Shouldn't that be how things work? Bipartisan cooperation? Maybe something might possibly get done in Washington rather than the Repubs snipping at the Dems and vice versa?
Here's an opportunity for both Republicans and Democrats and the President to show that they really care for the citizens. Work towards the bill to provide "medicare" for all.
Mr. Schumer.“He’s done a lot of talking, bad talking, and he just doesn’t seem like a serious person,” the president said.
The president's helpful voice from the sidelines.... He must have something more to add, perhaps implying that Senator Schumer has had a failed facelift--or something equally helpful, as the rest of us all seek to improve our nation's expensive and mediocre healthcare system. (31st among the world's countries in terms of longevity is not great for the richest nation on the planet.)
Republicans, for their own benefit, would do well to keep Trump as marginalized as possible.
The president's helpful voice from the sidelines.... He must have something more to add, perhaps implying that Senator Schumer has had a failed facelift--or something equally helpful, as the rest of us all seek to improve our nation's expensive and mediocre healthcare system. (31st among the world's countries in terms of longevity is not great for the richest nation on the planet.)
Republicans, for their own benefit, would do well to keep Trump as marginalized as possible.
1
Two words: single payer.
4
The Dems would be wise to avoid this mess of a bill. McConell is hoping there are some gullible Dems who might be appeased with a few tweaks to get this bill passed. If Dems were to support it in any way, it will come back to bite them because it will have been a "bi-partisan" effort. Let the Republicans pass it and own it. When the disaster unfolds, everyone will know exactly who to blame.
McConnell should have included more of his own party from the beginning and not jump dumped another tax cut for the rich on everyone.
What if neither party is capable of solving healthcare needs, and government is not an answer? Industrial agriculture, poor nutritional content in the food we have available, pollution - all among myriad causes of chronic conditions. Existing care also is poor. The medical paradigms are outmoded. Many hospitals are so poorly run they'd be bankrupt, as they were in the 1970's, without subsidies.
Perhaps it's time for government to get out of healthcare and let local communities and medical practitioners invent new solutions.
Perhaps it's time for government to get out of healthcare and let local communities and medical practitioners invent new solutions.
“It’s unfortunate that our Democratic colleagues refused to work with us in a serious way to comprehensively address Obamacare’s failures,” Mr. McConnell, the Senate bill’s chief (liar) author, said Wednesday on the Senate floor."
Yeah right, like the last time you and your party pretended it intended to work with Democrats. Remember the White House summit meeting between GOP party leaders McConnell, Ryan, and Eric Cantor? Where republicans played a despicable hand turning back on their promise.
I'm still waiting for the Times to call out McConnell's special way of lying. How many more years will it take?
When politicians lie call them out in real time.
Yeah right, like the last time you and your party pretended it intended to work with Democrats. Remember the White House summit meeting between GOP party leaders McConnell, Ryan, and Eric Cantor? Where republicans played a despicable hand turning back on their promise.
I'm still waiting for the Times to call out McConnell's special way of lying. How many more years will it take?
When politicians lie call them out in real time.
5
We should reinstate both the maximum income levels and 90% tax rates for the rich that we readily accepted during WWII. Even the rich conformed to those once seemingly extreme draconian measures because they knew that it was their wealth that was at risk if we lost; it was their wealth and their privilege that poor people were asked to risk dying and even actually dying to defend. Sometimes the rich understood this so clearly that they even risked their own lives in military service. We today need to make it clear to them that the gradual collapse of our systems with which they now threaten us now put these systems at even greater risk. But if the rich are not interested in sacrificing to maintain the present system, they need to know that it will not long endure. The time when the poor will willingly die in order to maintain a system that primarily benefits the rich is now long past. As others began to learn in 1917 when the rich are unwilling to sacrifice to preserve a system that benefits only them it no longer matters whether that system collapses under internal or external pressure. As the rich probably will continue to deny medical care to the poor when they are sick they will also destroy their willingness to die to defend the rich whether these poor are or are not healthy in body and mind.
2
Do Republicans just want to get Democrats to share the blame? Probably, that's the strategy. What would it take to repair the ACA for me?
1. A bigger mandated fee/tax for not joining so more young, healthy people would join.
2. Ability to for gov. to negotiate with pharma for better drug prices
3. No cutbacks to Medicad
4.A government option
5. All people in Congress get the same care/plan as the public
6. Any savings go to expand coverage and lower costs to policy holders, not for rich Americans to get lower taxes.
1. A bigger mandated fee/tax for not joining so more young, healthy people would join.
2. Ability to for gov. to negotiate with pharma for better drug prices
3. No cutbacks to Medicad
4.A government option
5. All people in Congress get the same care/plan as the public
6. Any savings go to expand coverage and lower costs to policy holders, not for rich Americans to get lower taxes.
5
One commentator here bemoans the fact that most Americans DO desire a better safety net, and says that those who want "personal responsibility" will have to fend for themselves. I say that if you wish to be "personally responsible," no one is stopping you. Just don't sign up for government programs, don't drive on government roads, don't get a government-issued driver's license, don't utilize government-funded research advancements like medicines, don't use the government-invented Internet, don't go to national parks, declare that you are opposed to being defended by the government military and police and homeland security, move to places where you can catch ebola and zika rather than being protected by government-funded vaccines. The possibilities are legion!
10
Might as well get together.The welfare state continues to grow under both big govt parties and most Americans today seem to desire more govt.Us personally responsible types will just have to fend for ourselves.
1
Government is schools. Government is police, and fire, and roads and bridges, and clean air and safe drinking water and national parks and the rule of law and... and... and...
Stop being afraid of what holds us together. Government is just us, organizing resources to benefit society - and doing it far better than any for-profit business ever could, by definition. For-profit business puts profits ahead of the greater good, as it should. It works great for commerce, not so much for schools, healthcare, prisons, or anywhere human welfare is involved.
Stop being afraid of what holds us together. Government is just us, organizing resources to benefit society - and doing it far better than any for-profit business ever could, by definition. For-profit business puts profits ahead of the greater good, as it should. It works great for commerce, not so much for schools, healthcare, prisons, or anywhere human welfare is involved.
8
I would encourage everyone within the sound of my voice to surf to "http://thomas.loc.gov," the Library of Congress web-site, at which you can read the actual text of anything that Congress is now considering, updated in near-real time.
Take the time to read the actual text of the House and the Senate bills. For yourselves.
First, you will instantly see that these bills DO NOT "Repeal Obamacare!" They remove expensive-to-industry provisions and in that way make the sick-person's plight even more serious than it is now.
But the actual meat-and-potatoes of this thing is buried (in the final version) under much rhetoric. It's called, "premium support," by any other name, and, if you hear about it at all you'll hear it being described as "to help 'poor people.'" Read the actual legislation, however, and you'll see that it comes with NO strings attached.
It is pure-and-simple a give-away of billions of dollars of public money in an effort to prop-up a dying "for-profit" health-care and health-insurance industry.
And it won't work. Fundamentally, "health care" cannot be provided "for profit," neither can it be paid-for "for profit." Companies like Senator Frist's "HCA" (his brother is the CEO of that hospital management company!) have had twenty-five years to sell this sack to us, but the concept of it is intrinsically flawed and irredeemable. "Billions of dollars" would only be wasting money. Again.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we need: "health care for everyone. PERIOD."
Take the time to read the actual text of the House and the Senate bills. For yourselves.
First, you will instantly see that these bills DO NOT "Repeal Obamacare!" They remove expensive-to-industry provisions and in that way make the sick-person's plight even more serious than it is now.
But the actual meat-and-potatoes of this thing is buried (in the final version) under much rhetoric. It's called, "premium support," by any other name, and, if you hear about it at all you'll hear it being described as "to help 'poor people.'" Read the actual legislation, however, and you'll see that it comes with NO strings attached.
It is pure-and-simple a give-away of billions of dollars of public money in an effort to prop-up a dying "for-profit" health-care and health-insurance industry.
And it won't work. Fundamentally, "health care" cannot be provided "for profit," neither can it be paid-for "for profit." Companies like Senator Frist's "HCA" (his brother is the CEO of that hospital management company!) have had twenty-five years to sell this sack to us, but the concept of it is intrinsically flawed and irredeemable. "Billions of dollars" would only be wasting money. Again.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we need: "health care for everyone. PERIOD."
2
With what the Kochs, Paul Ryan, the GOP, the conservatives want to do with our health care, our education and our economy, soon other nations will have T-V ads showing the under-privileged children and poor in America the way we now show third world countries on our television. Those other nations will be saying, “If you adopt a poor dirty, hungry child and give just 3 Euro a month, this child can be fed and clothed. This child can be given fresh water and food.
Scene opens: [Statue of Liberty, or Lincoln Memorial standing as a shadowy like image in the background] Children living in squalor, digging through piles of trash attempting to find some eatable food while a trickling stream of dirty water, running down Pennsylvania Avenue passes by with a little child dipping its hand into the water for a drink.
Over the scene, Narrator speaks:
Every child deserves a strong start – the best chance for a successful future. But too many children right here in Europe and around the world aren’t getting the opportunity to reach their full potential. You can help change that. If you sponsor a child from the United States, then you’ll give them the gift of a brighter future.
America…the new down and falling third world nation! This nation, intentionally broken by a handful of greedy, mentally disturbed, old white men so that they can stand in their ivory tower. We will be working our way to what Haiti has managed to accomplish.
Scene opens: [Statue of Liberty, or Lincoln Memorial standing as a shadowy like image in the background] Children living in squalor, digging through piles of trash attempting to find some eatable food while a trickling stream of dirty water, running down Pennsylvania Avenue passes by with a little child dipping its hand into the water for a drink.
Over the scene, Narrator speaks:
Every child deserves a strong start – the best chance for a successful future. But too many children right here in Europe and around the world aren’t getting the opportunity to reach their full potential. You can help change that. If you sponsor a child from the United States, then you’ll give them the gift of a brighter future.
America…the new down and falling third world nation! This nation, intentionally broken by a handful of greedy, mentally disturbed, old white men so that they can stand in their ivory tower. We will be working our way to what Haiti has managed to accomplish.
1
If the Democratic Party were truly a progressive champion of working people, it would be pushing for single payer rather than defending the half-baked insurance-company giveaways of the ACA.
3
Let me understand this, it was Paul Ryan who didn't want Trump to talk with the "Obstructionist" Democrats on Healthcare.....now forcing McConnell to reach for the other side of the aisle to prevent Political Suicide for some of his colleagues and save Trumps Political Campaign promise .It's sort of like an example of Oliver Hardy (Donald Trump ) telling Stan Laurel (Paul Ryan ),"here's another fine mess you've got me into." ...Instead of balancing the budget with the Health expense of the elderly ,the working poor and children "the have-nots" and raise the Social Security Withholding Tax of the 10% - 15% of "that haves' and do it secretively and see how they like it......
History will show these men destroyed the democracy of America.
