Sorry, Kansas, Moran will postulate in your town halls, but in the end, he will vote with his party's oligarchs, The Koch Bros and Co.
5
Interesting days in KS; Gov. Brownback vs. GOP state legislature rolling back his tax cuts, Chris Kobach Voting Panel to search for voter fraud at national level - States rights? and Sen Moran, GOP KS ...thoughtfully listening to constituents regarding the ACA (Proper name) healthcare for All_"Of the People"...for what is good for all Kansans too? As a semi-retired small business owner and ACA member...it has been a reasonable solution for pre-medicare health coverage (Evidence of 10 years: Premium v. Benefits). To Sen Moran - thanks for a good stand in being a "Profile in Courage" among your GOP peers for what E. Hemingway described Courage as: "Grace under pressure". I hope this most important matter can be thoughtfully played out for all citizens - as "Patience is the companion for wisdom" St. Augustine
6
Finally, a Republican Senator with more backbone than a banana. Cool.
4
Yes the Republican plan for healthcare is a lot like two porcupines making love and incestuous porcupines to boot.
1
Governor Brownback has done all kinds of unintentional good. Thanks to him, I think Kansans have had it with true believers. Even Jerry Moran is trying to sng along.
3
He will not last just like the freedom group in the house. Their issue is we want NOT to cover 20 million people or 30 million people.
2
Speaking as a Kansan, Moran goes hard right when he must win and to the middle if he must preserve his seat. He is good at determining which way the wind blows. Unlike Sen. Roberts, Moran is back in Kansas all the time.
1
As a life-long Kansan who has voted regularly for over 40 years, almost always for Democrats -- including Hillary and the opponents of both Senators Moran and Roberts -- I am rarely on the "winning side" (and I am not alone, so don't write us all off!) I'm happy just to see signs that some Republican politicians are not totally insane (legislature finally overriding our crazy governor to begin getting the state budget back on track, Moran at least paying lip service to making health care more affordable and accessible).
I attended Moran's town hall last month in the KC area, and appreciated the fact that he showed up and listened, unlike Mr. Roberts who evidently can't be bothered to hear what his constituents need and want. Moran said then that he had visited every hospital in the state and shared the concerns of many to whom he had spoken who were worried that the Republican bill would result in the closure of small-town hospitals. He expressed his preference for hearings. Although he hadn't then seen the bill or decided how to vote, at least he appeared to be somewhat in touch with reality rather than being a complete ideologue.
I was very glad to see that he came out against the original Senate bill. Like several quoted in this article, I too am skeptical, and will be watching to see if Moran will ultimately stand for Kansans rather than his party, but don't rain too hard on our parade -- let us have at least a few minutes of hope!
I attended Moran's town hall last month in the KC area, and appreciated the fact that he showed up and listened, unlike Mr. Roberts who evidently can't be bothered to hear what his constituents need and want. Moran said then that he had visited every hospital in the state and shared the concerns of many to whom he had spoken who were worried that the Republican bill would result in the closure of small-town hospitals. He expressed his preference for hearings. Although he hadn't then seen the bill or decided how to vote, at least he appeared to be somewhat in touch with reality rather than being a complete ideologue.
I was very glad to see that he came out against the original Senate bill. Like several quoted in this article, I too am skeptical, and will be watching to see if Moran will ultimately stand for Kansans rather than his party, but don't rain too hard on our parade -- let us have at least a few minutes of hope!
9
As I made 2 round trips to our land grant university thjis week with my dog in order to go to the veterinary hospital there, I thought of the several very small farming communities I drove through. Each has a population of around 2,000. Each still has a small hospital. It is part of what keeps these communities viable. A couple are more than an an hour from a larger hospital or clinic. If the GOP's version of health care is implemented, these communities will likely lose their hospitals. This will be another negative factor as to whether these communities remain viable. What I hope these areas ,who are deeply GOP will recognize, is that the rest of us are subsidizing the existence of their communities when we ask that Medicare, Medicaid and affordable health insurance be maintained. Without the subsidies these payments provide, people in these communities would not be able to afford health care and pay their bills. They also will not support taxes to keep these facilities viable. I am willing to help my neighbors, because I believe in the common good, and growing up in a rural area I support the viability of rural communities. I would just hope that the residents of these counties would admit to the fact that those in more populated areas, usually more liberal, are advocating for their community's survival in a sense, and consider that during the next election.
19
Hang on Moran! Don't let McConnell Ryan and Trump bambozzle you. Americans deserve good health insurance that protects ALL of us! It is the humane American way.
6
While it is nice to hear a GOP senator actually meeting with his constituents and answering questions, never mind expressing doubts about the deathcare plan, I still don't trust the GOP at all. In the end, they ALWAYS tow the party line, constituents be damned. They remain in lockstep with their corporate donors, who clearly could care less about us 99%. I'm getting as many healthcare issues taken care of before my insurance gets yanked because those poor billionaires needed my money for a tax cut.
8
The median household income in the US is around $56K. The typical premium for family coverage through employer benefit plans is now $18,142 (Kaiser Family Foundation). Look at those two figures. Does it make any sense that a family in the middle of our economy would have to pay that much for health insurance, not counting the deductibles and co-pays if they actually use it for needed medical care? Of course, private employers pay around 70% of that $18,142 and that's another problem. It means they can't raise wages and salaries or hire more workers when the cost of insurance rises, as it has almost every year for decades. It also becomes "smarter" to outsource jobs or replace workers with computers or robots that don't need health insurance. Our present reliance on expensive private insurance, both through employers and the individual market, is not only hurting median-income workers but also businesses and stifling economic growth and job creation. You would think "pro-business" Republicans would want to do something about that.
8
I just wish one republican would say "Okay we have been lying about the ACA for years, we have actually been actively sabatoging it by refusing to fund the risk corridors, and now confronted with all of this, do we stick to our rhetoric based on a lie and repeal a bill that for the most part is working or do we actually get down to what is good for our constituents?"
8
My grandmother and mother grew up in Kansas. I'm 67. I grew up in Michigan. When I was 26 I moved to Kansas for two years 76-78 and gave birth to our first child and shared that joy with my grandmother and many other good, kind people of Kansas.
I say to the good, kind and well-meaning people of Kansas, stay the course, let your voices be heard. Vote. Validate your public officials who are willing to listen to you regardless of your opinions in civil and open forum.
I say to the good, kind and well-meaning people of Kansas, stay the course, let your voices be heard. Vote. Validate your public officials who are willing to listen to you regardless of your opinions in civil and open forum.
3
Everything the Republicans do is to advantage the wealthy. That is all they care about. It is their true North Star.
5
Here are the factors in play (all play(ed) a role in the Republican/far right conservative resistance to the PP/ACA) :
1) The PP/ACA was introduced by a black man..
2) The expansion of Medicaid is anathema to "free market, small government" purists along with those decrying government "give aways"
3) The philosophy underlying whether or not healthcare is in some form, a natural right if you will, or can it be constitutionally provided (PP/ACA) which of course makes it a right.
These are the facts in evidence and they are not being disputed.
1) The PP/ACA was introduced by a black man..
2) The expansion of Medicaid is anathema to "free market, small government" purists along with those decrying government "give aways"
3) The philosophy underlying whether or not healthcare is in some form, a natural right if you will, or can it be constitutionally provided (PP/ACA) which of course makes it a right.
These are the facts in evidence and they are not being disputed.
12
He is one of my senators. I called to thank him for keeping an open mind. Clearly, he wants to go with what will make the Koch brothers most happy, but the people of Kansas, the voting people, not the corporate people, do not want to lose any health insurance or benefit they've gotten from the various federal health laws. Kansas wanted medicaid expansion, but Brownback refused. His career was built by the Koch brothers. Kris Kobach hopes to be heir apparent. I don't know why the Koch brothers can't be more like Bill Gates or Warren Buffett and be grateful for what they have and what they can share with this country. What would their lives have been like if their father had liked Stalin and stayed in Russia? They might have become oligarchs, but their lives would have been less blessed, IMHO. Sticking Kansans with Kris Kobach and the push to do away with the ACA, Medicaid, Social Security and Medicare is just plain wrong. I'd be willing to bet the Kochs have some insurance and that's what these other programs are...insurance. We pay for them, all of us, not just them.
27
You write so good and it still comes to this. Why do people vote against their own interests time after time? Who will solve this puzzle?
4
It is amazing that Americans have no shame acknowledging that their political system has been utterly corrupted and sold to wealthy plutocrats (no "fake news" redirection denials needed on this topic), and are still completely incapable of roundly turning on the party that made it so with their fake law Supreme Court appointments. Not a peep, red voters are cool with that.
5
I think for Senator Moran and others like him, it’s not enough to say, ‘Well, I don’t like the current bill,’” said former Representative Tim Huelskamp, a Republican who succeeded Mr. Moran in representing Kansas’ vast First District. “Tell me how you’re going to get to the point where the bulk of Obamacare is repealed, and when will you get it done?”
This dude and his ilk are the problem. This is ideology over common sense. It is party over country. You shouldn't start with the bulk of the system has to be repealed - decide you are going to do that no matter what -- and then see if you can come up with something that might do something about the consequences. That is like tearing down a support beam in your house because you don't like the guy who put it in -- not because it isn't holding up the house -- but because you swore you would get rid of everything he did and saying we aren't putting in another beam no matter what.
This dude and his ilk are the problem. This is ideology over common sense. It is party over country. You shouldn't start with the bulk of the system has to be repealed - decide you are going to do that no matter what -- and then see if you can come up with something that might do something about the consequences. That is like tearing down a support beam in your house because you don't like the guy who put it in -- not because it isn't holding up the house -- but because you swore you would get rid of everything he did and saying we aren't putting in another beam no matter what.
32
Sorry but Moran didn't succeed Tim Huelskamp, Tim was a Representative vs. Jerry Moran who is a Senator..along with Ms. Lynne Jenkins.
Obama DID say that when the GOP had a better plan, to bring it to him and he would change the ACA. They had 7 years, did nothing but SAY they had a cheaper better plan. You know, in the old days, lying of this magnitude used to cost Congress something. Now they just lie and lie.
It is really sad that they sold out Americans so easily. It says a lot.
It is really sad that they sold out Americans so easily. It says a lot.
47
you are so right. I think they are so comfortable because of gerymandering
4
The majority pf Republicans in power want to repeal The Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare) simply because it has the name of a black man attached to it. The rest don't like it because of their insane Randian fantasies that are more unrealistic than Marxism. The 1% want to become feudal nobility.
38
Kansans aren't fools, even though they got sold a fake bowl of goods by the *45 Apprentice. Like many other places, the population of Kansas is getting older with more needs only the feds can give.
Give it up Mitch, and make aging a little more manageable for the rest of us.
Give it up Mitch, and make aging a little more manageable for the rest of us.
9
The senator is a bit disingenuous in stating about Democrats being "Not one inch are we giving" When Schumer has said that once the repeal efforts are dropped that they would be willing to work on crafting a better approach to healthcare coverage then the ACA provides. What Democrats are not giving an inch on is throwing American health care all the way under the bus.
