hold those Town Halls & hear what we have to say! You OWE us that much!
35
"We Republicans know that we will own whatever the replacement will be, just as Obama and the Democrats own the A.C.A." No, Mr. Sensenbrenner, you most certainly will NOT own the replacement law if it keeps the best parts of the ACA addressing pre-existing conditions, lifetime limits, and allowing adult children onto parent's insurance. Those measures were passed into law by the Democratic Party without a SINGLE GOP VOTE, and they will forever be Democratic achievements, no matter how many of your bad ideas you try to attach them to.
3
I'm completely fed up with Republican politicians blaming outrage on "paid protestors" and "oragnized opposition." YOU ARE TAKING AWAY PEOPLE'S HEALTH CARE. Of course they are angry! Of course they are protesting! Stop the gaslighting already! For shame!
2
Classic "Be careful what you wish for." Now the GOP owns healthcare reform...and they don't know what to do. The Party of the Clueless. It would be funny if so much weren't on the line, like people's lives. Truly frightening.
2
Lots of Trump voters are now realizing their health care is at risk. And lots of Republican Congressmen are realizing they should have been a little less zealous to get rid of it. This would be funny if so many lives weren't at stake.
3
Whether the turnout was mainly sore losers or not (it would be nice if his supporters would show up), the republicans he represents also need health care. If the GOP doesn't figure it out, his silent majority will no longer be silent, then his sore loser theory will be moot. So he needs to represent all of his constituents and if he doesn't represent everyone he has been elected to represent, then he should put his gavel someplace and start making changes to benefit everyone.
Boo-hoo, he faced organized opposition from people on the losing side. Does he know these are his constituents, too? And he got this jigsaw puzzle 8 Christmases and umpteen repeal votes ago! Stop whining like a baby and do your job!
5
Republicans cannot improve on Obamacare, or something similar. You can't offer more and have it cost less; that's not how markets work. There will be losers if the Republicans do what they are so talented at promising: more for the well off, less for everyone else.
We've handed power to supposed leaders obsessed with taking things away - healthcare, personal freedom, financial security - rather than really fixing anything, such as runaway defense spending, costly involvement in foreign conflicts, faulty infrastructure and other real problems.
We've handed power to supposed leaders obsessed with taking things away - healthcare, personal freedom, financial security - rather than really fixing anything, such as runaway defense spending, costly involvement in foreign conflicts, faulty infrastructure and other real problems.
You voted for him, have him. I mean, these people who now are angry over his campaign promises. Yet, they voted for him! I'm tired of hearing, "well, we didn't think he was serious about that one". I knew what he was long before he was President. The rustbelt doesn't know, because they have been conditioned by the GOP and far right machine to not read, or believe facts. So, have him I say. In New York he was always looked upon as a con, a joke, and slightly deranged. In the brilliant Fran Leibowitz's words, Trump is a poor man's idea of rich." I'll go further, he's also mentally imbalanced and liar.
3
The Republican plan is a myth.
1
How is it that they do not have family members affected? Are they deaf, dumb, blind or heartless?
1
That's what happens when you promise people free stuff. They get a taste of the free stuff responsibility free lifestyle and they become addicted. You cant take away my free stuff they scream. But hey, that truth doesn't go over too well at the New Hysterical Leftist Times.
What is free about healthcare? I worked in healthcare for over 30 years and all those who think insurance is some sort of giveaway are dreaming. Who do you think is paying for those who are uninsured? You are, of course!
2
Unfortunately for Repubs they'd better keep supplying this so-called "free stuff" or lose power real quick!
1
It is comical. Of the two parties the one most likely to be boy scouts(if you believe their 1950's pie in the sky narrative)would be the gop. "Always be prepared" was a motto they didn't follow after 6 years of griping about the ACA. As for the people who are concerned about the repeal of the ACA, what did they think their gop representative meant when he/she said they were going to repeal the ACA?
A call for civility by a man overheard making racial epithets about Michelle Obama? How about being accountable for your performance and remarks and showing an ability to govern.
3
How many of these clowns voted for Trump? Or spent the last six years griping about "Obamacare"?
2
What I find fascinating about all this is that that "majority" of people who elected him contains people who hated the ACA when it was a democratic idea, but now after establishing republican control still want the democratic idea! Hypocrites all!
1
Unfortunately this is what happens when socialism begins to take hold. People feel entitled. Years ago no one guaranteed anyone health insurance. What real good has the ACA offered? We keep hearing about the millions who now have insurance...is that really true? The only truth I see are premiums through the roof. Taxes are too high as it is. The ACA is a disguised tax. Junk it now.
Hogwash. I've been paying for health insurance for 30 years, premiums have been steadily rising the entire time, in part because people like me have had to help pay the ER costs for the uninsured. You really need to get a clue.
1
The river of cockalorum continuously flows from the hill of hubris. In general, GOP's claimed and feigned ACA alternative seems quite tenuous, and frankly inane, to an average news consumer. Even a CNN conducted town hall Q & A meeting, a few week ago, featuring Paul Ryan, might not have assuaged the feelings of angst in those facing near expulsion form a health plan, once ACA is struck down.
This healthcare argle-bargle seem reminiscent of the ones, engineered by those who vehemently opposed ACA, after its initial launch. Placards displaying ''don not touch my health plan'', ''taxed enough already (TEA)'', and ''Medicare death panels'' adorned the streets, those days in 2010. Obama's effigy-burning became a fashion show by the right wingnuts.
Now, shall one say, it is pay back time, maybe? Perhaps. These reverberations will continue unabated for a long time to come, until Tom Price starts waving his magic wand, and creates a utopian plan covering all and sundry. One is eagerly waiting. Unless of course, Price is busy trading stocks, at discounted prices, available only to him.
This healthcare argle-bargle seem reminiscent of the ones, engineered by those who vehemently opposed ACA, after its initial launch. Placards displaying ''don not touch my health plan'', ''taxed enough already (TEA)'', and ''Medicare death panels'' adorned the streets, those days in 2010. Obama's effigy-burning became a fashion show by the right wingnuts.
Now, shall one say, it is pay back time, maybe? Perhaps. These reverberations will continue unabated for a long time to come, until Tom Price starts waving his magic wand, and creates a utopian plan covering all and sundry. One is eagerly waiting. Unless of course, Price is busy trading stocks, at discounted prices, available only to him.
1
Citizen of Wisconsin - you made a grave mistake by electing Republicans in the White House and in the congress. Now get ready to pay for your misdeeds.
Let this be a learning lessons for YOU.
Let this be a learning lessons for YOU.
4
Sensenbrenner? Another career politician. I remember going to a town hall with my mother decades ago that Sensenbrenner was a part of. My mother asked him a question and he would not respond with a direct answer. My mother badgered and badgered him by saying "Why don't you answer my question?" Next thing you know everyone in the town hall was shouting at this clown "Answer her question!!!!!!" Of course being the slimy politician he was and apparently still is, he never did answer her. We need term limits for these parasites.
2
Wow! There are losers and winners?! This isn't a card game. People's lives are at stake. I hope the voters in Sensenbrenner's district remember his answers and comments the next time he's up for re-election.
1
Republican representative Sensenbrenner has a simple answer to the question posed.
“Your daughter would not be able to get coverage to age 26.”
Repeal of ACA by a republican congress would remove that benefit from our health care laws.
Funny, house republicans passed a bill repealing ACA over 40 or 50 times in the last six years. What are they waiting for now? That same bill would slip right through the Senate and the White House, right?
“Your daughter would not be able to get coverage to age 26.”
Repeal of ACA by a republican congress would remove that benefit from our health care laws.
Funny, house republicans passed a bill repealing ACA over 40 or 50 times in the last six years. What are they waiting for now? That same bill would slip right through the Senate and the White House, right?
2
I have to sadly say that this POTUS and the GOP are greedy do nothings. I am so afraid they will stage a 'terrorist attack' to distract from their lazy ineptitude. They clearly don't care about the people they represent but they will get the uninformed base to attack the rest of the population when push comes to shove. They did absolutely nothing but undermine Obama because of their racist hearts . Sarah Palin for VP was the first tipoff years ago. Hey Trump supporters: he is laughing behind your back at how gullible you are while he counts the money as Paul Ryan and Pence stand behind him wearing their sly smiles.
3
I fully expect them to replace Obamacare ... with the Affordable Care Act. They'll change the name, hype it up and take credit for it.
2
No, it's not like getting a 30,000 piece jigsaw puzzle for Christmas. It's like your parents bought and assembled a 30,000 piece jigsaw puzzle 7 years ago, but the picture had someone with brown hair, and you wanted it to have someone with blond hair instead, and maybe a unicorn, so you threw a tantrum until they got you a new 30,000 piece jigsaw puzzle. So you got the new puzzle seven years ago. That puzzle is still sitting in its box, covered in plastic, unopened. You could have been working on making the puzzle you wanted that whole time, but instead you were sneaking into the living room to draw mustaches and googly eyes on the brown-haired picture in your parents' puzzle. Then you kept complaining about how ugly the man with the mustache and googly eyes is, and how it was ruining your life because you could never have any of your friends over because your parents' puzzle was the worst thing ever, and that none of your friends had puzzles that ugly in their houses. And now your parents are on vacation, and they left you alone for the first time. You have an epic house party planned, and you know that everyone who comes to your party has their own puzzle at home, and you know, deep in your heart, that the puzzle in your house isn't as nice as the other kids' puzzles, so you want to just smash it, but you know that you'd be in sooooo much trouble when your parents come home. And never do you even think of opening your own puzzle, which you've had for 7 years now.
32
I love this comment so much. :)
"That puzzle is still sitting in its box, covered in plastic, unopened. You could have been working on making the puzzle you wanted that whole time, but instead you were sneaking into the living room to draw mustaches and googly eyes on the brown-haired picture in your parents' puzzle."
The problem, now, is that they took the plastic wrap off that "new" puzzle, and discovered that there was nothing printed on it -- it's blank. They haven't the fortitude to do any of the heavy lifting to create a "better" and "more fabulous" law, because they simply don't care to admit they want nothing in place to help make sure everyone's covered. They just don't care one whit about the American people.
The problem, now, is that they took the plastic wrap off that "new" puzzle, and discovered that there was nothing printed on it -- it's blank. They haven't the fortitude to do any of the heavy lifting to create a "better" and "more fabulous" law, because they simply don't care to admit they want nothing in place to help make sure everyone's covered. They just don't care one whit about the American people.
1
The idea that a Republican today would tell his constituents to 'be respectful of opinions they don't share' is ironic in the extreme. They don't respect any opinion but there own, and they have made that very plain. They act in their own interest exclusively and have in fact made a religion out of self interest. Disgusting.
3
Republicans like Mr. Sensenbrenner had eight years to work with Democrats to improve the ACA. Instead they stonewalled the entire process as part of their childish insistence on making the Obama presidency a failure, the real human costs be damned. No matter what the immediate future may hold, when Democrats return to power, and they will, they should neither forget nor forgive. It is my hope that four years from now the Democratic electorate will give the party no other option than to push for a single payer system. No deliberations, no compromise.
4
"Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain."
Wisconsonites! Organize and put up candidates. Yes incumbents have money; yes they have name recognition. But you have 2 years to do the heavy lifting of knocking on doors and taking a stand. Don't wait for the primary filing deadlines. If you do you've lost at least 8 months of getting your name in the media and pointing out that the Emperor has no clothes.
1
The GOP is lost, they took eight years to be in the position they are, now, as like the previous 8 years they still have nothing to offer but only talk, talk, talk ...
You need nothing more than the following to sum up and all GOP health plans. Don't get sick! End of discussion
2
Actually the Republicans do have a plan.
Variations of their pre ACA policy of be rich, don't get sick and/or don't have a bad life event and make big phrama/hmo execs billionaires at the expense of the sick.
ACA was no Canadian gold standard plan but it is ten times better than the de facto criminal Republican plan.
Let them know it by continuing to protest....
Variations of their pre ACA policy of be rich, don't get sick and/or don't have a bad life event and make big phrama/hmo execs billionaires at the expense of the sick.
ACA was no Canadian gold standard plan but it is ten times better than the de facto criminal Republican plan.
Let them know it by continuing to protest....
1
This stuff would be funny if it were not for the fact that a lot of people's lives are in danger. All people have to recognize three facts. ONE, there never was and there isn't now a plan by Republicans for replacing the ACA. TWO, the Republicans don't want or believe the Federal Government has any role in the healthcare of the Country's citizens. THREE, as smarty Sensenbrenner says, "I won". Taxpayers will pay for his and his family's healthcare but everyone else is on their own. Elections have consequences.
1
The GOP plan: take two aspirin, and go away.
4
This will be the GOP's defense when the Health Insurance industry gets what it wants which is a return to the complete for-profit heath care system we had before the ACA. They will say it is just the minority(although the Dems won the popular vote by 3 million) that are making all the noise about losing ACA coverage. And that there are always "winners and losers". Well all you Trumpites and Trumpeters, when you are left out on the street outside an emergency room while you are dying, don't forget the "death panels" of the ACA! You have been conned and soon it will be your turn to cry.
Not only are you supposed to represent all Americans in general and all Badgers in particular, but just because 146,000 more people (sheep) decided to vote Republican doesn't mean they voted for every single policy the Republicans stand for. I am tired of hearing all Republicans say they have to repeal Obamacare because that is their mandate. It most certainly is NOT.
Why don't you all get together and tell all the people that your mandate is to fix what needs fixing about Obamacare, recognizing there is a lot of good stuff? OR, you could repeal and replace with the exact same plan that covers your rather unhealthy looking body and those of your pack who are sitting in the halls of Congress, messing up our lives.
Winners and losers? Guess it's up to the electorate to make losers out of those winners in their gerrymandered unrepresentative districts in 2018.
I grew up in one of those Milwaukee suburbs--and sheep, please tell me what is so bad about your lives that you need to "make American great again?"
Why don't you all get together and tell all the people that your mandate is to fix what needs fixing about Obamacare, recognizing there is a lot of good stuff? OR, you could repeal and replace with the exact same plan that covers your rather unhealthy looking body and those of your pack who are sitting in the halls of Congress, messing up our lives.
Winners and losers? Guess it's up to the electorate to make losers out of those winners in their gerrymandered unrepresentative districts in 2018.
I grew up in one of those Milwaukee suburbs--and sheep, please tell me what is so bad about your lives that you need to "make American great again?"
1
In the house since 1979…..and doesn’t have a clue. No wonder change in this country comes at a snail’s pace. Politicians criticizing tenure should look at themselves. What a country; a lifetime job with all the perks at tax payers’ expense. We live in a ‘La la Land’ of illusion; these guys only care about their self-preservation and nothing else matters….just look at what’s happening in government and around the country.
2
Mr Sensenbrener, your comment that "I won by 146,000 votes", reflects not just on your ignorance of history (things change, people change, voters change, and votes change, often quickly.) More importantly, it reflects on your arrogance and ignorance. I predict you will lose next time, unless you have succeeded in gerrymandering democracy out of existence in your state. Civil disorder ignored can lead to worse. I assure you, either way, you lose.
3
I live in Pennsylvania. I have just read this article and am appalled at Jim Sensenbrenner's hubris, rudeness and lack of regard for his constituents. I would like to contribute to the Wisconsin Democratic opponents/s who will face Sensenbrenner at his next election. This is how we can help improve our political agenda; let's think not only locally, but how we can mobilize in a nationally cohesive way. Thank you.
5
What are Republicans going to do?
Whatever they calculate that they can get away with. Along with a tax cut for the wealthy, a hike in military spending and a look of angst toward Social Security and Medicare.
Whatever they calculate that they can get away with. Along with a tax cut for the wealthy, a hike in military spending and a look of angst toward Social Security and Medicare.
2
When the Republicans get before the microphone, time and again, they claim that it just doesn't work. They never explain how its not working, at least not honestly. And, when they claim that they want to offer a Plan that works for everyone, that they don't add is: especially the Health Care Industry, those big campaign c contributions. One other thing they don't explain--besides why 30 million Americans have signed-up for ACA--is the Why they don't explain that those State Exchanges will, indeed, go away, if "Obamacare" is repealed!
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
2
Yes, Mr. Sensenbrenner, the ACA did create winners and losers. The problem with your partisan approach to being a congressional representative is that the losers under the ACA are in the minority.
Rather than trying to make the winners into losers by repealing the ACA without a workable replacement, how about trying to make more of the losers into winners? Instead of taking subsidies away from 21 million Americans, how about adding subsidies for the 3-5 million Americans whose income is too high to qualify for current subsidies but strain to pay premiums? How about subsidizing all youth not covered by their parents' plans - up to age 34? They are relatively cheap to cover; would improve the risk pool on the exchanges and would bring down premiums for all.
Rather than trying to make the winners into losers by repealing the ACA without a workable replacement, how about trying to make more of the losers into winners? Instead of taking subsidies away from 21 million Americans, how about adding subsidies for the 3-5 million Americans whose income is too high to qualify for current subsidies but strain to pay premiums? How about subsidizing all youth not covered by their parents' plans - up to age 34? They are relatively cheap to cover; would improve the risk pool on the exchanges and would bring down premiums for all.
16
He's a prime example of why term limits are needed. Been there since 1979. A fat cat money grubbing politician living off the government!!!
1
Single payer! If your mind is cluttered with abstractions and esoteric data regarding health coverage, think how many people have to suffer or die to increase an insurance company's bottom line by one dollar. How many? One. Several. You know it's not none.
Does Mr. Sensenbrenner announce the names and addresses of constituents and others who contact him at his office as he does for the people who attend these community meetings?
1
Yes, this was completely predictable. As a matter of fact (real facts, not alternative), the left has been asking the right for an alternative to ACA since the day ACA was passed because that's when the GOP started complaining about it. But after 7 years of complaining, the GOP still is the party of NO. Now, however, they have to say NO to their constituents rather than Pres. Obama. Raise your hand if you actually thought the GOP had a viable plan to replace ACA. Liars! We all know the GOP was never interested in anything but being obstructive to Obama; now they have to put up or shut up.
2
For people who worked and had insurance pre-ACA, things were fine. It is a joke to suggest that preexisting conditions were not covered. They were. Always. IF you did not have a gap in coverage. Would your auto policy pay if you let it lapse, had an accident, and then wanted to by a policy again? Of course not. It was everyone's responsibility to buy health insurance and use COBRA if they lost their job, or apply for Medicaid if they had no money. Otherwise, health insurance had to be a priority.
The ACA raised premiums on paying customers dramatically to support the managed medicaid that is what the ACA really did. Most of the newly insured 20 million are medicaid (welfare) recipients, financed on the backs of people who pay for insurance.
Good, bad, whatever. Call it what it is. Welfare. Stop saying it helps everybody. It does not.
The ACA raised premiums on paying customers dramatically to support the managed medicaid that is what the ACA really did. Most of the newly insured 20 million are medicaid (welfare) recipients, financed on the backs of people who pay for insurance.
Good, bad, whatever. Call it what it is. Welfare. Stop saying it helps everybody. It does not.
Your attitude is so incredibly ignorant. Many if not most folks who were uninsured before the ACA took effect were uninsured because they could not afford the exorbitant price of health insurance. Your comment about preexisting conditions is also incorrect and uninformed. In your world apparently only rich people deserve to be treated and cured....if one is poor tough luck (oh, wait, are you a republican congress person...pretty much the same attitude)! If one develops a terrible illness and then loses their insurance for one reason or another, tough luck! They must have deserved it! That is a belief that is just cruel and exhibits a total lack of empathy for other human beings less fortunate than yourself. In a civilized society, it is unacceptable to let people suffer and die simply because they have not had the benefit of education, familial advantage or money. Where is your compassion?? No one chooses to be born poor, or to be on welfare. Many folks work hard all their lives, just like you, but still can never get ahead. The U.S. Is the only developed country in the world without some form of universal health care. It is people with ignorant, uncharitable, unkind opinions like yourself that keep it that way. Time to develop some kindness towards your fellow citizens.
3
Mr. Sensenbrenner is a clueless politician who is all about power and nothing about getting things done.
Worst, he repeats the GOP mantra that protesters are somehow being nefariously manipulated by moneyed liberals.
Really?
I, a successful businessman, was spontaneously moved to protest at least two times the last week.
I vote, I make money, I pay taxes. I will be seen and heard, and this is only the beginning.
The modern GOP continues to demonstrate they are the party of the willfully ignorant and cynical.
Worst, he repeats the GOP mantra that protesters are somehow being nefariously manipulated by moneyed liberals.
Really?
I, a successful businessman, was spontaneously moved to protest at least two times the last week.
I vote, I make money, I pay taxes. I will be seen and heard, and this is only the beginning.
The modern GOP continues to demonstrate they are the party of the willfully ignorant and cynical.
2
Republican lawmakers are like a flock of headless chickens running all over the yard and bumping into one another.
Years back, when their heads were still attached, they still couldn't focus long enough to come up with a plan giving health care to all at a price we can afford. The meaner chickens opined that health care is not a right. The intellectual chickens opined that there are obvious replacements that are more efficient and cheaper. The sly chickens ask whether we want power hungry government bureaucrats telling us what to do. But always, all the chickens startle whenever someone asks them a question and run away as fast as they can.
The rushing to and fro and the squawking will continue for years while the debate over Obamacare gradually dies away. Then the chickens will get together and pose for a group photo celebrating their great triumphs.
Years back, when their heads were still attached, they still couldn't focus long enough to come up with a plan giving health care to all at a price we can afford. The meaner chickens opined that health care is not a right. The intellectual chickens opined that there are obvious replacements that are more efficient and cheaper. The sly chickens ask whether we want power hungry government bureaucrats telling us what to do. But always, all the chickens startle whenever someone asks them a question and run away as fast as they can.
The rushing to and fro and the squawking will continue for years while the debate over Obamacare gradually dies away. Then the chickens will get together and pose for a group photo celebrating their great triumphs.
2
I am sorry to tell you this but in most civilised countries health care is free with the option of having private health insurance and guess what it works well, mates get with the rest of the world and ensure all of your people have adequate health care not just for those who can afford it.
2
Not quite free, everyone pays into it with tax dollars and that's just fine. We should pay for things that we all need and use.
I am confused. President Trump has said many times that his plan for replacing Obama Cares is "better, lower cost, and will cover everyone". Why don't the Republicans in congress just go with Trump's plan? Are they opposed to covering everyone? Do they think it will be too expensive? Don't they believe the President?
2
I would somewhat agree with the representative. Clearly a vote for the GOP was a vote to repeal the ACA. This is the platform they have succeeded with over these years and I am curious and stunned as to why people are showing up now. Though I think the people of the representatives district have a right to question him, I also think that if you voted GOP or you didn't vote at all, you clearly support what they stood for. Voters need to get into the practice of informing themselves BEFORE election day, not after the fact. That said, I do think the GOP tell folks that they are sore losers, is a bad tactic, especially if they want to be re-elected.
What is rigged in our elections is the Republicans successful effort at gerrymandering. They're masters at it.
So why don't Democrats even things out? Well, voters that's where you come in. If you want to really effect change then you have vote for Democrats down the entire ballot, not just for President Obama or Hillary expecting them to change the entire system.
Gerrymandering comes into play every decade. It coincides with the census. And get this, it is decided by the party in power at the time. Sound a tad unfair? Yep, it 'tis.
So who was in power in 2010? Republicans. Why did you good people vote for President Obama in '08 and not show up in 2010? Why did you re-elect President Obama in '12 and not show up in '14. Those off-year elections are held every two years for the entire Congress of the Lower House, the House of Representatives.
You know, your Congressperson? So where were you?
Our next election is not 2020, when we can kick out Trump Von Clownstick. It is next year in 2018. Find out who is running against your Republican representative and support them. It's really that simple.
They say half the job in politics is showing up. Considering less than half the electorate shows up even a gerrymandered district like Sensenbrenner's is up for grabs if people actually show up. So, what's stopping you?
DD
Manhattan
So why don't Democrats even things out? Well, voters that's where you come in. If you want to really effect change then you have vote for Democrats down the entire ballot, not just for President Obama or Hillary expecting them to change the entire system.
Gerrymandering comes into play every decade. It coincides with the census. And get this, it is decided by the party in power at the time. Sound a tad unfair? Yep, it 'tis.
So who was in power in 2010? Republicans. Why did you good people vote for President Obama in '08 and not show up in 2010? Why did you re-elect President Obama in '12 and not show up in '14. Those off-year elections are held every two years for the entire Congress of the Lower House, the House of Representatives.
You know, your Congressperson? So where were you?
Our next election is not 2020, when we can kick out Trump Von Clownstick. It is next year in 2018. Find out who is running against your Republican representative and support them. It's really that simple.
They say half the job in politics is showing up. Considering less than half the electorate shows up even a gerrymandered district like Sensenbrenner's is up for grabs if people actually show up. So, what's stopping you?
DD
Manhattan
I won.
The mantra of every Republican official from Trump on down to justify every move they make. They have no mandate - no landslide - no justification for ignoring all those who didn't vote for them but expect to be represented anyway.
We owe you no deference. Yes, you can be questioned, your actions are "reviewable", you are accountable to us all, your next election not inevitable.
Who do you think you are? You are representatives of us, we, the people. You are to do what we say.
If we are concerned - you give us answers - or get them for us - pronto.
That's what we pay you for.
Don't come home again without them.
The mantra of every Republican official from Trump on down to justify every move they make. They have no mandate - no landslide - no justification for ignoring all those who didn't vote for them but expect to be represented anyway.
We owe you no deference. Yes, you can be questioned, your actions are "reviewable", you are accountable to us all, your next election not inevitable.
Who do you think you are? You are representatives of us, we, the people. You are to do what we say.
If we are concerned - you give us answers - or get them for us - pronto.
That's what we pay you for.
Don't come home again without them.
1
It is so much easier to rail against a policy like ObamaCare than it is to come up with an alternative. Maybe these morally bankrupt Republicans should have spent less time complaining and spent more time being constructive with the process, or at least, coming up with their own plans.... how many times did they try to repeal it and they did not have anything to replace it?? This is healthcare; it is people's very lives we are talking about. How pathetic a leader do you need to be to not get that?? I hope the majority throw these bums out in the next election. Of course the way they get to redraw their districts and purge the voter lists they get to pick who votes for them. Democracy - yeah, right....
No. You represent the whole district. Moreover, the polls show that more Americans support the ACA than oppose it. Isn't that a majority (or at least a plurality)? After voting to repeal it 50 times or so with no replacement, the Republicans in Congress still have no idea what they're doing.
1
Oh, it's easy to see what to replace it with.
Single-payer.
They just don't like the answer.
Single-payer.
They just don't like the answer.
2
If Ronald Reagan were alive today, he would be correct in his oft-repeated statement that "Government is the problem". Only now the GOP is the problem he created, and yet they would disown him as a RINO.
1
The GOP is craven and working against all Americans (who haven't donated more than $10k, that is).
It starts with the toxic extremism of Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell and seeps down into the states. If Americans see what the state legislatures are currently trying to do to our democracy and are not getting angry at town halls, there is a much bigger problem.
The Democrats might be searching for an identity, but the GOP needs a soul.
It starts with the toxic extremism of Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell and seeps down into the states. If Americans see what the state legislatures are currently trying to do to our democracy and are not getting angry at town halls, there is a much bigger problem.
The Democrats might be searching for an identity, but the GOP needs a soul.
2
This is not a bait and switch: Republicans never said that they had a replacement for Obamacare. What do people expect?
Liar! Just like the President who absolutely said he had a replacement for Obamacare.
1
Yes, Mr. Sensenbrenner, you won by 146,000 votes. And exactly how gerrymandered is your district? Exactly what part did you play in making sure that you would hold the same congressional seat for nearly 40 years? You are the living example of why term limits are not only reasonable but critical. I give you credit for at least facing your constituents, which many of your GOP colleagues have refused to do because they are cowards. But to suggest that the people turning up for your town halls are there simply because they are sore losers is not only imbecilic, it's shortsighted. I'll add you to the list of Republican representatives and senators who hopefully see the end of their political careers in the very near future.
4
Mr. Sensenbrenner's reaction is typical Republican's--dismissing people who have genuine concern for losing their current health care coverage through ACA as organized people from the losing side. If the Republicans really care about those 20+ millions people who are insured through ACA, they would have a plan to improve it instead of repealing it.
Who is the real loser? Those who are covered by the ACA and voted for Republicans and Trump, and they drag all others with them down the rabbit hole.
Who is the real loser? Those who are covered by the ACA and voted for Republicans and Trump, and they drag all others with them down the rabbit hole.
5
Take away every the health care paid by us for every senator, congressman , their employees on the govt dole and their families. This problem will get solved in a week.
3
This is actually a wake up call to the Democrats too. Whats wrong with the system still need's to be fixed. How do you propose to do this? Especially now that the GOP has shown that they have no ready answers.
Show leadership, provide solutions if you really want to reclaim the houses.