At a Republican retreat, at the Library of Congress, right before Obama’s 2009 inauguration, Mitch McConnell said:
“there are enough of us to block the Democratic agenda-as long as they all marched in lockstep.”
“As long as Republicans refused to follow his (President Obama’s) lead, Americans would see partisan food fights and conclude that Obama had failed to produce change.”
January 20, 2009 Republican Leaders in Congress literally plotted to sabotage and undermine U.S. Economy during President Obama's Inauguration. In Robert Draper's book, "Do Not Ask What Good We Do: Inside the U.S. House of Representatives" Draper wrote that during a four hour, "invitation only" meeting with GOP Hate-Propaganda Minister, Frank Luntz, the below listed Senior GOP Law Writers literally plotted to sabotage, undermine and destroy America's Economy.
The Guest List:
Rep. Paul Ryan(R-WI)
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA),
Rep. Pete Sessions (R-TX),
Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-TX),
Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-MI)
Rep. Dan Lungren (R-CA),
Sen. Jim DeMint (SC-R),
Sen. Jon Kyl (AZ-R),
Sen. Tom Coburn (OK-R),
Sen. John Ensign (NV-R) and
Sen. Bob Corker (TN-R).
Non-lawmakers present Newt Gingrich
During the four hour meeting:
The senior GOP members plotted to bring Congress to a standstill regardless how much it would hurt the American Economy by pledging to obstruct and block President Obama on all legislation.
At a Republican retreat, at the Library of Congress, right before Obama’s 2009 inauguration, Mitch McConnell said:
“there are enough of us to block the Democratic agenda-as long as they all marched in lockstep.”
“As long as Republicans refused to follow his (President Obama’s) lead, Americans would see partisan food fights and conclude that Obama had failed to produce change.”
January 20, 2009 Republican Leaders in Congress literally plotted to sabotage and undermine U.S. Economy during President Obama's Inauguration. In Robert Draper's book, "Do Not Ask What Good We Do: Inside the U.S. House of Representatives" Draper wrote that during a four hour, "invitation only" meeting with GOP Hate-Propaganda Minister, Frank Luntz, the below listed Senior GOP Law Writers literally plotted to sabotage, undermine and destroy America's Economy.
The Guest List:
Rep. Paul Ryan(R-WI)
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA),
Rep. Pete Sessions (R-TX),
Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-TX),
Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-MI)
Rep. Dan Lungren (R-CA),
Sen. Jim DeMint (SC-R),
Sen. Jon Kyl (AZ-R),
Sen. Tom Coburn (OK-R),
Sen. John Ensign (NV-R) and
Sen. Bob Corker (TN-R).
Non-lawmakers present Newt Gingrich
During the four hour meeting:
The senior GOP members plotted to bring Congress to a standstill regardless how much it would hurt the American Economy by pledging to obstruct and block President Obama on all legislation.
6
Now tell us about the Democrats who are blocking responsible legislation.
Since 2007, “The GOPs willingness to say no to everything — the fact that since 2007, they have filibustered about 500 pieces of legislation that would help the middle class just gives you a sense of how opposed they are to any progress,”( Politico)
The 27 they say they passed that were jobs bills, weren’t, GOP's Claim That House Passed 30 Jobs Bills? Bogus.
Here are some examples of bills blocked by the GOP:
Student Loan Affordability Act:
Would keep the interest rate of subsidized federal student loans at 3.4% for two years.
Paycheck Fairness Act:
Requires employers to prove differences in pay are not GENDER-RELATED. Would allow employees to discuss salaries without retaliation, and allows government to collect data on women workers to better evaluate the wage gap.
Bring Jobs Home Act:
Would grant businesses a tax credit for eliminating a business outside the US and relocating it in the US. Would deny businesses a tax deduction for outsourcing expenses related to outsourcing a business
Small Business Jobs and Tax Relief Act:
Gives small businesses a tax credit if their 2012 payrolls were higher than their 2011 payrolls
Paying a Fair Share Act of 2012:
Requires millionaires to pay a 30% minimum tax rate. Expresses the Sense of the Senate that tax reform should repeal unfair loopholes and expenditures and make sure the wealthiest taxpayers pay a fair share of taxes
Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act:
Extends tax credits for alternative energy
The 27 they say they passed that were jobs bills, weren’t, GOP's Claim That House Passed 30 Jobs Bills? Bogus.
Here are some examples of bills blocked by the GOP:
Student Loan Affordability Act:
Would keep the interest rate of subsidized federal student loans at 3.4% for two years.
Paycheck Fairness Act:
Requires employers to prove differences in pay are not GENDER-RELATED. Would allow employees to discuss salaries without retaliation, and allows government to collect data on women workers to better evaluate the wage gap.
Bring Jobs Home Act:
Would grant businesses a tax credit for eliminating a business outside the US and relocating it in the US. Would deny businesses a tax deduction for outsourcing expenses related to outsourcing a business
Small Business Jobs and Tax Relief Act:
Gives small businesses a tax credit if their 2012 payrolls were higher than their 2011 payrolls
Paying a Fair Share Act of 2012:
Requires millionaires to pay a 30% minimum tax rate. Expresses the Sense of the Senate that tax reform should repeal unfair loopholes and expenditures and make sure the wealthiest taxpayers pay a fair share of taxes
Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act:
Extends tax credits for alternative energy
The landmark 2013 study by Gerald Friedman, professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts, estimated that implementation of single-payer NHI will save $592 billion annually by cutting administrative waste of private insurers ($476 billion) and reducing pharmaceutical prices to European levels ($116 billion). Those savings would be enough to cover all the uninsured and provide comprehensive coverage for all other Americans, even including dental and long-term care. Co-payments and deductibles will be eliminated; savings will fund retraining of displaced workers and phasing out investor-owned for-profit delivery systems over a 15-year period.
8
At some point, it will need to be broadly seen that whatever ends up being the final product of this dance, if it provides health care to one person or 25 million, none of it would have happened w/o President Obama. As Ryan eventually heads off to cap Medicare and not protect Soc Sec, we should all think about what our elderly parents' lives would have been like (or would now be like) with a more limited/capped form of Medicare. And what our lives would have been like with our parents facing such a financial squeeze. For kicks, youtube Reagan and Medicare to see what conservatives did to fight the initial passage of Medicare. Always consistent, always protecting the well-off.
3
Obamacare just dumped millions more into the system,diluting the care for everyone.Eventually we will get to single payer and only the rich will have access to timely,comprehensive care.
1
Should Obama have just let those millions be bankrupted or allowed to die because of their lack of health care? What is your solution?
Who is the man in all the photos of McConnell, standing creepily behind his left shoulder? Dark hair, frameless glasses. For some reason McConnell takes him along all the time. Does this guy have a job?
1
The right-wing crazies in both houses of Congress have been enabled too much for too long to have any coherent perspective on the differences between reality and delusion as to what medical care even means. So let them point the gun at their own heads and threaten mayhem in the markets and ill, handicapped, and impoverished citizens left to suffer. The public is still only dimly aware of their con, but they are waking up quickly and we can hope that it's quick enough to capture all of Mitch's attention. Perhaps a week in their own states will provide some further education.
5
If religion was to be my reference in how to care for people, I would choose Jesus's political platform to follow...Feed the poor, heal the sick, fight the money changers, treat man..woman..and child equally, don't preach any particular religion but instead a connection to God.
3
Let's move on to the next step toward a healthy America, tax paid Medicare for all coupled to private Medicare supplement packages and incentives to increase the efficiency of medical services. Medicare supplement insurance policies can be the test vehicle for determining which changes and expansions should be added to Medicare.
4
This whole debate isn't about improved health care it is about health insurance and choosing which segment will get it and who will pay for it. Neither the dems or reps care about "health" they just want the other guy to pay for "insurance". The problem is health cost and until this is addressed no insurance plan will be effective or affordable .
7
The comments here are very sad. Most seem to be saying the same old partisan comments that mean little to most citizens. We need a better healthcare law - improve the ACA, re-write the ACA, or do whatever you want to call it, but STOP the ever growing out of pocket costs for those of us that actually have to buy insurance without subsidies (or with subsidies).
Sorry activist commenters, but we cannot continually expand Medicaid - it was never designed for continued expansion, and it is not sustainable.
Sorry activist commenters, but we cannot continually expand Medicaid - it was never designed for continued expansion, and it is not sustainable.
2
Seems like Americans will demand more govt,until it bankrupts.No thought that the "richest country in the world" could ever go bankrupt.
1
Since the ACA was essentially a Republican proposal to begin with it is difficult to see how Republican input, which will likely make it less generous, more complex and even more piecemeal will improve or fix it.
What will we get? Targeted community programs for opioid addiction? More money for community clinics? Maybe a new try for health insurance cooperatives for rural areas? Plus big tax cuts for the rich and lower overall sepnding.
What will we get? Targeted community programs for opioid addiction? More money for community clinics? Maybe a new try for health insurance cooperatives for rural areas? Plus big tax cuts for the rich and lower overall sepnding.
5
Beware of Greeks bearing gifts!
Any Democrat who would team up with those snakes deserves to be defeated in the next election. There won't be partisanship because puppet-face (McConnell) and Ryan will alter their current plan to accommodate the hardliners in their party. Once that is achieved and they have the rebels in tow, they wouldn't care less for the Democrats!
Any Democrat who would team up with those snakes deserves to be defeated in the next election. There won't be partisanship because puppet-face (McConnell) and Ryan will alter their current plan to accommodate the hardliners in their party. Once that is achieved and they have the rebels in tow, they wouldn't care less for the Democrats!
6
Bipartisanship in 2017: Any Democrats who want to give a trillion-dollar tax cut to billionaires and eliminate health insurance for 22 million people are welcome to sign on!
2
It's come to this: Republicans now use bipartisanship as a threat. How sad is that?
4
Would not payment of subsidizes to all states medicaid stabilize ACA marketplace.
The major obstacle to a bipartisan compromise is the $900 billion tax cut for the rich under the republican health plan. Now that it's been put forward the republicans can not now pull it back and democrats would be silly to go along with the tax cuts in order to gut medicaid. If I were the democrats I would continue to play the part of spirited opposition.
Concerning states where the ACA insurance market place has failed due to the lack of insurer participation there is a simple solution. In each such state establish a state sponsored single payer system that would allow all state citizens to be covered including employer provided coverage. Ultimately like states would cooperate and the cost of health care, the primary problem the US faces, would be controlled. Of course this is what the drug, prosthetic and insurance industries fear as the loss of their gravy train.
Americans have to wake up to the fact that under our current pay for fee "competitive" health care industry we spend almost twice as much for health care as other industrialized western countries while having a shorter life span. We are spending more and getting less.
Concerning states where the ACA insurance market place has failed due to the lack of insurer participation there is a simple solution. In each such state establish a state sponsored single payer system that would allow all state citizens to be covered including employer provided coverage. Ultimately like states would cooperate and the cost of health care, the primary problem the US faces, would be controlled. Of course this is what the drug, prosthetic and insurance industries fear as the loss of their gravy train.