27
Why doesn't anyone ask insurance companies why they are pulling out of the exchanges. They may not be making as much money as before ACA but they are still making money. The greed of the insurance companies, and their strong lobby is why both sides do not want to push the question on the insurance companies but instead want to make it out that ACA is flawed.
17
R
Econ 101
America's economic system cannot deal with shrinking profit growth is necessary for survival. The American economy is the largest most successful economy that ever was and could provide every man woman and child with more than adequate health education and welfare. In a sane country the growing inequality would be the biggest problem confronting the USA. It would be the largest problem both foreign and domestic.
Because of America's ideology economic growth is America's biggest problem and supersedes everything all else. The entire polarization is about growing the economy which is big enough. Everything is about either growing the economy by centralizing wealth and power in a plutocracy (the GOP formula) or increasing democracy (the Democratic formula). Neither model is likely to succeed in 2017 in a mature economy but deciding on how to right size the economy would require an end to politics as we know it.
Econ 101
America's economic system cannot deal with shrinking profit growth is necessary for survival. The American economy is the largest most successful economy that ever was and could provide every man woman and child with more than adequate health education and welfare. In a sane country the growing inequality would be the biggest problem confronting the USA. It would be the largest problem both foreign and domestic.
Because of America's ideology economic growth is America's biggest problem and supersedes everything all else. The entire polarization is about growing the economy which is big enough. Everything is about either growing the economy by centralizing wealth and power in a plutocracy (the GOP formula) or increasing democracy (the Democratic formula). Neither model is likely to succeed in 2017 in a mature economy but deciding on how to right size the economy would require an end to politics as we know it.
2
"Democrats saying, he said, “Not one inch are we giving.”
Democrats are not going to help you to harm people so you can cut taxes for your wealthy donors
If you want some good ideas re how to protect more people and lower costs, then Democrats are happy to share.
If there are any Republicans who actually want to bring co-pays and deductible better in line with income, as a first step, here are many well- thought out plans from Democrats,
https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/health-care/
which likely would be law by now if the will of the voters hadn't been subverted by gerrymandering, 2 Senators per State no matter what the population, and the Electoral College
Democrats are not going to help you to harm people so you can cut taxes for your wealthy donors
If you want some good ideas re how to protect more people and lower costs, then Democrats are happy to share.
If there are any Republicans who actually want to bring co-pays and deductible better in line with income, as a first step, here are many well- thought out plans from Democrats,
https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/health-care/
which likely would be law by now if the will of the voters hadn't been subverted by gerrymandering, 2 Senators per State no matter what the population, and the Electoral College
18
Honestly, hearing about these Republican voters finally starting to piece together that Obamacare actually helped them is like watching a dog with a really long stick in its mouth figuring out how to get through a door.
39
Good analogy. I'll reserve my opinion about which is smarter.
9
Just one question really, "why can't I have access to the health care choices that members of Congress have?"
I'll hang up and listen. This ought to be good.
I'll hang up and listen. This ought to be good.
26
You can, you need only go out and buy it - with your money, not mine.
2
"Quickly and Quietly, without much input, light of day, time, discussion or explanation". Why don't you know?... we have to pass the bill before we know what's in it.
How many under the ACA are getting less coverage for substantially higher premiums and enormous co-pays? Those are the people who are currently, like right now, being adversely affected. Sen Moran will vote for the bill - believe it.
How many under the ACA are getting less coverage for substantially higher premiums and enormous co-pays? Those are the people who are currently, like right now, being adversely affected. Sen Moran will vote for the bill - believe it.
3
All that needs to be done is show your Representatives they will go home after the next election if they don't provide us with the insurance you want. It's our money, it's our right!
2
At the very least, Mr Moran DID hold and attend a Town Hall Meeting with Citizens which should be Mandatory for ANY Republican during this critical period of a Bill that is trying to be passed Quickly and Quietly without much input, light of day, time, discussion and explanation.
These Politicians knowing full well how many people are adversely affected by this Bill are adding Concealment, Cowardice and Subterfuge to get this bill through before anybody gets the time to organise, have a say or stop it passing against the wishes of a Majority as well as denying them the opportunities and potential of using Democracy and its tools to get and have a voice that matters that may sway those Republicans who have brains and empathy as well as a common sense most of their fellow friends and farmers never got to use or turn on....
...as most Republicans over the July long weekend and beyond are and have continued to avoid speaking and hearing what the Citizens they are supposed to represent and legislate for...by not holding any real/vital /important meetings and discussions by them , to find out their fears and concerns...by just not attending.
Not only Greedy, Dishonest and Morally Impaired....many are too Dumb to do the Smart things that could , should and have been shown to be the best, cheapest and most Universal Health Care Systems, Deliveries and results that all best the U.S system on every measure and result at half the cost.
Republicans should study other systems
These Politicians knowing full well how many people are adversely affected by this Bill are adding Concealment, Cowardice and Subterfuge to get this bill through before anybody gets the time to organise, have a say or stop it passing against the wishes of a Majority as well as denying them the opportunities and potential of using Democracy and its tools to get and have a voice that matters that may sway those Republicans who have brains and empathy as well as a common sense most of their fellow friends and farmers never got to use or turn on....
...as most Republicans over the July long weekend and beyond are and have continued to avoid speaking and hearing what the Citizens they are supposed to represent and legislate for...by not holding any real/vital /important meetings and discussions by them , to find out their fears and concerns...by just not attending.
Not only Greedy, Dishonest and Morally Impaired....many are too Dumb to do the Smart things that could , should and have been shown to be the best, cheapest and most Universal Health Care Systems, Deliveries and results that all best the U.S system on every measure and result at half the cost.
Republicans should study other systems
9
Ms. Duffy asked the right question, but Mr. Moran didn't give the right answer. Republicans want to scrap the ACA mostly because Mr. Obama and Democrats fashioned it. They certainly don't want to modify and improve the ACA. That would mean that they were wrong and Democrats were right. In this political climate, that is career suicide.
Meanwhile, people all over the country are worried that if they become ill, or even pregnant, they will have no access to care because they will not be able to afford insurance.
Those on Medicare worry about a voucher program that will be too expensive. Many like me already pay 25-40% of their income for health care, including premiums. We can't afford more.
Republicans should put their egos aside and fix the ACA.
Meanwhile, people all over the country are worried that if they become ill, or even pregnant, they will have no access to care because they will not be able to afford insurance.
Those on Medicare worry about a voucher program that will be too expensive. Many like me already pay 25-40% of their income for health care, including premiums. We can't afford more.
Republicans should put their egos aside and fix the ACA.
21
I see a great deal of evidence that many of these elected officials do not have the intellect to grasp both the immediate and long term repercussions of this issue. Their rhetoric on the new health care bill reminds me of the way a used car salesman would talk you into buying a car and driving it off the lot. They have little care for what will happen when the car breaks down in the 30 to 90 day period after you own the car. I do not know why they are not connecting the dots between people without a hospital within 20 minutes drive or people that have to decide between rent and medical bills, and voters. I think it likely that even the most complacent voter will be willing to wait in line to vote against someone who took away grandma's health care subsidies or nursing home coverage. Health care is an incredibly complex industry, more so here than in Europe where its cost is regulated. I suppose it takes better judgement than they have to see the help of experts who might point out these pitfalls in their plan.
7
Senator Moran All Americans should have Medicare for all a program like the congressional health care plan, Plain and simple. The rich 1% have more wealth than the bottom 90% Please tell us why not.
6
Senator Moran did not oppose the health bill until McConnell scrapped it. Moran did what was politically expedient- opposing the bill just prior to facing the heat at townhalls back home.
Given his voting record, and his persistent loyalty to the Koch Brothers rather than the people of Kansas, I would expect him to vote in favor of ANY McConnell Health Bill that sees the floor. He hasn't made a courageous vote his entire career, why start now?
Given his voting record, and his persistent loyalty to the Koch Brothers rather than the people of Kansas, I would expect him to vote in favor of ANY McConnell Health Bill that sees the floor. He hasn't made a courageous vote his entire career, why start now?
10
Oh please. He's (note the gender) a Republican. He's (note the gender) from Kansas. He (note the gender) was born in the yes column on this bill.
3
Moran pretended to care and listen to his constituents but his lie is exposed by his statement that the democrats (locked out of meetings) "Won't negotiate!"
Moran will do McConnell's bidding.
Moran will do McConnell's bidding.
18
Both of our Senators are fairly reliable party guys, but they are not necessarily Trump guys. This is part of the discussion. Brownback is also a disaster and they have to navigate where voters are with Kansas policy. Kansas is a little tricky right now for a Republican, even though the chance of getting reelected is high.
1
Then why did all these people vote for Trump?
17
They thought their lot would improve, that their health care would be improved, when all the promises would be fulfilled. They now know they were duped.
11
Nihilism. They believe they are so badly off that any change whatsoever will be an improvement.
7
They still don't know they have been duped because that has not been broadcast on Fox News.
5
Republicans should unanimously vote to repeal and not replace, bask in their glory, and then reap their reward next November. Let them show us the strength of their convictions by grasping the nettle.
6
To: Richard Schumacher, how is your health care? Do you have a policy through your work or are you on Social Security and Medicare? Millions have health care because of the Affordable Health Act. (so called Onbamacare or do you want Trumpcare for your older family members?
2
Look at Moran's record. He pretends to stand tough early on and do what's right, and then he caves to the GOP conservative establishment. A respected moderate Republican 20 years ago, but no more.
14
When the government makes decisions about our Rights as Americans, it further removes our freedom and gives power to fewer and fewer people. Look at where all the problems are throughout the world. We need to stop government supported healthcare. It is destroying our pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness.
2
It was the government who determined what rights you would and should have. It is government that has modified those rights over the years, and it is government who protects your rights, even the right to have erroneous opinions. Government, so far, will not force you to be right.
Sorry. In all due respect you need to get out more. We live in Nz although we are US citizens. Government supported health care is a wonderful thing and works well. For example, A family member recently had 3 heart valves quit suddenly and ended up getting them replaced in an emergency surgery. In hospital for 5 days. And it cost nothing. We are happy for our taxes to go help others.
8
Perhaps government supported healthcare is appropriate for New Zealand. But it is the wrong choice for a capitalist nation like ours. Regarding that heart surgery, it certainly wasn't "free" because it was paid for by someone. You may find paying for it to be acceptable, which is your right - no one is stopping you from donating to charity. Bit the government shouldn't be deciding how much of our money we get to keep and how generous to be with what it takes.
1
For a long time now the Republicans have shown they don't care about right and wrong, moral and immoral it's only win at any cost. Well the stakes are higher now as millions of Americans are going to face the real consequences of loosing their health insurance, lets see how many of these Representatives come to these type of meetings if they get their way.
8
This pipe dream of making premiums cost less requires sick people to pay more. That's what we had BEFORE ACA. All the healthy people think they shouldn't pay for sick people, apparently not realizing that THEY or someone they love will someday be sick, and want help paying those bills. The only way to lower the cost of care is price controls, which is what the Europeans do. Good luck getting that past either party, since the Medical-Industrial Complex contributes to both of them.
20
Seeing as Bernie Sanders. the strongest health care advocate on capitol hill, beat Hillary by more than 30 points in the primary, it is understandable that Moran is not so quick to join the republican chorus on this issue.