Show leadership, provide solutions if you really want to reclaim the houses.
3
The most enlightening part of this past week's town hall experiences has been hearing GOP front-benchers describe their own constitutents, packed into a room to peacefully address their representative in government, as "paid protesters."
This is not an internet troll talking. When it's articulated by Chaffetz, it's an official GOP policy position. Take note carefully.
Opposed DeVos for her devastating effect on public education? To the GOP, you're a "paid protester." Opposed Puzder for his boasts about building a business on the hiring of illegal workers? To the GOP, you're nothing but a "paid protester." Outraged and shocked by the continuing drip, drip, drip of a treasonous trail leading straight back to Putin? The GOP has a name for you, even if you're a loyal member of their own party outraged by all of this. You're nothing but a "paid protester."
And to quote President Bannon, when it comes to healthcare, the GOP wants you to shut up. And die.
This is not an internet troll talking. When it's articulated by Chaffetz, it's an official GOP policy position. Take note carefully.
Opposed DeVos for her devastating effect on public education? To the GOP, you're a "paid protester." Opposed Puzder for his boasts about building a business on the hiring of illegal workers? To the GOP, you're nothing but a "paid protester." Outraged and shocked by the continuing drip, drip, drip of a treasonous trail leading straight back to Putin? The GOP has a name for you, even if you're a loyal member of their own party outraged by all of this. You're nothing but a "paid protester."
And to quote President Bannon, when it comes to healthcare, the GOP wants you to shut up. And die.
2
I am a republican but not for trump. I want my representatives to think about what is right or wrong and vote accordingly . I don't think the " angry town hall meetings" are all democrats..
3
You sound like a reasonably intelligent, decent human being. As a former Republican, I have to ask, why are you still a Republican?
“I’d be lying to you if I told you it was fun,” he said.
Pray tell, congressman, how much fun do you think your constituents will have without health care coverage? How much fun do you think they will have facing financial ruin and homelessness when catastrophic illness or accident occurs with accompanying catastrophic medical bills.
Congress has permitted the medical industry, it's no longer just medical care, to increase profits so that hedge funds and others can profit from people's illness and distress. When one four hour session of my chemo costs $15,000 how many people will face death rather than treatment. Do your job for Americans!
Pray tell, congressman, how much fun do you think your constituents will have without health care coverage? How much fun do you think they will have facing financial ruin and homelessness when catastrophic illness or accident occurs with accompanying catastrophic medical bills.
Congress has permitted the medical industry, it's no longer just medical care, to increase profits so that hedge funds and others can profit from people's illness and distress. When one four hour session of my chemo costs $15,000 how many people will face death rather than treatment. Do your job for Americans!
4
I knew Jim Sennsenbrenner when he belonged to the John Birch Society's youth group, The Young Americans For Freedom. Last Saturday I drove out to Elm Grove to watch him conduct a Town Hall Meeting. Despite the crowds at his two previous TH meetings, Jim made no accommodation for the number of people who want to attend by moving the meeting to a larger venue. I and several hundred people were left out in the cold. All of whom that I met had spontaneously decided to attend the event. Grass roots, not an organized person among us.
3
Maybe the problem is a political system that creates a district that a candidate can win by 37 points.
1
Yes, Mr. Sensenbrenner, I'm sure your assessment is correct. The uproar will soon die down. You Republicans should all stick with that "explanation" and use it whenever it's convenient.
1
First there is denial, now deflection. That's all that is going on here.
Keep up the heat, America. We have to fight for what is right now.
Keep up the heat, America. We have to fight for what is right now.
2
Mr. Sensenbrenner, in an interview, attributed the turnout at his gatherings to “organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.”
We're all angry, Democrats and Republicans alike that our healthcare has become a political football. These are people we're talking about not faceless numbers. All of us need care when we get sick. Yes, the ACA has some problems. If those in power can't get their act together, let's start a bipartisan grassroots movement to decide what a good healthcare program would really look like and join together, no matter who you voted for, to advocate for what we want.
28
Finally - an intelligent suggestion but I'n not optimistic it will ever happen.
"I will get rid of Oba-ma-care, and I will replace it with something much, much better -- it will be fabulous. I will get rid of it as soon as I take office, and you will see how great it will be. I guarantee it."
"Not a puppet! No puppet! You're the puppet! You're the puppet!"
"I will drain the swamp"
And it's only three weeks in -- *sigh* -- oh, and a special shout-out to Flynn for taking-one-for-the-team.
"Not a puppet! No puppet! You're the puppet! You're the puppet!"
"I will drain the swamp"
And it's only three weeks in -- *sigh* -- oh, and a special shout-out to Flynn for taking-one-for-the-team.
1
They should be taking the heat, they've had eight years to come up,with a replacement plan and didn't. Which means in my view that they never really cared about making healthcare better.
1
Getting angry now seems ridiculous unless you actually believed the Republicans when they said they had a plan to replace Obamacare. The people voted (sort of) for a policy of criticize, destroy and flounder and that's what they've got.
5
What does "the people" mean under this "Electoral College" system of vote-counting? 2.8 million votes were discarded, mine among them, to have our noses rubbed in our purported consent to be governed by this outrageous flim-flam man.
2
The Republicans still haven't come up with a good reason on why they are so against the ACA. They obviously cannot find a suitable replacement and refuse to look at the single payer option, so are we now going to have 4 years of indecision, or will they just repeal Obamacare and let the chips fall where they may? If they go the latter route, then stand back Republicans, your days are numbered.
1
Republicans have had years to develop and put forth their health care reform. They have had dozens of votes to overturn the ACA without ever talking about their replacement. This is bad governance. Why are they surprised that people are concerned, both with the repeal, but more importantly, with their lack of answers? Talk about tone deaf.
1
Overwhelmingly Republican legislators toe the party line and then show themselves as the cowards they are when faced with voter rebellion. It us now up to these voters to do something at the polls.
2
Ignorance, intellectual laziness, and believing the propaganda of your own party will be identified as crimes or malfeasance. Lies and manipulation of facts by the Republican Party to mislead the public regarding the ACA, Climate Change, Immigration, and Russian interference in our election cannot stand as normal politics as they constitute genuine harm to innocent Americans, and fraud for the purpose of deceiving Americans. This is not politics as usual.
1
“I won by 146,000 votes,” he [Sensenbrenner] said in the interview. “I represent the majority. Now, they’re a vocal minority.”
Mr. Sensenbrenner has been in the House since 1979. What has he and the GOP been doing about health care since then? What has he and the GOP been doing beside voting repeal since 2010, when the ACA was passed? Seven years is plenty of time to analyze what the GOP has called a "train wreck" policy and to coalesce around a solution.
Perhaps the voters will now vote to repeal and replace the GOP majority in 2018 or 2020.
Mr. Sensenbrenner has been in the House since 1979. What has he and the GOP been doing about health care since then? What has he and the GOP been doing beside voting repeal since 2010, when the ACA was passed? Seven years is plenty of time to analyze what the GOP has called a "train wreck" policy and to coalesce around a solution.
Perhaps the voters will now vote to repeal and replace the GOP majority in 2018 or 2020.
4
Sensenbrenner believes that people who voted for him would not be there complaining. He should learn about "buyer's remorse". Those who voted for him expected better and are there to demand it.
2
So, the people who voted for Trump are now finally waking up to the fact that the damage he's causing applies to them too. Will they finally stop wallowing in their Republican polluted bathwater?
2
Keep the pressure on folks--having worked as a Congress. office staffer, I can tell you that if this level of engagement is still happening 4 months from now (June), Republicans like Sensenbrenner will be sweating bullets. (Campaign fundraising w/be in high gear and they HAVE to show their faces at events.) Think about boycotting businesses that contribute to Republicans like Mr. Sensebrenner. If we persist, in a year they'll be in a state of panic and Mr. Sensebrenner--his "safe" seat notwithstanding, may decide to retire rather than being in the minority.
3
The republican party is just a bunch of cranky old white guys that don't like anything. It doesn't really matter what it is. The voters mistake was in thinking "not" liking something meant they had a solution. It only complaining they're good at.
When you depend on taxpayers to pay for your health care, you are dependent upon the government to give you something for nothing.
Ms Roelandts wants to keep getting something for nothing: She wants someone else to pay for her daughter's health insurance.
By what right? There is no right to health insurance. There can be no "right" to something which someone else must be forced to provide. Your "right" to force me to pay for your health insurance is a violation of my right to my life, my liberty, and my pursuit of my happiness. There is no such thing as a "right" of one group to violate the rights of anyone else - and yet that is what Ms. Roelandts is demanding.
Ms Roelandts wants to keep getting something for nothing: She wants someone else to pay for her daughter's health insurance.
By what right? There is no right to health insurance. There can be no "right" to something which someone else must be forced to provide. Your "right" to force me to pay for your health insurance is a violation of my right to my life, my liberty, and my pursuit of my happiness. There is no such thing as a "right" of one group to violate the rights of anyone else - and yet that is what Ms. Roelandts is demanding.
1
You are completely incorrect.
I do not have children. Why must I pay taxes for schools, a service I have never and will never use? I have no intention on space travel, why must I pay for missions to Mars? If your parents have lived a long life, chances are the Medicare/Social Security they are receiving is being paid by others as their original contributions have long been exhausted.
Do you have a clue as to what living in a civilized society actually means? And don't get me started on these so-called "Christian's" attitudes toward helping others.
I do not have children. Why must I pay taxes for schools, a service I have never and will never use? I have no intention on space travel, why must I pay for missions to Mars? If your parents have lived a long life, chances are the Medicare/Social Security they are receiving is being paid by others as their original contributions have long been exhausted.
Do you have a clue as to what living in a civilized society actually means? And don't get me started on these so-called "Christian's" attitudes toward helping others.
1
Karlos, you're a doctrinaire bozo, too wrapped up in talking points to realize what you're saying.
If you're paying for health care by depending on the taxpayers, that means THE TAXPAYERS ARE PAYING FOR HEALTHCARE.
And who are the taxpayers? People like Michelle Roelandts.
Who wants healthcare.
In fact you have it exactly backwards, as one might suspect.
If anybody is getting something for nothing in this ridiculous game, it's your heroes the insurance companies.
While they moan about "socialized medicine", they made record profits last year. Record profits. They took in about three-quarters-of-a-trillion-dollars. In one year. One.
But, you say, look at the outstanding service they provide; they, um, they...
Nailed it, Karlos. They give us nothing. Nothing at all. Except more efficient ways to deny service, better options for eating up doctor time without the need for nasty patient contact, and secret selection of winners and losers in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries with no need to worry about pesky issues like patient care.
Really, how much more could we expect for $750,000,000,000?
Besides, can you even imagine how much these poor companies have to spend on lobbying? Executive salaries? Advertising (Charlie Brown does not come cheap, I happen to know)?
Before you throw around your welfare queen/Cadillac anecdotes, use your brain for once.
If that's a problem, I bet your policy offers excellent psychiatric coverage.
If you're paying for health care by depending on the taxpayers, that means THE TAXPAYERS ARE PAYING FOR HEALTHCARE.
And who are the taxpayers? People like Michelle Roelandts.
Who wants healthcare.
In fact you have it exactly backwards, as one might suspect.
If anybody is getting something for nothing in this ridiculous game, it's your heroes the insurance companies.
While they moan about "socialized medicine", they made record profits last year. Record profits. They took in about three-quarters-of-a-trillion-dollars. In one year. One.
But, you say, look at the outstanding service they provide; they, um, they...
Nailed it, Karlos. They give us nothing. Nothing at all. Except more efficient ways to deny service, better options for eating up doctor time without the need for nasty patient contact, and secret selection of winners and losers in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries with no need to worry about pesky issues like patient care.
Really, how much more could we expect for $750,000,000,000?
Besides, can you even imagine how much these poor companies have to spend on lobbying? Executive salaries? Advertising (Charlie Brown does not come cheap, I happen to know)?
Before you throw around your welfare queen/Cadillac anecdotes, use your brain for once.
If that's a problem, I bet your policy offers excellent psychiatric coverage.
1
JohnS: Do you have a clue of what I'm saying, or did you just feel a need to rant?
"My heroes" are not the insurance companies, you dredged that out of nothing - which indicates where your hatred is. They were certainly Obama's "heroes" - they fell in line with PPACA and supported it. Why? Because your "hero" Obama gave them what they wanted: More people insured.
Michelle Roelandts wants healthcare; she just doesn't want to pay for it. I want healthcare; I don't want to pay for hers.
Given the amount of ignorant anger you've squeezed up, it's clear that of the two of us, I'm the only one with a brain.
"My heroes" are not the insurance companies, you dredged that out of nothing - which indicates where your hatred is. They were certainly Obama's "heroes" - they fell in line with PPACA and supported it. Why? Because your "hero" Obama gave them what they wanted: More people insured.
Michelle Roelandts wants healthcare; she just doesn't want to pay for it. I want healthcare; I don't want to pay for hers.
Given the amount of ignorant anger you've squeezed up, it's clear that of the two of us, I'm the only one with a brain.
1
How ironic, a Republican demanding civility! That's tantamount to Democrats appealing for openness and transparency. The hypocrisy of institutionalized politics is numbing.
2
Sensenbrenner called on people and announced where they live so they were, “less likely to make fools of themselves." Did Sensenbrenner give out his address because he's clearly a fool. This resistance will not stop. You can't give people something as vital as health care and then yank it away! If we are the wealthiest most powerful nation in the world why can't people afford to go to the doctor? Why can't people afford an education? Why do we have more people incarcerated than any other country? Home of the free? The GOP needs to stop hiding behind the flag while calling the people fools for demanding life. Health care is a matter of life and death.
2
“I won by 146,000 votes,...I represent the majority. Now, they’re a vocal minority.”
Don't be so sure.
Repubs lied about how awful the ACA was. But some in their party have discovered that it's way better than getting no health care at all. Why is he so sure that those people don't mind a bit losing the health care they finally have? Does he think loyalty to party trumps their sick children getting care?
Don't be so sure.
Repubs lied about how awful the ACA was. But some in their party have discovered that it's way better than getting no health care at all. Why is he so sure that those people don't mind a bit losing the health care they finally have? Does he think loyalty to party trumps their sick children getting care?
4
Republicans have few answers to anything. They don't have new programs to help us citizens. The programs that need mending, they don't know how to do this and only vote to end the programs.
They are mentally bankrupt.
They are mentally bankrupt.
3
After trying to repeal the ACA after 8 years the GOP during that time obviously had no plan for replacing or changing the program. What a farce the Republican Party is. The unfortunate part is they have been very successful in convincing a large segment of the un-enlightened voting public that they have a plan when they do not. White America needs to stop watching Fox News and other right wing news outlets that deal with lies, innuendos, and"alternative facts". I want to know where all these right wing voices get their money from. I am willing to bet the likes of the Koch brothers and other wealthy fascists are behind the hijacking of our democracy.
4
The Trump Administration is a disaster at every level. It is time to "repeal and replace" this failed Presidency.
5
As most Americans still receive health insurance through their employers or Medicare, neither of which have anything to do with the ACA except for the things Sensenbrenner says he wants to keep, and the cost of their insurance will continue to rise no matter what happens with it, the Republicans have an incentive to delay doing anything so they can continue to blame the ACA for this to ignorant voters. The only question is how long they can get away with this trickery.
1
Over the course of seven+ years Rep. Sensenbrenner has helped stoke mindless, but emotionally satisfying, opposition, and repeatedly voted to repeal the ACA. But he and his colleagues could never be bothered to develop a coherent alternative. Seven+ years without developing an alternative. More than seven years. Too many of us were taken in.
Sensenbrenner and his colleagues have had a plan in mind, and that plan has been to strip away our health insurance and force us to buy junk policies (which will abandon us, insurance-Company style, when we are in need) from Republican campaign contributors. They are just shy about talking about it now.
But, be consoled: while he could not be bothered to come up with a real plan, he will likely work diligently with Republican strategists to skillfully promote some other object on which to focus hatred, with the hope that a new fury at some "other" will blot out this incompetence. It has worked so often and so well, it is definitely worth trying again.
One wants to believe that somewhere in his make-up there is a commitment to the nation as a whole, and advancing it. But evidence for such a belief is hard to see.
Sensenbrenner and his colleagues have had a plan in mind, and that plan has been to strip away our health insurance and force us to buy junk policies (which will abandon us, insurance-Company style, when we are in need) from Republican campaign contributors. They are just shy about talking about it now.
But, be consoled: while he could not be bothered to come up with a real plan, he will likely work diligently with Republican strategists to skillfully promote some other object on which to focus hatred, with the hope that a new fury at some "other" will blot out this incompetence. It has worked so often and so well, it is definitely worth trying again.
One wants to believe that somewhere in his make-up there is a commitment to the nation as a whole, and advancing it. But evidence for such a belief is hard to see.
6
Designing and then passing the ACA took YEARS prior to 2010 (all the way back to Bill Clinton's terms). Getting legislation that intricate that will deal in a balanced way with all parties' interests is complicated, laborious, and in the end it will not be perfect. ACA is pretty damn good considering what it's done, but it hasn't been long enough for all the kinks to get worked out. It got phased in up until 2014, so it's really only been up and fully running for 2-3 years. The Republicans all these years haven't worked on a single part of the ACA to devise something better. Their promises to repeal and replace -- and with something better! -- are so far fetched they are going down with this one. If nothing else their lack of a plan is going to roil the economy, since health care spending, insurers, etc are such a big part of it and there is no stability right now. I think they are going to pay the price at the polls next time around.
1
At least Sensenbrenner has the guts to have town hall meetings. Some other Reps have left early with a police escort or just canceled their meetings altogether.
He says there are winners and losers after any legislation. So that means whatever they come up with is going to have many unhappy people. Isn't that what they complain about in the ACA?
I fear that their solution will shortchange the neediest, those unlikely to storm constituent meetings. The Republican Way is to favor those who have more--- they are the donors to campaigns. The woman whose mother depends on Medicaid for her nursing home? Well they're gonna block grant that money to states where GOP Governors are just as likely to use it to fix potholes as spend it on the poor..
Sensenbrenner may have won by 146,000 votes, but how many in his district will be tossed out in the cold. From his responses, they are just the inevitable losers.
He says there are winners and losers after any legislation. So that means whatever they come up with is going to have many unhappy people. Isn't that what they complain about in the ACA?
I fear that their solution will shortchange the neediest, those unlikely to storm constituent meetings. The Republican Way is to favor those who have more--- they are the donors to campaigns. The woman whose mother depends on Medicaid for her nursing home? Well they're gonna block grant that money to states where GOP Governors are just as likely to use it to fix potholes as spend it on the poor..
Sensenbrenner may have won by 146,000 votes, but how many in his district will be tossed out in the cold. From his responses, they are just the inevitable losers.
2
What arrogance. This man is precisely why every Democrat has to get out and vote in 2018. And make sure that all of your friends, relatives, and neighbors vote, too. We are not merely a "vocal minority."
2
He doesn't get it, does he?!
The issue is providing low-cost health insurance and decent health care for ALL-- not decrying questioners as being organized opposition that lost the election!
Why didn't the reporter follow up with the questioners? I'll wager that he would have discovered that many asking the tough questions were Republicans and some even Trump supporters!
The notion of gathering names and addresses and using them to call on people is chilling -- he doesn't get the problem with that, either.
Why doesn't the article note Sensenbrenner is the author of the noxious Patriot Act?!
The issue is providing low-cost health insurance and decent health care for ALL-- not decrying questioners as being organized opposition that lost the election!
Why didn't the reporter follow up with the questioners? I'll wager that he would have discovered that many asking the tough questions were Republicans and some even Trump supporters!
The notion of gathering names and addresses and using them to call on people is chilling -- he doesn't get the problem with that, either.
Why doesn't the article note Sensenbrenner is the author of the noxious Patriot Act?!
Here is the bottom line. The Republican Party never thought they would be in this position. They thought they could just continue to run on opposing it without having to come up with an alternative since they did not expect Trump to win the White House. They used the ACA to scare up votes through distortion and lies while telling people they had something much better in mind. However, since the ACA was their idea in the first place and only became this horrid monster once it was embraced by a democrat, they have nothing. They continue to be the fraud they have always been.
If the Congressman is intimidated by a jigsaw puzzle then we have a very serious problem.
1
“We got to get it right, and we got to get it right the first time.”
More damned lies from the Right.
They don't have to, and can't, get it right the first or any time.
Everybody knows that. Same thing happened to Obama, although the duplicitous Mr. Sensenbrenner and his rabid ilk thought it more appropriate to dance naked around their campfires than to fix the thing.
But what Republicans know, and have built their stinking hulk of a government upon, is that they only have to look like they care.
They have to look like they engaged in a titanic struggle for the well-being of their constituents.
They have to look like they tried really, really hard when they announce that, whatever it ends up being, is the "Best we could do. In the face of Democrat intransigence, we mean."
Everybody already knows all that.
What's disturbing to me, here, is Sensenbrenner's heartless and cavalier “there are winners and losers” when bills are passed. As if his party doesn't tilt the game at every opportunity toward religious bigots and their hatred of humanity, toward the soulless rich, and toward their own greed and ambition.
Even when these bad men are winning, they can't own up to who they really are.
More damned lies from the Right.
They don't have to, and can't, get it right the first or any time.
Everybody knows that. Same thing happened to Obama, although the duplicitous Mr. Sensenbrenner and his rabid ilk thought it more appropriate to dance naked around their campfires than to fix the thing.
But what Republicans know, and have built their stinking hulk of a government upon, is that they only have to look like they care.
They have to look like they engaged in a titanic struggle for the well-being of their constituents.
They have to look like they tried really, really hard when they announce that, whatever it ends up being, is the "Best we could do. In the face of Democrat intransigence, we mean."
Everybody already knows all that.
What's disturbing to me, here, is Sensenbrenner's heartless and cavalier “there are winners and losers” when bills are passed. As if his party doesn't tilt the game at every opportunity toward religious bigots and their hatred of humanity, toward the soulless rich, and toward their own greed and ambition.
Even when these bad men are winning, they can't own up to who they really are.
"Organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election"
An interesting and relavatory statement from a man who has held an office far too long and obviously stagnated in same. Does he really believe he serves only the republican narrow mindset, or is he there for all of his constituents? Why would he care what party the protesters belong to, he's in office to represent the people of Wi. And they are telling him he is not, and for years has not done his job. Majority, minority, do your damn job. Lazy and entrenched, unable to see the obvious concerns, retire now.
An interesting and relavatory statement from a man who has held an office far too long and obviously stagnated in same. Does he really believe he serves only the republican narrow mindset, or is he there for all of his constituents? Why would he care what party the protesters belong to, he's in office to represent the people of Wi. And they are telling him he is not, and for years has not done his job. Majority, minority, do your damn job. Lazy and entrenched, unable to see the obvious concerns, retire now.
2
The anger of the Town Hall participants has special resonance when we are the only nation in history that directly elects an executive with the minority of the two party vote. How long do we have to put up with this? Does a candidate have to have a six million vote lead and still lose? Any government that wins an election like the last one will never really be accepted, even if the winner is not as idiosyncratic as the recent winning candidate. The Electoral College has jumped the shark; it needs to be replaced.
2
McConnell's true talent was implementing his policy of scorched earth partisanship--and in destroying consensus governance he has destroyed Congress. GOP: campaigning on "Repeal and Replace" does not give a mandate to ignore the "Replace". Neither does "Build the Wall (for free)" show a mandate for using 20+ billion of taxpayer money for construction.
All Congressmen swore oaths of loyalty to our nation--no mention of Party at all.
All Congressmen swore oaths of loyalty to our nation--no mention of Party at all.
1
What many who voted for Trump and Republican Senators and Representatives are learning is that there are no easy answers to complex problems.
With respect to healthcare, anyone who can do basic math and has a basic understanding of how insurance works knows that you cannot have a viable plan where there are not enough participants and among that population must be an good number of healthy participants. The Republicans killed the single payer model and, frankly, it is the only viable model. It is like Social Security, young people, years away from retirement are paying for retirees and when their turn comes, younger people will be paying for them.
Another issue is, can we really expect a healthcare system run by the private sector to be cheaper when, on top of all the expenses of running the system, they expect to make a (huge) profit.....impossible. Single payer is the way to go and as Congress and voters unravel present healthcare, I'm pretty sure they will come to the same conclusions.
What they do about it remains to be seen.
With respect to healthcare, anyone who can do basic math and has a basic understanding of how insurance works knows that you cannot have a viable plan where there are not enough participants and among that population must be an good number of healthy participants. The Republicans killed the single payer model and, frankly, it is the only viable model. It is like Social Security, young people, years away from retirement are paying for retirees and when their turn comes, younger people will be paying for them.
Another issue is, can we really expect a healthcare system run by the private sector to be cheaper when, on top of all the expenses of running the system, they expect to make a (huge) profit.....impossible. Single payer is the way to go and as Congress and voters unravel present healthcare, I'm pretty sure they will come to the same conclusions.
What they do about it remains to be seen.
1
A simple solution to this charade would be to take away the Gold-plated healthcare which our lawmakers enjoy and allow them to use the same system that the rest of their constituents have to deal with.
2
The GOP had seven+ years to come up with an alternative after bombarding Obamacare with endless fusillades. If they don't have an alternative now, they never will. That's the point of it. They want to do away with the ACA and let the private insurance industry fully run the table.
Medicare for All is the only sensible, sane way forward. The Democrats should have done it in Obama's first term. It means taking on the insurance lobby, but that's a vital and necessary fight.
Meanwhile, the GOP is going to twist on this, because they are captive to the notion of healthcare as a privilege and commodity available to those who can afford it.
Medicare for All is the only sensible, sane way forward. The Democrats should have done it in Obama's first term. It means taking on the insurance lobby, but that's a vital and necessary fight.
Meanwhile, the GOP is going to twist on this, because they are captive to the notion of healthcare as a privilege and commodity available to those who can afford it.
4
Here's what I know: Before ObamaCare, health insurance for me and my had climbed steadily, until we were paying $1,750 per month and had been notified that the premium would increase to $2,200. Talk about stress and oppression! Like millions in this country, we couldn't afford it, but a pre-existing condition made us ripe for gouging. With ObamaCare we were eligible for the subsidy, could shop for a new policy, and our premium became $268 per month. ObamaCare saved our lives!
3
It really must be repeated over and over and over that the ACA was always a Republican plan. Back in the 1980's, it was first proposed by the Heritage Foundation. Then, it was adopted in Massachusetts by Republican Mitt Romney. Then, we now have the ACA. Instead of looking around the world at the health care plans used very effectively by many countries, that we could adopt here, our elected officials bowed down to the health insurance industry and to Big Pharma and to doctors like Price, for whom there just isn't enough money for them. It was easy for Republicans to vote over and over to repeal the ACA while they knew that it would not happen under a Democratic president. To expect the party that does not believe in government to actually govern is fools work.
5
The GOP was hell-bent on repealing the ACA and voted to do so many times, but without any idea what they were going to do if they were successful. They touted this on the basis, maybe, of rising premiums? Extending Medicare to all, as more than one person has asked at these meetings, would of course mean a higher Medicare tax...but, how much? It certainly wouldn't be anywhere near as much as people are now paying insurance companies in premium costs. I'd like to see a comparison done that would give an idea of the tax involved to have everyone on Medicare vs what the typical cost of for-profit insurance is.
2
And no one seems to be asking Trump Administration officials to explain the Liar-in-Chief's blatant lie on a network TV interview where he stated that the ACA replacement bill was all but completed and would be rolled out as soon as Tom Price was confirmed to head HHS. So where is the completed plan that Trump forcefully said was ready for roll-out? Have I just missed it somehow? Accountability, anyone?
ACA as it currently stands is untenable. What we need is a pared down policy for everyone;one that covers catastrophic illnesses. If you need maternity care or pay for your drug addiction, that would be extra, for you. You cannot expect a segment of society -- the middle-class and especially the elderly who are asked to pay as much as three times for a policy than everyone else -- to carry the heavy financial burden of this. Emphasis should be on preventive care. Make it legal to have a catastrophic policy. Then you will see prices come down.
He may have won by 146,000 votes, but many of those voters, I presume, didn't fully realize what they were voting for -- or against.
3
It's amazing that these Republican senators and congresspeople think that all the questioners are bitter Hillary voters or paid people. Can't they realize that many of these questioners are their own voters who are scared of what the Republican Congress is going to do to them
6
I've heard that the Republicans have ideas for replacement such as senator rand Paul. Why don't they just step up to the plate and decide on a plan and present it.
4
It is because Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy are reviewing the final points.
"Mr. Sensenbrenner, in an interview, attributed the turnout at his gatherings to “organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.”"
And in two years, he and his colleagues better be scared.
And in two years, he and his colleagues better be scared.
5
Get it right the first time? Excuse me? The first time was back in 2008 when both the White House and the Democratic legislature were knocking on your door asking for input and debate. Instead the American people received obstinance. Nothing much has changed. Republicans can't acknowledge that the ACA was actually an improvement and can't provide an alternative without conceding to the true will of the majority: universal healthcare.