Americans have to wake up to the fact that under our current pay for fee "competitive" health care industry we spend almost twice as much for health care as other industrialized western countries while having a shorter life span. We are spending more and getting less.
5
This proposal is already on the table in California the only problem is we can't afford it.
1
People don't want access to Health Insurance, they want access to Healthcare. If both parties agree upon that principle (and I doubt they would) then the path clears up considerably; no more tinkering with the Rube Goldberg mechanisms of insurance rates, employer subsidies and mandates, tax subsidies and penalties.
Direct provision of healthcare has its own challenges but we already provide that for veterans, members of Congress (ahem) and Medicare/aid recipients. We could do a lot to tighten up reforms to push pay for results, to get best-value pricing for meds and devices, and at least provide broad, complete essential healthcare for all citizens. We could join the rest of the developed world!
I know - what a fantasy -
Direct provision of healthcare has its own challenges but we already provide that for veterans, members of Congress (ahem) and Medicare/aid recipients. We could do a lot to tighten up reforms to push pay for results, to get best-value pricing for meds and devices, and at least provide broad, complete essential healthcare for all citizens. We could join the rest of the developed world!
I know - what a fantasy -
8
Dems paid a high price to pass ACA losing the congress. But at the end of the day save/improve ACA r replace with single payer.
2
As long as we have to suffer through a government filled with only 2 political parties, Americans have to gain a better understanding of cause and effect. If I vote for a Party that believes the Social Net should disappear and wants South Americans and Muslims out of the country, I shouldn’t be surprised when healthcare costs skyrocket, millions lose care, but the U.S. has less foreigners . What is more important to you? If I vote for a Party that wants to greatly reduce EPA restrictions on companies and de-fund Planned Parenthood, I shouldn’t be shocked as our air and water become more polluted, but most Planned Parenthood offices close. What is more important to you. We all must compromise every time we vote. Washington needs to do the same.
The irony of this whole debacle is that is exactly what the majority of Americans want...bipartisanship. Do these fools, and I am focusing on McConnell, Ryan, and sycophants, realize how Congress' favorability polls will rise from the abyss if they just yield to the fact that we want the ACA improved, not demolished? "We" includes Republican constituents as well as Democrats and Independents.
Polarization is over. We are growing weary of our national legislative body's relentless and persistent path toward destructiveness. You are elected to help all Americans regardless of socio-economic status, race, religion, age, and gender.
Trump is beyond hope; but for heaven's sake, Senators and Representatives, grow a conscience.
Polarization is over. We are growing weary of our national legislative body's relentless and persistent path toward destructiveness. You are elected to help all Americans regardless of socio-economic status, race, religion, age, and gender.
Trump is beyond hope; but for heaven's sake, Senators and Representatives, grow a conscience.
8
Of Charles Schumer: “He’s done a lot of talking, bad talking, and he just doesn’t seem like a serious person,” the president said.
Pot. Kettle. Black.
Pot. Kettle. Black.
6
“It’s unfortunate that our Democratic colleagues refused to work with us in a serious way to comprehensively address Obamacare’s failures,” Mr. McConnell, the Senate bill’s chief author, said Wednesday on the Senate floor.
=============================================
I have an idea! Instead of ALL republicans, let's get the democrats involved...
---John Fasoldt 06/29/17 - 10:56AM
=============================================
I have an idea! Instead of ALL republicans, let's get the democrats involved...
---John Fasoldt 06/29/17 - 10:56AM
As a physician with 48 years of medical practice, I don't see much hope to avoid a fiscal crisis if we keep subsidizing the insurance and pharmaceutical industries. We should try to cover everyone, but we can't do that by subsidizing a for-profit corporate provider system.
11
"...Democrats are...baiting Republicans...demanding a price...Keep the Affordable Care Act largely intact."
And demand they should. The principle objections to the ACA involve incentives (carrots and sticks to persuade people to get insurance), and a concomitant definition of "insurance" (cover pre-existing conditions, etc.). Republicans have responded by weakening the incentives (make it easier to opt out), and simultaneously re-defining "insurance" in a way so mushy as to be meaningless (reducing premiums). The reduced carrots (subsidies) and relaxed sticks (mandates) will result in millions going uninsured, reducing taxes on higher income individuals.
The incentives are disliked because premiums are perceived to be high. Sorry. Premiums are high because health care is EXPENSIVE. Legislating that health care be cheap is like legislating that the tide may not rise. The proper fix is to tune existing law: first increase the subsidies (so premiums are less onerous for those with lower incomes), and then understand in an honest way why health care in the U.S. is so much more expensive than in other countries.
The only other alternative is clearly unacceptable: give individuals a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sign up for insurance. If the opportunity is forgone, if they later want insurance, they must buy it on the insurer's terms. This is far more onerous than the 63 day period in the current Republican bill, and that raised a huge scream of protest.
And demand they should. The principle objections to the ACA involve incentives (carrots and sticks to persuade people to get insurance), and a concomitant definition of "insurance" (cover pre-existing conditions, etc.). Republicans have responded by weakening the incentives (make it easier to opt out), and simultaneously re-defining "insurance" in a way so mushy as to be meaningless (reducing premiums). The reduced carrots (subsidies) and relaxed sticks (mandates) will result in millions going uninsured, reducing taxes on higher income individuals.
The incentives are disliked because premiums are perceived to be high. Sorry. Premiums are high because health care is EXPENSIVE. Legislating that health care be cheap is like legislating that the tide may not rise. The proper fix is to tune existing law: first increase the subsidies (so premiums are less onerous for those with lower incomes), and then understand in an honest way why health care in the U.S. is so much more expensive than in other countries.
The only other alternative is clearly unacceptable: give individuals a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sign up for insurance. If the opportunity is forgone, if they later want insurance, they must buy it on the insurer's terms. This is far more onerous than the 63 day period in the current Republican bill, and that raised a huge scream of protest.
By bipartisanship you mean the political class will cater to the voting non-producing/nonpaying class against the working citizen class to remain in power and limit healthcare access for all people except the wealthy and connected class.
Having no illusions is a tough road, but at least I am not disappointed when political expediency consistently out-ways human values.
Having no illusions is a tough road, but at least I am not disappointed when political expediency consistently out-ways human values.
1
Again, "burn down the mansion where the rich man lives." Single payer with taxes on non earned (investment) income Rational revision of what medicine can and cant (current provider rates especially pharmaceutical), rational change in philosophy encouraging physician assisted death.
I think when I finish reading "Death Comes for the Archbishop," "Feast of Love," and "Anna Karenina" i will interrupt my scheduled reading and finally read "Dark Money." My local bookstore, last spring when I purchased "Listen Liberal" also had a display of the two books beside each other and said readers who buy one, may find the other interesting as well. I think Amazon does that.
Both parties have tried to enact successful health care legislation without bipartisan support. Both have failed and the time has come to consider the health of the nation, not a political party. Choosing between bad and worse is not the option we deserve.
2
If our politicians do not figure out a way to rein in rapidly rising health care costs, all but the wealthiest among us will feel the fiscal pain. Since my first full year on Medicare in 2013, my net Social Security check has gone down, not up by even a small amount. I expect it to go down again in 2018, 2019 or 2020 at the latest, even if there is no change in current Medicare rules. Under existing law, a new category of Medicare surcharges goes into effect in 2018, just in time to hit baby boomers who become subject to the Required Minimum Distribution rules of their IRA. For a growing number of older Americans, moving abroad may become an attractive alternative to remaining in the US and being pauperized by a failing and increasingly costly US medical system.
2
Medicare works. Expand it to a full program (universal, single payer). Everyone will be covered, and insurance companies can still profit from supplemental policies and something like the current Medicare Advantage option, just as they do now. Employers could offer paying for supplemental policies as a company benefit.
I may be cynical (and flat out wrong), but I think there is a darkness, denied and endlessly rationalized with unstoppable nonsense, behind why some of our well off don't want to pay for health care for the poor.. They think they don't deserve it.
I may be cynical (and flat out wrong), but I think there is a darkness, denied and endlessly rationalized with unstoppable nonsense, behind why some of our well off don't want to pay for health care for the poor.. They think they don't deserve it.
1
Republicans are so concerned about spending tax-payer's dollars; but they don't see the irony in the time wasted, at taxpayer expense, in this charade. Why not just fix the problems with the Affordable Care Act? Why not, because that would not give them the opportunity for this ridiculous display of hubris.
3
Don't play politics with my healthcare.
This is life or death.
This is life or death.
I'm afraid that any Republican congressman or senator who votes to improve the ACA will be primaried from the right with near-limitless PAC dollars. It's been a long time since I've seen anyone in D.C. fall on his sword for the good of the people (2010, in fact.)
3
Does any Democrat trust McConnell? Not me. He's looking for a way to shift some blame to Democrats. They say no, they're obstructionists. A final compromise bill is unpopular? It's the Democrats's fault too.
Democrats must be loud and clear that they're willing to cooperate if the primary goal is to make health care more affordable and accessible. Protect Medicaid expansion. No tax cuts buried in the bill.
McConnell won't buy it. But it will put the two parties' priorities in stark contrast. The gauntlet will be thrown for the '18 and '20 elections. Bring it on.
Democrats must be loud and clear that they're willing to cooperate if the primary goal is to make health care more affordable and accessible. Protect Medicaid expansion. No tax cuts buried in the bill.
McConnell won't buy it. But it will put the two parties' priorities in stark contrast. The gauntlet will be thrown for the '18 and '20 elections. Bring it on.
2
Bipartisan should be the first option not the last. The Senate bill delivers none of Trump's campaign promises or Republican objectives. It is "run for hills" legislation. A review of Schedule 1 of the CBO's analysis demonstrates that in the first three years the bill creates a net $78 billion reduction in revenues due to the tax cut for the wealthy. This adds to the deficit and borrowing requirement. The positives start in year 4 of the ten year analysis. These positives come at the expense of people like McConnell's constituents in Kentucky. The principal source is the ravaging of Medicaid.
The passing of the fiscal problems caused in the first three years to future legislators creates an environment where the financial rewards are highly suspect, a "time inconsistent" situation as economists would say
One must hope that enough Republican senators stymie McConnell's ram it through effort, forcing bipartisan negotiations. Even that is less than comfortable given Democrat's proven ability to screw things up. The 2016 election comes to mind as does a sarcastic British expression "snatching defeat from rhe jaws of victory".
The passing of the fiscal problems caused in the first three years to future legislators creates an environment where the financial rewards are highly suspect, a "time inconsistent" situation as economists would say
One must hope that enough Republican senators stymie McConnell's ram it through effort, forcing bipartisan negotiations. Even that is less than comfortable given Democrat's proven ability to screw things up. The 2016 election comes to mind as does a sarcastic British expression "snatching defeat from rhe jaws of victory".