6
Oh please, that was the democratic primary... a tiny minority in a deep red state. No democrat has won Kansas since 1964.
4
"“I am a product of rural Kansas,” he said. “I understand the value of a hospital in your community, of a physician in your town, of a pharmacy on Main Street.”
Then why for years did he join the bandwagon trashing Obamacare whenever possible, knowing full well what would happen if repeal happened?
This is a man of bad faith, despite recent words.
The only ones worse are his voters, hurting themselves and loved ones.
Then why for years did he join the bandwagon trashing Obamacare whenever possible, knowing full well what would happen if repeal happened?
This is a man of bad faith, despite recent words.
The only ones worse are his voters, hurting themselves and loved ones.
21
How Americans seem to have a short memory.
Remember the House bill? So many GOP representatives were against it and then guess what happened? After all the mumbling they offered up a pittance of a few buck and then it passed.
I suspect the Senate bill will have the same fate. All these "courageous" GOP senators are putting up a front so they can face their constituents. At the end of the day after Mitch McDonnell tinkers it with another pittance of a few dollars these wonderfully "courageous" people will say they have improved the bill and vote yes.
That's not all too bad since most of the Trump voters will be hurt some badly, by either version and a compromise will be reached for the so-called president to sign. As they say be careful what you ask for because you may get it.
Remember the House bill? So many GOP representatives were against it and then guess what happened? After all the mumbling they offered up a pittance of a few buck and then it passed.
I suspect the Senate bill will have the same fate. All these "courageous" GOP senators are putting up a front so they can face their constituents. At the end of the day after Mitch McDonnell tinkers it with another pittance of a few dollars these wonderfully "courageous" people will say they have improved the bill and vote yes.
That's not all too bad since most of the Trump voters will be hurt some badly, by either version and a compromise will be reached for the so-called president to sign. As they say be careful what you ask for because you may get it.
9
What is wrong with Obamacare comes out of the compromises required to get it passed, compromises forced by Republicans and the insurance industry lobbyists, and Democrats caved in. Yes, costs are high, but businesses are making a killing, so the old GOP is out of character here. Remove most of private insurance and costs will go down-- publicly funded clinics and labs, price controls on pharmaceuticals (Trump even brought that up, way back when...). GOP "lets find the cheapest and most efficient method, and save money" just doesn't exist anymore. It's a huge money pit, because people are getting rich. We need socialized medicine, American style, because just like American public schools, police forces, libraries, fire departments, public utilities, infrastructure, national parks, and the military-- it would be something to be proud of. Why doesn't patriotism involve helping our own citizens, instead of only the hollow nationalistic, flag waving kind? There is no freedom in poverty and sickness.
29
Totally correct. What is the problem with socialised medicine? Why do Americans see it as so terrible? As a Christian nation, why do Americans have such a thing about helping each other when they get sick. Why do you all have to be so individual?
6
Kansas will need years to recover from the Brownback experiment, which failed miserably. Yet we in Kentucky are about to start down the same path. We have a fairly new governor. the first Republican governor in years
I don't think the right will be committing political suicide if they pass the Senate bill but they may be mortally wounded as a party.
I don't think the right will be committing political suicide if they pass the Senate bill but they may be mortally wounded as a party.
7
I admire Moran's willingness to listen and try to craft a reasonable solution. It stands in stark contrast to the rest of the all white Southern GOP who want to destroy the healthcare system so they can tarnish the legacy of a President they consider illegitimate solely based on the color of his skin. But then again what else would expect from a party built on the twin pillars of racism and intolerance.
12
Headline is ambiguous. Is he unlikely to hold out or an unexpected holdout?
2
If liberals continue to attack even the republicans who have expressed opposition to this horrible bill, instead of encouraging them to do the right thing, and the media continues to use taunting bylines towards GOP failures in passing their repeal of Obamacare, then why would they be surprised if their cornering tactics backfire ending in a unjust outcome for millions of Americans? Save the cheap shots for someone other than those who have the courage to buck the party for the sake of the most vulnerable.
2
Whatever happens, it is certain that Republicans will blame somebody else for what they did.
5
The GOPers are writing a healthcare bill which will either be useless to many of us or too expensive for many of us, but the main problem is that they, and only they, will never have to use it, so they don't have to care what the heck is in this bill. They have their $174,000 a year salary and daily stipends for who knows what, which none of us ordinary citizens were able to say yes or no about. They are also eligible for pensions for life after only five years on the job (many, many of us working stiffs are lucky if we get SS, let alone a pension after five years on the job). There's just something wrong about people who have everything they need in life telling us that we can get by on much, much less than they get by on.
If this congressional bill passes the house and is signed by the the Donald, every Congressperson and the Donald should be required to use this as their healthcare plans. If it's good enough for the geese, it should darn well be good enough for the ganders.
If this congressional bill passes the house and is signed by the the Donald, every Congressperson and the Donald should be required to use this as their healthcare plans. If it's good enough for the geese, it should darn well be good enough for the ganders.
14
Kansas has more poor people relying on Medicaid than many other states. I hope Sen. Moran keeps them in mind.
7
Democrats need to get busy and do what they have failed to do since the ACA was passed - explain it in detail to voters and then explain in detail how the GOP bill will destroy the health coverage of average citizens.
So far Dems have shown that they like to prance around and make fancy statements that have no specifics attached to them. Without specifics and a vigorous detailed explanation in every county in America, Dems will remain out of power. They have forgotten the work ethic of Harry Truman.
So far Dems have shown that they like to prance around and make fancy statements that have no specifics attached to them. Without specifics and a vigorous detailed explanation in every county in America, Dems will remain out of power. They have forgotten the work ethic of Harry Truman.
5
Whatever motivates people to vote for Trump has nothing to do with finely crafted and articulated policy.
7
You can start by reading "America's Bitter Pill", the story of how the ACA came to be. It's a pretty balanced narrative, and both encouraging and depressing. I came away realizing how many good people, conservative AND liberal, worked hard to make this happen, and then fell short as lobbyists moved in and individual state reps demanded special treatment. A big mistake was focusing too much on coverage and not enough on cost. Also, depending on government contractors rather than the best in the field for building the ACA website. Another big problem was the GOP refusing to support it in any way, shape or form. When we hear it's "failing" b/c insurers are pulling out of the market in several states, there's a reason for that. The whole thing hinged on expanding Medicaid and if a state opted out, usually along partisan lines, of course it was going to fail. The GOP resisted, dragged its heels and fought every inch of the way, then yelled, "Told you so! It's failing!" I learned a lot.
6
Volunteer to translate this article into Crayon for Tim Huelskamp?!
7
Either Republicans had a plan all these years when they campaigned against Obamacare or they were lying to their constituents. The proposal they created wasn't a bill to extend and improve healthcare, it was just a tax cut for the rich. No matter how they vote, it is clear their allegiance is with the rich and they only cater to the working class to get votes.
18
The issues are greater than attributing problems in the malfunctioning expensive health care system to insurance companies who treat their customers like cash cows.
The problem with health care in the US is that the US is the only country in the civilized world that still uses the insurance company based system for health care which is REGRESSIVE to the insured. In contrast, Canada, Japan and Western Europe use the single-payer health care system which is PROGRESSIVE to the insured.
Notwithstanding the positive developments of more affordable health care being offered to Americans under the ACA, the central issue on explaining the high costs for health care that has NOT been debated is that the U.S. insurance system of health coverage is REGRESSIVE. It is regressive in that a given policy with identified benefits will have a set price and this price is to be paid by all persons whether they are rich or poor. As a result, the rich buy the Cadillac versions and the poor the Skateboard versions.
In contrast the public single payer system of payments through taxes is PROGRESSIVE. In Canada, the government established that everyone has the right to have free access to health care. But the fact is that all health care expenses are paid by taxes and these payments of income taxes are progressive in that the more one makes in income the more one pays in taxes. The universal health care system in Canada is not a perfect system, but it works. Also administration costs are lower.
The problem with health care in the US is that the US is the only country in the civilized world that still uses the insurance company based system for health care which is REGRESSIVE to the insured. In contrast, Canada, Japan and Western Europe use the single-payer health care system which is PROGRESSIVE to the insured.
Notwithstanding the positive developments of more affordable health care being offered to Americans under the ACA, the central issue on explaining the high costs for health care that has NOT been debated is that the U.S. insurance system of health coverage is REGRESSIVE. It is regressive in that a given policy with identified benefits will have a set price and this price is to be paid by all persons whether they are rich or poor. As a result, the rich buy the Cadillac versions and the poor the Skateboard versions.
In contrast the public single payer system of payments through taxes is PROGRESSIVE. In Canada, the government established that everyone has the right to have free access to health care. But the fact is that all health care expenses are paid by taxes and these payments of income taxes are progressive in that the more one makes in income the more one pays in taxes. The universal health care system in Canada is not a perfect system, but it works. Also administration costs are lower.
11
"After Mr. McConnell scrapped plans for a vote last week, Mr. Moran announced that he opposed the measure..."
So when it didn't really matter, that's when Moran decided he could come out against the Senate bill. Sorry, but that's not a profile in courage. The courageous thing to do would have been to say he was against it before it was withdrawn, when it was risky to do so. Standing in front of constituents at a town hall and saying --when now it won't come up for a vote! -- that he was against the bill means nothing. He's giving people what they want to hear and it's just words -- it's his actions that will matter and I'm not holding my breath that when a new version of the Senate bill comes up for a vote that he will actually cast a No vote.
So when it didn't really matter, that's when Moran decided he could come out against the Senate bill. Sorry, but that's not a profile in courage. The courageous thing to do would have been to say he was against it before it was withdrawn, when it was risky to do so. Standing in front of constituents at a town hall and saying --when now it won't come up for a vote! -- that he was against the bill means nothing. He's giving people what they want to hear and it's just words -- it's his actions that will matter and I'm not holding my breath that when a new version of the Senate bill comes up for a vote that he will actually cast a No vote.
8
Simple answer. Single Payer.
The Federal and State governments now pay 64% of all US health care spending (1.8 Trillion) and this will increase to 67% in 2024. Canada, single payer country, pays 71%. 20% of this cost in the US is due to the loss of revenue from the tax deductions for all costs paid by employers (300 billion). This means there is only a 4% difference in government costs between the two countries. Yet, the cost to individuals is 3X in the USA. (Am Journ Public Health 2016).
We hear Republicans complaints about the Canadian system but the USA corporations in Canada love it.
Russ Hunt, financial director of Costco Canada, says today that having employees covered by Canada’s Medicare program is a tremendous savings for the firm’s Canadian unit, compared to its parent company in the U.S., where Costco has a reputation as an “enlightened” employer offering good benefits. In an interview, Hunt hastened to add that even in Canada, the company has to turn to private insurers to provide its workers with supplemental coverage beyond just doctor and hospital. (Cost to employers about $1000 per employee versus $10,000 in USA)
The Federal and State governments now pay 64% of all US health care spending (1.8 Trillion) and this will increase to 67% in 2024. Canada, single payer country, pays 71%. 20% of this cost in the US is due to the loss of revenue from the tax deductions for all costs paid by employers (300 billion). This means there is only a 4% difference in government costs between the two countries. Yet, the cost to individuals is 3X in the USA. (Am Journ Public Health 2016).