People don't want a choice in their healthcare. They don't want a free market. People just want everyone to be healthy without worrying about the bills. What is so hard to understand about this concept?
People don't want a choice in their healthcare. They don't want a free market. People just want everyone to be healthy without worrying about the bills. What is so hard to understand about this concept?
10
Many people want to live indefinitely. No system would be able to afford that unless it maintained everyone in perfect health at modest expense.
"No lifetime cap" is a blank check. When does one stop drawing on it?
"No lifetime cap" is a blank check. When does one stop drawing on it?
Approximately 115 years if you're both incredibly healthy and incredibly fortunate.
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/06/science/maximum-life-span-study.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/06/science/maximum-life-span-study.html
I think we should go to a system like Medicare where the premium you pay to the Government pays for most of one expense.
3
I realize the Times attempts to maintain a certain degree of decorum in the language you choose to use in describing national events. Let me try to cut through all the extra verbiage: "Republicans like Sensenbrenner have been taking advantage of their low-information voters' gullibility and have been lying straight to their faces for eight years."
I think that's a more concise summary of the situation.
I think that's a more concise summary of the situation.
4
I've been calling the offices of my republican representatives and others across the country. No one ever picks up. Most don't even have an active voicemail. Cowards.
2
This administration has time to expand rights for corporations (to drill, to pollute, to repatriate) and churches (to make political contributions). They have time to restrict the rights of people (travel). They have no time to create a replacement for the ACA.
This 'populism' is an odd way to help people left behind.
This 'populism' is an odd way to help people left behind.
1
A dozen years ago I moved to a small town in WY and was surprised to see jars at small store check out stands with pictures of people who had cancer, or some serious disease, without insurance. These jars were collection boxes for their treatment, which of course my and others small change would never cover. Since the ACA I haven't seen one of those jars. With the GOP plans they've set forth, that rely on HSA's, high deductibles, expensive insurance for pre-existing conditions, I'm sure I'll be seeing those jars again.
3
Mr. Sensenbrenner, in an interview, attributed the turnout at his gatherings to “organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.”
Yup. he has it exactly right. We lost and now we are organized and in opposition. I realize he meant it as a criticism but what part of "organized opposition" which goes back to the Boston Tea Party and beyond, does he think is unAmerican?
Yup. he has it exactly right. We lost and now we are organized and in opposition. I realize he meant it as a criticism but what part of "organized opposition" which goes back to the Boston Tea Party and beyond, does he think is unAmerican?
2
We may be old now, but we demonstrated back in the 60s and we will do it again until trump is gone.
5
I respect Mr. Sensenbrenner for facing his constituents. He will face a re-election in 2018.
Many of the conservative people I know that bash the ACA have never gone without health care. They don't realize how a small hiccup in life can be a financial ruin. I always ask if their kids are on the plan after graduating college. Many are of course and they like that part of the ACA. They want their cake and eat too.
Many of the conservative people I know that bash the ACA have never gone without health care. They don't realize how a small hiccup in life can be a financial ruin. I always ask if their kids are on the plan after graduating college. Many are of course and they like that part of the ACA. They want their cake and eat too.
4
Actually, the opposition is unorganized, organic, and energized. A Tea Party for Moderates - less fringe and more inclusive. Just looking for, as requisite for the times, a snappy name. Thereafter, bear witness as it gels.
#middleparty
#middleparty
2
So let us return to an earlier generation of Republicans.
Take the cases of Representative William M. McCulloch (OH) and Senator Everett M. Dirksen (IL).
They exercised key roles in shaping the Voting Rights Act of 1965, in tandem with President Lyndon B. Johnson.
Despite the Democratic super majority in Congress, there was not enough votes to gain passage. This is because most Southern Democrats opposed the legislation.
Hence Republican votes were required for passage. Now this was the era when Congress was stocked with what historians regard as "moderate" Republicans.
Thirty Republican senators voted affirmatively on the legislation as did
Prominent among them: Clifford Case (NJ), John Cooper (KY), Bourke Hickenlooper (IA), Jacob Javits (NY), and Thomas Kuchel (CA), Karl Mundt (ND), Leverett Saltonstall (MA), Hugh Scott (PA), Milward Simpson (WY), and Margaret Chase Smith (ME).
In the House of Representatives 111 Republicans voted for the legislation, among them Donald Rumsfeld (IL), Every Republican member representating district in Indiana voted Yes, save for one "not voting." In Kansas as well as New Jersey -- an unlikely pairing -- the Republican vote was 100%.
Well you get the picture. This was an era of bi-partisanship.
Not so today!
The prevailing trope is the Republican "alternative" to the Affordable Care Act. Listen to Sen. Lamar Alexander (TN), who has spoken eloquently -- to near deafening silence -- for "repair" rather than "repeal."
Take the cases of Representative William M. McCulloch (OH) and Senator Everett M. Dirksen (IL).
They exercised key roles in shaping the Voting Rights Act of 1965, in tandem with President Lyndon B. Johnson.
Despite the Democratic super majority in Congress, there was not enough votes to gain passage. This is because most Southern Democrats opposed the legislation.
Hence Republican votes were required for passage. Now this was the era when Congress was stocked with what historians regard as "moderate" Republicans.
Thirty Republican senators voted affirmatively on the legislation as did
Prominent among them: Clifford Case (NJ), John Cooper (KY), Bourke Hickenlooper (IA), Jacob Javits (NY), and Thomas Kuchel (CA), Karl Mundt (ND), Leverett Saltonstall (MA), Hugh Scott (PA), Milward Simpson (WY), and Margaret Chase Smith (ME).
In the House of Representatives 111 Republicans voted for the legislation, among them Donald Rumsfeld (IL), Every Republican member representating district in Indiana voted Yes, save for one "not voting." In Kansas as well as New Jersey -- an unlikely pairing -- the Republican vote was 100%.
Well you get the picture. This was an era of bi-partisanship.
Not so today!
The prevailing trope is the Republican "alternative" to the Affordable Care Act. Listen to Sen. Lamar Alexander (TN), who has spoken eloquently -- to near deafening silence -- for "repair" rather than "repeal."
3
It's patently unfair to expect Senselessbrainer to know much about anything at all. But he is an expert bully and leading science denier.
4
"“organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.”"
Well, yeah, Captain Obvious
And we know how we lost while we actually had the plurality. So don't hide behind the Electoral College skirts and think you got a majority.
Well, yeah, Captain Obvious
And we know how we lost while we actually had the plurality. So don't hide behind the Electoral College skirts and think you got a majority.
6
Now that the Republicans no longer have Obama to try and kick around, and have to govern and come up with answers of their own, we will see how they do. So far, it's been pretty much of a disaster - as the Republicans have proved to be in the past. Having power and being able to govern are two entirely different things.
4
The Democrats are continuing to pass up a golden opportunity here. It is clear that the GOP has no replacement plan. They never did, they never will. So the Democrats should seize the moment and come out with a replacement. In the short term a series of fixes to make the ACA less expensive and more user friendly (negotiated drug prices anyone?, public option?) and in the long term - single payer, Medicare for All, maybe phased in by age... None of it will pass in this GOP Congress but it will attract attention and offer an alternative which the public can then use to hammer their GOP reps...and the Tangerine Tyrant.
70
Medicare for all is unaffordable in its present form. Expanding it will be a disaster. In England now, obese people and smokers do not get elective surgery (knee replacement, hernia, shoulder surgery, ACL reconstruction) as a cost-effective savings policy. Imagine that here. Imagine being told no cancer chemo, you are too advanced where Americans want to "try everything." Single payer works, if people's expectations are reasonable. In the USA they are not.
1
AS always, the R's are finding that healthcare reality bites. The ACA is not only propping up a hugely wasteful and profitable insurance and medical care market, it is also subsidizing these profits by paying for people who did not pay before, and whose care was coming out of profits as a cost of doing business. I have no argument, in a mixed system, with subsidies but they should be limited, as ACA tried to do. The reality bites part now, is that the medical-insurance-care complex is howling at the R's to not take away these subsidies - while the R's blocked monies which were supposed to cover some of these and keep premiums down (which is why some premiums rose to a crazy level) the providers fear, as much or more than the people at this town hall, a return to a time when people showed up at their door and had to be treated, at least acutely, for free - note the stunning silence from hospital, physician and medical supply groups.....they don't want outright repeal either
18
If you take the view that health care is best delivered when the patient pays cash for each visit, then there is no problem getting health care, since everyone takes cash. If you take the view that it is morally wrong for the healthy to have to "subsidize" the sick, then there is no problem either, especially since the sick probably have their own bad habits to blame for getting sick in the first place. As for the old, they are seen as parasitic on the needs of the young, so getting rid of Medicare is smart policy. You see, through ideology all problems can be made to disappear.
30
You are part right in your tongue in cheek analysis. There has been no discussion from the left about even the remote possibility that some people on medicaid are responsible for their lot in life, like drug use, obesity, reckless behaviors. Of course not all, but it is rather hard to tell hard working people to pay for the poor when nobody suggests that some of the poor should change their behaviors. As far as the elderly, medicare is terribly wasteful. There are no limits to what medicare pays for. Is it good fiscal policy to pay for heart surgery for an Alzheimers patient with a limited life span? Well, if there is nothing out of pocket, why not? Other than the fact that it requires massive expenditures on the backs of other people.
As always, the truth is in the middle.
As always, the truth is in the middle.
What people who oppose the ACA have never understood is that they come into contact with uninsured people every day who are sick and it's just pure luck if they remain healthy. Pick up a gas pump, eat at a restaurant, go to a big box store. If this election has taught us anything, it is that we are all in this together.
1
"As for the old, they are seen as parasitic on the needs of the young, so getting rid of Medicare is smart policy."
So, Soylent Green IS people.
So, Soylent Green IS people.
2
I've never understood the competitive nature of Republicans when it comes to healthcare. Why didn't they come up with a better plan in the first place and take the ball and run with it? It would have assured many elections wins in the future and given the American people what they really need.
Linda Selvia
Linda Selvia
2
Well, the better plan is distasteful to the left- go to work, do not come to this country seeking a better life and expect US taxpayers to pay a dime for you, quit smoking/drinking/eating too much or pay the price. Medicaid and disability payouts are just too easy.
All this talk about "winning side" and "losing side" is really troubling. Once the election is over, there are no sides. The representatives in congress represent everyone in their district or state. They represent the people who agree with them and they represent the "vocal minority" who are currently asking them tough questions.
9
Comment of the day, Brian. This should be emblazoned on banners in the halls of Congress.
1
In every state I've lived in, drivers have to carry automobile insurance. Except for the various grumblings about cost and poor service, nary a peep about a loss of precious freedom.
Why is healthcare different?
Why is healthcare different?
6
"At angry town hall meetings across the country, representatives have faced constituents "
Obviously the solution is not to improve Obamacare, as Medicare was improved and refined in its early days. The solution is to stop having town meetings.
Obviously the solution is not to improve Obamacare, as Medicare was improved and refined in its early days. The solution is to stop having town meetings.
4
The congressman, in his town hall style meetings, states the name of people and where they're from before they ask a question in an effort to make them less inclined to make fools of themselves. Well he needs to be less inclined to make a fool of himself, too, by having answers to policy questions.
1
The sight of Congressional men and woman look like deer caught in the headlights. They have been so tone deaf to the needs of their constituents because big money was in their face. Chaffetz even had the audacity to take us as stupid and say they were paid. Until the Republicans open their eyes to how critical it is to people's lives, they will have short careers. I see universal care in The future once the ever smaller Republican Party destructs itself.
1
Read the alt-right media that this administration consumes. Every protest everywhere is paid for by George Soros, don't you know? Funny thing, the people I know who participated in the Women's March did so for free!
The Republicans have"few answers" for anything except how to destroy the US. The first office to which Herbert Hoover was elected was President. Hoover and his Republicans did nothing for the people of the US when the Great Depression hit. Depression 2 is forming thanks to the present version of the Same Bunch. The GOP should consider very carefully the future they are building for themselves. I suggest the Republican Party start working to help the people of the US or follow Flynn out the door.
1
The cold reality of this is simple: Republicans despised Obama, for lots of reasons. They could not tolerate the idea that he was the president who finally brought nearly universal healthcare coverage to America. They want to dismantle it only to lower their own taxes, support the insurance industry, and to spite Obama's legacy. There is no way to both lower costs, AND give people better coverage without moving to a single-payer system (which they despise even more). There isn't a way to fulfill their promises. Now they're left having to convince the voters that having less or no coverage is a good thing. They're "freeing us" from health insurance. Yeah, that's it.
1
Sounds to me like he answered all constituents questions regarding how the repeal would impact their specific circumstances. "I don't care."
3
Republican politicians aren't fooling me, they are stymied not because they cannot improve coverage for all Americans, but because they are having a difficult time finding a way to convince people that taking away insurance is a good idea.
1
The Community Organizer slimy hands are all over this. There is no angry town hall meeting, only a few widely spaced plants that were sent to disrupt the meeting. We are on to the leftists and are not going to put up with the violation of the 1st amendment rights by these leftists. Everything that went on in these meetings is straight out of Alinsky's book.
These are not spontaneous appearances. This is an effort organiuzed and supported by our seditious ex president Obama and his 30,000 member, alinsky following, OSA members. He os going to be a thirn in zTrump's side and may force him to confront Obama with sedition and treason charges unless he desists. Treason trading Al Queda leaders while still at war for traitor Bergdahl, and sedition for fomenting government disruptive riots.
No, these are people who are truly afraid of being left with no useful health insurance that they can afford. Not everything is a conspiracy.
1
As usual, Republicans are afraid to reduce services that clearly are popular. They talk about reducing costs but won't commit to how they'll do it. Amazing to me that they continue to dupe people on this front.
1
Here's the sad reality. Many if not most currently elected Republicans do not care whether or not Americans have health insurance; they do not consider it a fundamental right. What they do care about is getting re-elected and staying in power and to that end will use rhetoric and lie about having a better, cheaper health care plan that will deny no one with pre-existing conditions, let you keep your children on your plan (if you have one) until age 26, and all around be better than the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare). Plus it will cost less and not force anyone that doesn't want to participate to buy health insurance. An impossible scenario. Obamacare is flawed in many ways, but it's better than what we had and instead of our legislators coming together to make it better and fix the flaws Republicans made it the bogeyman and repealing it the rallying call of their Party. Well now they own it and suddenly people, including many who voted Republican, are waking up to what reality looks like.
2
The big question here is what sort of health care the nation will have. But the Times can't get their mind off politics, so they think the question is "Is this resistance a sign of a sustainable organic movement, or one that will soon flame out?" The "resistance" will stop when they settle the health care question.
Rand Paul has a health care plan: cheap health insurance, Savings Accounts and don't get sick. Cheap health insurance is great if you don't get sick but when you need coverage for cancer treatments, etc expect a massive amount of denied responses. Cheap health insurance most likely has caps, lots of co=pays, residuals, and no coverage for therapy of all types. It is health insurance for the healthy.
1
Health care reform is tax reform. Requiring a business to provide insurance to its employees or an individual to purchase health insurance is a tax - and a very large one. This tax is why Obamacare failed. It is also why Obamacare cannot be repealed without making its replacement part of tax reform.
The poorer half of the population shares just 1% of family wealth and free health care is the only humane solution. The next 40% of the population (the middle class) shares 23% of wealth. Those near the bottom require substantial support while those at the top of this diverse group can afford to buy their own health insurance. The richest 10% have 76% of family wealth and require no assistance from the government for health care.
While tax reform often focuses on the individual and corporate income tax, the regulations about who will pay for health care for which segments of the population are intertwined. We know who needs the tax breaks and we know who can afford to care for themselves. Family wealth is as important, and perhaps more so, than family income.
Imagine a federal income tax that ranged from 8% to 28% that was paired with a wealth tax ranging from 2% down to zero. To encourage economic mobility, a sum of $500,000 could be saved wealth tax free (for retirement, health care or education). Wealth taxes paid over a lifetime would also offset estate taxes of 28%. In such a system, both family wealth and income would determine how much, if any, health subsidy is needed.
The poorer half of the population shares just 1% of family wealth and free health care is the only humane solution. The next 40% of the population (the middle class) shares 23% of wealth. Those near the bottom require substantial support while those at the top of this diverse group can afford to buy their own health insurance. The richest 10% have 76% of family wealth and require no assistance from the government for health care.
While tax reform often focuses on the individual and corporate income tax, the regulations about who will pay for health care for which segments of the population are intertwined. We know who needs the tax breaks and we know who can afford to care for themselves. Family wealth is as important, and perhaps more so, than family income.
Imagine a federal income tax that ranged from 8% to 28% that was paired with a wealth tax ranging from 2% down to zero. To encourage economic mobility, a sum of $500,000 could be saved wealth tax free (for retirement, health care or education). Wealth taxes paid over a lifetime would also offset estate taxes of 28%. In such a system, both family wealth and income would determine how much, if any, health subsidy is needed.
2
It's not all about higher taxes, but also about lower profits to the corporate actors in healthcare. A single payer system has been found to have much better bargaining power than a pseudo "free market" competition between private actors who find it easy to set up the "rules" to suit themselves.
1
The only citizens expressing angst about the future of the Affordable Care Act are the activists recruited and organized by liberal organizations and the possibly the very small minority of people who have been helped by the law.
The first question posed in the article (regarding child coverage up to 26 years old) has been covered by the architects of the coming overhaul who have said they plan to keep it.
The fact is that the Affordable Care Act has been a dismal failure, proving that central control of health care is the wrong path. I'd like to hear a liberal activist tell me how many people were forced by the government to drop their reasonably priced individual health plans in favor of bloated and expensive Exchange plans. The answer: approximately 7 million, all so that the Obama-Reid-Pelosi team could fill the Exchange with health bodies -- individual freedom was impaled in the name of bureaucratic control.
We could go on for hours talking about the failure of the government takeover of health care. Seen the latest premium increases lately? It's even becoming too expensive for those lucky enough to receive subsidies.
Rid yourselves of the delusion that the Affordable Care Act is a good law. Otherwise, watch as the Republican majorities in State legislatures and Congress grow.
The first question posed in the article (regarding child coverage up to 26 years old) has been covered by the architects of the coming overhaul who have said they plan to keep it.
The fact is that the Affordable Care Act has been a dismal failure, proving that central control of health care is the wrong path. I'd like to hear a liberal activist tell me how many people were forced by the government to drop their reasonably priced individual health plans in favor of bloated and expensive Exchange plans. The answer: approximately 7 million, all so that the Obama-Reid-Pelosi team could fill the Exchange with health bodies -- individual freedom was impaled in the name of bureaucratic control.
We could go on for hours talking about the failure of the government takeover of health care. Seen the latest premium increases lately? It's even becoming too expensive for those lucky enough to receive subsidies.
Rid yourselves of the delusion that the Affordable Care Act is a good law. Otherwise, watch as the Republican majorities in State legislatures and Congress grow.
1
And which "liberal organizations" recruiting and organizing activists would those be? Unlike the ultra-conservative, anti-regulation oligarchs that created and organized the tea party to mask their agenda of rolling back the federal government's interference with their business interests, these individuals have nothing to gain by compelling their congressmen to explain themselves but a good deal to lose if they don't. The ACA isn't a disaster no matter how many times these bought-and-paid-for politicians say it is, but everyone believes that it needs improvement.
Ralph, let me ask you one simple question. If the ACA is so terrible, why, in 7 years, have the Republicans been unable to come up with a better plan?
7 years, Ralph. Where's the plan? If the ACA is truly a "train wreck", it should be easy to come up with an improved plan. It has been 7 years, Ralph.
7 years, Ralph. Where's the plan? If the ACA is truly a "train wreck", it should be easy to come up with an improved plan. It has been 7 years, Ralph.
1
There are probably a LOT of people who voted for Trump at these Town Hall meetings, and they need to identify themselves as such when protesting the Health Care repeal. And they might be surprised to actually get cheers and support from those who didn't vote for him. Frankly, hearing from people identifying as Republicans will put much more pressure on these elected officials than a room full of Trump detractors. It would truly put Republicans on notice, and force them to stop saying that it's just the "losers" out there protesting..
3
“organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.”
One thing to remember, at least nationally, the Democrats have consistently had the numbers, but lacked the organization. The Republicans should truly fear an organized Democratic party and it looks like they may be getting that.
One thing to remember, at least nationally, the Democrats have consistently had the numbers, but lacked the organization. The Republicans should truly fear an organized Democratic party and it looks like they may be getting that.
1
In the end, Republicans represent the interests of the wealthy. Forget this populism nonsense. he who has the gold rules. Those folks don't want to pay any taxes that save lives. In fact, they simply don't care. It is only about power to them. That is how they got rich in the first place, with few exceptions. Many countries deliver better outcome health care at half the costs of the U.S. They have something we don't. The will.
4
Mr. Sensenbrenner compared the repeal of the ACA and its supposed replacement to a jigsaw puzzle. He also mentioned that there were "winners and losers" when bills are passed. Essentially, this complex issue is seen as a game in his eyes.
Perhaps what Mr. Sensenbrenner doesn't realize is that the game he and his fellow Republicans want to play is actually a real-life version of the Hunger Games. Here, the winners are the politicians who get to keep their well-paying jobs and health care, while the losers are their constituents who lack health insurance and die.
Perhaps what Mr. Sensenbrenner doesn't realize is that the game he and his fellow Republicans want to play is actually a real-life version of the Hunger Games. Here, the winners are the politicians who get to keep their well-paying jobs and health care, while the losers are their constituents who lack health insurance and die.
3
If I were a Republican politician, I wouldn't count on this being a movement "that will soon burn out".
Remember the Tea Party in it's infancy. The disruption - go back and look at the films - the loud and in-your-face strategy to get noticed, before the quiet but determined drum beat of people fighting for their lives and the life of their country - their values.
No one can argue that this grass roots movement starts out with many more than the Tea Party had, and that the Republican radical right wing has much more to fear from the concentrated effort of an organized majority of Americans.
All they have to do is what they have been doing - feeding the movement with fuel every day - being more unbearable than we even imagined - endangering our people and country and earth with every stupid selfish move.
On every front - legal and Judicial and Legislative and social and economic and local and State - and by takin' it to the streets - we will fight back - for as long as it takes - keep giving us reason to - you're doing a great job!
Remember the Tea Party in it's infancy. The disruption - go back and look at the films - the loud and in-your-face strategy to get noticed, before the quiet but determined drum beat of people fighting for their lives and the life of their country - their values.
No one can argue that this grass roots movement starts out with many more than the Tea Party had, and that the Republican radical right wing has much more to fear from the concentrated effort of an organized majority of Americans.
All they have to do is what they have been doing - feeding the movement with fuel every day - being more unbearable than we even imagined - endangering our people and country and earth with every stupid selfish move.
On every front - legal and Judicial and Legislative and social and economic and local and State - and by takin' it to the streets - we will fight back - for as long as it takes - keep giving us reason to - you're doing a great job!
4
Few answers? From the GOP? What we the people have been seeing, dating back to the beginning of Obama's Presidency, is a movement spearheaded and verbally confirmed by McConnell to guarantee the failure of any and all ideas put forth by the Democrats, especially by Obama, without any real, meaningful alternative proposals to solve the national blight of millions of uninsured Americans. A true democracy does not have those who for the sake of partisanship tear down established instituions without having a viable, workable replacement to offer. Is any one really surprised by these first four weeks? Vitriol, not statesmanship, has been elected, propped up shamefully by the House and Senate majority.
4
Better coverage and lower cost without insurance companies, drug companies or doctors taking any reductions in profit? The party of non-stop political opportunism has finally slammed head-on into a wall called reality. And no GOP, the fantasy that someone having a heart attack is going to be on their smartphone in the ambulance researching hospital prices isn't coming to your rescue anytime soon either.
1
“organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.”
And pray tell, what is wrong with that, even taken at face value? Because these people lost the election do they have no voice, aren't supposed to be heard? Does he believe that only those on the "losing side" are concerned about health care?
And pray tell, what is wrong with that, even taken at face value? Because these people lost the election do they have no voice, aren't supposed to be heard? Does he believe that only those on the "losing side" are concerned about health care?
6
I'd guess what you might agree with as also being "wrong with that" is that this labeling of constituents as organized malcontents is plain evidence that Trump's 'divorce from reality', to use Scott Pelley's phrase, isn't Trump's alone, but extends to other GOP "representatives" as well.
1
Agree John. It is also something we see from some commenters here. In some cases it seems that they are in fact "Trump's Representatives" rather than the representatives of the people.
The political genius of the ACA is that it gave something meaningful, seemingly for free, long enough to give the sponsors time to leave Washington before the real bill comes due. Once people qualify for a government benefit, they won't give it up. And won't agree to pay for it themselves. Someone else always should. But everyone will and should pay for health care. At least a meaningful amount. Those who sold the ACA misrepresented the real cost to the taxpayers.
Where was ACA/ObamaCare Sold(?) as folks getting "Free" Healthcare? Now I've heard/read/seen "Little" and "Reduced" costs to those PURCHASING insurance, don't remember the "Free" Advertisement?
If it's free why does it have premiums? And why wasn't that question asked when it was Sold(?) as Free Healthcare?
If it's free why does it have premiums? And why wasn't that question asked when it was Sold(?) as Free Healthcare?
1
30,000 jig saw pieces Congressman? How many pages of instructions do you think it might take to tell somebody how to put that puzzle together? Does two thousand sound about right to you? Mr. Sensenbrenner's problem isn't so much what's wrong with the ACA as it is the ACA is at its core a Republican market based solution that actually and despite the best efforts of his party's Republican Governors, works okay. It has its share of problems, most of which would require expanding things like subsidies and Medicaid access, but those are Democratic ideas that prop up the otherwise failed market based insurance that predated the ACA. There are only two ways to go here. Either we go forward toward an expansion of available, truly affordable alternatives to high cost for profit market insurance with limits on profiteering throughout the system and an absolute guarantee for all Americans that nobody will ever be rendered bankrupt because they got sick, or we return to pre-ACA every man, woman and child for themselves. No thinking person, Republican, Democrat or Independent wants to go backward Congressman. So put the puzzle down. Its well on the way to being done, just because you don't like how the pieces fit or what it looks like is no reason to bust it up and start again.
4
This is just the beginning. First they get rid of Obamacare, then they start in on Medicare and Social Security and then they lose big in 2018. What I continue to not understand, are these Republican voters, who rail against big government, elect Tea Party types whose goal is to destroy big government, and then wake up in the morning to rail against representatives who are doing exactly what they voted for. Ryan should be concerned, that "mandate" he thinks he has could evaporate over night---if it hasn't already.
3
It is my understanding that all the seats in the House of Representatives are up for election in 2018. If this is correct, despite the widespread gerrymandering of Cogressional districts in all the red states, it is possible, only with a lot of hard work, to vote out all these Republican frauds who have been voting against the ACA, while not bothering to have anything to replace it.
2
Sensenbrenner should be asking himself how many of his constituents who voted for him are understanding for the first time that all Republican rants against, and votes to repeal, 'Obamacare' were really racist rallying cries not policy statements for the best interest of the country.
Sensenbrenner, and other Republicans will have to decide in the very near future what they have to do about the totally inept and dangerous Trump administration. Flynn may be gone, but with Bannon, Miller, Conway, Preibus, et al as his chief advisers, Trump has selected a totally incompetent team.
Sensenbrenner, and other Republicans will have to decide in the very near future what they have to do about the totally inept and dangerous Trump administration. Flynn may be gone, but with Bannon, Miller, Conway, Preibus, et al as his chief advisers, Trump has selected a totally incompetent team.
2
This article underscores that the Republicans' only response to their constituents is to try to shame and silence the constituents by calling them hostile or immature. I experienced this directly last week when visiting a staffer for Senator Gardner. She referred to those of us who were asking questions about the repeal of the ACA as "hostile." She also, importantly, had no answers whatsoever to our questions regarding the future of health care in America. In fact she admitted that no one knows what is going on or what will happen. There are "ideas," but absolutely no solutions.
4
Questions which pressed Mr. Sensenbrenner on how he could vote for repeal over and over again and have no replacement were deemed "uncivil". He promises that pre-existing conditions and the age of 26 rule will stay in place, but offers no proof, nor costs. As to this 'vocal minority', odd how only his opponents got in, and looking at the crowd, it doesn't seem to fit the HRC demographic profile. The 'vocal minority' excuse seems right in line with the 'failed memory' excuse. His most telling statement was in answer to the replacement raising costs for sick people: "there will be winners and losers". To interpret, the sick will lose and our society will lose while the for profit medical system will win.
7
There were a lot of people who couldn't get in at Sensenbrenner's other town hall meeting. I was one. He won by large majority only because of gerrymandering. Wisconsin has been ordered to redraw districts in a way that represents everyone equally. The House is full of these non-Representatives. We won the the presidency by 3,000,000 legal votes. Start serving everybody, not just the crackpot Tea Party.