1
I am skeptical of any attempt to work out a bipartisan compromise of the health bill because of an inconvenient truth: the majority of Republicans don't want the government involved in health care and are opposed to any entitlements to people who can't afford insurance. The Democrats, if they had there way, would prefer to see a single payer plan along the lines of most industrialized nations. The resulting Trump care mess is simply the GOP trying to put lipstick on a pig. The parties are pulling in different directions on the rope. The only solution is for the Democrats to take back the House and Senate, dispatch Trump in 2020, and start governing again.
3
The only fixes Democrats should be working toward are those that will expand the reach of the ACA, reduce premium/deductible costs, and strengthen the foundation for progress toward a rational single-payer system. The mess we're in began with Republican Party obstructionism. And now that Republicans are running the show, they're undermining the ACA administratively, while Congressional leaders try to cut social programs in order to fund massive, unnecessary tax cuts. There's no fix for either the House or Senate "healthcare" bill -- they're both bad policy, built on selfish ideas. Over the years, there have been many sensible proposals offered to adjust and adapt the ACA. Republicans resisted all rational initiatives -- it's time for them to scrap their repeal obsession and do some real work for the American public.
15
"For now, party leaders remain bitter foes. Republican leaders say Democrats should have come to them to help undo what Republicans say is the damage caused by the law that Democrats adopted in 2010 at great political cost.
“It’s unfortunate that our Democratic colleagues refused to work with us in a serious way to comprehensively address Obamacare’s failures,” Mr. McConnell, the Senate bill’s chief author, said Wednesday on the Senate floor."
It's unfortunate that Mr McConnell is playing fast and loose with the reality of the contents and passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
The Democrats took about a year to put the ACA together and that included public hearings with input from all interested parties. In addition, the Democrats accepted and incorporated over 100 republican amendments and ideas into the ACA.
Mr McConnell was in the senate at the time of the passage of the ACA. He knows full well what went into the act.
And on this: McConnell says: "Democrats should have come to them to help undo what Republicans say is the damage caused by the law..."
The republicans always refer to "problems" or "damage" relating to the ACA. However, they never itemize what those things are. Why is that?
“It’s unfortunate that our Democratic colleagues refused to work with us in a serious way to comprehensively address Obamacare’s failures,” Mr. McConnell, the Senate bill’s chief author, said Wednesday on the Senate floor."
It's unfortunate that Mr McConnell is playing fast and loose with the reality of the contents and passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
The Democrats took about a year to put the ACA together and that included public hearings with input from all interested parties. In addition, the Democrats accepted and incorporated over 100 republican amendments and ideas into the ACA.
Mr McConnell was in the senate at the time of the passage of the ACA. He knows full well what went into the act.
And on this: McConnell says: "Democrats should have come to them to help undo what Republicans say is the damage caused by the law..."
The republicans always refer to "problems" or "damage" relating to the ACA. However, they never itemize what those things are. Why is that?
14
There is no way this will happen because the Kochtopus will not tolerate the loss of their tax breaks in the current Republican Satan Sandwich Trump-Deathcare bill.
2
And I thought I resented them! (-:
Thanks for the laugh, too bad its true.
Thanks for the laugh, too bad its true.
1
Mitch, since you're considering compromise:
Only a Public Option can provide sufficient competition in states that have few participants in their exchanges, as well as create an American risk pool extending from sea to shining sea. Mitch, do not resist the inevitable - for the inevitable is a truly beautiful thing, a thing that will knit us together as a people.
Allowing 55-64 year old Americans to buy into Medicare at cost removes any possibility of price gouging of an important and increasingly incensed voting demographic.
Only a Public Option can provide sufficient competition in states that have few participants in their exchanges, as well as create an American risk pool extending from sea to shining sea. Mitch, do not resist the inevitable - for the inevitable is a truly beautiful thing, a thing that will knit us together as a people.
Allowing 55-64 year old Americans to buy into Medicare at cost removes any possibility of price gouging of an important and increasingly incensed voting demographic.
2
Q & A Time:
Q. Is there a health-care system anywhere on earth that seems to work really well?
A. Yes, it is practiced universally.
Q. WOW.. what is it called?
A. Single Payer System (SPS).
Q. Does it work better than ours?
A. Yes.. US health care ranks 50th in the world.
Q. WOW.. But don't we pay less than the first 49?
A. You jest.. We pay about $9400 per capita; almost tied for first place in health care costs. Not much of a bargain to rank 50th.
Q. WOW. How do they do it?
A. Cut out the insurance companies who profit by reducing their costs.
Q. WOW.. How do they reduce costs?
A. Simple.. By reducing medical services
Q. WOW.. will McConnell's medical madness make things worse?
A. Yes, more than you can even imagine. Health care for 22 million people
goes poof.
Q. WOW.. is there a solution to this heartless, cynical system?
A. Yes. There is actually a simple fix called SPS
Q: Then why don't we do it?
A. Ask who loses in SPS health care?
Q. The insurance companies?
A. You got it.
Q. Is there a health-care system anywhere on earth that seems to work really well?
A. Yes, it is practiced universally.
Q. WOW.. what is it called?
A. Single Payer System (SPS).
Q. Does it work better than ours?
A. Yes.. US health care ranks 50th in the world.
Q. WOW.. But don't we pay less than the first 49?
A. You jest.. We pay about $9400 per capita; almost tied for first place in health care costs. Not much of a bargain to rank 50th.
Q. WOW. How do they do it?
A. Cut out the insurance companies who profit by reducing their costs.
Q. WOW.. How do they reduce costs?
A. Simple.. By reducing medical services
Q. WOW.. will McConnell's medical madness make things worse?
A. Yes, more than you can even imagine. Health care for 22 million people
goes poof.
Q. WOW.. is there a solution to this heartless, cynical system?
A. Yes. There is actually a simple fix called SPS
Q: Then why don't we do it?
A. Ask who loses in SPS health care?
Q. The insurance companies?
A. You got it.
7
So after 8 years of obstinate obstruction of anything proposed by our Democratic President, Mitch McConnell is now suggesting cooperation with the Senate Democrats for the good of the country ? I'm with McCain on this one -- When Pigs Fly !
2
So. Does anyone actually believe the GOPTP anymore. Especially the guy who worked tirelessly, no dog whistle too small, no standard of decency too low, to make Obama a one term President? That guy. And McConnell talks like being a real senator and working with anyone but the rabid few, is a fate worse than death. It's not that "a tantalizing prospect: bipartisanship" is some sort of weirdness, it is their actual job. McConnell is still pushing this monstrosity ahead.
3
In the words of General Akbar, "It's a trap!"
More to the point the GOP invented the "base" and the use of phony "principles" as an excuse to sidestep discussion of their chosen positions because they have no rational winning arguments to support them. Every "principle" is a position they cannot defend with straight forward argument that might win over anyone who disagrees.
This sort of impasse is exactly what that phony idea of "Conservative principles" is meant to be used for. For those foolish enough to trust and not fully examine what is going on it hides the fact that the GOP pols they trust are simply refusing to govern by consensus as is the design. By that and obstructing our government and harming the nation.
More to the point the GOP invented the "base" and the use of phony "principles" as an excuse to sidestep discussion of their chosen positions because they have no rational winning arguments to support them. Every "principle" is a position they cannot defend with straight forward argument that might win over anyone who disagrees.
This sort of impasse is exactly what that phony idea of "Conservative principles" is meant to be used for. For those foolish enough to trust and not fully examine what is going on it hides the fact that the GOP pols they trust are simply refusing to govern by consensus as is the design. By that and obstructing our government and harming the nation.
3
I fear the bullying tactics of this Republican administration will "say" that they are working with the Democrats but it will be business as usual; Blanket rejection of anything that resembles the work by the previous President of the United States proposed. The GOP emphatically proclaimed they would not support anything of President Obama's.
Now they risk losing their support from the far right if they hint that the ACA, while flawed and not a little because of Obama's compromises to them might just need fixin'.
Now they risk losing their support from the far right if they hint that the ACA, while flawed and not a little because of Obama's compromises to them might just need fixin'.
2
Create a single payer system for Medicaid patients. Tort reform, protection from lawyers, for doctors and nurse practitioners that work in these community health clinics.
We can't afford 30% of the health care dollar for insurance companies. We can't afford 5% of the health care dollar for defensive medicine. I'm an ER doc with 30 years in the trenches.
We can't afford 30% of the health care dollar for insurance companies. We can't afford 5% of the health care dollar for defensive medicine. I'm an ER doc with 30 years in the trenches.
4
If anything we need more easily filed lawsuits.
The medical profession is pretty much a bunch of used car salesmen selling lemons any more. I haven't seen a decent or honest doctor in 17 years. I had actual proof of the malpractice and yet no one would take the case and every doc I went to for help literally said exactly these words to me (yes every single one!)
"Magic, I would never have done this to you. I can fix it, but you have to agree not to sue." This is also how I found out something wrong was done. When I asked that first doc what was wrong he walked out of the room without saying a word and his PA jumped in front of the door, I realized later to prevent me from following him to get an answer. I guess this happened on a frequent basis in his office. The rest of my care since then has been of equal or worse quality.
Every doctor I consulted of any kind, worked to coverup what had been done to me.
The medical profession is pretty much a bunch of used car salesmen selling lemons any more. I haven't seen a decent or honest doctor in 17 years. I had actual proof of the malpractice and yet no one would take the case and every doc I went to for help literally said exactly these words to me (yes every single one!)
"Magic, I would never have done this to you. I can fix it, but you have to agree not to sue." This is also how I found out something wrong was done. When I asked that first doc what was wrong he walked out of the room without saying a word and his PA jumped in front of the door, I realized later to prevent me from following him to get an answer. I guess this happened on a frequent basis in his office. The rest of my care since then has been of equal or worse quality.
Every doctor I consulted of any kind, worked to coverup what had been done to me.
McConnell will never allow legislation to come to the floor that does not have the support of a majority of his conference. Legislation that meets that test will not be supported by Senate Democrats. And certainly not by Republicans in the House. This article is whistling in the wind. May after the 2018 elections if the composition of the Congress changes sufficiently.
1
Trump might, inadvertently, be the best bet for bipartisanship efforts on the Senate health care bill. A Trump Super-Pac unleashed attack ads on Heller, the senator from Nevada, who objected to extreme provisions in the healthcare bill. This kind of nastiness has stiffened the resolve of moderate GOP senators like Johnson, Collins and Heller and will make it more likely that there will be an unbridgeable gap between the conservative slash-Medicaid-above-all senators like Cruz, Rand and Lee and the moderate GOP senators. The only way out for McConnell might well be bipartisanship. Trump's volatility might give the Democrats their best bargaining chip.