We hear Republicans complaints about the Canadian system but the USA corporations in Canada love it.
Russ Hunt, financial director of Costco Canada, says today that having employees covered by Canada’s Medicare program is a tremendous savings for the firm’s Canadian unit, compared to its parent company in the U.S., where Costco has a reputation as an “enlightened” employer offering good benefits. In an interview, Hunt hastened to add that even in Canada, the company has to turn to private insurers to provide its workers with supplemental coverage beyond just doctor and hospital. (Cost to employers about $1000 per employee versus $10,000 in USA)
10
At one point, as most everyone knows, Kansas was a very progressive state. Who knows exactly how the state lost its mind and voted for Sam Brownback not once, but twice. The legislature's veto of Brownback's draconian budget (the same has happened in Illinois), must give pause to any conservative lawmaker with a head and heart. Perhaps Moran is one of those folks who sees that the win on the R side of the ledger is a lose for his constituents. The Republicans keep insisting they want to keep their promise to repeal the ACA--or Obamacare as they sinisterly refer to it--but that begs two observations: one: when have politicians been so zealous about keeping a promise? and two: now that Americans have actually seen how healthcare can improve their lives, they are either for the law or realizing that the GOP used them as pawns to thwart a good thing President Obama did for them. Maybe some even realize that Trump's plan to take away their healthcare has more to do with eradicating President Obama's legacy than it has with serving his constituents' needs.
Had the GOP begun their majority rule with plans to repair the ACA instead of repealing it, they could have easily won the upcoming elections without voter suppression and their gerrymandering hocus pokus.
I hope more GOPers have the courage that Moran has and talk to their constituents and vote FOR them rather than for the GOP.
Had the GOP begun their majority rule with plans to repair the ACA instead of repealing it, they could have easily won the upcoming elections without voter suppression and their gerrymandering hocus pokus.
I hope more GOPers have the courage that Moran has and talk to their constituents and vote FOR them rather than for the GOP.
5
Politicians are only as responsive as the voters who elected them. Seems that the voters who were all about Trump are now changing their minds. They get what they deserve but this doesn't let the GOP off the hook. What they pass will have repercussions and it is a lot harder to undo and fix bad choices. Ideology is fine in the abstract but pragmatic decisions that do the most good for most people is a good default. As for following through on the pledges, who cares? Apparently their voters don't now.
5
Moran knows very well that if the GOP fails to repeal Obamacare and roll back the unaffordable medicaid expansion that benefits able bodied adults who should be working instead of playing video games, his political future in Kansas will be over. Unfortunately, the Obama voters who show up at these town hall meetings do not seem to understand this reality.
“Because we have invented a system where most people have extremely generous coverage, no one asks about the price, and no one tells them what the price is,” said Joseph Antos, an economist and scholar in health care policy at the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative think tank." From Hidden Subsidy article.
This is not true any longer. And I don't believe that any GOP senator or representative feels our pain when it comes to medical care. They don't have contend with lost or denied claims, narrow networks, high deductibles that are unaffordable, etc. They get the best care possible while we get nickeled and dimed on every bit of care we need. We can't go to a local doctor if they aren't on the plan. We can't go to a local hospital for the same reason. When we ask about the price, no one knows.
We need universal access single payor health care. Instead of subsidizing big businesses, not negotiating with pharmaceutical companies or setting caps on what they can charge and doing the same to hospitals, our politicians need to work for us. They need to stop assuming that all of us want to abuse the system or don't care about the cost. We care plenty and many of us forgo care because of the costs. Other countries have universal health care. We don't need to reinvent it. We need politicians with the backbone to make it happen.
This is not true any longer. And I don't believe that any GOP senator or representative feels our pain when it comes to medical care. They don't have contend with lost or denied claims, narrow networks, high deductibles that are unaffordable, etc. They get the best care possible while we get nickeled and dimed on every bit of care we need. We can't go to a local doctor if they aren't on the plan. We can't go to a local hospital for the same reason. When we ask about the price, no one knows.
We need universal access single payor health care. Instead of subsidizing big businesses, not negotiating with pharmaceutical companies or setting caps on what they can charge and doing the same to hospitals, our politicians need to work for us. They need to stop assuming that all of us want to abuse the system or don't care about the cost. We care plenty and many of us forgo care because of the costs. Other countries have universal health care. We don't need to reinvent it. We need politicians with the backbone to make it happen.
14
I'm skeptical of ANY politician from Kansas given what they have said and done for years but I sure will donate to Planned Parenthood to get one of those T-shirts! It is critical we tie this entire ruining of America to all of the GOP and not just Trump. The GOP owns our present disaster.
31
Of course, if PP only provided low-cost health services and contraceptives, it would enjoy much broader support. Most Americans do not support the abortion-on-demand positions of PP, NOW, or the Democratic Party, and favor some restrictions on abortion (as do nearly all other western democracies, where abortion after the first trimester is discouraged). The sale of fetal tissue is another off-putting practice. Making PP and unrestricted abortion support a central party and health care principle is driving a lot of people away from the Democrats, and may prevent a compromise on health care.
See, on recent opinion trends, https://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2017/01/27/poll_finds_most_wo...
See, on recent opinion trends, https://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2017/01/27/poll_finds_most_wo...
Martha,
I don't know where you get your news or your ability to ferret out the "fake" from the real but your comment suggests that you rely on FOX or worse. I have contributed to Planned Parenthood my entire adult life because they do provide low cost, high quality health care to women and men, too. I love women and I want them to have honest medical care and receive the full spectrum of health care options they need.
I don't know where you get your news or your ability to ferret out the "fake" from the real but your comment suggests that you rely on FOX or worse. I have contributed to Planned Parenthood my entire adult life because they do provide low cost, high quality health care to women and men, too. I love women and I want them to have honest medical care and receive the full spectrum of health care options they need.
4
Those who know little of historical KS Populism may find this surprising, but should not discount Moran's sincerity. See also: http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/kansas-lawmakers-reject-brownbac....
You're not just in Kansas anymore so look at the big picture, not just your constituents. Regardless of state, we are all in this mess together. And lower taxes on the rich is not the answer. You should know Mr. Moran, your own state just raised taxes as it was slowly falling apart.
17
Support a legitimate health care bill Senator Moran not a tax give away to the rich.
12
Senator Moran says the Democrats won't give one inch on
Obamacare...how would he know that? No hearings, all
back room wheeling and dealing among a few Republicans.
They come up with a horrible bill, take it or leave it.
Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri imploring the leadership
to hold hearings to no avail.
So, blaming the Democrats in any way, shape or form
for this mess of a bill is wrong. It's all on the Republicans.
Obamacare...how would he know that? No hearings, all
back room wheeling and dealing among a few Republicans.
They come up with a horrible bill, take it or leave it.
Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri imploring the leadership
to hold hearings to no avail.
So, blaming the Democrats in any way, shape or form
for this mess of a bill is wrong. It's all on the Republicans.
65
I guess I'm a skeptic. At the end of the day, I only see a lot of Republicans pantomiming to stay out of a bright light. Kansas, or all places (with the Brownback experiment and all), should have a little head start appreciating the potential destruction and harm in the making. There are probably few porcupines in Kansas, but I'll bet there are a lot of frogs. And those frogs have been getting slowly boiled for years. I'm not an ACA fan, but repeal is not the solution. All repeal does is turn up the heat on those Kansas frogs. Let's hope those Fox news consuming, Hannity and Rush loving folks, have learned a little something about the far right Republican orthodoxy. Let's hope they actually hold Mr. Morans feet to the fire, as opposed to falling for his present pantomiming, with an ultimate YES vote after some subtle change. As an example watch Ms. Collins vote yes after some tokin few million is thrown in to address her opioid epidemic in her state. She will probably use that as cover to vote YES. What is Mr. Moran waiting for?
12
"But it remains to be seen whether Mr. Moran will stick with his opposition".
6
I've been waiting since the Eighties for a defining moment when the curtain was pulled back for the Republican base to see the true heart of their leadership and who controls them.
We've witnessed, in amazement, thirty years of Kool-Aid spiked with toxicants like abortion, religion, racism, supply side economics and immigration delivered by profiteers like Fox News, Rush and right wing radio.
Healthcare and Trump might just wake the Country out of a long running and very depressing coma. We could be seeing the cracks for what will make "America Great Again".
Hopefully the Republican Leadership isn't pulled back by their Overlords again.
We've witnessed, in amazement, thirty years of Kool-Aid spiked with toxicants like abortion, religion, racism, supply side economics and immigration delivered by profiteers like Fox News, Rush and right wing radio.
Healthcare and Trump might just wake the Country out of a long running and very depressing coma. We could be seeing the cracks for what will make "America Great Again".
Hopefully the Republican Leadership isn't pulled back by their Overlords again.
11
This is so true, I've always been amazed by the blinkered view of the masses to vote for a political party that has at its core, everything for the rich and absolutely nothing for anyone else. The hypocrisy is also amazing Obama had a lot of time personally with the opposition, in the hope of getting bipartisan support. They still complain of Obama pushing the ACA through, but now it's perfectly ok for Trump to push through with no consideration for dialogue. Trump said his system would be cheaper and not leave anyone without cover? So how can this Trumpcare go forward without hardly anyone who voted for him saying this is a stab in the back, a lie.
How do you rationalise this blatant lie? Because it's not a little bit off the mark it's almost the complete opposite, the rich get a tax cut and 22million people get hung out to dry... No cover, how can these people get left without cover some will die because of Trumps lie, but he seems ok with that, with supporters saying "I think he's doing a great job " . How delusional can you be?
I wish Americans all the best , but the ability of you guys to not see hypocrisy amazes me. Although there will be a lot of people who were offended and opposed to the ACA now pleading for it to stay, so that gives me some hope.
God bless guys I hope you're all covered.
How do you rationalise this blatant lie? Because it's not a little bit off the mark it's almost the complete opposite, the rich get a tax cut and 22million people get hung out to dry... No cover, how can these people get left without cover some will die because of Trumps lie, but he seems ok with that, with supporters saying "I think he's doing a great job " . How delusional can you be?
I wish Americans all the best , but the ability of you guys to not see hypocrisy amazes me. Although there will be a lot of people who were offended and opposed to the ACA now pleading for it to stay, so that gives me some hope.
God bless guys I hope you're all covered.
1
Republicans have had 7 years to come up with a replacement. They have done nothing. NOTHING. Pam Toomey said it best when he said "we thought Hillary was going to win". They don't know what it's like to work, and they certainly want to continue blaming Democrats for their own shortfall. I'm glad to see Moran actually meet with his constituents, but my guess is that he will dive off into the abyss with the other lemmings.
23
Ideology in the real world is a dangerous thing. Get over it, now congress do what you should do make us a healthcare system we "all" can live with. Not one for the rich, one for the poor, one for republicans, one for democrats. One for congressmen, one for constituents. If you think of it as one, United , yeah the Unied States Health System. True this is a simplistic statement. It is. It's the work you have to do that will be hard. Good luck we all wish you and us the best.
4
So, in a town of 300 people, more than 100 showed up to confront their Senator...well, now, that got my attention. But did it get the attention of Senator Moran? or his Republican caucus?