9
The smug Mr. Sensenbrenner may regret his remarks next year, when those 146,00 votes could just as easily go the other way. Any politician, especially any Republican politician, who thinks he can treat his concerned constituents like schoolchildren better think again. In the current political climate, all bets are off. Sensenbrenner (and his ridiculous gavel) could easily find himself back home in Wisconsin for good.
6
Pressed by one questioner to oppose a replacement for the health care law if that replacement would raise costs for sick people, he explained that “there are winners and losers” when bills are passed.
Sensenbrenners response is a glaring example why our country is polarized to the point of paralysis.
Sensenbrenners response is a glaring example why our country is polarized to the point of paralysis.
7
If Republicans had a collective brain in their heads (rather than head stuffed with ideology) they'd institute Medicare for all.
It would solve the problem and be enormously popular.
But in their minds, healing the sick can't be a good thing if it costs money (and money is the ultimate Republican value). They can't think two steps down the road to the fact that a person who is no longer sick can work, support themselves and their families, and pay taxes.
It would solve the problem and be enormously popular.
But in their minds, healing the sick can't be a good thing if it costs money (and money is the ultimate Republican value). They can't think two steps down the road to the fact that a person who is no longer sick can work, support themselves and their families, and pay taxes.
4
You wonder where these people were when the Republicans kept voting to repeal the healthcare law? By remaining silent the Republican congressmen got the impression that their constituents had problems with the law. Now all of a sudden this one has skin cancer or that one's daughter will soon be 26 and not covered. I get the impression that if they maintain insurance for people with preexisting conditions, allow children up to age 26 and place no cap on the insurance then it will be still Obamacare. "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet." William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet.
2
Simply put -- all of Congress needs to band together to come up with a workable plan. There are many issues that need addressing, and a One Size Fits All plan is going to be very difficult to do.
We're in this mess because Congress did this once before - passed a plan without a full analysis of what it would actually cost. Nobody is going to get all they want from this plan, but it has to be on sound financial footing. Remember, this same government is in charge of the VA system -- and look how well that's doing.
We need many more public sessions and work sessions for individuals experienced with health care costs to build the replacement. I would not rush through this.
We're in this mess because Congress did this once before - passed a plan without a full analysis of what it would actually cost. Nobody is going to get all they want from this plan, but it has to be on sound financial footing. Remember, this same government is in charge of the VA system -- and look how well that's doing.
We need many more public sessions and work sessions for individuals experienced with health care costs to build the replacement. I would not rush through this.
The problem with healthcare is the problem with all government actions. Those who get government benefits will yell and scream to keep those benefits - and that includes corporations who's yelling and screaming is in the form of paid lobbyists. If you disagree, look at ethanol subsidies and mandates, which continue even though many environmentalists think they are counterproductive.
But those who are paying for those benefits - the taxpayer - have little say in these decisions. All they can do, like the Taxed Enough Already movement, is to protest tax levels.
So everyone wants government benefits paid for by other people. That's the road to an outcome like Greece.
But those who are paying for those benefits - the taxpayer - have little say in these decisions. All they can do, like the Taxed Enough Already movement, is to protest tax levels.
So everyone wants government benefits paid for by other people. That's the road to an outcome like Greece.
Not exactly; people want their Congress to act for the people, not for corporate profits.
Not all people on ACA get what you term"government handouts". Obviously you have never been UNABLE to obtain health insurance. Before there was an ACA folks like me who don't have health insurance through an employer paid much more for insurance, if they could afford it. How would you feel paying $1600 for two. Republicans had the chance to help millions of people and they chose not to.
Sorry but I just don't believe there is genuine widespread anger at the Republican Party and their push to dismantle Obamacare or Social Security or Medicare. Look around. Sure there are some folk who have the good sense to know that Republicans are inveterate liars when it comes to these issues and there are others in the electorate who think just like the Republican politicians. These politicians and their majorities are well matched in wit and spirit. Unfortunately I'll probably not live long enough to see a positive change in this mean spirited American political formulation.
Sanders had a chance to reformulate our political alchemy but it fell short. Now we are going to be stuck with the ugly results for a generation or more. We need a revolution.
Sanders had a chance to reformulate our political alchemy but it fell short. Now we are going to be stuck with the ugly results for a generation or more. We need a revolution.
2
The reason they can't explain their health care plan is that Alan Grayson explained it better for them back in 2009. The entire plan:
1. Don't get sick.
2. If you do get sick, die quickly.
It's sure easy to understand, right?
1. Don't get sick.
2. If you do get sick, die quickly.
It's sure easy to understand, right?
5
Big legislation is a problem of large, complex system design. Politicians, economists, and most other people have absolutely no clue how to design complex systems. Once past the initial prototype, which either doesn't work or has major flaws, you iterate the debugging and redesign process multiple times, improving it incrementally step by step. To write a complex healthcare law a priori and expect it to be perfect is stupid. Good engineers who work with complex systems know this--most people don't. A well-designed amplifier has just the right amount of regulation--it's a balanced system with sufficient negative feedback for stability but not so much that gain and bandwidth are overly suppressed. Any other system works analogously. Ideology impedes good system design.
5
If there will be no exclusion for preexisting conditions, I will opt out of health care until I have a condition. Why would I pay over $800 a month when I do not need expensive medical treatment. The Republicans may actually save me money! But, if people only opt in when they are sick will that really work? Although they claim there will be no preexisting condition exclusion, there's speculation that they are going to put more restrictions on when someone can enroll, e.g., reducing qualifying events. In other words, you are downsized and lose your insurance, under Obamacare, you were eligible to sign up for the ACA. Republicans have expressed interest in doing away with qualifying events such as job lose, divorce, death of a spouse who carried insurance.
1
No one will ever let you buy health insurance if you wait until you are sick.
1
Under President Obama Republicans took advantage of American’s lack of understanding of healthcare insurance, labeled it a disaster, and safely voted to repeal knowing it would be vetoed. For them it must have felt like a safe position that was popular with their base that reflexively rejected anything the Democratic President did.
And while there was a big problem with the initial website, over a few years through Obamacare the public learned about healthcare insurance and now know most doctor visits and drugs are paid for by a copay and not the deductible. Despite rising premiums and deductibles for Obamacare they now appreciate and want it. Many like me have experienced both Obamacare and company supplied healthcare insurance and discovered all healthcare insurance is expensive and in most places Obamacare offers far more choice of premiums, copays, doctor networks, and deductibles than what their companies do. My employer offers 2, Obamacare in my zip code offered over 40. With Obamacare, we kept all our doctors and qualified for a premium supplement. With my employer’s insurance, we are trying to find a new doctor and our out-of-pocket is about the same.
So, the king now has no clothes. Republicans’ cries of it’s a disaster and half truths about deductibles are now failing as constituents are loudly saying “Wait a minute! I now get it… I need this and don’t you take it away without a clear offer of something better, or your next election will be your last.”
And while there was a big problem with the initial website, over a few years through Obamacare the public learned about healthcare insurance and now know most doctor visits and drugs are paid for by a copay and not the deductible. Despite rising premiums and deductibles for Obamacare they now appreciate and want it. Many like me have experienced both Obamacare and company supplied healthcare insurance and discovered all healthcare insurance is expensive and in most places Obamacare offers far more choice of premiums, copays, doctor networks, and deductibles than what their companies do. My employer offers 2, Obamacare in my zip code offered over 40. With Obamacare, we kept all our doctors and qualified for a premium supplement. With my employer’s insurance, we are trying to find a new doctor and our out-of-pocket is about the same.
So, the king now has no clothes. Republicans’ cries of it’s a disaster and half truths about deductibles are now failing as constituents are loudly saying “Wait a minute! I now get it… I need this and don’t you take it away without a clear offer of something better, or your next election will be your last.”
3
The total incompetence of Obamacare implementation may destroy any chance of universal health coverage for years to come. Dumping millions of people, with pre-existing conditions, many very expensive to treat, into a pool of people who had paid insurance all their life, ended up destroying insurance for everybody. Longer waits, and reduced testing and treatment was used by health care providers to compensate for their increased costs. Companies signed up to provide Obamacare had to cease coverage or raise rates uncontrollably. Instead of owning up to the tact that providing coverage for the uninsured would impose a huge tax burden on everyone, the Obamacare designers tried to hide it with obfuscation and misleading claims. Now the chickens are coming home to roost.
And the fun part - those chickens are coming to roost on the GOP. Start popping the popcorn, folks, this will be entertaining.
The Republicans were quick to come up with their handy-dandy slogan of "Repeal and Replace". The Repeal turned out to be the easy part. What they are having difficulty with is the "Replace" portion of their solution.
I'm sure that they'd all love to the "replace" portion with a 1920's laissez faire style of all-encompassing solution which would essentially resurrect the days when there were no labor unions. It was classic Darwinism back then or, in other words, "every man for himself".
So, what we are discovering is that the Republicans, as usual, have no solutions principally because their logic wouldn't allow a serious consideration of the only real solution available to us -- a universal, single-payer "Medicare-for-All". To Republicans, this would be heresy. And there's our dilemma...So, let me proffer a solution if I may: Let's vote the Republicans out of office as quickly as we can and vote people into office who actually care about those with whom they represent.
Darwinism has long since passed it's time of need. We need cooperation within our communities to survive in the modern world now and a "Medicare-for-All" would be a good place to start.
I'm sure that they'd all love to the "replace" portion with a 1920's laissez faire style of all-encompassing solution which would essentially resurrect the days when there were no labor unions. It was classic Darwinism back then or, in other words, "every man for himself".
So, what we are discovering is that the Republicans, as usual, have no solutions principally because their logic wouldn't allow a serious consideration of the only real solution available to us -- a universal, single-payer "Medicare-for-All". To Republicans, this would be heresy. And there's our dilemma...So, let me proffer a solution if I may: Let's vote the Republicans out of office as quickly as we can and vote people into office who actually care about those with whom they represent.
Darwinism has long since passed it's time of need. We need cooperation within our communities to survive in the modern world now and a "Medicare-for-All" would be a good place to start.
2
Yes, Mr. Sensenbrenner, as with every policy there are identified winners and loser. Proper policy analysis requires that the winners and loser be identified. So who are they? And what will be the consequence to them? Are those the intended consequences? And what of the unintended consequences, such as formerly well-functioning families suddenly thrown into poverty, when working adults with children thriving in school and parents now retired, becomes sick and too disabled to work and now is looking at the loss of life savings and home?
To put it bluntly, Mr. Sensenbrenner, the GOP was stupid to think the issue was merely one about Americans wanting the freedom to choose whether or not to have health insurance. Virtually all Americans want healthcare that is high quality, affordable, and accessible when they need it. Not having health insurance is not choosing freedoms it is most often the consequences of not having enough money to pay for it. And many of the young and healthy recognize they are one car accident or unexpected diagnosis away from needing it.
To put it bluntly, Mr. Sensenbrenner, the GOP was stupid to think the issue was merely one about Americans wanting the freedom to choose whether or not to have health insurance. Virtually all Americans want healthcare that is high quality, affordable, and accessible when they need it. Not having health insurance is not choosing freedoms it is most often the consequences of not having enough money to pay for it. And many of the young and healthy recognize they are one car accident or unexpected diagnosis away from needing it.
3
At least, as the article indicates, there are some Republican politicians who are willing to engage in meetings with constituents. Here, with some editing to fit into the limit, is the response from NC Senator Thom Tillis to a request for a town hall meeting:
"While that is one way to engage with constituents, I have found it is generally not all that effective for several reasons. First, town hall settings require a great deal of coordination on time and venue, both of which present constraints. Second, in person town hall meetings generally require a commitment several weeks in advance – a commitment my office is not prepared to make given the full schedule of the Senate and the duties attendant to service there. Finally, as of late, it has become apparent that some individuals who are not really interested in meaningful dialogue attend town halls just to create disruptions and media spectacles. This is particularly unfortunate because it leads to a scenario in which only the loudest voices in the room can be heard and very little meaningful discussion can actually occur. While I am certain you have no interest in being a part of such a session, clearly some folks have intentions that are not as pure as yours"
They really have no interest in either hearing or responding to positions that are not in line with their predetermined agenda.
"While that is one way to engage with constituents, I have found it is generally not all that effective for several reasons. First, town hall settings require a great deal of coordination on time and venue, both of which present constraints. Second, in person town hall meetings generally require a commitment several weeks in advance – a commitment my office is not prepared to make given the full schedule of the Senate and the duties attendant to service there. Finally, as of late, it has become apparent that some individuals who are not really interested in meaningful dialogue attend town halls just to create disruptions and media spectacles. This is particularly unfortunate because it leads to a scenario in which only the loudest voices in the room can be heard and very little meaningful discussion can actually occur. While I am certain you have no interest in being a part of such a session, clearly some folks have intentions that are not as pure as yours"
They really have no interest in either hearing or responding to positions that are not in line with their predetermined agenda.
2
The only effective way of truly resolving our problems with health care insurance issues is to join the 21st century with other developed nations and adopt a single payer system -- a Medicare for all solution.
The problems we are currently experiencing arise from the inherent conflicts between the private insurance industry and the additional costs that are subsequently incurred as a result. We should learn from Canada and our European friends and adopt a single payer system that is universally funded by taxes applied to all Americans.
To illustrate the problems with the current private version, I had an MRI done recently which took about 20 minutes to complete and the cost of the procedure was $1,400. Of course, my insurance company had a "deductible" of $1200 that I had to pay out of pocket before any actual insurance benefits would kick in. This is why we need a "real" solution where we all share in the cost of a universal Medicare-for-All solution through the application of a universal tax -- a burden shared by all of us equally.
It's time that the USA joins the rest of the civilized world and adopts a single payer system. It's well past due.
The problems we are currently experiencing arise from the inherent conflicts between the private insurance industry and the additional costs that are subsequently incurred as a result. We should learn from Canada and our European friends and adopt a single payer system that is universally funded by taxes applied to all Americans.
To illustrate the problems with the current private version, I had an MRI done recently which took about 20 minutes to complete and the cost of the procedure was $1,400. Of course, my insurance company had a "deductible" of $1200 that I had to pay out of pocket before any actual insurance benefits would kick in. This is why we need a "real" solution where we all share in the cost of a universal Medicare-for-All solution through the application of a universal tax -- a burden shared by all of us equally.
It's time that the USA joins the rest of the civilized world and adopts a single payer system. It's well past due.
2
I strongly support a single-payer national health system for the USA as exists in the UK. It makes sense on every possible level from financial to ethical to do this.
However, while a single payer system is the best model, it is not the only sustainable model. Other countries have far better health outcomes at far lesser prices using any number of models, including the sort of generally terrible mishmash of systems that characterized the USA before the ACA and to a large extent still does.
The elephant in the room - and the reason why US health outcomes are so terrible - is that the costs are out of control due primarily to one entity - the AMA, whose sole task seems to be to artificially limit the number of licensed doctors in the USA by both conspiring to limit medical school placements and by making the process by which a foreign trained doctor to become a doctor in the US unnecessarily difficult. The US pays its doctors more not just in absolute terms, but more compared to other professions in relative terms than any other country, period without the results to match.
Yes, US patients pay through the nose for things that they objectively do not need - overcompensated lawyers, defensive medicine tests, 'medical billing specialists', and other junk. But sum up the actual numbers, and it all pales in comparison before the fact that US doctors simply make too much money because their union conspires to make it so and politicians of both parties are beholden to them.
However, while a single payer system is the best model, it is not the only sustainable model. Other countries have far better health outcomes at far lesser prices using any number of models, including the sort of generally terrible mishmash of systems that characterized the USA before the ACA and to a large extent still does.
The elephant in the room - and the reason why US health outcomes are so terrible - is that the costs are out of control due primarily to one entity - the AMA, whose sole task seems to be to artificially limit the number of licensed doctors in the USA by both conspiring to limit medical school placements and by making the process by which a foreign trained doctor to become a doctor in the US unnecessarily difficult. The US pays its doctors more not just in absolute terms, but more compared to other professions in relative terms than any other country, period without the results to match.
Yes, US patients pay through the nose for things that they objectively do not need - overcompensated lawyers, defensive medicine tests, 'medical billing specialists', and other junk. But sum up the actual numbers, and it all pales in comparison before the fact that US doctors simply make too much money because their union conspires to make it so and politicians of both parties are beholden to them.
Psst, one of the OTHER Consequences of Winning Elections,..you actually have to Govern and Legislate.
See, this is why the previous Administration went with the Conservative HealthCare Plan as opposed to Single-Payer. To eliminate the counter-plan Argument.
They either Tweak what exists and they prefer BTW, to their liking (Health Care Insurance Industry driven).
Or they implement Single Payer.
There is another option, Just remove those millions of (mostly) Working American Families and people from ACA.
And watch the (proverbial) London Bridge Fall Down.
See, this is why the previous Administration went with the Conservative HealthCare Plan as opposed to Single-Payer. To eliminate the counter-plan Argument.
They either Tweak what exists and they prefer BTW, to their liking (Health Care Insurance Industry driven).
Or they implement Single Payer.
There is another option, Just remove those millions of (mostly) Working American Families and people from ACA.
And watch the (proverbial) London Bridge Fall Down.
“I represent the majority. Now, they’re a vocal minority.” Just wait until his majority smartens up and realizes what is going to happen to their health insurance. The "majority" of Americans are apparently not smart enough to "read the fine print", otherwise Trump would never have been elected.
2
It gets quite simple, millions of Americans require healthcare, it's not an option. Getting them that Healthcare was finally achieved. It was achieved at a very high level of improvement. It did not bring us under, in fact we recovered from the greatest Recession ever and introduced Healthcare.
The people that hated Healthcare for other people were hardly effected at all. Now when the men that lied to them can't prove any real damage to America and the Women and Men that did the right thing are helping millions are doing the right thing STILL. Americans realize that they have been lied to.
8.5 lies out of 10 lies are Conservatives, Republicans, Authoritarians, Fascists, Supremacists. Obamacare destruction was about race.
It's too late.....
We have HAD a Great, one of the Greatest Presidents and he was black. They cannot change that, and Americans want more Healthcare, bettercare because Obama proved it is an important part of our PROGRESS.
The people that hated Healthcare for other people were hardly effected at all. Now when the men that lied to them can't prove any real damage to America and the Women and Men that did the right thing are helping millions are doing the right thing STILL. Americans realize that they have been lied to.
8.5 lies out of 10 lies are Conservatives, Republicans, Authoritarians, Fascists, Supremacists. Obamacare destruction was about race.
It's too late.....
We have HAD a Great, one of the Greatest Presidents and he was black. They cannot change that, and Americans want more Healthcare, bettercare because Obama proved it is an important part of our PROGRESS.
Republicans have had over 6 years to come up with something, anything, of their own regarding health care. Yet, still, nothing. As they themselves made abundantly clear over and over again, all they ever cared about was undermining President Obama. Party over country, people and the planet. Republicans are morally and intellectually bankrupt.
3
Eight years later, he and his fellow obstructionists, could not even add two pieces of the puzzle together, let alone 30.000. But what else is new here? Delusional feelings of having won "biggly," even when the office and task is too big to swallow, as the is puzzle, topped by an outright contempt for anybody who is not a fox news subscriber. What exactly has he been doing for the past 38 years besides enlarging his waistline on taxpayers backs?
Nomen est omen: "Sensenbrenner" is German for "scythe-burner," very apt to this administration burn and destroy attitude, led by the reaper Bannon himself....
Nomen est omen: "Sensenbrenner" is German for "scythe-burner," very apt to this administration burn and destroy attitude, led by the reaper Bannon himself....
2
Been working on that 30000 piece jigsaw puzzle for 7 years, right?
3
Republicans will try to explain, again, how they will toss the poor and working classes overboard while providing additional, comfy seat for obese affluent countrymen. How awkward. No plan? No surprise.
2
Protest at Town Hall meetings.
March in the streets.
Knit those cute little hats.
In 2020 President Elizabeth Warren, her 100 Democratic Senators and 435 Democratic House members will pass a flurry of legislation to undo the significant damage of the past 4 years.
And every effort will be quashed at the Supreme Court by the 5, 6, or (God help us) 7 deplorables in black robes, who will be with us for decades.
Too little...too late...
March in the streets.
Knit those cute little hats.
In 2020 President Elizabeth Warren, her 100 Democratic Senators and 435 Democratic House members will pass a flurry of legislation to undo the significant damage of the past 4 years.
And every effort will be quashed at the Supreme Court by the 5, 6, or (God help us) 7 deplorables in black robes, who will be with us for decades.
Too little...too late...
2
Not 2020, start next year. There are mid-terms in 2018. By 2020, we should be in a position to take advantage of the decennial census and the redistricting that occurs along with it.
That giant sucking sound will be America returning from the 1950s to the 21st century again.
That giant sucking sound will be America returning from the 1950s to the 21st century again.
1
If you like your Congressional seat, you can keep it.
5
Healthcare in the USA is unaffordable with or without Obamacare, unless you expand the Medicaid population and / increase subsidies. The driving factors increasing costs are end of life care and law suits against hospitals and doctors which forces both into defensive medical procedures.
Our politicians both parties lack the leadership ability to address these root cause issues.
Our politicians both parties lack the leadership ability to address these root cause issues.
2
Pete - I believe the outrageous cost of drugs is more of a factor in keeping health care costs high. There was an article yesterday about a generic drug used in Europe for years that received approval in the US as an orphan drug, as if it was a new drug. The cost has now rocketed from less than $50 to almost $100K. The reasoning from the US drug company is that patients need not worry about the cost because it will be covered by health insurance. There is a generic drug used for asthma and COPD that's been around for years in the US. Inhalers with that drug used to cost around $20. Now the cost is over $200. The drug company changed the mechanism of the inhaler, while the drug was unchanged. The drug company obtained approval for it as a new drug and raised the price. These are only two examples of the shenanigans drug companies are getting away with. We all pay for these outrageous costs with higher insurance premiums and more of our tax dollars going for indigent care.
I'd like to hear from some Trumpies who have changed their minds about their votes now that there's no decent replacement for Obamacare in sight (and perhaps not in thought). It's hard admitting you were wrong, and most people are unable to do it. And, I'm sure, these same folks are thinking about the Alternate Facts, and Michael Flynn, and the "Liar in Chief" in charge of the nuclear football. Time to man up, folks. He isn't going to go away w/o a lot of changed minds.
2
What is the problem?
January 15,2017
"Trump said his plan for replacing most aspects of Obama’s health-care law is all but finished. Although he was coy about its details — “lower numbers, much lower deductibles” — he said he is ready to unveil it alongside Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).
"President-elect Donald Trump said in a weekend interview that he is nearing completion of a plan to replace President Obama’s signature health-care law with the goal of “insurance for everybody,” while also vowing to force drug companies to negotiate directly with the government on prices in Medicare and Medicaid."
Trump wouldn't lie, would he?
January 15,2017
"Trump said his plan for replacing most aspects of Obama’s health-care law is all but finished. Although he was coy about its details — “lower numbers, much lower deductibles” — he said he is ready to unveil it alongside Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).
"President-elect Donald Trump said in a weekend interview that he is nearing completion of a plan to replace President Obama’s signature health-care law with the goal of “insurance for everybody,” while also vowing to force drug companies to negotiate directly with the government on prices in Medicare and Medicaid."
Trump wouldn't lie, would he?
2
Very simple, go to the open market or through your employer.
Do whatever you did before Obamacare.
Do whatever you did before Obamacare.
The problem is the open market turns away people.
Our health care should not be tied to our jobs.
There are millions who were unable to get healthcare before ACA?
There is no, simple, easy answer to this; even if our president claims he has one.
Our health care should not be tied to our jobs.
There are millions who were unable to get healthcare before ACA?
There is no, simple, easy answer to this; even if our president claims he has one.
2
That statement shows your ignorance. Those plans don't exist anymore. Insurance companies and the healthcare industry as a whole are similarly distressed not knowing what road they will take.
2
Crossing - I hope your comment was sarcasm. It's simple if you can afford an individual policy on the open market or your employer offers health insurance. That is not the case for a growing number of Americans.
After seven years of warning of death panels, economic disaster, etc., they offer nothing?
No work, no solution, no improvement, no anything?
Any American citizen who wants to see what the GOP thinks about them and our country need only look at this issue.
It's so important we didn't do anything at all about any of it.
Repeal and replace the GOP!
No work, no solution, no improvement, no anything?
Any American citizen who wants to see what the GOP thinks about them and our country need only look at this issue.
It's so important we didn't do anything at all about any of it.
Repeal and replace the GOP!
2
I live in the 22nd congressional district in New York, which is represented by Claudia Tenney, a Trump acolyte. To date, Ms. Tenney has refused to hold a public town hall meeting. I wonder why.
1
Hasn't the GOP been railing against the ACA for close to 8 years? Didn't most if not all of these GOPers run on doing away with it? If they have been so opposed, why do they not have a PLAN to replace it? They have had 8 years to come up with one....how come nothing?
And Trump has "promised" that the plan will be "cheaper and provide insurance for everyone" and he also has stated that Medicare will be safe.......so Trump and the GOP will and should be held to this.
And Trump has "promised" that the plan will be "cheaper and provide insurance for everyone" and he also has stated that Medicare will be safe.......so Trump and the GOP will and should be held to this.
1
How many times did Obama have to veto or use the threat of veto to kill legislation to end the ACA. I thought it was seventeen, but I could be wrong (an "alternative fact"?) Can somebody please question these GoP lawmakers two simple question:
1) Why have you not yet sent an ACA releal bill to Trump for his signature
2) Why, after seven years of whining about the ACA, that you have not as yet prepared an alternative?
1) Why have you not yet sent an ACA releal bill to Trump for his signature
2) Why, after seven years of whining about the ACA, that you have not as yet prepared an alternative?
2
Republicans are not smart enough to come up with an alternative.
Like sending a 4th grader to design a multi-stage rocket system.
But they can draw nice crayon pictures of rockets
Like sending a 4th grader to design a multi-stage rocket system.
But they can draw nice crayon pictures of rockets
4
Representative Sensebrunner and his colleagues need to be reminded that, once the election is over, they represent everyone in their district, not just those who voted for them. So, regardless of whether the folks at his meetings are Republicans, or Democrats, they have legitimate questions that deserve answers - that's the job. Dismissing citizens' questions as being only from those whose candidate did not prevail is irrelevant. These people are citizens first, and concerned about their future. Continuing to put them off will only ensure his margin at the next election is far smaller.
6
Medicare needs to be expanded, the infrastructure is already in place and the administrative costs are minimal compared to private insurance administrative costs. Plus, they could negotiate better drug prices. Paul Ryan and company are just down right stupid and cruel trying to privatize Medicare. American taxpayers have paid for Ryan's healthcare and his pensions but the republicans like Ryan think it's okay to deny those benefits to his fellow Americans ! Time to let him know he works for the American taxpayer and we pay his salary and if he doesn't get on board, there will be an uprising like the republicans have never seen before! Americans are not going to let their families die from a lack of healthcare because Ryan wants to stuff more millions into those never-filled, deep pockets of the CEO's and their insurance executives. The republicans are skating on thin ice in regards to repealing the ACA and trying to privatize Medicare ! Pitch forks will be coming to Washington...they won't be able to hide from the American people!
4
"I won by 146,000 votes," he said in the interview. "I represent the majority. Now, they're a vocal minority." Which means that Clinton and the Democrats represent the majority and the Republicans are a vocal minority on the national level.
But moving from the ironic to the absurd, why do all these articles about repealing Obamacare always have a statement similar to "when Republicans have yet to coalesce around a replacement plan."? This implies they have more than one plan to choose from. As Paul Krugman has pointed out on several occasions-THERE IS NO PLAN. They did not have one when Bush was president. They did not have one when President Obama set up the ACA. They do not have one now. And they won't have one in the future. This whole drama was meant only to rile up their base. They are not concerned about taking care of anyone besides themselves. If people are dying in the streets like in India, that's okay. As I read these stories, I am dumbfounded by fact that the Republicans can take healthcare away from the masses and make them think they are doing them a favor. And I am dismayed that the Democrats are so tone deaf that they can't explain this fact to these people.
But moving from the ironic to the absurd, why do all these articles about repealing Obamacare always have a statement similar to "when Republicans have yet to coalesce around a replacement plan."? This implies they have more than one plan to choose from. As Paul Krugman has pointed out on several occasions-THERE IS NO PLAN. They did not have one when Bush was president. They did not have one when President Obama set up the ACA. They do not have one now. And they won't have one in the future. This whole drama was meant only to rile up their base. They are not concerned about taking care of anyone besides themselves. If people are dying in the streets like in India, that's okay. As I read these stories, I am dumbfounded by fact that the Republicans can take healthcare away from the masses and make them think they are doing them a favor. And I am dismayed that the Democrats are so tone deaf that they can't explain this fact to these people.