To McConnell, Democrats are a means to an end. With Republican Senators on the two fringes balking, he head fakes a BATNA (best alternative to a negotiated agreement) to cooperate with Dems. He has no such intention. McConnell's long term plan hinges on sequential party governments. The country is ungovernable due to Republican obstruction while Dems have power and then when Republicans have power they ram through their agenda while calling for cooperation from Dems. Dems, as the party that leans toward cooperation, tend to give in, at least until they wise up. The central theme of this article is the elusive search for bipartisanship with occasional game theory references. But the central reality of our federal government is now the Republican reliance on subverting democratic institutions, taking advantage of loopholes that permit the destruction of norms of behavior (like telling the truth)- the glue that holds it together - in favor of a narrow Republican agenda. In this repeated game the Republicans pulled the grim trigger long ago refusing to cooperate with Dems. Dems would be foolish to cooperate with McConnell, even selectively now, in order to put an end to this foolishness. The only way to achieve bipartisanship again is to have a fresh start by teaching Republicans now that they erred by never cooperating with Dems. Unfortunately, real people will suffer as a result, but how else do those Trump voters learn who is trying to help them and who is trying to hurt them?
1
Instead of trying to put $200 billion of lipstick on their legislative pig, Trump and the GOP should follow the example Reagan's precedent on Social Security--a national commission of experts representing all view points. It wouldn't be easy and would probably result in more "review and improve" than repeal and replace.
Yet the only alternative is trying to ram through a bill now that could represent, at best, a short term victory.
Yet the only alternative is trying to ram through a bill now that could represent, at best, a short term victory.
McConnel's is clearly as out of touch with reality as his president. Blaming the democrats for not working with him? Now that is just bizarre. At what point in this travesty has he actually attempted bipartisanship? Maybe in his nightmares but that's as close as it gets. Time to take a long look at your own churlish childish behavior my friend.
Until you have lived on Medicare (basic) you don't know what a good healthcare system could be like in the US. Take all of the healthcare premiums being paid in the US, take all of the medicaid payments being made and all of the state administrative costs and roll them into financing Medicare for all. If the rich want supplimental care, like many people throughout the world including current medicare patients, they can buy that on the open market from insurance companies. Include in that factoring medicare being able to negotiate with drug companies for fare market (world market pricing) and the US has now rentered the first world again at et least in healthcare. We need not reinvent the wheel, it is staring us right in the face.
1
McConnell has used the "bipartisan" ploy before. He does nothing but bait and switch. Are the Democrats going to fall for it again?
The Republicans have worked overtime to savage and sabotage the ACA AKA "Romneycare" that followed the used-to-be-conservative Heritage Foundation blueprint. Their only car was to prevent Obama from getting the credit for actually reforming healthcare. That was part of McConnell's day 1 plot to sabotage the Obama Presidency.
Now they own the result and their base will be the biggest losers. And well deserved.
The Republicans have worked overtime to savage and sabotage the ACA AKA "Romneycare" that followed the used-to-be-conservative Heritage Foundation blueprint. Their only car was to prevent Obama from getting the credit for actually reforming healthcare. That was part of McConnell's day 1 plot to sabotage the Obama Presidency.
Now they own the result and their base will be the biggest losers. And well deserved.
Dear incompetent Democratic strategists. Please think "What would the Republicans do?" This is not an opportunity for "Bipartisanship". This is leverage. This is an opening to shift the balance of power in 2018. As much as I can hardly bear reading daily accounts of Republican legislative perversion, keep them in this position until 2018. Use their playbook. But, while you are carrying out this strategy, and unlike the Republicans, work on crafting a solution that you can roll out as soon as you've reclaimed both Houses.
1
First, let's not call the Republican's legislation a "health care bill." Call it what it is: The Relief for the Rich Act of 2017. That's Warren Buffet's term. He says his taxes would be cut by a whopping $600K. He thinks that's obscene. And he also points out that the tax cut goes to a lot of people in the administration and the Congress (who have a net worth far in excess of their salaries). Congress is awarding itself a pay raise through the back door.
Second, McConnell and his leadership team risk losing the support of the Koch Brothers, who don't like anything about Medicaid. So I don't see them reaching across the aisle. Instead they'll let the ACA fail in certain states where insurers are withdrawing for lack of certainty created by the Republicans.
This would set the stage for a single-payer option (after the Democrats regain Congress). That's the best outcome, along with fee for patient (not service) and negotiated drug prices. We pay far too much for our health care with poor results.
Second, McConnell and his leadership team risk losing the support of the Koch Brothers, who don't like anything about Medicaid. So I don't see them reaching across the aisle. Instead they'll let the ACA fail in certain states where insurers are withdrawing for lack of certainty created by the Republicans.
This would set the stage for a single-payer option (after the Democrats regain Congress). That's the best outcome, along with fee for patient (not service) and negotiated drug prices. We pay far too much for our health care with poor results.
18
I think killing the current senate bill and demanding public drafting are a fair price for admission to Democratic cooperation. Even the full $200 billion allocated to Democratic priorities isn't a compromise; it's a bribe. Democrats would be foolish to enter into such an arrangement.
Even starting from scratch though, I would think very seriously about the long term consequences of cooperation. Susan Collins might be a reasonable partner in cooperation. However, we all know McConnell is operating in bad faith.
McConnell will try every trick in the book to get this thing passed without Democratic concession. That way Republicans can continue to advance the obstruction narrative and claim victory for a repeal. Neither are true but that doesn't matter to McConnell. They've worked politically.
If McConnell truly is forced to work with Democrats, you can imagine a situation where he makes unreasonable demands on Democrats such that Democrats are forced to walk away. Once again, the obstruction narrative survives and Trump can continuing stumping on a failed ACA rather than fixing health care.
McConnell is not to be trusted. Proceed with extreme caution.
Even starting from scratch though, I would think very seriously about the long term consequences of cooperation. Susan Collins might be a reasonable partner in cooperation. However, we all know McConnell is operating in bad faith.
McConnell will try every trick in the book to get this thing passed without Democratic concession. That way Republicans can continue to advance the obstruction narrative and claim victory for a repeal. Neither are true but that doesn't matter to McConnell. They've worked politically.
If McConnell truly is forced to work with Democrats, you can imagine a situation where he makes unreasonable demands on Democrats such that Democrats are forced to walk away. Once again, the obstruction narrative survives and Trump can continuing stumping on a failed ACA rather than fixing health care.
McConnell is not to be trusted. Proceed with extreme caution.
13
Funny how the ACHA and Congress both poll at about the same approval rating of 17%.
Apparently, people in those very deep red, taker states, are very worried not only will they lose their Medicaid, but their Medicare as well. And they are pushing back hard against their governors, and state legislators And of course, they are giving Congress an ea full. Democrats and independents are also doing the same.
Trying to keep the ACHA alive is a poor move. By the time Congress gets back from one of their 26 weeks off per year, the anti-ACHA ads will be running in full swing. Including the fact that the ACHA's real purpose is a whopping tax cut for the wealthy. That should only send the approval rating fro Congress, and the ACHA, further down. And let's not forget that Trump will get the sting form these ads and see his approval ratings tank, as well.
So, once all the blood is split, thanks to PACs and lobbyists, the only true solution is to dump the ACHA, and try to fix what is broken in the ACA. GOP will continue their slow form of suicide, if they continue the "repeal and replace" route.
The ACA can use some improvements, like adding that public option. It is now needed for all those red counties which no longer have access to an insurer. A number that is growing by the day.
Congress also needs to seriously start the procedure of "repeal and replacing Trump, McConnell and Ryan. As these three are sending this country on the road to ruin.
Apparently, people in those very deep red, taker states, are very worried not only will they lose their Medicaid, but their Medicare as well. And they are pushing back hard against their governors, and state legislators And of course, they are giving Congress an ea full. Democrats and independents are also doing the same.
Trying to keep the ACHA alive is a poor move. By the time Congress gets back from one of their 26 weeks off per year, the anti-ACHA ads will be running in full swing. Including the fact that the ACHA's real purpose is a whopping tax cut for the wealthy. That should only send the approval rating fro Congress, and the ACHA, further down. And let's not forget that Trump will get the sting form these ads and see his approval ratings tank, as well.
So, once all the blood is split, thanks to PACs and lobbyists, the only true solution is to dump the ACHA, and try to fix what is broken in the ACA. GOP will continue their slow form of suicide, if they continue the "repeal and replace" route.
The ACA can use some improvements, like adding that public option. It is now needed for all those red counties which no longer have access to an insurer. A number that is growing by the day.
Congress also needs to seriously start the procedure of "repeal and replacing Trump, McConnell and Ryan. As these three are sending this country on the road to ruin.
2
Yes bipartisanship by all means. But what is in it for democrats? Think about it. ACA is the republican plan. Obama proposal, that was offered to bridge the divide was full throated rejected by the republicans. Democrats actually would have prefered single payer. So to bring in democrats, moderate republicans would have to agree this is the best we can do to reach across. How about letting states set up public options where companies have withdrawn, and make that part of the medicaid expansion... NO? see what I mean?
2
I think you've forgotten Joe Lieberman.
We can all imagine.
Imagine if all the Congress people actually enacted legislation through pragmatic compromise just as the founders envisioned.
Call me a dreamer.
Imagine if all the Congress people actually enacted legislation through pragmatic compromise just as the founders envisioned.
Call me a dreamer.
1
The only way to fix obamacare is to cap doctors salaries, negotiate lower drug prices, ensure that the medicaid money going to hospitals, etc. is not used for advertising, make everyone pay something for their insurance based on a sliding scale, even if it's only a dollar, so everyone has skin in the game and cap what insurance companies are paid to handle the most vulnerable. I wonder how many of your readers, commentators actually get their insurance through an exchange, I do and my premiums and co-pays, etc. have gone up 40% in 4 years? As for fairness, It's not fair that the people who pay nothing have better insurance that those who pay.
1
I don't know what the charges for services are to Obama care but what I do know is if you look at having a basic pelvis MRI through Aetna at every MRI location in NJ, where I live, the price ranges from $450 to over $2,000 for the exact same scan. Imagine what you would find for every medical procedure at every facility.
That is the problem. Caps on prices for actual procedures is all over the place and that must stop for healthcare to improve for everyone.
That is the problem. Caps on prices for actual procedures is all over the place and that must stop for healthcare to improve for everyone.
Reality Check every one knows how to fix health care called ,Medicare for All . From birth to the grave would solve all problems an take out the for profit we have presently. Means our representives would be included same plan as us . Apparetly we have conflict intrest on behalf of our representives. Wonder how many have intrest in health care stocks ?
1
they republicans can't even work with themselves - and they are going to work with Democrats - at providing actual health care and not tax cuts for the rich? good luck with that.
3
I really do hope this bill passes as is so that those who voted for Trump will get exactly what they deserve.
McConnell and friends have done all they could for going on eight years to nullify the ACA, and now they're talking about working together? That's funny, I could be elected president before that happens. Surprise me, please.
1
Sorry .. the modern GOP does not have the dignity nor the enlightenment to accept that there is any virtue at all in the ACA.
1
‘“It’s unfortunate that our Democratic colleagues refused to work with us in a serious way to comprehensively address Obamacare’s failures,” Mr. McConnell, the Senate bill’s chief author, said Wednesday on the Senate floor.”
Certainly not the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth. But Mitch will do what Mitch has to do and say — mostly behind closed doors and in the dark of night. Collegiality was not to be found in those sequestered rooms.
The waters on this one are saturated with years of partisan blood from both sides.