The GOP may be in more trouble than they realize. That's what I'm hoping.
The GOP may be in more trouble than they realize. That's what I'm hoping.
11
Please spare me. This is all just to get his constituents to think he is standing up for them so he can get re-elected. He will cave just like McCain when it comes down to voting against his party and simply day "Well I tried" just like the President does on every issue he can't win.
16
How many of the people at these meetings protesting TrumpCare voted for Trump? Were any of them asked that question to determine if they are suffering from buyers remorse? We all know that at the end of the day- Moran will cave to the GOP's pressure and some pathetic giveback (bribe) to ensure his loyalty to the party- not the people who he is supposed to represent.
10
The Democrats are more than willing to give an inch -- but it's an inch in the direction of making the ACA work better. There's a lot of work to be done, and the left is ready. But help the GOP move us backwards? Nah...
9
Talk is cheap. It's the vote that counts, especially from Republicans.
6
How sad that so much faith in our institution has been lost as to go so far as to be "surprised" a Senator - a PUBLIC SERVANT!!!! - doesn't want his constituents to suffer and/or DIE because of this bill?
Where did we go so wrong that something as simple as LIFE OR DEATH for so many is in question? Why are the masses, the electors, so flippantly complacent now, to accept this from the government that was created to protect our civil rights? How do you look at your fellow Americans and confidently say that their life and health DOES NOT MATTER to you?
The power is in the 99% but we've rolled onto our backs. Why?
Where did we go so wrong that something as simple as LIFE OR DEATH for so many is in question? Why are the masses, the electors, so flippantly complacent now, to accept this from the government that was created to protect our civil rights? How do you look at your fellow Americans and confidently say that their life and health DOES NOT MATTER to you?
The power is in the 99% but we've rolled onto our backs. Why?
6
There is a certain amount of shame that many on Obamacare rightfully feel. I'm referring to that subset that receives the subsidies. Those people know, after all, that they are receiving a direct transfer of other people's money. That's shameful and they know it. It's hard to get all riled up about something that you know is immoral.
There's a certain amount of shame that many on the right rightfully feel. I'm referring to that 1% subset of the population that is going to receive enormous tax cuts. It is immoral to trade the lives of 22 million soon to be uninsured for a tax cut for the Uber-wealthy, it's shameful and they know it.
And I disagree with you, it's easy to get all riled up for something that you know is immoral.
And I disagree with you, it's easy to get all riled up for something that you know is immoral.
1
Yes for all the virtues of facing the constituents let's not forget Mr Moran said a "Trumpian lie", when he said democrats won't give an inch.
Democrats accepted 100 plus amendments from GOP when crafting ACA and have numerous times implored GOP to come forward with ideas to improve it , as they say "mend it, not end it".
Democrats accepted 100 plus amendments from GOP when crafting ACA and have numerous times implored GOP to come forward with ideas to improve it , as they say "mend it, not end it".
7
Senator Moran says the Democrats won't give an inch but it's not inches that he wants them to give it's a persons life and no, they will not sacrifice the life of one person much less thousands.
4
I think the US ranks so low in public health measures because its public policies make people mentally ill.
6
When the Republicans drone on about the "freedom" to choose medical care that is clearly priced out of reach for many people in their health scheme, it kind of reminds me of a lyric in the song "Me and Bobby Mcgee" about freedom being just another word for nothing else to lose.
6
I wrote to both of my senators from Oklahoma. I also called their offices to express my concerns about the Senate bill.
All I got in return, from both of them, was a form letter, not doubt written by Alec or some other outfit, telling me how disastrous Obamacare is and how it's going to mean the end of civilization itself unless it was repealed, and how great the Senate bill is going to be by freeing Oklahomans from the oppression of having to buy a product that no one should have to buy.
Senator Lankford even ads insult to injury in his response by signing his letter "in God we trust". I presume he means, don't worry, God will provide you with the healthcare you need.
Kansans are luckier than we are. At least they seem to have some thinking humanoids representing them.
All I got in return, from both of them, was a form letter, not doubt written by Alec or some other outfit, telling me how disastrous Obamacare is and how it's going to mean the end of civilization itself unless it was repealed, and how great the Senate bill is going to be by freeing Oklahomans from the oppression of having to buy a product that no one should have to buy.
Senator Lankford even ads insult to injury in his response by signing his letter "in God we trust". I presume he means, don't worry, God will provide you with the healthcare you need.
Kansans are luckier than we are. At least they seem to have some thinking humanoids representing them.
10
I don't understand how Rep Moran can frame the issue as "lamenting that both parties were locked in opposition over health care, with Republicans pursuing repeal and Democrats saying, he said, “Not one inch are we giving.”"
As far as I can tell no Democrat have been invited to participate in the healthcare discussion let alone the drafting of the bills. Of course the Democrat aren't going to budge an inch because there's no discussion of making ACA better. It's these disingenous statements that gives no credibility to the GOP.
As far as I can tell no Democrat have been invited to participate in the healthcare discussion let alone the drafting of the bills. Of course the Democrat aren't going to budge an inch because there's no discussion of making ACA better. It's these disingenous statements that gives no credibility to the GOP.
11
A town hall meeting for health care in a safe republican state is just kabuki theatre.
3
"...porcupines making love” Really Senator Roberts? And this man is one of a hundred senators that make critical decisions that impact not just his fellow Kansans, but all Americans. #Sad.....
6
This is the best proof and affirmation of the moderate--liberal policies of the Obama presidency and his signature issue of health care insurance for most. It works and needs help to continue; to throw it out would be idiotic.
6
"Hurry!. . . .hurry! . . . .step right up, folks! . .step right up. . . .get 'em while supplies last. . . .'cause they're going like HOTCAKES, ladies and gentlemen. . .like HOTCAKES. . . new and improved. . . . .'cause it passed all tests with FLYING COLORS, ladies. . .and gentlemen. . . FLYING COLORS. . . .straight from Dr. Mitch McConnell's private laboratories in Washington D. C. . . .
. . . our new. . .
. . our IMPROVED. . . .
ALL-PURPOSE SNAKE OIL PANACEA. . . get 'em while supplies last!. . ."
Yes. I'm afraid so. Snake oil. That's all the GOP has to offer.
Folks in Kansas are not--repeat NOT!--lining up to buy any. They smell a rat. And come to think of it. . . .
. . . .I think "rat" was the principal ingredient. It's lousy for your health. Absolutely lousy! Does you no good at all.
Senator McConnell? Distinguished senators of the Republican party?
You listening? Hello?
You listening?
. . . our new. . .
. . our IMPROVED. . . .
ALL-PURPOSE SNAKE OIL PANACEA. . . get 'em while supplies last!. . ."
Yes. I'm afraid so. Snake oil. That's all the GOP has to offer.
Folks in Kansas are not--repeat NOT!--lining up to buy any. They smell a rat. And come to think of it. . . .
. . . .I think "rat" was the principal ingredient. It's lousy for your health. Absolutely lousy! Does you no good at all.
Senator McConnell? Distinguished senators of the Republican party?
You listening? Hello?
You listening?
6
>a town hall meeting, something almost none of his colleagues ...
It's interesting to consider why none of his colleagues are doing them. The biggest reason is that activists hijacked these long-standing ways to force elected officials to hear the complaints of their constituents, making them into angry press events rather than real exchanges.
First the Tea Party 8 years ago, and now Democratic activists. It's an ugly strategy that has divided us a little further.
It's interesting to consider why none of his colleagues are doing them. The biggest reason is that activists hijacked these long-standing ways to force elected officials to hear the complaints of their constituents, making them into angry press events rather than real exchanges.
First the Tea Party 8 years ago, and now Democratic activists. It's an ugly strategy that has divided us a little further.
1
Democracy is messy, but it's worth it. It requires some courage, and that means standing in front of people who disagree with you.
2
What option do you propose to be able to interact in person with one's representatives???
2
Just part of the Republicans Propaganda Show. They all will fall into line cause they can make more money by Repealing Obamacare. Being their own "Death Panel" will give them more control on people's lives and the opportunity to shakedown the general public and line their pockets.
1
Sen. Moran claimed Democrats say, “Not one inch are we giving.”
This isn't true at all. Democrats are willing to change the current law. They aren't willing to kick millions more people off health insurance rolls.
I think what Sen. Moran is really saying is that he is willing to see millions of people lose coverage but not the tens of millions who would lose coverage under the Senate plan. Democrats just need to be willing to join him in his willingness to kick millions off their coverage.
No. No way.
This isn't true at all. Democrats are willing to change the current law. They aren't willing to kick millions more people off health insurance rolls.
I think what Sen. Moran is really saying is that he is willing to see millions of people lose coverage but not the tens of millions who would lose coverage under the Senate plan. Democrats just need to be willing to join him in his willingness to kick millions off their coverage.
No. No way.
2
Obamacare is the epitome of Democrats giving too many inches... to the GOP and insurance industry lobby. It's really expensive to cover everyone while people get rich from it.
4
Why do the Republicans keep harping about Dems' "not giving one inch," when all Democratic senators were locked out of the committee discussions. Democratic leadership has admitted there are serious flaws in the ACA that bipartisan efforts can improve - if only the Republicans would allow Dems into the room. I also remember the Obama administration trying to get Republican input when drafting the ACA and were told repeatedly the GOP wanted nothing to do w/ anything President Obama was spearheading. Whatever happened to reasonableness in Congress and why do today's GOP leaders hate poor people so much they prefer to throw all of them (us) under a bus rather than write a better law that would be beneficial to both sides? This fiction, "it's the Democrats' fault the [McConnell] bill is so bad," is Trumpian.
5
The way some of these politicians sound off about Obamacare, you'd think they were Winston Churchill calling on the British to defeat the Germans ("Victory at all costs, victory in spite of all terror, victory however long and hard the road may be...."). Don't they get embarrassed?
3
Yes, most sensible voters want to see solutions to the problems with the ACA, which are largely in the individual market for self-employed people who earn too much to get ACA premium subsidies. If Republicans were smart, they would focus on that problem area and fully fund the parts of the ACA that help the working poor pay their deductibles and co-pays and childless adults stay on expanded Medicaid. Democrats have said they would be glad to support fixes to the problems with the ACA. Of course they will not participate in a wholesale dismantling of the law they enacted without one Republican vote and Senator Moran cannot honestly blame them for that. It is now clear that Republicans do not have a better plan than the ACA but their ideology and their pride will not let them fix the ACA.; That's fine with me. Medicare for All is gaining public support and that is the real and lasting fix. Bring it on.
83
I vote for Medicare for All!
4
Ladies and gentlemen, the tireless Librarians of Congress have given us all the ability to LOOK AT the actual text of these bills, or anything else, at http://thomas.loc.gov. And it is very important that you do that ... for yourself.
Here's why:
(1) Neither the House nor the Senate version actually "repeals Obamacare." They remove restrictions that will actually leave all of us even worse-off than before.
(2) Both versions hand billions of dollars to these "for-profit" companies, no strings attached, under the auspices of "premium support."
I'm sorry, but the "for profit" people have had more than twenty-five years to tell us all "how good it was going to be someday," and what we have to show for it is a complete FAIL. They failed shareholders and they certainly also failed patients. Why, then, should we give them billions of dollars in cash?