4
For the same reason, I don't think Republicans really want to overturn Roe v. Wade, either. If they ever did, what issue would they have to rile up their base with?
1
Democratic party leaders, legislators, and Obama's White House did a horrible job of promoting the ACA and educating the public about it. They also did a horrible job of informing the public about all that Obama did. It's not Obama's style to toot his own horn, but those around him could have done so for him. Now we have millions of people who think he did nothing, while the current president makes sure the cameras are on him for every empty gesture he makes. What has Trump done, really, other than put his signature on OEs he hasn't even read?
Let's also not forget that Donald Trump soared to the Republican nomination without really trying, and after 8 years of diligent neglect by the Congress, they were rewarded with their dream: full power in all three branches.
But I am of the firm belief that things often happen for different reasons than what we are led to believe. Although the Republican Party is at the peak of its powers, with 39 governorships and the whole nine yards, the disastrous first 30 days of Trump's reign seems to mark the beginning of their rapid downfall.
But I am of the firm belief that things often happen for different reasons than what we are led to believe. Although the Republican Party is at the peak of its powers, with 39 governorships and the whole nine yards, the disastrous first 30 days of Trump's reign seems to mark the beginning of their rapid downfall.
7
2018 is here now. The R are officially on the run now Let's figure this out, fellow Democrats, and make our points forcefully, over and over again. People are now realizing the flyer they took and it not looking so good now.
4
The problem is Republicans. Period. We all know this. They have nothing to offer except tax cuts, deregulation and cultural cave dwelling.
13
Yup.
I'd like to switch the conversation to the more important news (that we can't comment on directly):
That Trump openly discussed the North Korean missile launch, a typically classified national policy discussion, on a non-secure cell phone in front of diners filming him. Isn't this a breech of national security far worse than Trump and the GOP in several investigations accused "CRIMINAL" Hillary of?
When does a declaration that; 'the Administration is supreme and un-reviewable' by a senior government official (Stephen Miller et al) and that; 'there is rampant voter fraud' -- both attempts by the administration to de-legitamize our fundamental constitutional principles -- cross into treason/a constitutional crisis?
That Trump openly discussed the North Korean missile launch, a typically classified national policy discussion, on a non-secure cell phone in front of diners filming him. Isn't this a breech of national security far worse than Trump and the GOP in several investigations accused "CRIMINAL" Hillary of?
When does a declaration that; 'the Administration is supreme and un-reviewable' by a senior government official (Stephen Miller et al) and that; 'there is rampant voter fraud' -- both attempts by the administration to de-legitamize our fundamental constitutional principles -- cross into treason/a constitutional crisis?
5
I am troubled by his dismissive approach to his constituents asking legitimate questions. "I won by 146,000 votes." Well you are still accountable to your constituents that did not vote for you. The idea that representatives are only accountable to those that voted for them is undemocratic. "I won the election" is not an answer.
9
First, the democrats blow it, producing a 2400 pages monstrosity that didn't have a simple, clear cut solution to health care, i.e., a national based, not state based plan with a simple all inclusive option, like merging Medicaid and Medicare into a national health care plan. Insurance companies could then compete nation wide to cover the percentage the nation pan didn't cover, like current Medicare Advantage. How complex was something like that? Bill could have come in under 10 pages and had a comic section too! President Obama let Pelosi-Reid have their way and lost his opportunity with a Democrat controlled Congress with huge majorities! Sad!
2
Please, there is really only a few Healthcare Insurance companies in the U.S. and it's, for all practical purposes, a monopolistic system, where the public has no power. Obama, at least got the camels nose in the tent, and got rid of the most onerous restrictions the "insurance" companies had imposed.
The anecdotal stories were horrific and inhumane concerning American citizens with the misfortune of having an illness. The status quo could not continue. Now the gradual slide into universal healthcare should, and will, continue. Even the Republicans with ultimate and complete power could not get rid of it.
Obama did this in the face of incredible opposition, not one Republican voted for the ACA, including the fake liberal Republican, and retiring, Olympia Snow. The, "do no harm" AMA was against it, along with most doctors. And, everyone else on the healthcare trough, making U.S.A. health care the most expensive in the world.
Obama did this, along with Judge Roberts, who is rarely mentioned, but certainly was a present day Profile in Courage to ferocious opposition. Thank you, Judge Roberts!
The anecdotal stories were horrific and inhumane concerning American citizens with the misfortune of having an illness. The status quo could not continue. Now the gradual slide into universal healthcare should, and will, continue. Even the Republicans with ultimate and complete power could not get rid of it.
Obama did this in the face of incredible opposition, not one Republican voted for the ACA, including the fake liberal Republican, and retiring, Olympia Snow. The, "do no harm" AMA was against it, along with most doctors. And, everyone else on the healthcare trough, making U.S.A. health care the most expensive in the world.
Obama did this, along with Judge Roberts, who is rarely mentioned, but certainly was a present day Profile in Courage to ferocious opposition. Thank you, Judge Roberts!
If Harry Reid could blow away the 60 vote filibuster later on over nothing, he certainly could have done that on ACA. Dems had 59 seats in Reidland! Yes, the pre-existing condition elimination was a big one. Federal employees under the Fed Employee Health Benefits program have had that for years. BTW, they also could have opened FEHB to all if nothing else. Also, make birth control over the counter or thru pharmacy without a prescription like the Day After pill. De-politicizes the issue, but Dems don't want that either and Reps are still too anal! Leadership anyone?
Worth noting that the Republicans then, as now, had nothing to offer to the conversation about health care due to their strident belief that the Free Market Heals All. Do you remember, for instance, when Boehner showed up with the Republican's economic plan to a news conference, for example, and it was an empty binder? I do! Too much obstructionism, and 'party first,' for the Republicans. Certainly the ACA can be improved, but in the meantime over 20 million Americans now have health care. That they might lose it in return for nothing -- THAT'S sad.
The Republicans have caught the car, now all the Democrats have to do is grab some popcorn and enjoy the show. The rightwings conundrum isn't how to undermine a progressive national healthcare initiative in favor of going back to zero sum, but rather how to do it while simultaneously convincing you up is down and night is day.
6
I think the opposition to the GOP is just getting started. We all knew they had nothing new for ACA, the resistance to President Obama, and now the dumpster fire that is the president. These type of town halls are going to continue for the future. Most GOP Congressional members will probably lay low for the next few months but in a little over a year they are going to have to get out on the campaign trial and they will not be able to hide. That is when the real fun will start because as more time goes by with the GOP in control and nothing being accomplished it will be fun to watch them run on their records of accomplishment. The opposition is just getting started and every day we get more fuel for the fire.
8
When you win an election you represent all the people, not just the ones who voted for you.
11
Mr. Sensenbrenner' final response in this article is exactly what is wrong with the view of our law makers. They should be thinking about the overall greater good. They serve the American people, not their own interests. Having millions of Americans uninsured is not the greater good, and pushing to repeal the ACA is actually pandering to a minority view, and irresponsible. Unfortunately constituents have learned that making pleasant phone calls expressing concerns go unanswered, turning out to meeting and expressing dissent loudly seems to be the only thing these folks respond to. "Do your Job"!
10
Take a deep breath. The ACA is the law of the land until modified/replaced. Why you demand instant answers is unclear; the surgery to move it back to a market based approach will be appropriately feathered in. But, all the freeloaders of the ACA will have skin in the game, not just benefits.
1
OMW! Where have you been? The Republicans voted repeatedly (80 times) to repeal Obamacare without having a replacement in mind.
They've had 8 years to develop an alternative.
Your faith in the market is also grievously misplaced. Marketplace solutions are what got us into the problem in the first place. They are also what undermined the environment, gave us child labor, 12-14 hour work days, pauper wages, tragic industrial accidents, etc.
Public utilities for energy have routinely provided better service at lower cost than private ones do. Indeed, the marketplace ignored millions as to electricity and now digital Internet connections.
Around the globe, it is public based health insurance and health care programs that provide the highest quality care to the most people at the lowest cost. Not this mess of a private-based system we have in the U.S.!
They've had 8 years to develop an alternative.
Your faith in the market is also grievously misplaced. Marketplace solutions are what got us into the problem in the first place. They are also what undermined the environment, gave us child labor, 12-14 hour work days, pauper wages, tragic industrial accidents, etc.
Public utilities for energy have routinely provided better service at lower cost than private ones do. Indeed, the marketplace ignored millions as to electricity and now digital Internet connections.
Around the globe, it is public based health insurance and health care programs that provide the highest quality care to the most people at the lowest cost. Not this mess of a private-based system we have in the U.S.!
3
You're just helping prove the point that there's no plan. Your approach to try to placate is exactly what Republican leadership has been saying for years, and more recently and explosively with Trump.
Before ACA, we had a very broken system. Yes, some 40% had it good, but for the rest, not very good to totally non-existent. And what the 40% who had it good didn't realize is their numbers were steadily shrinking and that the system was self destructing.
Repubs like to complain about the freeloaders, but the truth is, the old broken system had freeloaders too.
ACA is far from perfect, but it's better than we had before. It's complicated to be sure, but how could it not be?
People have a right to be very angry. To see politicians initiate the destruction of ACA before having any idea how to fix this incredibly complicated system is lunacy.
Before ACA, we had a very broken system. Yes, some 40% had it good, but for the rest, not very good to totally non-existent. And what the 40% who had it good didn't realize is their numbers were steadily shrinking and that the system was self destructing.
Repubs like to complain about the freeloaders, but the truth is, the old broken system had freeloaders too.
ACA is far from perfect, but it's better than we had before. It's complicated to be sure, but how could it not be?
People have a right to be very angry. To see politicians initiate the destruction of ACA before having any idea how to fix this incredibly complicated system is lunacy.
2
"Why you demand instant answers is unclear..."
The GOP only had 7 years to be ready for this. They can't even handle that.
And, sure, there will be winners and losers. The losers will be the poor and unhealthy. The winners will be billionaires. You know that's how the GOP operates.
The GOP only had 7 years to be ready for this. They can't even handle that.
And, sure, there will be winners and losers. The losers will be the poor and unhealthy. The winners will be billionaires. You know that's how the GOP operates.
1
They. Never. Did. Have. A. Plan. They do have disdain for the American people, including those who foolishly voted for them based on empty promises. They have gerrymandering which has kept them in office until now, when their total lack of empathy and decency and willingness to do the job for which they were elected should wake up the rest of the electorate.
13
I hope the people of Pewaukee will think hard about who they vote for as their representative to Congress in 2018.
14
The Republicans can't fix the ACA because many of the issues arise from the compromises made to overcome their resistance! The fix involves single payor, and/or a public option. It involves more government involvement in pricing of services and medications, and yes, even guidelines on sensible provision of care (such as limits on eligibility for transplants) The healthcare and insurance industries have proven incapable of reining in costs. It's time to cut out the greedy insurance industry middlemen who take 25% of premium dollars and use it for top executive pay.
11
Insurance companies should be confined to the insurance business: pooling those at risk to share the cost of calamity for a few. It's a statistics operation that has nothing to do with healthcare, but only has to do with calculating odds.
1
Trump voters...you reap what you sow. No sympathy.
The bad thing is, you may drag us down along with you because of YOUR CHOICE for a selfish, greedy, racist, misogynistic, truth-squashing man.
The bad thing is, you may drag us down along with you because of YOUR CHOICE for a selfish, greedy, racist, misogynistic, truth-squashing man.
22
Wayne, I know it is a lot to ask but let's leave the President out of this discussion. It's time for Republican Representative Sensenbrenner and his Republican colleagues to make good on their promises. Bringing the President into the discussion only provides wholly- undeserved cover for this cynical, cowardly lot.
Republicans claim that the ACA is too expensive, but before that they had philosophical reasons: the Government should not be offering health care or interfering with the private market.
That "philosophy left 50 million people with little or no health insurance, and many of those with coverage were beholden to their employer for coverage. Rather than being wage slaves, they became health care benefits slaves.
Has anyone stopped to consider that's just what Republicans and corporations want?
That "philosophy left 50 million people with little or no health insurance, and many of those with coverage were beholden to their employer for coverage. Rather than being wage slaves, they became health care benefits slaves.
Has anyone stopped to consider that's just what Republicans and corporations want?
10
President Trump has an incredible opportunity to make America great for all Americans by extending Medicare to people of all ages. Medicare is a much more cost-efficient system and would remove the insurance burden off businesses and employers. Most personal bankruptcies in this country are the result of medical expenses that are not covered by insurance companies--that is a shame. It is not right to have for-profit making companies in complete control of our health care system. The U.S. has the most expensive system with poorer health outcomes than every other first-world country -- we need a bigger vision. Are you listening, President Trump?
19
President Trump has no opportunity to extend Medicare to people of all ages. The Republicans control Congress and they even want to eliminate Medicare with a "premium support" aka vouchers to the insurance industry. No, President Trump is not listening to anyone or anything other than his inner tweet factory.
Americans voted for the GOP and their rhetoric against the ACA, which in turn promised to swiftly total and replace this disastrous law. at what point was it not abundantly clear that the GOP never had any alternative too it. it is one thing for the GOP to say that they don't want to divulge their tough strategies Against ISIS, so as not to alert them, but the ACA?
it stands to reason then, that the GOP probably has no real plan undo Obama's failed policies in the middle East about ISIS either. or tax overhaul, or public education.
in other words the GOP has knowingly given the populus wrong information with intent of making the populus vote for them. in other words, the GOP lied. and it has been doing so for years.
it stands to reason then, that the GOP probably has no real plan undo Obama's failed policies in the middle East about ISIS either. or tax overhaul, or public education.
in other words the GOP has knowingly given the populus wrong information with intent of making the populus vote for them. in other words, the GOP lied. and it has been doing so for years.
13
Don't send him picture of your struggling family , it is clear that your representative does not represent you , he is representing himself, you cast your vote against your own interest ,I don't see where is the surprise , everything this new White House does is what they promised you. Why don't you ask your representative to get the same insurance he gets from the government, what he asked you to vote against, the so call socialist medical system , I feel bad for the children.
16
May all 146,000 voters Sensenbrenner's gloats about sleep well tonight. Along with every other voter who handed the entire federal government over to the institutional wrecking crew that wants to demolish every progressive program since FDR with absolutely zero regard for the consequences.
If brains were dynamite - this country couldn't blow it's nose.
If brains were dynamite - this country couldn't blow it's nose.
26
The very idea that one could further bloat the egos of these narcissists by voting for them discourages voting.
What wasn't mentioned in this article is the threat by Republicans to pass laws to limit, or even shut down, dissent. Of course this would seem unconstitutional, and not possible, but then again, what would the Founding Fathers say about "Free Speech Zones"?
We are rapidly approaching tyranny. I can only hope that enough Americans have the courage to stand up and confront it.
We are rapidly approaching tyranny. I can only hope that enough Americans have the courage to stand up and confront it.
28
"It’s kind of like, you know, getting a 30,000-piece jigsaw puzzle for Christmas"
But Sensenbrenner got this present 7 years ago and in all this time has not been bothered to take it out of the box. This level of laziness and brainlessness is not acceptable.
"'there are winners and losers' when bills are passed"
But in Republican hands, the winners are insurance companies and the losers are sick people.
But Sensenbrenner got this present 7 years ago and in all this time has not been bothered to take it out of the box. This level of laziness and brainlessness is not acceptable.
"'there are winners and losers' when bills are passed"
But in Republican hands, the winners are insurance companies and the losers are sick people.
44
Heads Sensenbrenner wins, tails the taxpayers lose. Sensenbrenner gets tipped by the beneficiary either way.
It is becoming increasingly clear that the Republicans don't have a plan to do much of anything - they are simply against everything.
Trump makes this worse because of his wild proclamations and amateurish appointments.
This is not just a debate about philosophy or political position. It's the problem of basic competence. You don't have a plumber do your heart bypass because he memorized a few episodes of Marcus Welby.
This is a man who cheated on his wives, confessed to assaulting women, used charitable contributions for personal gain, took advantage of his workers, lied to his customers -and is embraced by the religious right for his Christian values.
Any Republican office holder who believes in his ideals - and I'm sure there are many - has to be sickened.
Trump makes this worse because of his wild proclamations and amateurish appointments.
This is not just a debate about philosophy or political position. It's the problem of basic competence. You don't have a plumber do your heart bypass because he memorized a few episodes of Marcus Welby.
This is a man who cheated on his wives, confessed to assaulting women, used charitable contributions for personal gain, took advantage of his workers, lied to his customers -and is embraced by the religious right for his Christian values.
Any Republican office holder who believes in his ideals - and I'm sure there are many - has to be sickened.
11
Sickened? Not if you don't have a conscience which the party as a whole is showing itself to lack! Republicans have the Congress. They can do anything they want. And yet they don't. Ask yourself why?
The GOP's top consideration of any possible health plan is the ways each feature can make money — the most money.
7
SO many lies,, so many lies, lies.
So difficult, so difficult, so difficult to repeal, yes repeal, repeal and replace the name Obama,
Yes Obama, terrible, terrible gotta replace it with... Trump, yes Trump, that's it Trump, it will make America great again.
So difficult, so difficult, so difficult to repeal, yes repeal, repeal and replace the name Obama,
Yes Obama, terrible, terrible gotta replace it with... Trump, yes Trump, that's it Trump, it will make America great again.
6
Sensenbrenner is of the same Republican Party as the Clown Trump is and deserves the same respect, none. They live in their own bubble and expect people to trust them and believe their lies. They cannot govern only complain. It is easy to tear something down, much more difficult to build something up. That is why Democrats keep getting elected to clean up the messes that these ignorant bullies leave the nation with.
2018 elections only 20 months away. Time for a little house cleaning, get prepared Democrats.
2018 elections only 20 months away. Time for a little house cleaning, get prepared Democrats.
11
Republicans support the right of foetuses to be born. After that, you're on your own.
20
What Mr. Sensenbrenner may not realize is that the anxious people questioning him at these meetings are not "the vocal minority" that "lost"in the election. Many of them are probably members of his own party who want to know what the Republicans are going to replace the ACA with when they repeal it.
Why don't he and the Republicans have an answer?
Why don't he and the Republicans have an answer?
15
The real question is why don't they have an answer after having had eight years together to think about it?????
"I represent the majority". No he does not. He represents all of his constituents whether they voted for him or not. I think that none of our representatives understand that once they are elected, they are representatives of their whole district, not just the people who voted for them. Does he think that people that didn't vote for him get no representation? Does he think that the people that did vote for him and those that didn't might have a lot of issues in common, like medical care? If he doesn't, he should.
21
You have to understand that "majority" has a special definition in Trump lingo that roughly translates as "me".
2
I'm so thankful for our public health care here in Canada. Seventeen years ago, I contracted an auto-immune condition that destroyed my heart in three weeks. My condition would not have been insurable in the States, but as a Canadian, I had a heart transplant at no cost, & have received anti-rejection drugs, also free of charge, ever since. All these years later, I see your crippled, profit-driven health-care system about to get a whole bunch worse. Good luck: you are in my thoughts....
24
The question was asked of another Republican by a truly great American: "Have you no sense of decency sir, at long last? Have you left no sense of decency?" (Joseph N. Welch to Senator Joseph R. McCarthy, June 9, 1954, the 30th day of the Army–McCarthy hearings.)
Now, as then, the answer to that question — when asked of virtually every Republican office holder — is a resounding and unequivocal NO.
Now, as then, the answer to that question — when asked of virtually every Republican office holder — is a resounding and unequivocal NO.
20
It stuns me the sheer gall that our elected representation both democrat and republican alike, who work for every single voter that cast a ballot regardless of the party. Our elected representatives have somehow come to believe that they are a power unto themselves, that they answer to no voter. This is the problem, Sensenbrenner, and those like him are the problem. Anyone in congress that tells any voter that they mean less to him than the 140,000 people he claims he won by and therefore only represents them, deserves to be voted out of office by a far wider margin. To assert that any voter who is vocal about any issue are not part of the 140.000 who voted for him, and are therefore not worthy of his representation is more than just galling it's offensive. This is the face of our elected officials who, time and time again have put their needs above your and mine. This Congressman and those like him are what we have let all of them become, it's not about what you and I or the people of this country as a whole deserve. They have turned an elected position into a cash cow for themselves. They are living under a false assumption that there will be no repercussions for taking away healthcare from everyone. it's clear to me and should be to all of us they think they they can leave you and me without AGAIN. All of us, democrat, and republican alike, should hold all of our elected representation to account. If not now, when. Vote him out.
19
What is there to say? This was a Conventional alignment of Big Pharma, the AMA, and the Insurance Industries. Nothing personal. Strictly Business. Just ask the Dems, who set this up in the first place for Political Gain.
1
The political gain you write of by Dems, Beldar Cone was trying to take care of those who were not covered by Health Care Insurance. How outrageously self interested!!!
And it was a Republican Heritage Foundation then Mitt Romney plan in that order, to begin with.
Such conniving self interested gall those Dems exhibit!!! Using a Republican plan that Repubs then carefully pretend they could not support because it was put on the national stage by our first black president.
Big tax breaks for the wealthy by the wealthy, gerrymandering districts and suppressing voting rights at every turn . . well gosh, there can be no political gain there, huh?
And it was a Republican Heritage Foundation then Mitt Romney plan in that order, to begin with.
Such conniving self interested gall those Dems exhibit!!! Using a Republican plan that Repubs then carefully pretend they could not support because it was put on the national stage by our first black president.
Big tax breaks for the wealthy by the wealthy, gerrymandering districts and suppressing voting rights at every turn . . well gosh, there can be no political gain there, huh?
1
Get out if politics if you can handle opposition and disagreement. Or write the bill you and your president promised. Something better than the ACA. How about universal health care for all and a few less fighter jets or aircraft carriers. And drop the foolish, absurdly expensive wall. The GOP wasted money in Iraq and is now going to waste money on an idiotic wall. More people will die for lack of health care than from the so called hordes crossing the Rio Grande.
90
No sympathy for law makers facing the music but wonder how many angry constituents voted for the Republicans
61
Having destroyed the reputation of the Democratic Party, mainstream republicans now have to look at themselves in the mirror and realize"we have met the enemy and they is us." And now they don't know what to do. Join the other side? " Oh no! I can't do that! " Only thing left to do is whine ( which they do well).
When tea "party" activists took over town hall meetings, republicons bowed down and did their bidding. Suddenly, anyone speaking up at a town hall meeting is a "sore loser" from the party that lost. Republicon hypocrisy number 1,984.5 from the playbook.
110
There is nothing but hypocrisy in the whole ethical and intellectual wasteland of American right wing psychopathy.
Exactly! I'm tired already of hearing R's telling us that they won-now, do your job and give us your 'solution' to the ACA. It all sounded so easy on the campaign trail.
At least Mr. Sensenbrenner held a face-to-face Town Hall. My congressman - Darrel Issa - did not face voters face-to-face but held a telephone conference call Town Hall.
77
he holds these regularly in stronghold towns. Pewaukee is part of the white moneyed Milwaukee burbs that are solid red
1
Definitely time to get rid of Darrel Issa. Bad choice in the first place.
1
Yes, we have the same problem in Michigan. Congressman Mike Bishop will not hold a Town Hall meeting face-to-face. He held what felt like a highly screened telephone conference that seemed to have a number of questions cut short by what they said was "technical problems". I have not participated in protests since my college days but I marched with other concerned citizens this month and plan to do it again and again.
Let's put a freeze on Republican Congressional members health benefits--yes? Until they quit making their threats -OR- actually earn their paychecks and improve the ACA. Making available affordable long-term care insurance as an addition to the current ACA, would be a good next step.
84
Why not REQUIRE members of Congress to use the same healthcare insurance as the general public in their states? Stop their Cadillac plan and let them share our experiences.
2
Yes, Put them and their families on the same health care they will put their constituents on.
The foolish Republicans sought to repeal Obamacare for years, only to find that they do not have the stomach to actually develop a bona fide replacement. I guess they never realized that Obamacare was the old Heritage Foundation proposal put into legislation.
The only effective replacement is a single payer system. There is no reason to re-invent the wheel. Just broaden eligibility for Medicare, or adopt a system like Canada's.
The only effective replacement is a single payer system. There is no reason to re-invent the wheel. Just broaden eligibility for Medicare, or adopt a system like Canada's.
91
Yes, let's adopt a plan like Canada's - a country with a population less than California, that is a petro country. Yes, they do pay for EVERYTHING with oil. Just like Norway too. Great idea...
The Heritage proposal was made in 1989 and refuted in 2001. It was to be private, not govt run, so Obamacare is NOT the Heritage proposal.
Single payer? The govt underpays doctors markedly with its reimbursement schedule for Medicare and, worse, Medicaid, so that 30% of doctors will see no Medicare patients, and 51% no Medicaid. A comparable figure would be 60 cents a gallon reimbursement to the gas station owner for Gasicaid.
Medicare works because you have to pay into it for 40 years, receiving zero insurance, to be eligible by age to pay a monthly premium. It does not cover all the expenses, so many purchase a Medicare supplemental policy, currently about $225 a month. And Medicare does not cover any dental, any hearing, and only macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and glaucoma, under vision.
And how did your Vermont experiment with medical coverage work?
Single payer? The govt underpays doctors markedly with its reimbursement schedule for Medicare and, worse, Medicaid, so that 30% of doctors will see no Medicare patients, and 51% no Medicaid. A comparable figure would be 60 cents a gallon reimbursement to the gas station owner for Gasicaid.
Medicare works because you have to pay into it for 40 years, receiving zero insurance, to be eligible by age to pay a monthly premium. It does not cover all the expenses, so many purchase a Medicare supplemental policy, currently about $225 a month. And Medicare does not cover any dental, any hearing, and only macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and glaucoma, under vision.
And how did your Vermont experiment with medical coverage work?
1
No it isn't but do continue to delude yourself, ignorance is bliss....eh?
A vocal minority? Just because you won by a large majority, does that mean not serving the people most affected by your congressional votes who took the time to attend your town Townhall?
RepresentRepresentative Sensenbrenner doesn't have the good sense to acknowledge the pain of his constituents.
Can't he see the the hypocrisy of congressional leaders with lifetime Cadillac care facing constituents who stand to lose theirs?
it's all well and good to mollify an angry crowd by stating that the most popular parts of the ACA would remain: forbidding discrimination based on previous condition, no cost caps on lifetime care, and the ability to carry children on family plans until the age of 26.
But it's also extremely irresponsible. Because you can't keep just the good without tremendously affecting the overall workings of ACA health plans. Insurance plans won't stand for it. They want to makes profits and run their businesses based on the noble goal of denying care.
The only thing good about all these Town Hall protests is how they are revealing the latent hypocrisy of self-absorbed character today's GOP Congress.
Serving in Congress is a privilege not a right. I hope Mr. Sensenbrenner comes to realize that and that the only way to keep his job is to do it 100%.
RepresentRepresentative Sensenbrenner doesn't have the good sense to acknowledge the pain of his constituents.
Can't he see the the hypocrisy of congressional leaders with lifetime Cadillac care facing constituents who stand to lose theirs?
it's all well and good to mollify an angry crowd by stating that the most popular parts of the ACA would remain: forbidding discrimination based on previous condition, no cost caps on lifetime care, and the ability to carry children on family plans until the age of 26.
But it's also extremely irresponsible. Because you can't keep just the good without tremendously affecting the overall workings of ACA health plans. Insurance plans won't stand for it. They want to makes profits and run their businesses based on the noble goal of denying care.
The only thing good about all these Town Hall protests is how they are revealing the latent hypocrisy of self-absorbed character today's GOP Congress.
Serving in Congress is a privilege not a right. I hope Mr. Sensenbrenner comes to realize that and that the only way to keep his job is to do it 100%.
84
That fat cat has been warming his seat for 38 years. What does he even know about the lives of ordinary people?
You represent the majority. Turns out the majority care about their health care coverage too. You and your Republican colleagues spent years describing the ACA as a disaster and wasted millions of taxpayer dollars on endless votes to repeal it. Oh but now no preexisting conditions exclusions, staying on parents insurance until age 26 and no limits on lifetime coverage are all of a sudden good things? Really? You just spent years telling us it was a disaster. What's next, you taking credit for the ACA? Trust me you Republicans don't have the bandwidth to tackle healthcare. 30,000 piece puzzle? Martians will land before Republicans can even assemble just the straight edge pieces. Let's consider something so simple even Republicans can understand it....Medicare for all. It already exists. The people who voted for you love it. You might even get re-elected on it.