A genuine coming together over genuine, people focused solutions would be nothing short of miraculous.
Such an epiphany will come harder than eating buckets of sand.
Maybe pigs in pairs can fly???
Certainly not the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth. But Mitch will do what Mitch has to do and say — mostly behind closed doors and in the dark of night. Collegiality was not to be found in those sequestered rooms.
The waters on this one are saturated with years of partisan blood from both sides.
A genuine coming together over genuine, people focused solutions would be nothing short of miraculous.
Such an epiphany will come harder than eating buckets of sand.
Maybe pigs in pairs can fly???
1
Trump says that Schumer isn't a "serious person"? That's like a skunk saying a rose smells bad.
2
Look for Hair Trump to sign a law forbidding anyone to get sick.
How bout bringing in ideas from the rest of the civilized world that has figured out health care and look at our health care system as de facto criminal?
5
Instead of trying to abolish the ACA, which took years of debate and scrutiny before it passed, wouldn't it make more sense to try and improve it rather than to reinvent the wheel and come up with a much inferior product? This thought is finally beginning to dawn on the Republicans who will still try to keep the tax breaks for the rich in the bill no matter what.
But then, no one ever accused them of having common sense.
But then, no one ever accused them of having common sense.
8
But then they'd have to admit to having been wrong when they went to court to modify it after it passed.
Well if Mr McConnell, with support from the President, can actually pull off putting together a bi-partisan panel of politicians and health care industry experts to explore ways that ACA can be improved rather then gutted this could not only help fix the gaps and glitches in Obamacare, but signal a much needed change in the horribly toxic atmosphere that currently exists in Washington today. I can not see how such a positive step could be viewed as doing anything but good for the American people. So I for one would beg McConnell and the Republicans to please, at least give it some serious consideration.
4
Bipartisanship? God forbid! You'd think our representatives were delegates from warring nations rather than fellow Americans with slightly different political ideas. Good government is not a zero-sum game, it is about compromise and finding a path forward that helps more people than it hurts. Mitch McConnell has forgotten this and has become the poster child for obstructionism and, in my view, the primary reason that politics has been so divisive over the past 8 years. He needs to go and replaced with someone with less of an ego and axe to grind.
8
Excuse me…SLIGHTLY different ideas? Dems want better health care for ALL Americans with costs spread among ALL Americans and negotiated at least as well as the much lower costs in all other countries. Republicans want $800B in tax cuts to the richest Americans at the expense of the poorest Americans, and to prevent Americans from negotiating with pharmaceutical corporations for lower costs.
That is a gap as large as the income disparity this country now suffers due to Republicans like Ronald Reagan and Dick Cheney and their cohorts over the years restructuring the tax system to benefit corporations (who now pay only 2% in taxes) and the wealthiest 1% to 20% of Americans, who pay far less relative to their incomes and assets than do the lowest half, if not more, of American workers.
I hate to think what you would consider a "large" gap, Rick.
That is a gap as large as the income disparity this country now suffers due to Republicans like Ronald Reagan and Dick Cheney and their cohorts over the years restructuring the tax system to benefit corporations (who now pay only 2% in taxes) and the wealthiest 1% to 20% of Americans, who pay far less relative to their incomes and assets than do the lowest half, if not more, of American workers.
I hate to think what you would consider a "large" gap, Rick.
The ACA has always been flawed and there will always be room to improve it, or anything for that matter. President Obama did not ever say it was perfect - it's not. It needs fixing, not trashing. Once McConnell admits that, then the Democratic Party can begin to provide ideas to improve it. Or, McConnell can do what is most likely: do everything he and Trump can to destroy it so they can say, "told ya so".
3
McConnell is threatening to work with Democrats on health insurance. Wow. Will wonders never cease.
Note to Dems: Be very careful. McConnell and his merry band of Republicans can't be trusted. Don't settle for anything less than keeping all the good policies in the ACA and just fixing what's bad (mainly high costs and limited choice).
I am very skeptical Republicans will actually try to improve the ACA without destroying some of it. It's just not in their DNA to care about others.
Note to Dems: Be very careful. McConnell and his merry band of Republicans can't be trusted. Don't settle for anything less than keeping all the good policies in the ACA and just fixing what's bad (mainly high costs and limited choice).
I am very skeptical Republicans will actually try to improve the ACA without destroying some of it. It's just not in their DNA to care about others.
14
For the GOP it's just about the tax cut, always has been. If McConnell and Ryan can deliver the trillion-dollar tax cut to their billionaires, they don't really care about the health care part of it. But that's been apparent for some time. The trouble is, you can't take a trillion dollars out of the system without taking away health care from 20 million people. Simple math.
Bipartisanship is the only way that the American people can get reasonable healthcare. Both sides need to bring recommendations to the table. Doing away with the taxes on the top one percent needs to be reconsidered. If this group actually represents 400 family as reported, 400/50 states means that 8 families in each state are receiving monetary gain while healthcare for 100 of thousands of their friends and neighbor goes away. This is very a simplistic example, but it shows how important it is to put politics aside and work on what is best for the country. 23 million people loosing healthcare is inhuman and frankly un-American,
3
Your comment seems to suggest that you think Republicans want what's best for this country and that they want to provide health care to people. They don't.
Last night's Charlie Rose show featured two guests who spoke eloquently about healthcare and the Senate bill, before they knew that it was polling at a 17% approval rating.
The GOP promised to reduce premiums, reduce deductibles and to cover everyone, but neither the bill that passed the House or the one being considered in the Senate do any of that. If some sort of melding of the two bills become law, there will be no incentive for young, healthy people to purchase health insurance to offset the costs of older Americans.
The CBO estimates point to a 64 year old with $55k in income having to pay over $20k in premiums, no way people will be able to afford that.
What will likely emerge from this process, at the end of the day we'll probably end up with some sort of "public option".
The GOP promised to reduce premiums, reduce deductibles and to cover everyone, but neither the bill that passed the House or the one being considered in the Senate do any of that. If some sort of melding of the two bills become law, there will be no incentive for young, healthy people to purchase health insurance to offset the costs of older Americans.
The CBO estimates point to a 64 year old with $55k in income having to pay over $20k in premiums, no way people will be able to afford that.
What will likely emerge from this process, at the end of the day we'll probably end up with some sort of "public option".
3
Imagine... Collaboration which heretofore has seemed like a foreign concept has a glimmer of hope. Who would have thought that these folks who seemed so militant about wholesale yanking of the ACA, on what seemed to be strong principle alone, might come around to the negotiating table to possibly adjust an already established program to make it an improved one?
Let's all hope they are coming to realize that it's "we the people" not "them, the political machines" that they are elected to serve.
Will this really happen? Let's hope it does. Small business owners and those not part of corporate America are waiting.
Let's all hope they are coming to realize that it's "we the people" not "them, the political machines" that they are elected to serve.
Will this really happen? Let's hope it does. Small business owners and those not part of corporate America are waiting.
5
Back in February/March, I urged my Democratic representatives to prepare a "counter" to the Republican's "repeal" of the ACA. The repeal presented an opportunity to present a thoughtful and progressive plan that would address the shortcomings of the ACA, increasing enrollment of healthy individuals which would reduce premiums and deductibles. It would present a Democratic alternative that would demonstrate how government can offer a positive solution rather than dystopian nightmare. The response? Glazed eyes.
Well, it's now or never for Democrats to step up to the plate and propose solutions, that unlike the other Party, demonstrates that the Democratic Party is the party that truly cares about Americans' health and welfare.
Well, it's now or never for Democrats to step up to the plate and propose solutions, that unlike the other Party, demonstrates that the Democratic Party is the party that truly cares about Americans' health and welfare.
Rather than a threat, shouldn't working with Democrats be a positive move to show the people of this country that we are all in this together and compromise is the answer. These days it feels like being in the coliseum rooting for the gladiator or the tiger and the audience tearing at each other.
7
This was always "Plan B" for McConnell as he well knew that achieving consensus within his own party was a stretch. Right now, the GOP owns what they cannot sell so the next logical step is to bring the Democrats back in to the discussion on a timeshare basis.
If it fails, then the GOP can once again blame Democrats for being unwilling to work with him. If it succeeds you can bet that Trump, McConnell and Ryan will claim that this was always the strategy and that Democrats were just along for the ride.
If it fails, then the GOP can once again blame Democrats for being unwilling to work with him. If it succeeds you can bet that Trump, McConnell and Ryan will claim that this was always the strategy and that Democrats were just along for the ride.
4
I just HOPE that the Dems can hold themselves together--If they compromise away people's rights and hopes, if they pretend to accept any of the discredited Republican ideology, we are lost.
10
I wonder has there been any thought to taxing employer-provided health insurance, since it is, in fact, income? The exemption was originally a way for employers to sweeten the package without paying more salary (which would incur more tax). Maybe it's time to own up to the reality of the cost - and the true benefits - of employer-provider health care. If there was no mandate for employers to provide, but there was a much stronger mandate (penalty) for individuals to purchase, we would see greater involvement in the marketplace.
My personal preference is for a single-payer bare-bones plan with the insurance marketplace providing 'supplemental' insurance, like they currently do for Medicare.
My personal preference is for a single-payer bare-bones plan with the insurance marketplace providing 'supplemental' insurance, like they currently do for Medicare.
1
Here's an analogy: when Henry For's car first broke down, he went back to the drawing board, thought about things, made some repairs and figured it out. He tinkered and tried stuff. He didn't say forget this and go back to a horse and buggy. Where would we be if he had?
2
Without single passenger motorized vehicles is where we would be. And the world would be a much, much better place if that destructive technology had never been realized. As an analogy however, your concept works.
I don't know I don't know why we are paying senators and congressmen huge salaries when they don't attempt to get along with each other. Sounds like a damaged work environment to me. Someone needs to organize an intervention to bring the parties together. Or maybe they need to be replaced.
It takes two to Tango. The Republicans may have a donkey as their mascot but they're hardly the only ideologically stubborn ones. One would think that Democrats with their elephant-like memories would have remembered that rather than just plopped down in the middle of the road and refused to budge. Big dumb animals are great in a barnyard but not as house pets.
If McConnell had any honor, he would resign.
7
To ANY Democrat/liberal/progressive, this was 100% predictable. The GOP never had a consensus, or let alone any real ideas, on fixing health care, other than incredibly generic platitudes like "more competition". I don't think they ever expected to be in this situation and as obvious, it is much easier to obstruct than it is to govern. Let's just say it: they are morons.
11
It is both funny and sad that the notion of working with the other party has become a threat.
6
Not one single article ought to be written, speech given, or paper published that does not, at full volume, promote the far better outcomes and far lower costs of universal, single-payer health care models employed successfully by nearly all other developed countries.
9
I do not trust the Republicans. I cannot think of an example from the last 8 years where they have ever acted in good faith.
Reminds me of something Churchill said: "Americans can always be counted on to do the right thing…after they have exhausted all other possibilities."