What we need is what England and Canada have long had: HEALTH. CARE.
Health care with NO for-profit motive. Health care with meaningful regulation that focuses on the one-and-only thing that should be of concern: patient care, and free(!) access to that care by anyone and by everyone in the country.
The "for-profit" companies got everything they ever asked for in their so-called "Affordable Care Act," and still they FAIL. This is because their fundamental proposition is flawed. You cannot, in fact, provide health care for profit. You also cannot pay for it "for profit."
End of story.
Here's why:
(1) Neither the House nor the Senate version actually "repeals Obamacare." They remove restrictions that will actually leave all of us even worse-off than before.
(2) Both versions hand billions of dollars to these "for-profit" companies, no strings attached, under the auspices of "premium support."
I'm sorry, but the "for profit" people have had more than twenty-five years to tell us all "how good it was going to be someday," and what we have to show for it is a complete FAIL. They failed shareholders and they certainly also failed patients. Why, then, should we give them billions of dollars in cash?
What we need is what England and Canada have long had: HEALTH. CARE.
Health care with NO for-profit motive. Health care with meaningful regulation that focuses on the one-and-only thing that should be of concern: patient care, and free(!) access to that care by anyone and by everyone in the country.
The "for-profit" companies got everything they ever asked for in their so-called "Affordable Care Act," and still they FAIL. This is because their fundamental proposition is flawed. You cannot, in fact, provide health care for profit. You also cannot pay for it "for profit."
End of story.
4
Healthcare Bill?
What Healthcare Bill?
It's a windfall tax cut for millionaires and billionaires funded by taking away the Healthcare Insurance of 22 million ordinary Americans.
It's a monstrous travesty of a bill that only a heartless psychopath of a Republican could approve of.
What Healthcare Bill?
It's a windfall tax cut for millionaires and billionaires funded by taking away the Healthcare Insurance of 22 million ordinary Americans.
It's a monstrous travesty of a bill that only a heartless psychopath of a Republican could approve of.
8
Oh get over it. Repealing a recent tax hike is hardly a "windfall tax cut." Obamacare shouldn't have been financed in such a vulgar progressive fashion to begin with.
Is it our place to save voters from themselves? I feel very torn. Kansas elected Trump, and maybe they should have to live with their consequences. Maybe it's time to realize that the liberal blue states do not want what the poor red states have. And if they're not careful no one will be able to live in rural America. Technology, and the access to education that involves STEM, and coding is going to be a GREAT divide. If poor rural states do not update their curriculum they will no be able to attract those companies or that talent, and it will hurt everyone in these areas. Small business owners, the education system, and health care.
1
And people want to know what's the matter with Kansas??
1
Wow! A senator that make himself available to his constituents to discuss one of the most important issues in their lives - their healthcare. We don't have that luxury in Pennsylvania.
1
Man begins to have an inkling of what real life is like for his constituents. And that's news.
I live in the far Southwest part of Kansas. Healthcare is a primary concern for most people here in small towns. It is also a driver of economic activity as the hospital in any town is either the largest employer or second to the schools. Everyone who is thinking recognizes that the conservative Republicans have no answers for the rural areas.
Kansans are generally pragmatic about the political aspects of any proposition by the Republicans, including the ACA repeal. While I am not a Republican, most people are in this state. That does not mean we have all checked our brains at the state line.
We know how to recognize Republican insanity as we've lived with it for years. We also know when to stop beating a dead horse, which is why the Brownback tax giveaway was halted this year in the legislature. We elected Kathleen Sebelius, who was instrumental in the initial Obamacare fight, twice as governor.
I have watched Senator Moran for years and have to say I am surprised he has shown so much integrity in this situation. I hope he keeps up his opposition to the "Wealthcare" bill currently being touted in Washington. Like another Kansas commenter, I fear that Senator Moran will cave to Republican pressure at the last minute.
Our other Senator, Pat Roberts, is on his way out as being tone-deaf to the needs of Kansans. Senator Moran could go with him if he caves and betrays his constituents at the last minute. Our healthcare is more important than our support for Republicans.
Kansans are generally pragmatic about the political aspects of any proposition by the Republicans, including the ACA repeal. While I am not a Republican, most people are in this state. That does not mean we have all checked our brains at the state line.
We know how to recognize Republican insanity as we've lived with it for years. We also know when to stop beating a dead horse, which is why the Brownback tax giveaway was halted this year in the legislature. We elected Kathleen Sebelius, who was instrumental in the initial Obamacare fight, twice as governor.
I have watched Senator Moran for years and have to say I am surprised he has shown so much integrity in this situation. I hope he keeps up his opposition to the "Wealthcare" bill currently being touted in Washington. Like another Kansas commenter, I fear that Senator Moran will cave to Republican pressure at the last minute.
Our other Senator, Pat Roberts, is on his way out as being tone-deaf to the needs of Kansans. Senator Moran could go with him if he caves and betrays his constituents at the last minute. Our healthcare is more important than our support for Republicans.
107
An inspiring post Susan. I would only respectfully point out that "hope" and "fear" are not political strategies. There needs to be constant and assertive involvement by the constituency to ensure that your Senator Moran does the bidding of the voters of Kansas on issues of critical importance like this, and does not cave to the political pressure applied by Senate Republican leadership.
How about having IBM's Watson provide the solution? Surely, all the vagaries and variables of providing healthcare to Americans is right up the alley of dear Old Watson.
The problem is that Republicans don't want health care (especially in Blue States) and they want huge tax cuts for the 1%. Even Watson can't compute that and get Republicans reelected.
The problem is that Republicans don't want health care (especially in Blue States) and they want huge tax cuts for the 1%. Even Watson can't compute that and get Republicans reelected.
1
The people of Kansas voted for Donald Trump, overwhelmingly. They voted for Sam Brownback. They elected two Republican senators. Now they're worried about their healthcare? Their hospitals? If someone deliberately shoots themselves, I'll try to help them. If they do it again, I'll probably still try to help. After awhile, however, there is not much you can do to save people from themselves.
I'm getting a little sick and tired of all the news stories about how these poor republican voters are starting to realize that they may have shot themselves. They were okay with the republicans when the targets were black or brown. Now they want me to shed a tear when they finally realize that the were also in the crosshairs? Sorry, I don't want to hear about it.
I'm getting a little sick and tired of all the news stories about how these poor republican voters are starting to realize that they may have shot themselves. They were okay with the republicans when the targets were black or brown. Now they want me to shed a tear when they finally realize that the were also in the crosshairs? Sorry, I don't want to hear about it.
31
The statement by Prof. Loomis summarizes the US political problem. Loomis: “If guys like him start unraveling, not just on health care but on other issues, McConnell has no chance of controlling that caucus.”
Why should an ideological leader "control" a caucus in a democratic Congress? The way you lead in a democratic country is not by autocratic control, but by working out a consensus and compromises in a multi-sided debate. The secret hearings run by McConnell himself with a non-representative committee of 13 men is the ultimate contradiction of what is meant by democracy. Not only was it secret from Democrats but also from other members of the Republican caucus.
The only thing that remains a mystery is why there are not more Republicans like Mr. Moran who rebel at being directed at what to do rather than asked to participate.
Why should an ideological leader "control" a caucus in a democratic Congress? The way you lead in a democratic country is not by autocratic control, but by working out a consensus and compromises in a multi-sided debate. The secret hearings run by McConnell himself with a non-representative committee of 13 men is the ultimate contradiction of what is meant by democracy. Not only was it secret from Democrats but also from other members of the Republican caucus.
The only thing that remains a mystery is why there are not more Republicans like Mr. Moran who rebel at being directed at what to do rather than asked to participate.
5
He will capitulate and vote for whatever the Republican leadership comes up with, however awful it may be. Why? From what I see of one of my Senators, Richard Burr.
I have written to him six times since the election, expressing my concerns on several fronts, most recently on the Senate bill on which I wasted printer paper so that I could read it and write thoughts in the margin. Each time the responsible Senator Burr responded by letter. Yesterday I received an unsolicited letter which opened by stating that since I had previously written on healthcare he wanted to update me. Surprising to say the least and most responsible.
The upshot. His view remains that Obamacare is a travesty and dealing with it was essential and Republicans are working hard to do so. My take is that he is as delusional as McConnell and will support whatever they come up with as long as Obamacare is effectively neutered. Like the dishonorable Senator from Kansas Burr can and will ultimately say, I heard you but the ACA was so bad, anything we came up with was better.
Of course the Kansas Senator can claim the moral high ground, he went face to face with his constituents, not simply had staff respond to letters. Call me a cynic but everything Republican is about Party over what is right for those who voted them into office.
I have written to him six times since the election, expressing my concerns on several fronts, most recently on the Senate bill on which I wasted printer paper so that I could read it and write thoughts in the margin. Each time the responsible Senator Burr responded by letter. Yesterday I received an unsolicited letter which opened by stating that since I had previously written on healthcare he wanted to update me. Surprising to say the least and most responsible.
The upshot. His view remains that Obamacare is a travesty and dealing with it was essential and Republicans are working hard to do so. My take is that he is as delusional as McConnell and will support whatever they come up with as long as Obamacare is effectively neutered. Like the dishonorable Senator from Kansas Burr can and will ultimately say, I heard you but the ACA was so bad, anything we came up with was better.
Of course the Kansas Senator can claim the moral high ground, he went face to face with his constituents, not simply had staff respond to letters. Call me a cynic but everything Republican is about Party over what is right for those who voted them into office.
6
Running against your party on an unpopular bill is easy. If Moran seriously cares about his constituents he needs to look at the other Trump policies that are hurting his Kansas voters. Oppose the repeal of environmental regulations that protect clean air and water. Oppose tax cuts for the rich. Oppose the nepotism and corruption in this administration that starts with the President. Then maybe he will truly be an admirable representative.
11
How tiring it is to hear that Democrats won't cooperate (in the destruction of a program they created.) This bill was crafted in secret and Dems weren't allowed to amend or read or ask questions. There is no Democratic side of the equation, except the very strong and important piece of legislation they passed 6 or 7 years ago.
6
According to the NYT reporting as of Thursday 6/29th, here's where every senator stands on ‘‘Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017’’ so far:
48 senators, No
11 senators, No without changes, or concerned
24 senators, Unclear
17 senators, Supportive
Perhaps, it's time for another executive action as although I'm no retired veterinarian, this puppy's dead.
48 senators, No
11 senators, No without changes, or concerned
24 senators, Unclear
17 senators, Supportive
Perhaps, it's time for another executive action as although I'm no retired veterinarian, this puppy's dead.
2
Let us hope that the gravity of the issues of public health risk management, Medicare, and Medicaid are appreciated so that little pork offerings and gravy from McConnell will be seen to be insulting trivialities in comparison.
2
It's like Republicans are graded on a curve whereby if they don't do the worst possible thing, we hold them up as saints. Senator Moran holds a town hall with his constituents--which is really the bare minimum of what Senators should do--and we act like he's George Washington. He says he's not ready to vote for the bill, and we laud him.
Yet Democratic Senators are expected to do all the above, and far more, without receiving the slightest bit of fanfare or praise.
Yet Democratic Senators are expected to do all the above, and far more, without receiving the slightest bit of fanfare or praise.