105
They wanted it to fail, remember the Republican Party took no part in the crafting, implementation of the ACA. Instead the took the position of fold our arms and do nothing, let them suffer, let them eat cake, has become the standard of both parties. While sadly, Trump won the electorate he didn't win the popular vote. I have never believed that the general public who benefit from healthcare, that the majority wanted it repealed. I believe they wanted parts of it fixed no law is perfect when implemented. It's disingenuous for any elected representative of either party to assert that the people would rather have no healthcare than Obama care. That is so far from the reality of the world in which you and I live in. Anyone who has had a health crisis, knows the crushing debt that you can be left with. The lack of access has killed more Americans needlessly,all because of a few. Who whole heartedly believe that the ACA, is a bad thing. The Republican Party is willing cut of their constituents noses just to spite their face. Because they don't like Obama care, because they as a party folded their arms and decided to not participate in the crafting of the ACA, to insure that their constituents voices were heard. But to now know that repeal isn't what the public at large want, to continue down that path in spite of the nationwide outcry not to repeal the ACA shows contempt for all Americans of both parties. Where does it end, if not now when. There will be a price to be paid.
5
Good comment, but one quibble. They're supposed to represent not the majority, but everybody.
2
The Republicans are all asking what is more important?
Giving a tax cut to the richest 10% who had to pay more tax to help pay for the poorer people and the subsidies given them by the government.
OR come up with a healthcare.plan that includes the poor. (and no tax cut).
"Clueless in Washington" !
Giving a tax cut to the richest 10% who had to pay more tax to help pay for the poorer people and the subsidies given them by the government.
OR come up with a healthcare.plan that includes the poor. (and no tax cut).
"Clueless in Washington" !
67
They have pushed the ideal that the ACA was crap and no one wanted it for so long that people started believing it. Sort of like telling a child throughout their childhood they're dumb. When they reach adulthood they believe they are dumb, in fact the opposite is true. The fact is if it was so unpopular then why were record numbers of people signing up. The Republican Party has nothing better to do but take more from all of us and give it to those who don't need more. When a political party takes from one sector of the public to give it to another doesn't have neither ones interests in mind except for their own self interests. It's time for all of us to take back our government by showing Sensenbrenner and his colleagues who the government is really for. If we site by and let than start to dictate who gets representation and who doesn't we will have a much larger problem to deal with. Because it won't be long before the all 545 of them strip our rights from all of us. VOTE THEM OUT, VOTE HIM OUT.
3
Republicans who oppose the ACA and Medicare are not clueless, they're craven.
Repeal first. An alternative will evolve, and evolve continuously for the first few years. In other words, the alternative will be imperfect, first by its non-existence, then later as both it takes shape in fits and starts, and in final form. That shouldn't in any way affect repeal which ought to happen independent of alternatives and asap. Bye bye Obamacare, hurry, go.
7
Sure! if your dream comes true, then so will mine!! (faster) Buh-bye Trump, hurry, go.
3
Wow and what would happen to people in the meantime who have cancer or MS or something that needs treatment. You must be healthy and rich to have such a caviler attitude
3
Go and take exactly how many people who are suddenly without health insurance? It that sort of going the "Death Panel" route?
3
Obstructing is much easier than governing.
100
Are you a Republican? If so your party had the chance to act like leaders for at least the last six years (if we go from the mid-terms of Obama's first term) yet they exhibited absolutely no interest in doing so. Nothing but obstruction, for reasons that were obvious to all.
Now that there's actually something that requires obstruction - and we have no part in it - yes it's easy!
Now that there's actually something that requires obstruction - and we have no part in it - yes it's easy!
3
“Do you think I’m able to control anybody else’s mouth, from the president on down?”
Wow! Representative Sensenbrenner - what are you there for? To make a difference, or just to get along, get paid, and maybe have some fun too?
Coward.
Wow! Representative Sensenbrenner - what are you there for? To make a difference, or just to get along, get paid, and maybe have some fun too?
Coward.
99
He's there to guide his own interests, clearly he views his constituency like all of them do on both sides of the isle. You and I we're just an inconvenience to him. An impediment to "their agenda" not yours of mine theirs. And if you don't share their agenda well, they have a plan for you too. Minimize you, make you feel like your not worthy of his representation, he truly is what we the public have let them become. Unconstrained by all those he's supposed to represent, you simply won't matter. This is where you and me and the rest of us who feel betrayed by government as a whole, take a stand against tyranny of any kind from someone who derives his pay from the tax payer. Resist idiots like this clown, if we don't now when, if we let them take whatever they want, whenever they want, from whomever they want, where does that end.
1
Despite the rabid whining of my Republican friends about 'Obamacare', when pressed, none of them can tell me precisely what it is about the law that they object to, other than that they 'don't want the government controlling their medical decisions'. A) Thanks to the GOP, all Obamacare policies are in the hands of private health insurance companies, not the government. And B) Why do you think that a company that is in business to make a profit will be an more caring about your well being than a civil servant?
Aside from all that, the bottom line is that our health care is now in the hands of a group of people that believe that health care is not a human right. And the bulk of their supporters are people that survive thanks to assistance from the 'big government' that they loathe. Why am I not filled with confidence that anything good will come of this?
Aside from all that, the bottom line is that our health care is now in the hands of a group of people that believe that health care is not a human right. And the bulk of their supporters are people that survive thanks to assistance from the 'big government' that they loathe. Why am I not filled with confidence that anything good will come of this?
118
Oh Francis K,
Maybe the particular republican friends you have have never paid a bill before...
Other folks, democrat or republican that have to buy health insurance in the marketplace, have known for at least 3 years that they are feeding insurance companies with premia that doesn't actually give them coverage they had before...
It's that simple.
Maybe the particular republican friends you have have never paid a bill before...
Other folks, democrat or republican that have to buy health insurance in the marketplace, have known for at least 3 years that they are feeding insurance companies with premia that doesn't actually give them coverage they had before...
It's that simple.
1
That is very eloquent, better words were never spoken. No man, no woman, should stand by and be marginalized by what boils down to a civil servant because that's what he is. You asked what the GOP doesn't like about the ACA, that a black president gave the people what he also believe is a fundamental human right, healthcare. He did it without the GOP, but that's only because the GOP folded their arms and decided not to participate. Instead of crafting something that worked for everyone.
Thanks to the GOP??? Not one single Republican in the House or Senate voted for Obamacare. It is 100% Democrat. Further, the majority of that fabled 20 million newly insured are people who enrolled in Medicaid...administered by the government. 70% of those enrollees registered under the old Medicaid guidelines, 30% under the more liberal income limits of expanded Medicaid.
The civil servants who decide whether doctors playing Mother May I to obtain surgery, CAT or MRI scan, or even physical therapy for their patients put up the same roadblocks as do the private insurers.
The civil servants who decide whether doctors playing Mother May I to obtain surgery, CAT or MRI scan, or even physical therapy for their patients put up the same roadblocks as do the private insurers.
They are the reason the ACA is what it is - they dragged their heels and dragged the idea down while negotiations wore on and on. The ACA is the product of Republican opposition - Obama was just glad to get anything out of an oppositional, partisan, entrenched group of congressmen. So now you say the people objecting are "all" sore losers? Like Republicans didn't do everything they could to obstruct and stop Obama at every turn? Thats a mistake, Mr. Sensenbrenner, that you and your cohorts should not make - the people objecting aren't "all" democrats, many are Republicans who voted for the nightmare who now controls the White House and who voted for you and the other Republicans who now ignore them all - at your peril. To label people who object by the tens of thousands nationwide as any kind of "loser" is placing blame where there is none. The blame is all yours - the Republicans get to completely own this as your policy of hatred, bigotry, insensitivity and lack of accountability tries to build steam. They aren't the "minority" - they are the constituents you were elected to represent and represent them you must or...we'll find out who the loser really is. Very soon.
76
Republicans dragging their heels? Democrats crafted the bill, passed only one year after Obama entered office, with no substantive input from Republicans and the snarky edict from Nancy Pelosi that Congress had to pass the bill to see what was in it. It barely passed, on a full party line vote, with not one single Republican vote. It was thrown at Congress only a couple of days before the vote occurred.
"The ACA is the product of Republican opposition - Obama was just glad to get anything out of an oppositional, partisan, entrenched group of congressmen."
That actually isn't true. It's understandable that you'd think it was true, because the Obama administration and many Democrats in Congress did their best to pretend it was true, but that doesn't make it true.
Obama aides have been reported as saying that the ACA was in all its essentials the health care law that Obama wanted to pass. It passed with zero Republican votes, so the Democrats could have just as easily told the Republicans to stuff it and passed something else if they wanted to.
That actually isn't true. It's understandable that you'd think it was true, because the Obama administration and many Democrats in Congress did their best to pretend it was true, but that doesn't make it true.
Obama aides have been reported as saying that the ACA was in all its essentials the health care law that Obama wanted to pass. It passed with zero Republican votes, so the Democrats could have just as easily told the Republicans to stuff it and passed something else if they wanted to.
The Republicans' worst nightmare came true. They won the White House and all of a sudden they actually have to repeal the ACA! "OMG, what have we done?" Being obstructionists was fun but not knowing how to build is not. It will require a stroke of a genius to come up with anything better than the current law with respect to the width and depth of coverage as well as cost. They are almost certain to fail to deliver. Only a bunch of political slogans will end up dubbing a far inferior system. It will be another alternative fact.
32
The Republicans have already moved from providing healthcare to providing healthcare access, a system in which you can, in principle, get access to healthcare in the same way as I can, in principle, own a luxury jet or a 200 foot yacht moored in Monaco.
I have no use for Republicans or Democrats, but it took several years for the Democrats to take a disfunctional health care system and make it worse. Give the Repubs more than 25 days to create their own disaster.
6
That's fair!
They've had seven years to think up the new miraculous non-dysfunctional system. They have made no headway. Why would they do any better given another 100 days, 52 weeks or seven years? In any case the ACA is already a Republican plan. A Democratic plan would have included a single payer option.
1
People are willing to wait for the Republicans - as long as they don't abandon what's in place now while they are waiting. It's the Republicans who aren't willing to wait to know down the existing bridge while they rush headlong over the abyss while they try to decide what sort of new bridge to build.
There are several issues I'm truly concerned about. My main concern is how much hacking and influence did Russia truly have on the presidential election. The reality that hacking by Russia has been verified should bring up the legitimacy of the election results, shouldn't it?
So why would Trump want to assert voter fraud after he won the election? During the campaign he told the nation on several occasions that if he lost the election he knows it would be because of voter fraud. And why pick New Hampshire?
Why not pick Wisconsin, Michigan or Pennsylvania?
If Trump's investigation in NH finds no voter fraud, will all American's give up on the idea that there is no voter fraud. Trump will probably apologize and admit that he was wrong. Even though that small state has no where near the number of voters he's been voicing. But it seems to me that looking at New Hampshire rather than battleground states like Michigan and Wisconsin who had some of the longest hours to tally votes among the 50 states should be the states under scrutiny. Don't you think?
I would like nothing better to look at those states and investigate why the extraordinary delay in counting votes. Especially since there have been inconsistencies in voting tallies in both states since Republicans have taken over these states.
Seems significant to me. New Hampshire is a red herring.
I'm insulted by the media not following these inconsistencies,
So why would Trump want to assert voter fraud after he won the election? During the campaign he told the nation on several occasions that if he lost the election he knows it would be because of voter fraud. And why pick New Hampshire?
Why not pick Wisconsin, Michigan or Pennsylvania?
If Trump's investigation in NH finds no voter fraud, will all American's give up on the idea that there is no voter fraud. Trump will probably apologize and admit that he was wrong. Even though that small state has no where near the number of voters he's been voicing. But it seems to me that looking at New Hampshire rather than battleground states like Michigan and Wisconsin who had some of the longest hours to tally votes among the 50 states should be the states under scrutiny. Don't you think?
I would like nothing better to look at those states and investigate why the extraordinary delay in counting votes. Especially since there have been inconsistencies in voting tallies in both states since Republicans have taken over these states.
Seems significant to me. New Hampshire is a red herring.
I'm insulted by the media not following these inconsistencies,
24
Have you ever heard of Trump apologizing and admitting he was wrong?
The really odd thing about focusing on New Hampshire is that New Hampshire actually has a really good reputation when it comes to election integrity.
Their top election official, NH Secretary of State Bill Gardner, is the most experienced election officer in the entire country. He's been in office for decades, through multiple changes of party alignment of state government, and kept his seat because he has a reputation for being very fair to everybody and holding himself and his staff to the highest standards.
New Hampshire's elections are dominated by rural areas that are small enough that it's entirely possible that the poll workers will personally know every single person who comes into vote, so the odds of impersonation are approximately zero. The largest city, Manchester, has 150,000 people and is still small enough that somebody knows somebody who could easily verify anybody who comes in that's suspicious.
As somebody born and raised in New Hampshire, I'll just say the most interesting aspect of its politics is that there very very few professional politicians in the state: the governor, 2 senators, 2 federal congresswomen, and maybe 5 full-time mayors. The judges are appointed rather than elected, and all other offices are held by people who are essentially volunteers. The amateurs seem to do at least as good a job as the professionals.
Their top election official, NH Secretary of State Bill Gardner, is the most experienced election officer in the entire country. He's been in office for decades, through multiple changes of party alignment of state government, and kept his seat because he has a reputation for being very fair to everybody and holding himself and his staff to the highest standards.
New Hampshire's elections are dominated by rural areas that are small enough that it's entirely possible that the poll workers will personally know every single person who comes into vote, so the odds of impersonation are approximately zero. The largest city, Manchester, has 150,000 people and is still small enough that somebody knows somebody who could easily verify anybody who comes in that's suspicious.
As somebody born and raised in New Hampshire, I'll just say the most interesting aspect of its politics is that there very very few professional politicians in the state: the governor, 2 senators, 2 federal congresswomen, and maybe 5 full-time mayors. The judges are appointed rather than elected, and all other offices are held by people who are essentially volunteers. The amateurs seem to do at least as good a job as the professionals.
I like someone else's suggestion that these people should lose their wonderful health insurance until they come up with a "plan." They won't but we can demand it anyway.
In the meantime, where's your plan????? We want to see it now!!!
In the meantime, where's your plan????? We want to see it now!!!
38
The GOP only cares about money, and somehow, some way, they have brainwashed some people into thinking they care about them. The GOP thinks providing affordable health care is wrong and kicking people off of medicaid is right, and opposes a public option or Medicare for all.
Re-watch Sicko by M. Moore. He asked, WHO ARE WE as a country that we even having this debate, that we don't have a government-run medical system that guarantees treatment for all? We are a bunch of unenlightened, selfish, misanthropic you know whats is what we are.
Re-watch Sicko by M. Moore. He asked, WHO ARE WE as a country that we even having this debate, that we don't have a government-run medical system that guarantees treatment for all? We are a bunch of unenlightened, selfish, misanthropic you know whats is what we are.
52
The honeymoon is over. Saying "we won" won't put the pieces together. They don't even have the pieces sorted or the border finished.
31
Yes lets hope that the statements winners and losers will be the result when the Repubs take away health care for millions. AS a Repub said at the State of the union address, "they lie".
12
Mr. Sensenbrenner, I am not a "sore loser"; I am an American who needs health insurance and who believed GOP's promises that Obama Care was going to be repealed and REPLACED. Unless you and your Republican colleagues accomplished what your promissed, you are not going to win the next election by the same percentage points that you won the last one, for which you feel so proud. Wait and see...
66
The GOP does has a plan.
Little or no coverage for the poor.
What insurane employers choose to offer and not offer for those working.
For others, what you can afford of what insurance companies choose to offer.
Some specifics:
For seniors -- premium support with steady erosion of buying power for what insurance companies choose to offer. No need for a fictious death panel; this is the economic reality of inability for most to pay for anything more than basic care. Get out of the way, seniors of limited $ means. .
For Vets -- Careful shuffling (to avoid a big blo-back) to insurance for non-VA health care, then premium support.
For Natice Americans -- As our biological (disease) war and our miitary and civilian assaults on you and our and shredding of every"forever" treaty we made with you compelling demonstrates, we want you to be gone. So be grateful that have a severely underfunded and under-staffed Indian health service.
Little or no coverage for the poor.
What insurane employers choose to offer and not offer for those working.
For others, what you can afford of what insurance companies choose to offer.
Some specifics:
For seniors -- premium support with steady erosion of buying power for what insurance companies choose to offer. No need for a fictious death panel; this is the economic reality of inability for most to pay for anything more than basic care. Get out of the way, seniors of limited $ means. .
For Vets -- Careful shuffling (to avoid a big blo-back) to insurance for non-VA health care, then premium support.
For Natice Americans -- As our biological (disease) war and our miitary and civilian assaults on you and our and shredding of every"forever" treaty we made with you compelling demonstrates, we want you to be gone. So be grateful that have a severely underfunded and under-staffed Indian health service.
10
What were Mr. Sensenbrenner and his GOP cohort doing for the past eight years? Living on the highly paid dole, off the dime of hard pressed constituents whose taxes paid those handsome salaries and benefits, not to mention they must have spent time with lobbyists learning the ropes of making big money. It's just greed, sleaze, and laziness and they think they can get away with it. Hey, we aren't stupid. It is obvious they weren't working hard to come up with a better plan for health care. This behavior is deplorable.
28
Working hard? They were not working at all.
They never expected Trump to win.
Now the dog has caught the car and they have no idea what to do.
And all "the ideas" they have are not a Plan !!
They never expected Trump to win.
Now the dog has caught the car and they have no idea what to do.
And all "the ideas" they have are not a Plan !!
17
All GOP congressman who voted repeal need to lose their heath care immediately. They should not be given health care until they come up with a replacement plan. Only then, our priority is their priority.
41
At the very least there should be a public option to compete with private insurers. This would be consistent with their stated philosophy of free market principles. Truth be told, they won't do that because they know people, given a real choice would flock to the public option jeopardizing the obscene profits of the insurance companies.
30
Love that Sensenbrenner attributes his constitutents' concerns to people "on the losing side of the election."
Yeah, they lost the election by minus three million votes.
Yeah, they lost the election by minus three million votes.
43
Best of all - or - sad of all is that those voters "on the other side" live in his district(s) and are his constituents also - even if he does not like it. If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen ( the one you have been in since 1979 !). Their hypocrisy only gets worse!
29
There has been very little talk on lowering the cost of healthcare to reduce insurance payments. Rising insurance premium under ACA is a real problem. And reporting only about ACA's achievement but not its problem makes the judgment more or less biased. However it is also very hard to find a better solution than ACA, without making painful overhaul to the healthcare system. The insurer is paying for more and more costly healthcare bills, which raises the premium. Solution to the growing premium problem, without getting rid of coverage, is to either increase government subsidy or reduce healthcare cost. The former one is not a very good idea, since middle class is also the major tax payer. The second option has not been widely discussed at all. Why can't we lower the cost of healthcare by streamlining healthcare process, generating more medical school graduate, creating more healthcare service providers, thereby generate more competition among hospitals, reduce the cost and reduce doctor wait time? I read an article on TIME magazine (titled "bitter pill") about 3 years ago describing the absurdly high prices hospitals ask for even very small items like gauze sponges. No reporter/politician really followed up on that story, maybe because there is strong lobbying power for the hospitals in DC and in the media circle?
7
They are unnecesssry tests and procedures. That's where the money is. HMOs HospitalsDoctorsPhrma Device People and more. Why eat into their profits. We spend twice as much as other countries. Profit is our mission You'll never cut costs. At most you can redistribute the profits amongst the players and they'll. bicker. But that's ok.
4
One solution to the problem of cost is to eliminate the administration cost associated with multiple insurance companies and to eliminate the profits they siphon off from every medical treatment. Another solution is to actually implement the fines for not purchasing insurance that are part of the ACA. Providing more doctors will simply increase costs as the high salaries of medical professionals will have to be covered somehow. Health care is not something where competition applies in most cases. You don't, for instance, delay an illness until you can shop around for the best treatment price. (You may not even be able to predict what treatment will be needed.) On the way to the emergency room with a crushing chest pain you don't worry whether you have selected the cheapest doctor but hope that you'll encounter the best. Finally, if you Google you'll find the NYT has done many stories about hospital costs and how they vary around the country.
Poor sick people need to just die and make more room for important repugnant-can'ts. Sorry, folks, but it's a jungle out there! There's winners, and then there are the rest of you.
7
All the Republicans could do during the Obama presidency was obstruct. Why should we think that they know how to accomplish anything with all the reins of power in their hands. No reform of health care, no concrete tax reform. Not fit to govern.
12
It is not a surprise that the Republican Party, whose main mission in the last 8 years was to oppose the policies of Obama has essentially self-destructed in less than 4 weeks. Whether it be medical care, immigration, foreign policy, observation of financial and other precedents, protection of the press or selection of cabinet ministers, Trump and Congress have been misguided and clueless at best. They present the biggest challenge to the Republic since the Civil War. My only hopes are are 1. the engagement of all citizens to protect our rights and the common good; and 2. a strong judiciary.
We are in the process of watching the slicing and dicing of the safety net and chaos in our national and international affairs. Four more years.
We are in the process of watching the slicing and dicing of the safety net and chaos in our national and international affairs. Four more years.
8
The people of Sensenbrener's district lost their senses when they voted this man into office for 39 years, or 18 times. And if he had any sense, he'd retire with his hefty congressional pension and free healthcare while the getting is good.
12
The Republicans:
They got nothing. No plan. Nothing better. No replacement. They know it and we know it.
How far will they go with this nonsense?
Push the 20 million out of coverage - then let's see what happens to those Congressmen come a year and a half from now..
Maybe this is what it will take for the bamboozled to wake up.
They got nothing. No plan. Nothing better. No replacement. They know it and we know it.
How far will they go with this nonsense?
Push the 20 million out of coverage - then let's see what happens to those Congressmen come a year and a half from now..
Maybe this is what it will take for the bamboozled to wake up.
12
I was bamboozled out of my previous health plan that cost me less, and gave me more. Doc I saw for 20+ years doesn't take the only marketplace insurance I can afford. I guess I'm just a loser...
No story yet on Health Republic of NY failure.
No story yet on Health Republic of NY failure.
And yet their town halls are full to the brim with their constituents, demanding an action plan. These individuals have been labelled trouble makers, to be "killed with kindness" and offered cookies so they'll just go away. Like most people, they are trying to obtain coverage-somehow, if they cannot get it through work, and relied to the best of their ability on what was offered. Now, they've been told of a classic bait and switch: what they have tried to comply with is going to be taken away and nothing has been planned in its stead. These people aren't fakes. Their representatives have robotically abandoned them without thinking things through and what? They forgot who has put them in office. The electorate giveth and it taketh away.
6
Mr. Sensenbrenner, why do you assume that people concerned about the Affordable Care Act did not vote for you?
13
The majority of Americans, as well as a majority of physicians, support a national, single-payer health care system (e.g., "Medicare for all"). It would be cheaper and more effective than the ACA. Congress just needs to pass it
24
Just goes to show the Republican Party that it's easy to resist and delay but really hard to govern. This would be a great time to work with the Democratic Party and get something done. Will they do it, probably not. Why not, because they realize that there most important job is to be re-elected. And governing involves compromise which equals enflaming the base. So they'll take the cowards way out and do nothing. As #realdonaldtrump would tweet, "SAD".
11
Of course not. That would mean admitting 1 + 1 = 2.
It is unbelievable that after 6 years, over 60 votes to repeal the ACA ("Obamacare"), and numerous brash comments that the law MUSt be repealed, the Republicans have NOT A SINGLE CLUE how to actually carry out their fondest wish now that they have the power to do so.
Was there EVER, in the 241 years of our national history, a group of bigger braggarts who have no ability to actually do what they crow they will do?
What a bunch of INCOMPETENTS.
These jokers (and that is being polite) have no idea how to accomplish anything. The clock is ticking. 2018 is not that far away.
Let us VOTE OUT as many of these REPUBLICAN bums as possible.
Was there EVER, in the 241 years of our national history, a group of bigger braggarts who have no ability to actually do what they crow they will do?
What a bunch of INCOMPETENTS.
These jokers (and that is being polite) have no idea how to accomplish anything. The clock is ticking. 2018 is not that far away.
Let us VOTE OUT as many of these REPUBLICAN bums as possible.
44
Sadly Joe, it won't be possible to vote these bums out, or at least not to vote them out any way other than "primarying" them.
They are protected by their gerrymanders, and the peculiar institution of white-conservatism. Millions of people whose lives are being ruined by these Republicans will still vote for them.
Why will they do this? Why will they continue to reward these politicians who are now obviously a complete failure at doing the people's business, and revealed as nothing more than angry grifters peddling hateful snake oil?
Because that would require admitting that all of the Republican agenda is just a snake-oil fraud.
They are protected by their gerrymanders, and the peculiar institution of white-conservatism. Millions of people whose lives are being ruined by these Republicans will still vote for them.
Why will they do this? Why will they continue to reward these politicians who are now obviously a complete failure at doing the people's business, and revealed as nothing more than angry grifters peddling hateful snake oil?
Because that would require admitting that all of the Republican agenda is just a snake-oil fraud.
gee, mr sensenbrenner, there were an awful lot of "outside agitators" there.
ya, you betcha!!
ya, you betcha!!
9
The Republicans have spent the last 6 plus years complaining about the ACA and about how it doesn't work, etc. In the meantime, more than 20 million Americans have health care who never had it before! Republicans cannot get things done that matter to the average American. They spend their time forking over huge tax cuts to the very wealthy; sending young people off to die in illegal wars; benefitting financially from the cheap labor provided by illegal immigrants and then insisting those people should not be here; supporting Citizens United which has damaged our political process to the point of crisis; and after 6 plus years they have NO healthcare plan to replace the ACA. What a surprise! This state of affairs is a disaster for the average citizen, and the Republicans do NOT have the ability or the will to do anything about it. Pathetic.
22
The Republicans have had more than enough time to come up with their own healthcare plan. Why am I not surprised that they don't even have an outline? After spending eight obstructionist years mindlessly bellowing "No!" they now have to put up or shut up. I doubt they will do either one.
15
The Republican politicians are always complaining about big government. That has been their major rant for years. During the last election they aimed it at Obamacare with statements such as, "We will dismantle big government's Obamacare and give you back your choice". Obviously in their rush to run the country with their tiny, little government, the Republicans forgot to hire someone work on a heathcare plan.
9
They're hypocrits. They want the market free of government regulation but have sold control of government to corporate businesses.
9
"Time for you and time for me,
And time yet for a hundred indecisions,
And for a hundred visions and revisions,
Before the taking of a toast and tea.
In the room the women come and go
Talking of Michelangelo.
-- T.S. Eliot
And time yet for a hundred indecisions,
And for a hundred visions and revisions,
Before the taking of a toast and tea.
In the room the women come and go
Talking of Michelangelo.
-- T.S. Eliot
4
At least Mr. Sensenbrenner is holding town hall meetings. My congressman, perhaps sensing the pushback, hasn't scheduled one next week, and when I telephoned his office today, I was told that he doesn't plan to hold one. So much for political courage.
24
Ockham, this might be a useful read.https://www.indivisibleguide.com/resources-2/2017/2/12/missing-members-o...
2
The most cowardly Congressman is surely Donovan of Staten Island, Republican.
Donovan's main claim to fame is that he was the DA who didn't indict Officer Daniel Pantaleo who put Eric Garner in a choke-hold, that killed him. -- that played real well on Staten Island.
Donovan has never had town hall meetings. He refuses to meet with ordinary constituents, doing so only by phone -- this has been true since he took office.
Donovan's main claim to fame is that he was the DA who didn't indict Officer Daniel Pantaleo who put Eric Garner in a choke-hold, that killed him. -- that played real well on Staten Island.
Donovan has never had town hall meetings. He refuses to meet with ordinary constituents, doing so only by phone -- this has been true since he took office.
8
Ours is hiding behind a "telephone town hall" and people have to sign up.
Coward is the correct word.
Coward is the correct word.
7
Of course they haven't thought about anything to replace the ACA , it's republican at it's best .
They are not in DC to govern, they are in the business of maintaining the status quo and make sure their wealthy friends keep getting richer elections after elections.
The ACA isn't part of their DNA , allowing people to afford health insurance outside of regular employment shouldn't be allowed.
One of the best blackmail corporations have on employees, staying with the company or have no health insurance, should never be permitted per GOP dogma
They are not in DC to govern, they are in the business of maintaining the status quo and make sure their wealthy friends keep getting richer elections after elections.
The ACA isn't part of their DNA , allowing people to afford health insurance outside of regular employment shouldn't be allowed.
One of the best blackmail corporations have on employees, staying with the company or have no health insurance, should never be permitted per GOP dogma
19
When Mr. Sensenbrenner offers his constituents "a reassurance that some popular aspects of the health care law would remain" he makes a case for its amendment rather than its repeal. By focusing on a repeal of the ACA as a preferred course of action, he and his fellow republicans show all of us that they are more invested in politics than the health of millions of Americans.
16
This is not going to "flame out." People don't just forget about losing their healthcare.
28
Didn't America put a man on the moon in less time than it's taking Republicans to replace a plan whose structure is already in place?
22
I don't think the GOP really wanted to replace the ACA but the town hall protestors have backed them into a corner and now they have to put together a plan that lowers costs and provides similar coverage for everyone currently signed up with ACA. I can't wait to see this circus in action!