It would be the right thing to do - it's the way that Social Security was fine-tuned back when there was resistance to providing a safety net for the elderly.
But I'm not holding my breath that this will come about, although that's what we are all doing for different reasons. To quote Shakespeare "You must wear your rue with a difference" - Republicans have been in a nine-year temper tantrum about access to health care as accomplished by Obama and friends, and the rest of us are holding our breath due to the rotten stench emanating from the gang of 13 and the republicans in the house.
It would be the right thing to do - it's the way that Social Security was fine-tuned back when there was resistance to providing a safety net for the elderly.
But I'm not holding my breath that this will come about, although that's what we are all doing for different reasons. To quote Shakespeare "You must wear your rue with a difference" - Republicans have been in a nine-year temper tantrum about access to health care as accomplished by Obama and friends, and the rest of us are holding our breath due to the rotten stench emanating from the gang of 13 and the republicans in the house.
3
Why not simply be done with it. Repeal ObamaCare. No TrumpUncare. Add Single Payer National Health Plan.
The part that I only hear about rarely, is the prohibition on cross border accessibility for insurance coverage. Why do we gut perhaps the only capitalist concept that could preserve wide availability of health insurance?
The head of policy for the AARP, interviewed on NPR this morning, said the only solution is to scrap the entire GOP bill and start over. He pointed out that it delivers tax cuts to the wealthy, to special interests such as insurers and pharmaceutical companies, and even cuts taxes used to pay for Medicare.
We need to cut out the middle men who had no value to the healthcare system, the insurance companies. We have proven single payer works in the U.S. through Medicare and Medicaid. (The VA is also a single payer system, albeit I agree with John McCain that the VA system should be transitioned into the our traditional healthcare system for efficiency and better care.)
There is not a chance in heck that the Democrats, after being abused by the GOPs in Congress for the past several years, are going to come to their aid now.
Fix the loopholes in the ACA. Regulate the insurance and pharmaceutical companies. Stop healthcare providers from over billing patients. Extend Medicaid in all states.
As the AARP spokesman said, the best solution is single payer for all. Until that happens, we have to revise the ACA to work better for more of us.
We need to cut out the middle men who had no value to the healthcare system, the insurance companies. We have proven single payer works in the U.S. through Medicare and Medicaid. (The VA is also a single payer system, albeit I agree with John McCain that the VA system should be transitioned into the our traditional healthcare system for efficiency and better care.)
There is not a chance in heck that the Democrats, after being abused by the GOPs in Congress for the past several years, are going to come to their aid now.
Fix the loopholes in the ACA. Regulate the insurance and pharmaceutical companies. Stop healthcare providers from over billing patients. Extend Medicaid in all states.
As the AARP spokesman said, the best solution is single payer for all. Until that happens, we have to revise the ACA to work better for more of us.
16
The Democrats want to expand medical coverage. The GOP wants to destroy it.
There is no basis for bi-partisanship.
There is no basis for bi-partisanship.
1
When the Senate Majority Leader sees bipartisanship as a fate worse than death. #wakeupAmerica
Advice from John Winthrop in 1630 before disembarking in Massachusetts to set up a colony:
Now the onely way to avoyde this shipwracke, and to provide for our posterity, is to followe the counsell of Micah, to doe justly, to love mercy, to walk humbly with our God. For this end, wee must be knitt together, in this worke, as one man. Wee must entertaine each other in brotherly affection. Wee must be willing to abridge ourselves of our superfluities, for the supply of other’s necessities. Wee must uphold a familiar commerce together in all
meekeness, gentlenes, patience and liberality.
Maybe we will come again to heed these famous words.
Now the onely way to avoyde this shipwracke, and to provide for our posterity, is to followe the counsell of Micah, to doe justly, to love mercy, to walk humbly with our God. For this end, wee must be knitt together, in this worke, as one man. Wee must entertaine each other in brotherly affection. Wee must be willing to abridge ourselves of our superfluities, for the supply of other’s necessities. Wee must uphold a familiar commerce together in all
meekeness, gentlenes, patience and liberality.
Maybe we will come again to heed these famous words.
1
Make the 75 million tax-averse baby boomers who are woefully ill-prepared for retirement ineligible for Medicaid nursing home benefits. They’d riot for single payer.
1
Please, give it up already.
1
Hell, NO. They own this. Let them reap what they have sown. Bigly.
4
McConnell doesn't want to be the one to have some big state like California fully start down the single payer path on his watch...an eventuality that seems more likely as the chaos of Trump and a GOP face plant continue to do damage to the healthcare system.
But let's say McConnell does provide a seat (likely a kiddie chair) at the table. How in the world will they find a way sew the yawking head of the GOP wealthcare bill onto some truncated rump of the ACA?
The resulting monstrosity would surely wreak havoc upon our good citizens.
I don't exactly recall how that story ends, but do remember that it involves pitchforks and torches.
But let's say McConnell does provide a seat (likely a kiddie chair) at the table. How in the world will they find a way sew the yawking head of the GOP wealthcare bill onto some truncated rump of the ACA?
The resulting monstrosity would surely wreak havoc upon our good citizens.
I don't exactly recall how that story ends, but do remember that it involves pitchforks and torches.
3
The GOP acting like mature adults? That's the funniest thing I've read in a LONG time.
1
This really need to be resolved with bi-partisanship. It is the only way.
1
When you have dinner with the Devil, bring a long fork.
1
There is a simple and obvious solution to our healthcare debacle. President Trump, tell us all what plan you had in mind during the 2016 campaign. You remember, the one you had in mind when you said "no one will lose healthcare", "we won't touch medicaid or medicare", "it will be cheaper and better".
Instead of all of this foolish wrangling let's just let him put that plan on the table. I for one will applaud him if once he does what he said he would do.
Instead of all of this foolish wrangling let's just let him put that plan on the table. I for one will applaud him if once he does what he said he would do.
30
I doubt that Trump has a well thought out plan. It doesn't seem like his style. He seems to think that if he says "I've got a great, great plan that you will all just love" such a plan will miraculously appear!
Gee, Republicans talking to Democrats to develop policy -- what a novel idea. Way to think outside the box, Mitch.
16
Here's the problem: for the last 8+ years the Republican idea of compromise has been "do it our way." If Mitch McConnell extends a hand to you, you better take a close look at what he's holding in his other hand.
Republicans unveil their 'nuclear option': Bipartisanship !
Bipartisanship requires respect for Americans, facts and health care access, a very, very long hike for Republicans who've been stuck in the Koch Brothers basement for ten years.
Perhaps Republicans can start out by trying to fix health care instead of just trying to cut taxes.
Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama both proved that tax increases are not 'job killers'; in facts tax increases were 'job creators' for those Presidents.
Presidents George W. Bush proved that tax cuts are 'job-killers' as Bush-Cheney collapsed the economy.
And the latest Republican health care proposal was prima facie evidence that Republicans are both healthcare 'job-killers' and 'people-killers as the CBO analysis clearly revealed that many uninsured Americans would drop dead early and that the nation's healthcare economy would collapse.
In addition to trying bipartisanship, I suggest Republicans also try to act like human beings...assuming they understand what humanity is.
You want bipartisanship, Republicans ?
Act like a human being instead of Koch puppet and a Russian troll.
Bipartisanship requires respect for Americans, facts and health care access, a very, very long hike for Republicans who've been stuck in the Koch Brothers basement for ten years.
Perhaps Republicans can start out by trying to fix health care instead of just trying to cut taxes.
Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama both proved that tax increases are not 'job killers'; in facts tax increases were 'job creators' for those Presidents.
Presidents George W. Bush proved that tax cuts are 'job-killers' as Bush-Cheney collapsed the economy.
And the latest Republican health care proposal was prima facie evidence that Republicans are both healthcare 'job-killers' and 'people-killers as the CBO analysis clearly revealed that many uninsured Americans would drop dead early and that the nation's healthcare economy would collapse.
In addition to trying bipartisanship, I suggest Republicans also try to act like human beings...assuming they understand what humanity is.
You want bipartisanship, Republicans ?
Act like a human being instead of Koch puppet and a Russian troll.
59
why are you bring that stuff up - actual facts - so so sad.
2
It seems a no-brainer that these Washington politicians should be able to work together for the good of the American people. They are paid with our tax dollars and if they want to be intransigent they need to go away. No business in the country will allow employees to ignore each other. Term limits.....
Medicare For All. Call it Trumpcare, or Son of a Mitch, or whatever. All will be forgiven.
40
Just think about this for a moment - bipartisan cooperation is considered a threat.
60
Bi-partisanship. What a concept! I'm all for Dem and Repub Senators working together to fix the problems with Obamacare. If that were to happen, it will be interesting to see how Paul Ryan and the House react.
14
Shame on Washington politicians. A good effort was made by Pressdient Obama with the reasonable ACB. But without biparisan support this was going to run into political warfare. No sooner did the bill become law and Sen. McConnell went on a full throated attack. The debate immediately turned to repeal with the full support of the Republicans. But those with honor on both sides could have worked through the problems of implementing the law with the help of health and fiscal experts and of courese insurers. But instead we were left with seven years of quarrelling and very little accomplished. The two Presidents in this time period seemed unable and even unwilling to exert any leadership in providing what could have been a historic landmark in health care for America.
8
Do you see it? After eight years of the Republicans fighting against President Obama's every initiative and policy, the delicious irony is that now they want to try to fix what they sought to destroy! So, the country must now accept that eight years of acrimonious discord have wasted our valuable time and energy, for what?
Just think of what might have been accomplished.
Just think of what might have been accomplished.
37
What we need is a bipartisan compromise along the lines discussed in this article that produces an explicitly temporary fix, to allow us to phase in, over several years, a single-payer system. It has to be phased in because health insurance industry execs will be losing big salaries. Or, more seriously, because thousands of health insurance industry staff will lose their jobs.
9
With Medicare for all, the insurance companies will still be in business. Secondary insurance will still be popular, seen as a necessity for some. I know the 20% I would have to pay without a secondary insurance policy would be pretty stiff, and Medicare Part D without my employer's participation would not work well either. Medicare Part D was written by the pharmaceutical industry for the pharmaceutical industry. I am fortunate that my former employer picks up the tab for the secondary policy. Large employers that provide insurance and have for ages would still provide secondary insurance. Others would buy it on the private market. Given that republicans would be the ones producing the Medicare for All program (imagine that -- actually it won't happen though it makes sense), the Medicare Advantage accounts would still be offered, and probably expanded.
2
'Tis your chance, Democrats, and maybe your only one.
The crazy GOP is, finally, talking "bipartisanship". Make sure they walk it too, and demand single payer Medicare for all with meaningful price-control powers. Remind them that if they don't accept a sane health system now, the American people will repeal and replace *them* in 2018.
The crazy GOP is, finally, talking "bipartisanship". Make sure they walk it too, and demand single payer Medicare for all with meaningful price-control powers. Remind them that if they don't accept a sane health system now, the American people will repeal and replace *them* in 2018.