4
At least this Senator actually met with his constituents and listened to their opinions about repealing the ACA. Real backbone would see him voting against the repeal since that what his constituents want. Let's see if he toes the party line when it comes time to actually vote.
4
One of my Republican Senators, Mike Lee, is providing a town hall meeting next week. The meeting is over an hour away at lunch time on a Monday and isn't listed on the Senator's website. Oh! And the Senator won't be there either. Only his staff will attend. The Senator is planning to "tele-townhall" two days later. You can conveniently protest from the comfort of your own computer where the Senator doesn't have to see or listen to you. But hey, he clearly represents everyone in the state. We're talking about Mike Lee here. Obviously the physical embodiment of bravery and selflessness. I can't wait to hear what he has to say. This should be really interesting.
3
Congressional Republicans are in a bind. Even their constituents want to preserve and improve the ACA. But the money people behind the Republican Party, as exemplified by the Kansas based Koch brothers, want government entirely out of healthcare. That means NO ACA, NO Medicare, and NO Medicaid. (They'd also eliminate Social Security if they could.) They're mostly calculating how quickly they can cut all the legs out of the social safety net. And what lies will convince enough voters that governor Brownback's 'Kansas miracle' is the way for the entire country. (Despite Kansas failing badly so far.)
So we get inexcusable efforts to feign empathy in front of constituents while repeating the lie that the ACA does more harm than good and that it will inevitably die a natural death. Fortunately, the majority doesn't buy his tripe and will remember who takes their healthcare away.
But at the end of the day, he who pays the piper calls the tune. The money masters will demand that their tall, somber faced minstrels in congress dismantle as much of the ACA as possible. Or, failing that, kneecap it at every opportunity until they can get away with the 'mercy' killing of Obama's signature legislation.
So we get inexcusable efforts to feign empathy in front of constituents while repeating the lie that the ACA does more harm than good and that it will inevitably die a natural death. Fortunately, the majority doesn't buy his tripe and will remember who takes their healthcare away.
But at the end of the day, he who pays the piper calls the tune. The money masters will demand that their tall, somber faced minstrels in congress dismantle as much of the ACA as possible. Or, failing that, kneecap it at every opportunity until they can get away with the 'mercy' killing of Obama's signature legislation.
His repeal and replace constituents will come to learn they were the "takers" they so despised when they lose access to healthcare.
My guess is that will just make them angrier rather than enlightened.
My guess is that will just make them angrier rather than enlightened.
2
The question thst needs to be asked to congress people is: Exactly what have Republicans done in the last 25 years to try to EXPAND health care for people?
3
I am a Canadian looking in from the outside of a country I thought I knew from the inside. This is not a healthcare debate it is about the soul of America. It is a debate about a country which has exceeded any other Western Democracy in creating social and economic divides and returning itself to the class divisions of the 18th and 19th century.
America's record on healthcare looks rather dismal compared to Canada, Europe or Japan. What would America's healthcare look like if we compared 20 percentiles of wealth, income and education. I am sure America's top 20% would be at or near the top in infant mortality, longevity and healthy productive years of life and it is the middle where America's governance has let down its citizens.
America is governed to the benefit of its top 20% and it is very very successful and for its .01% America ranks right up there with the Saudis and the Emirates.
America's record on healthcare looks rather dismal compared to Canada, Europe or Japan. What would America's healthcare look like if we compared 20 percentiles of wealth, income and education. I am sure America's top 20% would be at or near the top in infant mortality, longevity and healthy productive years of life and it is the middle where America's governance has let down its citizens.
America is governed to the benefit of its top 20% and it is very very successful and for its .01% America ranks right up there with the Saudis and the Emirates.
5
However much we might disagree, those who voted for Trump and the Republicans did not vote to make their healthcare situation worse. They were promised more covered, better coverage at less cost, and no cuts to Medicaid.
Instead, the Republicans and Trump are pushing a bill that will throw over 20 million off of insurance, increase premiums for those over 50, reduce coverage, gut Medicaid to the tune of $800 billion, etc, etc., all to fund a trillion dollar tax cut for the 1%.
McConnell is working the phones hard today, in the hopes that the July 4th "fatigue" will allow him to push it to a vote early next week in the Senate. Just like what happened in the House. He is hoping that throwing a few crumbs of political cover to "moderate" Republican senators will be enough.
If you have been on the sidelines, call your senators today and let them know where you stand. Use the "Find your senators" menu on senate.gov to get the phone numbers for their DC offices, and other contact info.
Instead, the Republicans and Trump are pushing a bill that will throw over 20 million off of insurance, increase premiums for those over 50, reduce coverage, gut Medicaid to the tune of $800 billion, etc, etc., all to fund a trillion dollar tax cut for the 1%.
McConnell is working the phones hard today, in the hopes that the July 4th "fatigue" will allow him to push it to a vote early next week in the Senate. Just like what happened in the House. He is hoping that throwing a few crumbs of political cover to "moderate" Republican senators will be enough.
If you have been on the sidelines, call your senators today and let them know where you stand. Use the "Find your senators" menu on senate.gov to get the phone numbers for their DC offices, and other contact info.
2
Congratulations to Senator Moran and his district.
We cannot even get our representative Senator Cory Gardner to answer a phone, answer a question, take our concerns into consideration or even listen. He did go to a Koch Bros. retreat at the 5 star hotel in Colorado Springs- they get to talk to him and they said they are really excited about how things are going - with people like our Senator.
Small town Kansas has someone on their side. Lucky.
We cannot even get our representative Senator Cory Gardner to answer a phone, answer a question, take our concerns into consideration or even listen. He did go to a Koch Bros. retreat at the 5 star hotel in Colorado Springs- they get to talk to him and they said they are really excited about how things are going - with people like our Senator.
Small town Kansas has someone on their side. Lucky.
3
It is refreshing and hopeful to read about Senator Moran's desire to connect with his constituency in a state where Trump beat Clinton by twenty points. But like the rest of the Republican Party, Moran has no health care strategy or framework. All this country has is the Republican-based ACA.
Why can't both parties take the best of the ACA and leave the rest? Most citizens know what's working for them and what is not, likewise the healthcare delivery system. In a fact-based world, conflicts can be resolved and comprises can be struck.
Why can't both parties take the best of the ACA and leave the rest? Most citizens know what's working for them and what is not, likewise the healthcare delivery system. In a fact-based world, conflicts can be resolved and comprises can be struck.
Ms. Duffy's question cuts to the heart of the matter: Why are Republicans set on repealing the ACA instead of making it better? Of course we all know the answer: rigid, uncompromising, partisanship. But like the hardened criminal who is caught holding the bag of loot, and insists "I didn't do it!", Republicans won't admit to the massive harm they are attempting to inflict on Americans - including those who voted for them. They care only about winning for their side, the side of the obscenely rich and powerful.
Senator Moran provides a small glimmer of hope that perhaps there are still enough Republicans who remember when the party at least pretended to serve ordinary Americans, who might yet stop this partisan travesty from passing, but I fear that in the end he will be brought to heel by the sheer power of the plutocracy that now runs our nation.
As we still reflect on the anniversary of our nation's independence, I have to wonder what our Founding Fathers would say about the virtual death of democracy that we have allowed to occur without a shot being fired.
Senator Moran provides a small glimmer of hope that perhaps there are still enough Republicans who remember when the party at least pretended to serve ordinary Americans, who might yet stop this partisan travesty from passing, but I fear that in the end he will be brought to heel by the sheer power of the plutocracy that now runs our nation.
As we still reflect on the anniversary of our nation's independence, I have to wonder what our Founding Fathers would say about the virtual death of democracy that we have allowed to occur without a shot being fired.
1
It is time to let the states create their own health care system. I suggest NJ, NY, MA, CT, VT and others create a regional agency that provides single payer coverage.
Let's stop fighting with each other. Red states get what they want lower premiums and no penalty for not having insurance.
I expect my federal taxes will go down and my NJ taxes will go up and my health insurance premiums will go down.
Let's stop fighting with each other. Red states get what they want lower premiums and no penalty for not having insurance.
I expect my federal taxes will go down and my NJ taxes will go up and my health insurance premiums will go down.
1
I am a Japanese citizen, so I don't have direct stake to this matter. Personaly I prefer Senator Moran's political stance. He appeals what he believes that is right thing even though contraly to the party' policy. Legal asistance for medical care is very basic social protection for every people, specially, people with middle-low income. I expect the Senator keep his position on this case to make local medical infrastructure sustainable.
The solution if fixing the Affordable Care Act is simple: 1. Allowing insurance companies to sell a wider variety of policies that people can tailor to their needs will lower premiums; 2. Increase the penalty for not buying insurance; 3. Tax the employer provided insurance benefit; 4. Turn Medicaid into a Federal, rather than a state run program; and 5. Allow Medicare & Medicaid to negotiate drug prices.
Of course, a single payer system would be more cost effective and efficient, but most Republicans aren't smart enough to see that; even the ones on Medicare.
Of course, a single payer system would be more cost effective and efficient, but most Republicans aren't smart enough to see that; even the ones on Medicare.
2
What we are seeing here and elsewhere in the country over the past 10 plus years is that the health care system is broken. And; no one has a solution. You can argue until the cows come home and still not have an answer. It is not going to be fixed until it breaks entirely and people who could have been helped are dying by the thousands. Only then will the population realize that the rest of the industrialized world has the solution and has for decades. Then the Congress will change and the system will be changed.
The problems, for-profit medicine, high cost of drugs, unrealistic expectations on the part of patients, general high cost of all medical care, medicalization of social ills, high malpractice premiums, specialty care that pushes end of life costs, and list goes on.
Modern medicine does a good job of caring for many of the quantity of life illnesses such as pneumonia, broken hips, abdominal infections, cardiac disease etc. We do much worse with many of the quality of life illnesses such as addiction, autoimmune diseases, degenerative joint disorders, mental illness. With many of the quality of life illnesses we have non-curative treatments such as biologicals which are costly and many developed by basic research funded with tax dollars but patent rights given to for profit companies.
It is time to do away with for profit health insurance, treat all readily treatable disease in the entire population and allow a secondary market in expensive diseases.
The problems, for-profit medicine, high cost of drugs, unrealistic expectations on the part of patients, general high cost of all medical care, medicalization of social ills, high malpractice premiums, specialty care that pushes end of life costs, and list goes on.
Modern medicine does a good job of caring for many of the quantity of life illnesses such as pneumonia, broken hips, abdominal infections, cardiac disease etc. We do much worse with many of the quality of life illnesses such as addiction, autoimmune diseases, degenerative joint disorders, mental illness. With many of the quality of life illnesses we have non-curative treatments such as biologicals which are costly and many developed by basic research funded with tax dollars but patent rights given to for profit companies.
It is time to do away with for profit health insurance, treat all readily treatable disease in the entire population and allow a secondary market in expensive diseases.
I feel like this has become a kind of set piece for moderate conservatives in Congress. Whether they come from a swing state or district, or from a safe state or district, this pantomime of "grave concern" before caving always seems to be sufficient to win over moderate voters.
Why should moderate voters always settle for posturing over policy? Maybe the most important step in getting the extremism out of government is to stop caving to it every single time.