18
Obama closed the Gitmo prison in less time. Oh, wait...
Little to say because it was part of the republicans scorched earth, oppose Obama on everything plan. There was absolutely no substance to any of it. Let's not characterize that as completely racist, that would be unfair, wouldn't it. Now that the republicans have revealed themselves to be empty of any guiding plan or procedure, their election is nothing but a hold on power. And into that vacuum they inject fear of muslim and mexican immigrants, death panels are being mentioned again, and reproductive freedom is being touted as murder, much more loudly. Reason and intelligence must prevail in 2018.
13
If Congress repeals the Afordable Care Act can they be categorized as a death panel?
I think so as they are in the process of making it easier for people disabled by mental illness to buy guns.
It's ok because I don't believe in doctors and I never leave the house. I watch TV and shop by internet. I like shopping and watching TV. Mass shootings are a horror. I feel sad for the victims and their families but it's on TV. So I watch.
I think so as they are in the process of making it easier for people disabled by mental illness to buy guns.
It's ok because I don't believe in doctors and I never leave the house. I watch TV and shop by internet. I like shopping and watching TV. Mass shootings are a horror. I feel sad for the victims and their families but it's on TV. So I watch.
4
Why is it unreasonable to ask for the specifics for TrumpCare? Why aren't the answers readily available if a plan exists? Mr Trump has promised universal coverage ("healthcare for everybody"), with lower deductibles, and much lower premiums. Ok, sure. Show us the plan's specifics, please.
28
Do you actually believe they have a plan?
At least that's more honest than Pelosi's "we have to pass it to know what's in it". I'm disgusted that every single American is now enslaved to the insurance companies.
4
Corporations rule. The medical industrial complex is first. Big oi follows and the military industrial complex is up there. Smaller entities include the education industry and the private prison people.
But it's ok because the people are not capable of self rule. So let the elite lead the way. Let's pretend we are rebelling by electing a Trump.
But it's ok because the people are not capable of self rule. So let the elite lead the way. Let's pretend we are rebelling by electing a Trump.
4
For the nth time let me say that the ACA was available for Congress to read before it was passed. A Tea Party friend of mine found it on the internet and we read some of it. The Republicans refused to read the bill just like they refused to read other Democrat bills. The say truth is that our representatives in Congress are too lazy to read most bills. They vote the party line without having an intelligent discussion.
19
We always have been.
3
Yes, there are "always winners and losers." Mr. Sensenbrenner's voting record suggests the winners should always be insurance companies and the losers always subscribers and patients.
30
Not surprised at all. Just by the poor analogy Mr. Sensenbrenner makes with his "30,000 piece puzzle" you can tell he is devoid of logic and unintelligent. And this is who we choose to run the United States of America.
13
So, is America great again, yet?
34
If congress wants to forgo their government issue insurance while this is going on, fine. Otherwise, what a bunch of hypocrites. Why shouldn't they have what they want to offer the public ?
24
Welcome to governance, GOP! Not as easy, nor nearly as much fun, as bellowing your outrage and opposing everything.
In my opinion, the modern Republican Party, even before the election of Clueless Leader, has done more to destroy the United States of America than any outside terrorist organization ever could. We once had the strongest middle class in world history and a public education system that pretty much worked.
The middle class, anchored at one time by a strongly unionized work force, has been worn down by the GOP's relentless assaults. Our public education system has been woefully underfunded for decades, and privatization is the GOP order of the day for virtually everything.
But it's possible that the damage done by this Confederacy of Dunces will finally be reversed in the next two to four years as it becomes painfully obvious that this collection of government-haters can't actually govern.
Enjoy the ride, guys. Your apocalypse can't come fast enough.
In my opinion, the modern Republican Party, even before the election of Clueless Leader, has done more to destroy the United States of America than any outside terrorist organization ever could. We once had the strongest middle class in world history and a public education system that pretty much worked.
The middle class, anchored at one time by a strongly unionized work force, has been worn down by the GOP's relentless assaults. Our public education system has been woefully underfunded for decades, and privatization is the GOP order of the day for virtually everything.
But it's possible that the damage done by this Confederacy of Dunces will finally be reversed in the next two to four years as it becomes painfully obvious that this collection of government-haters can't actually govern.
Enjoy the ride, guys. Your apocalypse can't come fast enough.
49
Most Republicans are disgusting! They have had 8 years (same amount of time as President Obama's staff) to come up with a credible health care plan and have been UNABLE to do it. They know they cannot deliver a plan as good as the ACA so they PRETEND they have one in the works. They could turn health care back to private business, the insurance companies. Republicans seem to want the rich to become richer and to let ordinary citizens, young and old, wonder how they will pay for their health care should they get a million dollar illness such as heart disease, leukemia, breast cancer, etc.
21
Never have the Republicans from the opening conversations with former President Obama during formulation of the health care plan, through approval of the plan, and the continuous obstructionist attacks on the approved plan for the duration of President Obama's Administration were there ever any constructive recommendations offered instead. To date none has been offered or even hinted at. Why are we not surprised? Trump promised a very, very good plan as soon as his Health Secretary is confirmed. Well, where is the plan?
12
People People - didn't you listen to Donald Trump say to chill? Here's what my Central Texas Rep. John Carter affirms - all is under control:
"Help is on the way. Congressional Republicans are working to create a 21st century health care system that allows Texans access to affordable, cutting-edge health care. Our plan puts patients back in charge instead of government bureaucrats. It ensures you’ll have the freedom and the flexibility to choose the care that’s best for you.
Our plan protects the most vulnerable, while ensuring every American has financial support to buy the coverage of their choice. It will lower costs by ending expensive mandates and getting rid of over $1 trillion in taxes on health care. We’ll provide patients with access to financial assistance to choose a plan that fits their needs, as well as more pooling mechanisms, coverage options, and access to wellness programs by getting Washington out of the way."
See, there's no need to worry. Congress and President Trump have it all figured out!
"Help is on the way. Congressional Republicans are working to create a 21st century health care system that allows Texans access to affordable, cutting-edge health care. Our plan puts patients back in charge instead of government bureaucrats. It ensures you’ll have the freedom and the flexibility to choose the care that’s best for you.
Our plan protects the most vulnerable, while ensuring every American has financial support to buy the coverage of their choice. It will lower costs by ending expensive mandates and getting rid of over $1 trillion in taxes on health care. We’ll provide patients with access to financial assistance to choose a plan that fits their needs, as well as more pooling mechanisms, coverage options, and access to wellness programs by getting Washington out of the way."
See, there's no need to worry. Congress and President Trump have it all figured out!
7
The sad thing is I think you might actually believe them.
5
Not a chance!
4
My rep said "Oh it will be something better". Well, what? You know, "something better".
Trump said "It will be seamless". So far, seamless lying is what is happening.
"Let them eat lies"
Trump said "It will be seamless". So far, seamless lying is what is happening.
"Let them eat lies"
7
The Republicans don't have a clue about addressing the delivery of healthcare in the United States. We have by far the highest costs per person and the highest percentage of uncovered people of all the industrialized countries. Yet, never once have I heard a member of Congress say "We should look at other industrialized nations to see if what they are doing would work for us."
Unfortunately, their love of contributions from the health insurance industry and the Koch brothers beats out serving their constituents.
Unfortunately, their love of contributions from the health insurance industry and the Koch brothers beats out serving their constituents.
21
Actually they do have a clue: they want all ordinary people to die cheaply.
9
And quietly. And soon. Ideally before the midterms.
" Yet, never once have I heard a member of Congress say "We should look at other industrialized nations to see if what they are doing would work for us." "
I remember several, actually, including my then-representative Dennis Kucinich. But more famously, there was that Bernie guy last year.
I remember several, actually, including my then-representative Dennis Kucinich. But more famously, there was that Bernie guy last year.
Can we please keep pointing out, there was no purpose to the"repeal" beyond injuring President Obama. No conservative values, no financial reasons, nothing but denying any win at all to a Black President. of course they have no replacement. These emperors are naked.
51
Jane,
Our entire populace got sold into slavery to the insurance companies. Repeal is better than our current condition.
Our entire populace got sold into slavery to the insurance companies. Repeal is better than our current condition.
2
A Repeal guarantees we will remain the slaves of the Insurance companies with fewer protections.
4
While I agree that the ACA is mainly insurance reform, not health care reform, the Republicans no more have a real health care reform plan as a replacement for the ACA than any other kind of replacement.
3
The bigger question is when do we stop calling it "town hall style meetings" and just call it a meeting?
2
Sensenbrenner has been pulling the wool over his constituents eyes for so long it's astounding some of them seem to have woken up to the fact they're being played for the fools they are.
What did you Trumpians think was going to happen when Republicans promised on Day One to repeal (and replace, sort of) the increasingly more popular ObamaCares?
Republicans repealed ObamaCares 60 times and the only reason they did was to taunt President Obama, who with each passing day is finally winning the respect that was long overdue. Republicans knew President Obama would veto their ruling so they kept sticking it to him.
Now the shoe is on the other foot and the people can see both value that ObamaCares has and that repealing it in actuality would be a disaster. Now the Republicans are hemming and hawing. They've been ready to repeal but had no intention of replacing. They were ready to leave the public holding the bag.
So Republicans are now in a sticky wicket. Repeal has become Repair. Not on Day One not this year probably not next year when all these idiotic Republicans are up for re-election.
My oh my, how I wish I could see the smile right now on Hillary's face as she watches the latest news come across the transom.
DD
Manhattan
What did you Trumpians think was going to happen when Republicans promised on Day One to repeal (and replace, sort of) the increasingly more popular ObamaCares?
Republicans repealed ObamaCares 60 times and the only reason they did was to taunt President Obama, who with each passing day is finally winning the respect that was long overdue. Republicans knew President Obama would veto their ruling so they kept sticking it to him.
Now the shoe is on the other foot and the people can see both value that ObamaCares has and that repealing it in actuality would be a disaster. Now the Republicans are hemming and hawing. They've been ready to repeal but had no intention of replacing. They were ready to leave the public holding the bag.
So Republicans are now in a sticky wicket. Repeal has become Repair. Not on Day One not this year probably not next year when all these idiotic Republicans are up for re-election.
My oh my, how I wish I could see the smile right now on Hillary's face as she watches the latest news come across the transom.
DD
Manhattan
30
Beware what they are promising. If they want to keep the promise regarding people with pre-existing conditions, they will either have to mandate participation (i.e., ACA) or have very expensive plans. That is the only way to cover costs if you don't have enough healthy people to offset the costs of the sick.
32
It's appalling to hear them keep saying that they won. So? If they "worked " so hard to win an election but don't have an idea how to serve their constituents, one must ask why these republicans run for office? Can they give us losers an answer on that question?
28
I find it appalling, too, if that's any consolation. I think they think we don't "get it" (that they won) so they have to keep telling us about it. The other thing I think it means is shut the ---- up because we won and that means we don't have to listen to you anymore.
5
Mr. Sensenbrenner won comfortably in his gerrymandered district; put together by the GOP acting on its own in Madison in the dead of night. That map has been declared an illegal gerrymander by a federal judge. It's one more example of outrageous conduct by the party in power -- now showing itself to be devoid of humanity and principals. The promise was to repeal and replace DAY1. So when, Mr. Congressman, does DAY1 come?
57
He doesn't think he represents anyone who didn't vote for him and he doesn't care that gerrymandering is probably a large contributor to his win. Worst possible kind of person to be a representative.
37
The reason Republicans have little to say about healthcare reform is because they do not want to real their plans which are still under development. They are in the developmental phase of significant reform. I recommend that the nation just sit tight while the Republics come up with a plan. We are in an administration, unlike past administrations, that does not reveal its hand until its ready to lay it all on the table. That will take some getting used to, but once the nation accepts it, things will run like like clockwork. Be patient, America, the best is yet to come. Thank you.
1
Trump said he had a great plan ready which would cover everybody. He promised an immediate repeal and replace. That isn't happening. But I guess it doesn't matter, because they have a super secret plan which is going to be tremendous and amaze us all. They just can't tell us about it because they haven't thought of it yet.
Is that about right?
Is that about right?
12
What nonsense. Reagan equated Medicare with slavery in the 60's. You have no plan. High risk pools, pare back coverage,rationing, sell insurance across state lines, vouchers, health savings accounts. The same junk decade after decade.
7
Oh yes trump also said he had a secret plan to beat isis- and who is going to pay for that wall? P.T. Barnum was right.
12
I have ACA and am a liberal Democrat and voted for Hillary
Elections have consequences. The majority of white folks and in particular the 52% of white women who collectively elected Trump got all of us what they were sold
Trump was completely honest on what he would do - although not on how he would fix things
He said he would end ACA. And now folks are asking questions? Really?
It's a little late to suddenly realize he was literal.
Elections have consequences. The majority of white folks and in particular the 52% of white women who collectively elected Trump got all of us what they were sold
Trump was completely honest on what he would do - although not on how he would fix things
He said he would end ACA. And now folks are asking questions? Really?
It's a little late to suddenly realize he was literal.
21
Literal no, literally insane.
9
I've been saying this to everyone I've heard complain. If you voted for Trump, or didn't vote, just shut up. You got what you asked for, so you can suffer like the rest of us.
And part of the Trump voter sticker shock is that many just learned that "Obamacare" and the ACA are the same thing.
And part of the Trump voter sticker shock is that many just learned that "Obamacare" and the ACA are the same thing.
Mr. Sensenbrenner bang your gavel and some people may calm down for now, but it won’t last. The shouting will grow louder and more impertinent. You may not be able to control Donald’s mouth (he can’t even control it) but you can rise up and denounce him in Congress and oppose his mean-spirited actions. You can no longer be evasive in your answers. Americans are weary of the rigged system lavishing favors on corporations and the wealthy. How else could a coarse man like Donald be elected President? Now they are beginning to see they’ve been had again.
Access to affordable health care is every bit an unalienable right of all Americans. Otherwise they are denied their birthrights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
You say that when laws change there are always “winners and losers. “ I think working class Americans are fed up with being called losers by selfish, arrogant people like you.
“Come senators, congressmen
Please heed the call
Don't stand in the doorway
Don't block up the hall
For he that gets hurt
Will be he who has stalled
There's a battle outside
And it is ragin'
It'll soon shake your windows
And rattle your walls
For the times they are a-changin'.”
--- Bob Dylan, The Times They Are A-Changin
Access to affordable health care is every bit an unalienable right of all Americans. Otherwise they are denied their birthrights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
You say that when laws change there are always “winners and losers. “ I think working class Americans are fed up with being called losers by selfish, arrogant people like you.
“Come senators, congressmen
Please heed the call
Don't stand in the doorway
Don't block up the hall
For he that gets hurt
Will be he who has stalled
There's a battle outside
And it is ragin'
It'll soon shake your windows
And rattle your walls
For the times they are a-changin'.”
--- Bob Dylan, The Times They Are A-Changin
23
Here supports trump and yet he wants people to be civil?
19
The guy banging his gavel and insisting his rules of civility be adhered to is one of the same jokers who eight years ago was egging on the nascent Tea Party while they were disrupting Town Halls across the nation during the ACA debates. I believe the Republican line then was "The people are just exercising their right to speak their minds."
Congressman, you brought it home now you feed it and clean up after it. You'll have no sympathy from me if it turns around and bites you.
Congressman, you brought it home now you feed it and clean up after it. You'll have no sympathy from me if it turns around and bites you.
67
The Republican party is firmly planted on the horns of a dilemma of its own devise. For years it has railed against 'Obamacare,' known in more civil and polite circles as the Affordable Care Act; and it riled up its 'base' in opposition to the Act, which it called 'a disaster.'
Unfortunately, the Republicans are now in power and have a tiger by the tail, because a good part of that same riled up base depends heavily on the ACA - and many of the 'poorly educated' they profess to care about are just now figuring out the reviled 'Obamacare' and the ACA are the same darned thing. I mean, who knew?
The Republicans who console themselves that the angry opposition to repeal they now face consists of left leaning extremists and paid 'outside agitators' are living in a world of delusion. They made promises they never intended to keep and are wholly unprepared to keep. They will now pay the price for disappointing the millions of not so well informed followers who believed life would be a bed of roses, if only Trump were in the White House, the borders were sealed, and 'Obamacare' were immediately repealed. Instead they will find themselves without health insurance or access to care, with no one to tend and pick the fruit and vegetables they expect to see at the grocery store year-round, and not one bit more 'safe and secure' than before.
All of us are in for a 'wake up and smell the coffee' moment now that the Trumpistas are in the saddle. Burned, bitter, day old coffee.
Unfortunately, the Republicans are now in power and have a tiger by the tail, because a good part of that same riled up base depends heavily on the ACA - and many of the 'poorly educated' they profess to care about are just now figuring out the reviled 'Obamacare' and the ACA are the same darned thing. I mean, who knew?
The Republicans who console themselves that the angry opposition to repeal they now face consists of left leaning extremists and paid 'outside agitators' are living in a world of delusion. They made promises they never intended to keep and are wholly unprepared to keep. They will now pay the price for disappointing the millions of not so well informed followers who believed life would be a bed of roses, if only Trump were in the White House, the borders were sealed, and 'Obamacare' were immediately repealed. Instead they will find themselves without health insurance or access to care, with no one to tend and pick the fruit and vegetables they expect to see at the grocery store year-round, and not one bit more 'safe and secure' than before.
All of us are in for a 'wake up and smell the coffee' moment now that the Trumpistas are in the saddle. Burned, bitter, day old coffee.
18
Everyone needs insurance, including Republicans and Democrats alike.
5
keep repeating the lie that insurance is healthcare. Pelosi sold you like a sack of potatoes, and you're proud of it.
Everyone needs healthcare, too. I'd be happy to repeal insurance and replace it with direct healthcare. I don't see that happening any time soon and would like to keep my insurance in the meantime.
@John: How do you get your healthcare?
@John: How do you get your healthcare?
The dog that caught the bus.
Makes one reflect on McConnell's whole strategy of obstruction doesn't it?
Makes one reflect on McConnell's whole strategy of obstruction doesn't it?
16
Could we have a new President and Administration soon?
20
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is here right now.
I vote we ask him to be our Foster President until we can elect one of our own.
We can pay him the salary Trump refused as incentive.
How's that grab ya?
I vote we ask him to be our Foster President until we can elect one of our own.
We can pay him the salary Trump refused as incentive.
How's that grab ya?
15
A+1 Okay and a bit of the right stuff.
2
Yes another Republican, Mr. Sensenbrenner, utters yet another worn, lame Republican talking point when he says "organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election." He omitted these other tired ones: "sore-loser" and "paid protesters".
I've news for you...we're just getting started and we will PERSIST!
I've news for you...we're just getting started and we will PERSIST!
37
Mr. Sensenbrenner - Time to get some sense. Do the math: Medicare for all - it's the cheapest option, and covers everyone. So please support it, require price negotiation with Big Pharma, and say bye-bye to the health "insurance" industry.
16
If the Republicans had any sense, they would simply vote in a single payer system. It is a no-brainer. It would get them out of this corner.
That would be popular, off the shelf, with Canada next being helpful in the implementation.
It would provide a long term political victory and would declaw a Democratic Party which is often fractious, with too many constituencies to mold into a party. It would also deflate health care costs and solve many of the problems of big business. It would co-opt the Democrats.
That is what the Progressive Conservatives did under Prime Minister Diefenbaker in Canada. It worked for Canada.
That would be popular, off the shelf, with Canada next being helpful in the implementation.
It would provide a long term political victory and would declaw a Democratic Party which is often fractious, with too many constituencies to mold into a party. It would also deflate health care costs and solve many of the problems of big business. It would co-opt the Democrats.
That is what the Progressive Conservatives did under Prime Minister Diefenbaker in Canada. It worked for Canada.
12
It really is baffling to me how the GOP can try to sell the dismantling of health insurance to nearly 30 million Americans as a good thing. It's as though they don't even realize that their policies represent real people with real problems paying for health insurance.
22
More baffling that their supporters buy it. They should try rational thought. And get that copy of 1984 before the election not after.
6
I am a constituent of Congressman Sensenbrenner. He was missing in action all through the primaries even as Paul Ryan and Scott Walker jumped on the "never Trump" bandwagon for a couple of weeks before the Wisconsin Primary. I have yet to hear him challenge Trump on his behavior or statements, nor have I witnessed him openly oppose a Trump "policy"; not even the $21.3 billion wall. He is the perfect representation of the majority of Republicans in the Senate and House who will only speak out against Trump once their base reaches the tipping point and abandon Trump for the danger he poses to our Country. That will be too late For those Reps and Senators, whose job is protect the Constitution and provide leadership.
29
I hope you are calling him often since you are his base. I.e. Constituent
A person would be hard-pressed to come up with anything worse for the health of our nation than the Republican Party.
28
Republicans need to fix the Affordable Care Act because taking away health care insurance from millions of people will be a disaster, ethically and politically. Simple as that. Heck, why not more closer to Medicare-for-all? No matter, there had better be a proper fix if Republicans want to stay in office. Voters want health care insurance.
10
Mr. Sensenbrenner "banged his gavel and insisted that his rules for civility be obeyed."
There's NO reason to be civil to this man or to any Republican. They're all despicable. It's long past time that he and the rest of his destructive, self-serving GOPers started working for our interests rather than the wealthy, and stopped supporting lying, horrifying Trump.
There's NO reason to be civil to this man or to any Republican. They're all despicable. It's long past time that he and the rest of his destructive, self-serving GOPers started working for our interests rather than the wealthy, and stopped supporting lying, horrifying Trump.
41
The Republicans are doing now what the Democrats should have done in 2009. Instead of "we have to vote for it to find out what's in it", they will spend as much time as necessary to provide something better.
What's wrong with that ?
What's wrong with that ?
Right. And there's a bridge I'd like to sell you.
7
They've had years already and it was basically a Republican plan to begin with! Now the Republicans in Congress are too busy running from their constituents to get any work done. Instead of listening to the people they represent they flee! It's these Republicans in Congress who need to be repealed and replaced. Face it, they don't have a clue and they wouldn't know "better" if the voters spelled it out for them.
9
They had 8 years already.
11
"Mr. Sensenbrenner, in an interview, attributed the turnout at his gatherings to 'organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.'"
Mr. Sensenbrenner hopes that is the case. The reality is more likely that Republican politicians have been lying to their supporters for decades, but they have finally come across a lie they can't deny. They told everyone that the ACA was horrible when it wasn't. They made up stories of people's lives turned upside down by the ACA. They called it "Obamacare" with a particular sneering emphasis on "Obama", that AfricanMuslimCommunist who was stealing the health care of hard working Americans and giving it to "those people", how dare he?!?! Republicans told their constituents lie after lie while accusing Democrats of all manner of sin. Now, reality has shown up. People actually have insurance and the Republicans are going to take it away. The people are angry. Paul Krugman predicted this. He pointed out that most of the people who would lose their insurance voted for Trump and other Republicans, not realizing how many lies they had been told. Now they see and Republicans are in trouble.
Mr. Sensenbrenner hopes that is the case. The reality is more likely that Republican politicians have been lying to their supporters for decades, but they have finally come across a lie they can't deny. They told everyone that the ACA was horrible when it wasn't. They made up stories of people's lives turned upside down by the ACA. They called it "Obamacare" with a particular sneering emphasis on "Obama", that AfricanMuslimCommunist who was stealing the health care of hard working Americans and giving it to "those people", how dare he?!?! Republicans told their constituents lie after lie while accusing Democrats of all manner of sin. Now, reality has shown up. People actually have insurance and the Republicans are going to take it away. The people are angry. Paul Krugman predicted this. He pointed out that most of the people who would lose their insurance voted for Trump and other Republicans, not realizing how many lies they had been told. Now they see and Republicans are in trouble.
44
"organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election." What he and others in the GOP fail to comprehend is that those people are Americans no matter which party and as a public servant, they too are entitled to be protected by him and his "winning" party.
24
""The congressman, who prides himself on his prolific schedule of town-hall-style meetings, banged his gavel and insisted that his rules for civility be obeyed"". Who works for who? His rules, give me a break. I do not care if it is Rep or Dem, you work for the people that elected you , and they have the gavel, not "your rules". That comment makes me so angry. Sounds like my mom saying " You want something to cry about ? I'll give you something to cru about".
18
The folks who voted for these Republicans had eight long years to find out exactly what the alternative to the ACA was to be. They weren't wondering and perhaps a little concerned? Goodness, even sheep are smarter than that.
38
Can I get an amen Jeff
6
After destroying Americans healthcare he may need to find another job. Trump promised healthcare for all. Great healthcare. The GOP's talking points are the opposite.
10
As the gullible are learning, Trump can say anything, because he's not the ones who have to do something about it.
And when he doesn't deliver, he has Congress as a scapegoat.
And when he doesn't deliver, he has Congress as a scapegoat.
“I won by 146,000 votes,” he said in the interview. “I represent the majority."....No, you represent everyone in your gerrymandered district without regard to how they voted. And I suppose it would be too much to ask for you to put the good of your country ahead of party loyalty.
34
The GOP has never had much to say about this except a bumper sticker remark. Now they have to produce. It will be a disaster.
10
They had six years to come up with a viable option. It's probably too late to try "The dog ate my homework."
18
Dole care, Romney care, American Enterprise Institute care that is OB care is their plan.
2
It should be clear to anyone that Trump will try to wreck Obamacare by the removal of the tax penalty. Then those who have no employer health care will not be insured and try to get by with Emergency Room treatment or try to treat themselves. Then the rates will rise and the HMOs will insure a smaller group. Then the GOPers will trumpet that Obamacare has failed. In short, Americans, don't get sick, old or poor with this crowd of crooks in power.
10
The Republicans will have a Replacement Scheme worked-up real quick. They've been working on on e for six and a half years.
The irony of the whole thing is that Health Care for All has been a GOP plan, going back to President Richard Nixon's 1972 Letter to Congress, which recommended it. Bob Dole's 2008 book, and Mitt Romney signing the Mass version into law.
The basic Plan had been formulated and incubated at the Ultra-Conservative Foundation. It included the Universal Mandate and required policy acceptance, without denial for "Pre-Existing Conditions".
Has the GOP gone even further to the "Right" than the Heritage Foundation?
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
The irony of the whole thing is that Health Care for All has been a GOP plan, going back to President Richard Nixon's 1972 Letter to Congress, which recommended it. Bob Dole's 2008 book, and Mitt Romney signing the Mass version into law.
The basic Plan had been formulated and incubated at the Ultra-Conservative Foundation. It included the Universal Mandate and required policy acceptance, without denial for "Pre-Existing Conditions".
Has the GOP gone even further to the "Right" than the Heritage Foundation?
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
8
Congress and the president should have to subscribe to same insurance plan as the rest of us. Maybe then we will get a fair shake.
14
They should have to buy on the open market. With their many pre-existing conditions (obesity, alcoholism, brain damage) good luck!
13
The Republicans have proven that they don't have any interest in the health care of the American people. They have only an interest in maintaining power. They took every opportunity to sabotage ACA with no concern for the consequences. Now that they have sole responsibility, they either have to admit their subterfuge and build upon ACA, or risk losing their grip on power brought on by market failures.
9
I live in Mr. Sensenbrenner’s district and am appalled that he would so thoroughly dismiss his constituents.
You see, I attempted to attend Mr. Sensenbrenner’s town hall meeting in Elm Grove, WI and know, for a fact, I am not a part of any “organized” opposition party. But how would Sensenbrenner know this? He was not outside meeting his constituents standing in line. There was no survey. Every single person I met while standing in line came because they cared deeply about democracy and the democratic process. Some came by themselves. Some with a spouse, a partner, or a friend. Some of us were republicans; some of us were not. The majority of people were not carrying signs. For many, including myself, it was the first time attending a town hall meeting. I am a father, a husband, a business person, and a tax payer. My child attends a public elementary school in Mr. Sensenbrenner’s district. People in his district, no matter their “party”, care about the ACA — and a whole host of other “people first” issues. His rhetoric is divisive. It’s clear that he’s the one who has party lines in mind — not his constituents. And by the way, after standing in line for nearly an hour, I never got past the door. The venue was too small to be inclusive.
You see, I attempted to attend Mr. Sensenbrenner’s town hall meeting in Elm Grove, WI and know, for a fact, I am not a part of any “organized” opposition party. But how would Sensenbrenner know this? He was not outside meeting his constituents standing in line. There was no survey. Every single person I met while standing in line came because they cared deeply about democracy and the democratic process. Some came by themselves. Some with a spouse, a partner, or a friend. Some of us were republicans; some of us were not. The majority of people were not carrying signs. For many, including myself, it was the first time attending a town hall meeting. I am a father, a husband, a business person, and a tax payer. My child attends a public elementary school in Mr. Sensenbrenner’s district. People in his district, no matter their “party”, care about the ACA — and a whole host of other “people first” issues. His rhetoric is divisive. It’s clear that he’s the one who has party lines in mind — not his constituents. And by the way, after standing in line for nearly an hour, I never got past the door. The venue was too small to be inclusive.