23
They aren't really talking bipartisanship. McConnell said what he said as a threat to the Rs. It is a part of his effort to get them back to toeing the party line. And they will, rather than do anything rational.
2
Until they can decide whether the "health care" law is about providing a framw work for health care or a wealth care law providing tax relief for the wealthy it will be hard for any cooperative effort since they can't even agree on what it is. And if it is the latter it is unlikely to get a lot of Democratic support.
27
Method to this maddness an look close we being smoked by misimfomation about the health of nation in general . I know alot people never been to doctor but smart people an go to dentist . No money to be made in making people healthy live disease free why insurance companys who provide health care no insurance for teeth
Why don't we just call this what it REALLY is? The Republican Campaign donation ACT? After all, that IS the real reason McConnell has been the greatest anti healthcare warrior since Gingrich, isn't it?
And let's pretend that this has not put a huge divide now between the firmly entrenched GOP good ole boys like McConnell, Cornyn and Grassley who got just a little too full of themselves with their elder statesmen power and weren't throwing the newly elected like Murkowski and Heller to the hungry lions?
McConnell knew bypassing a vote to bring Trumpcare to the floor of the Senate through the Finance Committee that the Finance Committee vote would end in a tie thanks to Heller. So McConnell brought together the same 13 on the Finance Committee, in secret, he knew were voting for this disastrous, Draconian healthcare Senate bill.
McConnell's worst nightmare was that he knew it had to be finalized and approved by the entire Senate. He didn't have the votes of Dems and when the first 3 proved to be McConnell's Waterloo, the rest of the moderate GOP grew some spine.
They were also afraid if they passed that bill before their recess and went back home, their lives wouldn't be worth a bottle of McConnell's Kentucky bourbon when facing their constituents. These are, after all, red states where guns flow like booze.
And let's pretend that this has not put a huge divide now between the firmly entrenched GOP good ole boys like McConnell, Cornyn and Grassley who got just a little too full of themselves with their elder statesmen power and weren't throwing the newly elected like Murkowski and Heller to the hungry lions?
McConnell knew bypassing a vote to bring Trumpcare to the floor of the Senate through the Finance Committee that the Finance Committee vote would end in a tie thanks to Heller. So McConnell brought together the same 13 on the Finance Committee, in secret, he knew were voting for this disastrous, Draconian healthcare Senate bill.
McConnell's worst nightmare was that he knew it had to be finalized and approved by the entire Senate. He didn't have the votes of Dems and when the first 3 proved to be McConnell's Waterloo, the rest of the moderate GOP grew some spine.
They were also afraid if they passed that bill before their recess and went back home, their lives wouldn't be worth a bottle of McConnell's Kentucky bourbon when facing their constituents. These are, after all, red states where guns flow like booze.
8
What's sad is that the GOP spent the last seven years dedicating most of its legislative efforts to repealing the ACA. If it had just put the good of its constituents, those not running insurance companies or big pharm businesses, at the top of its agenda back in 2009, they may have actually been able to move on to something of substance. Never mind. The GOP has been playing the obstructionist role for so long that I doubt its capable of anything beyond repeal and obstruct. Probably a good thing McConnel and co. have been preoccupied with healthcare.
1
The net result will be Obamacare lite with moderate tax cuts for the well-to-do. With all the rhetoric and smokescreens this is what the GOP has been aiming for all along. Sad.
1
It is also sad that Democrats give free healthcare to new or illegal immigrants in the country 5 minutes after they arrived while Americans born here who are middle class get no subsidies and get the shaft. Democrats reward their voter base and no one else.
1
MM, that is "pants on fire" false: http://www.politifact.com/florida/statements/2013/jul/09/chain-email/ill...
"Democrats reward their base and no one else." That is ridiculous...Seems the Republicans are out to screw their own base, and yet the base keeps voting them back into office. Good Gravy...That's crazy!
"Democrats reward their base and no one else." That is ridiculous...Seems the Republicans are out to screw their own base, and yet the base keeps voting them back into office. Good Gravy...That's crazy!
2
If conservatives want to give states more latitude to opt out of federal insurance regulations, liberals ought to hold out for more latitude, including financial help, to establish universal coverage plans in their states.
1
Everyone need healthcare the can afford and get. Since the GOP is in charge they should sit down with all members of Congress to fix the system they helped break. As a taxpayer I am sick of funding a broken government that does not care about me
16
8 years this miserable senate leader wasted on trying to keep his vow "to make Obama a one term president an the resultant has been virtually nothing of any substance coming from his side of the "American democratic process" except negativity and obstruction.
Now after destroying what he could of the ACA, refusing to allow anyone from the other side, the democrats, to join to make the ACA better, he and his easily led horde which is getting smaller and smaller, finally asked for the democrats to join to "fix" ?? the damage done.
meanwhile the pretender in chief is exhorting that this new plan of the senate will be great, "believe me".
Will the American people remember this horror when they vote in 2018?
Now after destroying what he could of the ACA, refusing to allow anyone from the other side, the democrats, to join to make the ACA better, he and his easily led horde which is getting smaller and smaller, finally asked for the democrats to join to "fix" ?? the damage done.
meanwhile the pretender in chief is exhorting that this new plan of the senate will be great, "believe me".
Will the American people remember this horror when they vote in 2018?
41
AHCA strips consumer protections against outrageous Insurance Companies practices. It is also an Age Tax. Here are some stats from Kaiser:
Obamacare Premium after Trumpcare Premium after
Tax Credit Tax Credit
45-54 $208 $403
55-64 $271 $583
65 and Older $310 $660
Obamacare Premium after Trumpcare Premium after
Tax Credit Tax Credit
45-54 $208 $403
55-64 $271 $583
65 and Older $310 $660
6
Mine is $1000 a month in NYS. You have no idea.
1
The Senate Bill would reduce healthcare services to 1 in 4 most of the most vunerable (older, poorer, rural) Mississipians. This is a poor state - please don't do this.
5
Your state voted for these creeps. You get what you pay for.
3
Your note makes it clear that you care deeply about your fellow Mississippians. However, they voted to send 2 Republican Senators to the US Senate, who voted to let Mitch McConnell run the place. They voted for a Republican legislature that blocked expansion of Medicaid to 300,000 working poor.
If they don't want to a tax cut for the wealthy paid for by taking care away from those who are struggling in Mississippi, they have to stop voting for Republicans.
If they don't want to a tax cut for the wealthy paid for by taking care away from those who are struggling in Mississippi, they have to stop voting for Republicans.
2
No, we didn't. We voted for Clinton, as did everybody I know. But you're right, Republicanism and religion are deeply ingrained here, and both are doing appalling damage.
Do what i want or I will bring in the Dems. It is all just manipulation. None of it is based on an authentic concern for the well-being of the citizens he is supposed to serve. The lack of integrity of the GOP is glaring.
25
That's exactly right. Any talk of bipartisanship (from Mr. McConnell) means bringing in conservative 'Blue Dog' Democrats like Joe Manchin. These senators hold comparable views to more centrist republicans on the issue like Murkowski, or Heller. I see it as a way to provide cover for republicans to get their plan approved without making many(any) concessions. They still repeal the taxes and the mandates of the ACA, while giving further concessions on medicaid to poorer more rural red states like W. Virginia. Blue states would still face massive cuts to their Medicaid programs.
My math says they are one or two votes shy of the 50 needed to pass the senate. If they manage to peel off a single conservative democrat (Manchin) they can claim 'bipartisanship' while getting most of what the want and providing cover for Murkowsi, Capito to support the bill.
My math says they are one or two votes shy of the 50 needed to pass the senate. If they manage to peel off a single conservative democrat (Manchin) they can claim 'bipartisanship' while getting most of what the want and providing cover for Murkowsi, Capito to support the bill.
It's like we have a bunch of toddlers in Congress that can't share and refuse to play together, but instead point fingers and start blaming each other. Everyone go sit in the corner and think about what you've done!
3
Your comparison doesn't really work. It's more like one kid hit another kid, and you insist on blaming both of them.
1
If McConnell was such a master tactician...then...these last few weeks could be viewed as a genius move. Gum up this bill so badly and then make a dramatic turn to bipartisanship. Such a turn would be a win, win, for everyone except the most extreme factions of each party. McConnell has a real opportunity here to push through a legislative agenda, with the help of moderate democrats, that would be good for America and reinvent his party. He would also gain the upper hand with Trump---who would have to fall in line with a legislative branch that would finally be viewed as a branch that gets things done. Now, the cost would be the freedom party---that small band of extremists, who would either have to fall in line or fact extinction.
26
Sorry, but any the actual result of such finesse by McConnell would serve to validate modern American conservatism, while SC packing goes on & on, for god knows how long. Dem help on healthcare validates the pigs that threw out the filibuster when it didn't suit their passions? Dem help the most ruthless, deceitful politician in our generation? Bipartisanship to save the GOP?
Well, a public stupid enough to elect Trump is stupid enough to think there is any real "bi" in any modern GOP thinking.
Well, a public stupid enough to elect Trump is stupid enough to think there is any real "bi" in any modern GOP thinking.
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"G.O.P. Holds Out Option of Fixing Current Health Law"
Fixing? Surely, you mean dismantling. Please try harder.
Fixing? Surely, you mean dismantling. Please try harder.
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Bipartisanship? Working together? What is this crazy talk.
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Compromise? What a novel idea! Open discussion? Hands across the aisle? Spirited give and take? Why, that sounds like democracy in action as opposed to we-won-and-we-are-going-to-shove-it-up-your-nose! I will believe it when I see it. The GOP Party of NO are the destructors, not the builders. Let's see a bipartisan effort.
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“It’s unfortunate that our Democratic colleagues refused to work with us in a serious way to comprehensively address Obamacare’s failures,” Mr. McConnell, the Senate bill’s chief author, said Wednesday on the Senate floor.
He's not fooling us. We have instant access to information and we know to check the reliability of the source. It took @14 months after an initial ACA bill was drafted where the democrats worked with republicans. The republicans added an amendment. Also don't forget when Obama was elected but before he was inaugurated, McConnell made it clear the republicans were going block anything put forward. If this bill fails (and it should), it's on McConnell and the brainless & pres. worthless dt. What can the republicans do in seven years of complaining about the ACA - nothing, Nada, zippo (and they are now sabotaging the ACA to appear it's in worse shape than it is - no subsidies or promises of payments and say ciao to insurance companies)
He's not fooling us. We have instant access to information and we know to check the reliability of the source. It took @14 months after an initial ACA bill was drafted where the democrats worked with republicans. The republicans added an amendment. Also don't forget when Obama was elected but before he was inaugurated, McConnell made it clear the republicans were going block anything put forward. If this bill fails (and it should), it's on McConnell and the brainless & pres. worthless dt. What can the republicans do in seven years of complaining about the ACA - nothing, Nada, zippo (and they are now sabotaging the ACA to appear it's in worse shape than it is - no subsidies or promises of payments and say ciao to insurance companies)
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It's unfortunate that Mitch McConnell is such a despicable liar, and dedicated to an anti-American agenda.
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