80
The Republicans think they can preserve the parts of the ACA they are scared to repeal and get rid of the rest. It can't be done. To quote FDR from his 1936 election campaign:
***Let me warn you, and let me warn the nation, against the smooth evasion that says: "Of course we believe these things. We believe in social security. We believe in work for the unemployed. We believe in saving homes. Cross our hearts and hope to die! We believe in all these things. But we do not like the way that the present administration is doing them. Just turn them over to us. We will do all of them, we will do more of them, we will do them better and, most important of all, the doing of them will not cost anybody anything!"***
No further comment needed.
***Let me warn you, and let me warn the nation, against the smooth evasion that says: "Of course we believe these things. We believe in social security. We believe in work for the unemployed. We believe in saving homes. Cross our hearts and hope to die! We believe in all these things. But we do not like the way that the present administration is doing them. Just turn them over to us. We will do all of them, we will do more of them, we will do them better and, most important of all, the doing of them will not cost anybody anything!"***
No further comment needed.
21
The Republicans have never intended to replace the ACA with something better. Unless, you consider getting less health coverage while paying more to be a good thing. What they are going to, and have planned to do from the beginning, is to hand the healthcare market over to the Industrial Pharma / Health Insurance complex on a silver platter, so that they can improve investor returns and increase the stock value by increasing premiums and deductibles while at the same time covering less. Think of how big a Big-Mac used to be way back when compared to how big it isn't now, even though you are paying more for it. Sure we'll all have more choice, that is, we'll all get to choose exactly which illnesses or chronic conditions we can't afford to treat.
7
If Republicans repeal the ACA then they will own the repeal. If they replace it then they will own the replacement. But it would be nice if the whole of Congress could work together to define a replacement and everyone could own it. The health of Americans doesn't have to be--and should not be--a political football.
6
Where were you in 2008 and 2010 Stan? Not one Republican vote for ACA even though it was proposed by Dole and implemented by Romney. And Republicans have been trying to destroy it since 2010.
The Republicans are the problem. Vote straight Democratic every two years.
The Republicans are the problem. Vote straight Democratic every two years.
6
@smoyano Sorry, I was here then and saw all of that. I agree that Republicans are the problem. I don't expect them to change. I generally vote Democratic (except when I vote Working Families).
I got a little wistful there and was just thinking about how, in much of the civilized world, universal healthcare is pretty much universally agreed on.
In this country, though, I think that if Republicans break healthcare then they should be made to pay for it.
I got a little wistful there and was just thinking about how, in much of the civilized world, universal healthcare is pretty much universally agreed on.
In this country, though, I think that if Republicans break healthcare then they should be made to pay for it.
Mr. Sensenbrenner: A Mr. A. Lincoln once said: "You can fool some of the people all of the time, and you can fool all of the people some of the time, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time "
21
I am still not sure why this should come as any surprise. For the sole benefit of the healthcare industry, the Republicans plan to turn the system back to them in full and they will NEVER bring forth an alternative to the ACA because they don't have to. For the first time in decades the Republicans control all three facets of government so these town hall meetings are really nothing more than making the representative "look like" he is paying attention and is sympathetic to some of the constituents who are worried about what is going to happen with their healthcare coverage going forward. It is strictly lip service, nothing more.
As all the other western industrialized democracies determined decades ago, it takes significant political will to make the changes for the better. For 60 years now, the powerful healthcare lobbyists in Washington have stifled any opportunity for that to happen and if anything, it now looks like it is moving further and further away from that goal.
I think it would be reasonable to state that 60 years from now America will still be embroiled in these same discussions with probably little or no resolution.
As all the other western industrialized democracies determined decades ago, it takes significant political will to make the changes for the better. For 60 years now, the powerful healthcare lobbyists in Washington have stifled any opportunity for that to happen and if anything, it now looks like it is moving further and further away from that goal.
I think it would be reasonable to state that 60 years from now America will still be embroiled in these same discussions with probably little or no resolution.
13
The people who provide healthcare want to provide care. You speak about the parasites who leach on the system.
1
Democrats should not interfere with, delay, or obstruct the Republicans, lest they be blamed for the GOP's failures. Now that Republicans control both the Executive and Legislative branches of government, whatever Republicans do, they own it. The Democrats should focus on having well thought out plans for picking up the pieces and putting the country back together again once an angry and frustrated electorate votes the GOP out.
9
The Republicans have had a replacement for Obamacare for a number of years and they seem to articulate it every time citizens ask them legitimate questions about health care for all. It's called Idon'tcare.
46
Can't help but think that the reason for the large margin by which Mr Sensenbrenner won his seat, had much to do with the lies he told about the ACA and the lie he told about having a replacement.
10
The reason for the large margin is called Gerrymandering in Wisconsin.
11
Of course they have no plan! The plan was to take people's healthcare away, cover less, and/or charge more. But they thought no one would be paying attention. They were wrong.
18
The GOP has had no plans for eight years other than, "Whatever it is, we're against it." Why is anyone surprised that all their hot air about "repeal and replace" is a fraud? Repeal Theater, when you know there will be a veto, is very different from repeal policy, which hurts constituents in every congressional district in the country. The GOP's problem with the ACA is the same as their problem with Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid: These are sprawling programs administered by the government that, heaven help us, actually work, and that voters actually want. That's the cat they hate to see get out of the bag.
25
My fellow Wisconsinites who have repeatedly returned Sensenbrenner and his ilk into office, who now face losing health insurance coverage that the dreaded President Obama made possible, are just now waking up and realizing that in voting for Trump and Sensenbrenner, they have cut off their noses to spite their own faces.
My fellow Wisconsinites, when will you learn - Jim Sensenbrenner doesn't care about you; he never has; never will. Same goes for the president you elected, your Anti-Hillary candidate. We would not be in this predicament had Hillary Clinton been elected.
My fellow Wisconsinites, when will you learn - Jim Sensenbrenner doesn't care about you; he never has; never will. Same goes for the president you elected, your Anti-Hillary candidate. We would not be in this predicament had Hillary Clinton been elected.
54
President Obama and a Democratic congress took well over a year to pass the ACA. Trump has been President with a Republican majority for under a month. The replacement for Obamacare must be an improvement so there is every reason to take care. It would even be better to consult Democrats and have bi-partisan support but Democrats seem intent on opposing every appointment and policy to appease their base.
The GOP did not want a win for Obama so they now have nothing. They were willing for Americans to suffer. Most of the country does not support Trump or his odd picks for a cabinet- deliberate choices of unqualified people. No citizen is required to support the incompetent or perverse. So, No- I guess you own it.
9
@ alan Brown
Affordable Care Act is tax friendly to small business. Give me a good argument against it with facts (not fake). Readers and commenters will fact check you.
Affordable Care Act is tax friendly to small business. Give me a good argument against it with facts (not fake). Readers and commenters will fact check you.
4
Alan, why are you assuming the Republicans can only start work on their plan after the election? Wake up man.
7
Isn't Sensenbrenner up for reelection in 2018?
9
The truth is, and it was strikingly clear from the moment that President Obama was administered the Oath of Office in January 2009, that what the white obstructionist and hateful republican party objected to was not the policy, but the man--the Black man.
They were driven by such rage and contempt that President Obama had the “audacity” to occupy the premier Public Housing complex--the White House, that developing any kind of coherent health care policy was the farthest thing from their minds.
"Any upheaval in the universe is terrifying because it so profoundly attacks one's sense of one's own reality. Well, the black man has functioned in the white man's world as a fixed star, as an immovable pillar; and when he moves out of place, heaven and earth are shaken to their foundations." James Baldwin
They were driven by such rage and contempt that President Obama had the “audacity” to occupy the premier Public Housing complex--the White House, that developing any kind of coherent health care policy was the farthest thing from their minds.
"Any upheaval in the universe is terrifying because it so profoundly attacks one's sense of one's own reality. Well, the black man has functioned in the white man's world as a fixed star, as an immovable pillar; and when he moves out of place, heaven and earth are shaken to their foundations." James Baldwin
20
And now let's try plainspeak about Obamacare. Mitch McConnell. That's all you need to say. He couldn't wait to get his bigoted, petty, vindictive fingers on this one—biding his time all through the last 6 years of Obama's terms. Finally, the day comes and the Times publishes a photo of a beaming McConnell, gleefully strutting into the chamber to eat his cake with double frosting. Isn't vengeance grand?
18
Why is he still a senator in his state? Is its residents that stupid or ever loyal to him despite their economic woes? They have to get out of that Kentucky bubble.
6
Let's face it. There are only two options: (1) government inefficiency or (2) crony capitalism. Of course GOP does not have a solution. US health care is a mess. How can anybody with consciousness say US has the best health care. All the interest groups are merely trying to game the system in order to make profits. I believe the real solution is to return health care to its root - helping patients but not making profit. It is sad!
7
Medicare is efficient JC.
3
The Republican party has never presented a viable option to the ACA. There is a deafening silence now, just as there was silence when President Obama begged those across the aisle for their ideas. It will be a while before we have another president who openly states that they are open to all ideas in solving a problem of this magnitude.
27
True believers know any questioning of a Republican elected official is paid for by those that question...
Spicer said so on some Saturday night press conference...
Spicer said so on some Saturday night press conference...
8
"Organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election.”
Better known as: The Majority.
Better known as: The Majority.
34
If Rep. Sensenbrenner truly believes that any ACA replacement has to include the prohibition on "pre-existing condition" clauses and lifetime coverage limits, then he and his fellow Republicans have just two options: (1) keep the ACA as it is, or (2) go to a single-payer system. The ACA is the result of a complicated bargain with the insurance companies: they accepted these two conditions along with the mandate for everybody to purchase insurance. The insurance companies will not allow Congress to pass any other plan, for the simple reason that it would put them out of business. Apparently, the Republicans (for all that they claim to be the party that understands business) do not understand this. Either that, or Rep. Sensenbrenner is lying to his constituents.
29
It's likely that a Republican-controlled Congress will try to shift the cost of healthcare back on to us, the users, by promoting insurance policies that raise premiums and deductibles with the offer of "choice", so that affordability becomes the responsibility of the individual.
5
Healthcare is a right not some kind of gift from politicians to the little people, Mr. Sensenbrenner. The GOP has danced around the ACA for years and has come up empty. What happens next?
I'm really tired of hearing that objections to the GOP morass over the ACE or, for that matter, objections to almost anything these days are being made by "sore losers". I'm also sick of hearing that demonstrators are "paid". What blarney! And I've really had it with elected officials sanctimoniously declaring that they are serving those who voted for them.
Politicians are supposed to represent the people, all of the people. That means that they need to listen to the genuine concerns of all of us. Good healthcare is right at the top.
I'm really tired of hearing that objections to the GOP morass over the ACE or, for that matter, objections to almost anything these days are being made by "sore losers". I'm also sick of hearing that demonstrators are "paid". What blarney! And I've really had it with elected officials sanctimoniously declaring that they are serving those who voted for them.
Politicians are supposed to represent the people, all of the people. That means that they need to listen to the genuine concerns of all of us. Good healthcare is right at the top.
22
For this charlatan, along with Mitch McConnell, it was never really about the ACA. It was about the black guy in the White House. I'm a caucasian in a predominately conservative area. Countless times over the last 8 years people have made comments around me, in public, in the gym locker room, at a funeral, about "the black president". Sometimes they used the N word, assuming that I believed what they did. If this was about the ACA, then Conservatives would have a plan to replace the ACA. They didn't then, they don't now, and the never will. It was, and still is, about racism, about baiting conservative whites against whatever the "black guy" did so they could get votes. Now they've race baited themselves into a corner, but I assure you they will find some way to blame it on Obama.
51
"I won by 146,000 votes" - this Congressional seat exists because of _all_ the people in the state (including non-citizens), as counted in the last census. If we only count the people who voted Republican, the state would have many fewer House members and presidential Electors.
3
It is becoming clear to me that, although they lost the election, in the deepest sense Obama and the Democrats have won on health care. The GOP can never take us back to how it was before the ACA. Whatever replacement for the ACA the GOP comes up with - and I have a feeling it won't differ greatly from Obamacare - it must prohibit exclusion for pre-existing conditions, and from that all the rest, including sanctions enforcing mandatory health insurance must inevitably follow.
12
exactly..the math says something as close to a single payer system is the right answer...when premiums explode, game over for Republicans....they played with fire..can't play poker when you ain't holding any cards..easy to bluff..our plan is sooooooooo much better...hard to deliver...
1
I kept my doctor with Obamacare. Will I be able to keep my doctor with Trumpcare?
12
One big reason that the Republicans want to repeal the ACA is that it taxes the rich at a higher rate. The Republican platform is about giving tax breaks to the rich and letting companies make as much money as possible. The latter is the reason that we are not seeing any Republican support for reducing drug prices (by allowing Medicare to negotiate prices and allowing Americans to purchase drugs in Canada.)
11
Unfortunately, an accurate assessment of the wonderfully thoughtful Ryan -McConnell machine.
7
Republicans had eight years to cook up something, anything to replace the ACA.
What they came up with was ridiculous: high-risk pools (at humongous cost) and block grants to states which would essentially eliminate Medicaid. This is disgusting and unacceptable. It would deny millions reasonable health care,
This shows clearly how ideologically driven the opposition to the ACA actually was. The Republicans did not do their homework--and indeed they could not come up with anything better that would protect their billionaire donors in the insurance industry.
The better system is of course Medicare for All or some other single-payer option with negotiating power with big Pharma.
But the GOP won't give up the hog trough provided by the Health Care and Insurance industry.
Oink Oink
The demonstrations against the Republican legislators we have been seeing in the few town halls they allow to go forward are absolutely heart felt and accurate. Can the Congress members feel the heat?
We will see.
What they came up with was ridiculous: high-risk pools (at humongous cost) and block grants to states which would essentially eliminate Medicaid. This is disgusting and unacceptable. It would deny millions reasonable health care,
This shows clearly how ideologically driven the opposition to the ACA actually was. The Republicans did not do their homework--and indeed they could not come up with anything better that would protect their billionaire donors in the insurance industry.
The better system is of course Medicare for All or some other single-payer option with negotiating power with big Pharma.
But the GOP won't give up the hog trough provided by the Health Care and Insurance industry.
Oink Oink
The demonstrations against the Republican legislators we have been seeing in the few town halls they allow to go forward are absolutely heart felt and accurate. Can the Congress members feel the heat?
We will see.
34
Sensenbrenner got a 30,000 piece jigsaw puzzle, but he's had seven years to put it together. What a pathetic excuse
13
I hear the White House's planned response is to tweet out, "As Lincoln once said, 'health care is most deserved by the people who will provide their own'". We're almost certain Lincoln said that. Anyway, try and stop us."
3
Where were these people when the ACA was signed into law and protestors hit the streets carrying signs that depicted the president as Hitler?
6
if anybody feels they have good ideas to contribute and want to actively participate in shaping the world around. I encourage you to join my Think Tank. you must download a app called Band, then search for Global Politics.
Consider this; Representative Sensenbrenner was the author of the Patriot act that instituted government military spying on all Americans but is working against health care for all. Get it?
It's all political power grabbing to the Republicans. They are opposed to the ACA just to win elections, two already and trying for a third in 2018, dragging their feet until election time to keep the public anger alive and voting for them.
It's all political power grabbing to the Republicans. They are opposed to the ACA just to win elections, two already and trying for a third in 2018, dragging their feet until election time to keep the public anger alive and voting for them.
9
Interesting, that Wisconsin Rep. Sensenbrenner finds it necessary to pound a gavel to keep his constituents in order. Silly of me to think that he is their employee, not they his subjects.
25
Unfortunately all these wailings about the Grand Oblivion Party lemmings doing their job in service of the American people are useless. The GOP is in total control and their only responsibility is to fatten their own wallets. Look at the cash-bidet appointees and approvals. DeVos will gut the public school system to feed charter school owners. Mnuchin will sack US finances like the Goths sacked Rome. Labor will really be in extended labor with Puzder. And Sessions will provide cover for every imaginable injustice against working and Americans of color. They will definitely make a lot of Americans sick and It all fits in the GOP concept of health care which is if you get sick, die quickly. It makes perverse but perfect sense.
8
One third of the voters do not know that Obamacare and the Affordable Care Act are one in the same. Encroyable.
16
One poll found that 1/3 of Americans do not know that we have 3 branches of Government. So far, it looks like including Trump. So yeah.
1
Republicans have little to say about anything. What else is new.
When Republicans had a truly great President Obama to kick around they had no problem repealing ObamaCares. What was the last count up to? 60?
Now the shoe is on the other foot, that of a flat-footed bloated blowhard Trump Von Clownstick. He who constantly boasted that on Day One ObamaCares would be toast. All Republicans had to do was vote to repeal it one more time, and this time it would count since TVC would not veto Congress.
So, what happened, Republicans? Where's all that chutzpah you showed when you called President Obama's plan a "disaster". What happened is you're getting an ear full from your constituents. They have taken a liking to ObamaCares. They don't want it repeal. They want it improved and made better, something Hillary vowed to do, and actually had a plan to do it.
But Republicans and ignoramuses who voted for Von Clownstick were concerned about Hillary's "untrustworthy" reputation. E-mails and Benghazi were the chants back then. Hey, what happened to "Lock Her Up", you deplorable dunderheads?
Angry town hall meetings will be the least of Republicans problems come 2018. If Von Clownstick is still in the Oval Office you are about to hear the roar of all we Hillary supporters who know she had the election stolen from her by TVC and Putin. The honor of Hillary is at stake, and she will be a talisman we carry to 2018 and 2020 when we shall remove the worse president ever.
DD
Manhattan
When Republicans had a truly great President Obama to kick around they had no problem repealing ObamaCares. What was the last count up to? 60?
Now the shoe is on the other foot, that of a flat-footed bloated blowhard Trump Von Clownstick. He who constantly boasted that on Day One ObamaCares would be toast. All Republicans had to do was vote to repeal it one more time, and this time it would count since TVC would not veto Congress.
So, what happened, Republicans? Where's all that chutzpah you showed when you called President Obama's plan a "disaster". What happened is you're getting an ear full from your constituents. They have taken a liking to ObamaCares. They don't want it repeal. They want it improved and made better, something Hillary vowed to do, and actually had a plan to do it.
But Republicans and ignoramuses who voted for Von Clownstick were concerned about Hillary's "untrustworthy" reputation. E-mails and Benghazi were the chants back then. Hey, what happened to "Lock Her Up", you deplorable dunderheads?
Angry town hall meetings will be the least of Republicans problems come 2018. If Von Clownstick is still in the Oval Office you are about to hear the roar of all we Hillary supporters who know she had the election stolen from her by TVC and Putin. The honor of Hillary is at stake, and she will be a talisman we carry to 2018 and 2020 when we shall remove the worse president ever.
DD
Manhattan
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8 years to come up with a replacement, 60 votes to repeal the ACA, and all we get is a lousy ball cap saying "Make America Great Again", made in China.
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Before districts were with re-drawn, this guy was my congressman. I and like-minded others affectionately refer to him as Congressman "Senselessbrenner."
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The insidious thing about the ACA is also the nicest thing about it. No exclusions for pre-existing conditions. We probably can't afford it (not and defend the world too). But, everyone, including me, likes it. Once it was put in effect and not found unconstitutional, who has the political will to end it? No one. That and the availability of ins. for those 26 and younger on their parents policy. The choices are now - watch the continued failure of the ACA (and even knowledgeable people who defend it to me as successful never seem to have any response as to all the failures - like why are all the co-ops going under, as one example - they just say it is succeeding), or put in a substitute system to say they've done it, but maintain a failing system.
1
Co-ops have gone under because Congress canceled the funding that they were promised to get started. The Republicans have been working hard to cut the legs out from under the ACA in order to make it look like it's failing. I wish they had spent as much effort coming up with an alternative plan.
7
I think you missed my point. The reason they can't come up with a play is that not permitting exclusion for pre-existing conditions is too popular for them to cut or to tell millions of people with health ins. they won't have it anymore (it is almost impossible to take back something the gov't gives) but too expensive to keep.
I do not think your reason for the co-ops closing is accurate. Healthinsurance.org suggests:"The CO-OP failures have been due in large part to a combination of premiums that were too low, benefits that were too generous, enrollees who were sicker than anticipated, competition from bigger carriers with larger reserves, the risk corridor shortfall that was announced in the fall of 2015, and the risk adjustment payment announcements that were made in June 2016 (see below for a timeline of the closures)." In other words, the plan didn't work. You can blame the Reps. for anything you like or assume the ACA is a totem that can't be touched. But, the ACA was definitely not theirs. And the Reps. have always agreed to fund it so far, probably one reason Trump got elected - his supporters don't want that (the act is still unpopular with a majority of Americans - after all these years). Besides, when you say congress - where do you think the money comes from?
I do not think your reason for the co-ops closing is accurate. Healthinsurance.org suggests:"The CO-OP failures have been due in large part to a combination of premiums that were too low, benefits that were too generous, enrollees who were sicker than anticipated, competition from bigger carriers with larger reserves, the risk corridor shortfall that was announced in the fall of 2015, and the risk adjustment payment announcements that were made in June 2016 (see below for a timeline of the closures)." In other words, the plan didn't work. You can blame the Reps. for anything you like or assume the ACA is a totem that can't be touched. But, the ACA was definitely not theirs. And the Reps. have always agreed to fund it so far, probably one reason Trump got elected - his supporters don't want that (the act is still unpopular with a majority of Americans - after all these years). Besides, when you say congress - where do you think the money comes from?
How can we possibly blame the Republicans for not having a single idea of their own? After all, they've only had 7 years to work on it.
20
Republicans in Congress want to use Trump's election as a restart for their positioning on healthcare and the A.C.A. They continue to insist that the A.C.A. must be repeal in whole, and be replaced by a new, better plan that only they can create.
Their problem is that they have opposed the A.C.A. since it was introduced almost a decade ago, and they have been asserting a new, better plan for the same amount of time. Their base is whipped into a frenzy waiting for them to act. Sadly, they have no plan, and no comfortable, politically survivable way of enacting new healthcare.
Any new plan they offer will hurt many of the people helped by the A.C.A. over the past 7-8 years. None of them will be affordable by any means they can concoct. None of their plans will offer the same kinds of care and costs that the A.C.A. guaranteed recipients.
In other words, the Republicans in Congress did a good job of killing the A.C.A., but they have nothing to offer in place of it. After a near decade of whining, ranting, and cajoling, they are about to hang themselves with their own rope. I say, "Good enough for you! You put party over the people. Time to pay the piper!"
Their problem is that they have opposed the A.C.A. since it was introduced almost a decade ago, and they have been asserting a new, better plan for the same amount of time. Their base is whipped into a frenzy waiting for them to act. Sadly, they have no plan, and no comfortable, politically survivable way of enacting new healthcare.
Any new plan they offer will hurt many of the people helped by the A.C.A. over the past 7-8 years. None of them will be affordable by any means they can concoct. None of their plans will offer the same kinds of care and costs that the A.C.A. guaranteed recipients.
In other words, the Republicans in Congress did a good job of killing the A.C.A., but they have nothing to offer in place of it. After a near decade of whining, ranting, and cajoling, they are about to hang themselves with their own rope. I say, "Good enough for you! You put party over the people. Time to pay the piper!"
11
The role of effective government is similar to that of an airline pilot - to facilitate getting you to your agreed upon destination with minimal or preferably no disruption. No lectures. No grandstanding. And, if possible, in complete silence so that you can either take a nap or concentrate on matters of personal interest or importance. I, for one, find the spectacle of Trump and his cronies in the cockpit and engaging in self-serving, death-defying circus stunts contrary to the fundamental principles of good government. The only problem is that we're all strapped in at 30,000 feet and currently have little choice in the matter. Who gave this pilot his license or do we now let complete amateurs take a spin behind the "joystick"?
10
I thought trump had a beautiful plan. Why not just adopt it. Oh, never mind. It was a bigly lie.
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Every member of congress has access to taxpayer-funded health insurance coverage. From this very comfortable perch, they seem quite happy to yank the rug out from under Americans who rely on the Affordable Care Act. If they repeal the ACA, they should be prepared not just to explain what they are proposing to replace it, but also to accept the same replacement coverage for themselves and their families. Winners and losers indeed. Easy to say when you are not in danger of losing anything.
14
Mr. Sensenbrenner, when you and the rest of that pack of obstructionists put together a workable replacement then you can talk of dismantling the ACA. For eight years you and your Republican colleagues worked to obstruct everything you could. If you can't take the heat get out of the kitchen. You've been there since 1979? Time for you to retire. You've overstayed your "expiration date". Please take Mitch McConnell with you when you go.
One last thing...you keep forgetting/ignoring...your party lost the popular vote by almost 4 million. YOU represent the minority.
One last thing...you keep forgetting/ignoring...your party lost the popular vote by almost 4 million. YOU represent the minority.
14
“It’s kind of like, you know, getting a 30,000-piece jigsaw puzzle for Christmas,” Mr. Sensenbrenner said, “and, you know, cleaning off the dining room table and seeing how long it takes to put all the 30,000 pieces together in the right place. It’s not going to be easy.”
Well then, you know, maybe don't disassemble the existing 30,000 piece jigsaw puzzle until you're sure you can actually put your new puzzle together before Christmas. And trust me, you can't, because it's much harder than it looks when you're just standing on the sidelines telling the guy that's doing it that he doesn't know what he's doing. When you're the one responsible for putting it together, you'll quickly learn that it's hard to fit all of the pieces together.
Well then, you know, maybe don't disassemble the existing 30,000 piece jigsaw puzzle until you're sure you can actually put your new puzzle together before Christmas. And trust me, you can't, because it's much harder than it looks when you're just standing on the sidelines telling the guy that's doing it that he doesn't know what he's doing. When you're the one responsible for putting it together, you'll quickly learn that it's hard to fit all of the pieces together.
9
Pewaukee, Wisconsin is in one of the most Republican counties in the state.
So if Sensenbrenner gets a hard time there he better not brag about winning by 146,000 votes. It won't happen again.
The politicians need to be pressured by the AHA and the AMA - that is, those that oppose Tom Price, the man that calls himself doctor.....If the ACA is repealed healthcare providers will lose out, too.
So if Sensenbrenner gets a hard time there he better not brag about winning by 146,000 votes. It won't happen again.
The politicians need to be pressured by the AHA and the AMA - that is, those that oppose Tom Price, the man that calls himself doctor.....If the ACA is repealed healthcare providers will lose out, too.
10
The GOP has never had an answer for universal healthcare in the US. This current situation is another egregious example of the GOP squawking, demeaning, and obstructing the Democrats because they can, not because they have meaningful or workable options. This is the true problem endemic to the Conservatives in this country. They have no interest in public welfare or safety, just obfuscation.
4
“I won by 146,000 votes,” he said... failing to note that this was an indication of the success of gerrymandering. As is usual, Republicans won far more seats in the House (on a percentage basis) than the percentage of votes cast for them, while Democrats won fewer seats (on a percentage basis) than the percentage of votes cast for them.
14
Congressman Sensenbrenner, President Trump and many other Republicans are proving Reagan right: government is the problem, especially when they are in charge.
2
If Mr. Sensenbrenner wanted to know the truth behind who's concerned about losing their healthcare, he'd simply ask for a show of hands as to who voted for Trump and who for Clinton. And who's concerned about the fate of their healthcare. The latter would include the entire town hall.
Or he could stop being disingenuous and ducking the issue on the table -- what's his plan for the ACA -- rather than a lame excuse that people are re-litigating the election.
As for "I won the election, therefore I'm not subject to difficult (and obvious) questions," that's childish.
It's not fun facing Americans about to lose their healthcare. Try being one of your constituents. Coward!
Or he could stop being disingenuous and ducking the issue on the table -- what's his plan for the ACA -- rather than a lame excuse that people are re-litigating the election.
As for "I won the election, therefore I'm not subject to difficult (and obvious) questions," that's childish.
It's not fun facing Americans about to lose their healthcare. Try being one of your constituents. Coward!
8
Republicans have had EIGHT years to come up with an alternative healthcare plan. Where is it?
7
Wow! It's really ironic what came out of Sensenbrenner's mouth, that “organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election” was the only attribute he could summon for his constituents' ire. Wasn't it also “organized opposition by people who were on the losing side of the election” that described the tea party that Jim coddled back in 2009 -- without the snide description -- and without apparent criticism. Apparently, he doesn't like his politics served up cold to him.
And please someone ask him why the ACA absolutely must be repealed, bar anything else? Is it because it is defective? Unpopular? Or because a *black* president took credit for it? We would all like to know why.
And please someone ask him why the ACA absolutely must be repealed, bar anything else? Is it because it is defective? Unpopular? Or because a *black* president took credit for it? We would all like to know why.
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