Why should moderate voters always settle for posturing over policy? Maybe the most important step in getting the extremism out of government is to stop caving to it every single time.
The good people of Kansas have a real problem. They have been lied to for so many years by their GOP representatives that truth is really hard to find. It wasn't until this year that they realized that their state government actually needed some money like for paving roads.
The GOP has run roughshod over the state with ideological Republican purity for years. No reason to think that will change over any issue even healthcare.
The evil that is named Democrat lurks behind every Kansas tree! That's how McConnell likes it.
The GOP has run roughshod over the state with ideological Republican purity for years. No reason to think that will change over any issue even healthcare.
The evil that is named Democrat lurks behind every Kansas tree! That's how McConnell likes it.
1
I bet this guy will return to DC and just vote to repeal. That's what these Repubs have been doing for years to their constituents and this time will be no different.
1
The story reports that Sen. Moran was "lamenting that both parties were locked in opposition over health care, with Republicans pursuing repeal and Democrats saying, he said, “'Not one inch are we giving.'”
That's a false characterization of the Democrats. From the beginning, as Democrats were pushing through the ACA, they invited Republicans to participate and contribute. In fact, the ACA is based on the conservative Heritage Foundation's reform model, rather than the single-payer system Democrats would have preferred. Their opening move was to adopt a Republican bill.
After the ACA was passed, President Obama and congressional Democrats continued to invite Republicans to negotiate in good faith to fix problems in the law that Democrats always acknowledged was not perfect. Even now, Democrats are still inviting Republicans to join them in passing fixes to the ACA, rather than seeking to repeal it in its entirety.
It's Republicans who have, from the start, falsely demonized the ACA and refused all compromise. Up until 2017, they knew they could do so with little consequence, because their actions were moot and thus symbolic. Now they own seven and a half years of lies about the law, and have painted themselves into a corner.
So no, Democrats aren't going to participate in wholesale repeal based on the GOP's misinformation campaign, but it's entirely false to say they've refused to give an inch. They keep giving inches, and the GOP keeps taking miles.
That's a false characterization of the Democrats. From the beginning, as Democrats were pushing through the ACA, they invited Republicans to participate and contribute. In fact, the ACA is based on the conservative Heritage Foundation's reform model, rather than the single-payer system Democrats would have preferred. Their opening move was to adopt a Republican bill.
After the ACA was passed, President Obama and congressional Democrats continued to invite Republicans to negotiate in good faith to fix problems in the law that Democrats always acknowledged was not perfect. Even now, Democrats are still inviting Republicans to join them in passing fixes to the ACA, rather than seeking to repeal it in its entirety.
It's Republicans who have, from the start, falsely demonized the ACA and refused all compromise. Up until 2017, they knew they could do so with little consequence, because their actions were moot and thus symbolic. Now they own seven and a half years of lies about the law, and have painted themselves into a corner.
So no, Democrats aren't going to participate in wholesale repeal based on the GOP's misinformation campaign, but it's entirely false to say they've refused to give an inch. They keep giving inches, and the GOP keeps taking miles.
3
Senator Jerry Moran did a marvelous two-step around the issue of what the GOP wants to do with ACA, lamenting that both parties were locked in opposition over health care, with Republicans pursuing repeal and Democrats saying, he said, “Not one inch are we giving.”
So is he claiming that there's some middle ground for the democrats while the GOP can still demand a total repeal? OK, Moran, what IS that middle ground? What's the middle ground between an execution and a pardon?
As usual, the republicans assume the whole loaf is theirs by rights. But they've shown over and over again that they still can't divide it up among each of the disparate groups that comprise the modern-day republican party. Each group assumes the loaf is 100% their own. No wonder they can't get anything done. If the Democratic party disappeared tomorrow, the Republicans would still be locked in battle among themselves.
And this is the party that assumes America ought to be theirs for the taking?
So is he claiming that there's some middle ground for the democrats while the GOP can still demand a total repeal? OK, Moran, what IS that middle ground? What's the middle ground between an execution and a pardon?
As usual, the republicans assume the whole loaf is theirs by rights. But they've shown over and over again that they still can't divide it up among each of the disparate groups that comprise the modern-day republican party. Each group assumes the loaf is 100% their own. No wonder they can't get anything done. If the Democratic party disappeared tomorrow, the Republicans would still be locked in battle among themselves.
And this is the party that assumes America ought to be theirs for the taking?
3
Another publication has a story about the town hall meeting hosted by another Republican Senator, Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania. He admitted something extraordinary to his constituents.
He actually told them that one reason the Republicans are having such difficulty with a health care bill is that they were so sure Hillary would win that they had never actually sat down to plan exactly how they would "repeal and replace" Obamacare. They were simply planning to continue their blanket obstruction of all things Democratic Party.
There can be no greater indictment of the current Republican Party than Senator Toomey's admission, honestly and frankly given. Vote the Republican out of office wherever they are found.
He actually told them that one reason the Republicans are having such difficulty with a health care bill is that they were so sure Hillary would win that they had never actually sat down to plan exactly how they would "repeal and replace" Obamacare. They were simply planning to continue their blanket obstruction of all things Democratic Party.
There can be no greater indictment of the current Republican Party than Senator Toomey's admission, honestly and frankly given. Vote the Republican out of office wherever they are found.
1
While being interviewed by Jake Tapper a couple of weeks ago, Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma looked right into the camera and lied when he said that Medicaid was not being cut under the Senate kill bill. He didn't explain his reasoning so I had to do some detective work to figure that one out. Oh, right, right, it slows the growth of Medicaid. It CUTS the GROWTH of Medicaid. Whatever! People will die as a result.
Senator Moran says that Democrats will not give an inch. Not true! Not true! Democrats recognize that the Affordable Care Act needs to be fixed; it needs to be improved.
Michael Barbaro, host of NY Times' "The Daily" podcast, recently interviewed a Georgian woman suffering and disabled from lupus. She has been helped by the expansion of Medicaid in the state of Georgia. Nearly 1 in 3 Georgians use Medicaid. (Nearly 1 in 3!!) Perhaps Mr. McConnell listened to it. He should kiss another term goodbye if his scheme to replace the ACA with their kill-to-enrich-the-wealthy bill comes to pass.
Even their intentions to replace the ACA with a kill bill to further enrich the wealthy should put Republicans in the House and Senate on notice. They will be replaced in the next two elections.
Senator Moran says that Democrats will not give an inch. Not true! Not true! Democrats recognize that the Affordable Care Act needs to be fixed; it needs to be improved.
Michael Barbaro, host of NY Times' "The Daily" podcast, recently interviewed a Georgian woman suffering and disabled from lupus. She has been helped by the expansion of Medicaid in the state of Georgia. Nearly 1 in 3 Georgians use Medicaid. (Nearly 1 in 3!!) Perhaps Mr. McConnell listened to it. He should kiss another term goodbye if his scheme to replace the ACA with their kill-to-enrich-the-wealthy bill comes to pass.
Even their intentions to replace the ACA with a kill bill to further enrich the wealthy should put Republicans in the House and Senate on notice. They will be replaced in the next two elections.
2
The challenge for Republicans is overcoming their desire to undo everything accomplished by the Obama administration. But their blind hatred will not allow them to do such a thing. Our system of healthcare is fragmented. We have a system for those individuals who are employed full time, another for citizens over 65, and a separate but often unequal system for the poor. Our healthcare is expensive and inefficient. It incentivizes procedures which generate profit over the holistic health of an individual. And it is rapidly becoming unaffordable. Other countries have addressed this problem and realize that the only solution is a centralized system which is run by the government. Having a government run system also takes the burden off companies to provide insurance to their employees, making our products less affordable overseas. The tax deduction companies now receive for providing health insurance could be better used to cover all Americans instead. Healthier people are more productive. It used to be that we understood that we rise and fall together but somehow, that very notion has become distorted by greed. Republicans need to take a long hard look in the mirror and decide what kind of people they want to be. I can't imagine they will like what is reflected back.
2
Trump may have won Kansas but not on this issue. Mr. Moran would do well to remember that Bernie Sanders beat Hillary Clinton by more than 30 percentage points in this state. Sanders is the strongest voice to oppose the Republican health care bill. More than any other, this issue has the potential to crush the Republicans.
3
Senator Moran has a safe seat for 5 years. Other Senators like him should come out against this excuse of a health care bill.
Someone needs to break the ideological hold on the Republicans. Many Senators have safety due to their longer term in office.
They need to stand up and show that they are human beings first, politicians last.
Someone needs to break the ideological hold on the Republicans. Many Senators have safety due to their longer term in office.
They need to stand up and show that they are human beings first, politicians last.
1
Moran MAY deserve some kudos for at least listening to his constituents in public. But that's a pretty low bar for "a profile in courage," isn't it?
When did politician (Republicans) decide to adopt views and policies SO harmful to THEIR OWN constituents that they're afraid to even face them?
And Moran willfully distorts the issue when he characterizes the dispute as
"Republicans pursuing repeal and Democrats saying, 'Not one inch are we giving.' And so the rhetoric puts us into the corners of the ring." Patently false.
If the Republicans had "come into the ring" wanting to IMPROVE health-care for their constituents, and fix the ACA's admitted flaws, many (most?) of us would have applauded. But they DIDN'T and STILL haven't. Instead, the tried a "repeal, repeal, repeal" assault on healthcare and, now rebuffed, are looking for some face-saving measure. Does ANYONE believe that the Republicans REALLY care about healthcare? Or just scoring political points and keeping mindless promises to extremists?
When did politician (Republicans) decide to adopt views and policies SO harmful to THEIR OWN constituents that they're afraid to even face them?
And Moran willfully distorts the issue when he characterizes the dispute as
"Republicans pursuing repeal and Democrats saying, 'Not one inch are we giving.' And so the rhetoric puts us into the corners of the ring." Patently false.
If the Republicans had "come into the ring" wanting to IMPROVE health-care for their constituents, and fix the ACA's admitted flaws, many (most?) of us would have applauded. But they DIDN'T and STILL haven't. Instead, the tried a "repeal, repeal, repeal" assault on healthcare and, now rebuffed, are looking for some face-saving measure. Does ANYONE believe that the Republicans REALLY care about healthcare? Or just scoring political points and keeping mindless promises to extremists?
2
I continue to be amazed that, after all the blood on the floor, that there is still a "repeal and replace" constituency out there. Even McConnell is now saying that he's going to need 60 votes to do anything on health insurance. That plainly means altering the current law with legislation that will cost more. The big question is whether or not "conservatives" (radicals) will finally decide that their fellow human beings and their commerce, their labor and their contributions are worth something even if they're poor.
1
Don't underestimate Mitch McConnell. He does not stand for anything, in fact I doubt he is smart enough to have his own ideas based on past history, but he is a savvy manipulator and politician. Moran talks a good story like I believe half the GOP caucus would like to talk & think, but few GOP Congressional holdouts that won largely illusory concessions to justify their votes for repeal.
I was also deeply offended by one of the comments Moran made concerning the Democrats. While the Democrats are far from perfect, suggesting they would not negotiate is an outright lie. They have not even been consulted. In fact, most of the GOP was not consulted in Mitch's little boy bill on healthcare either.
If Republicans want to make Healthcare better, Democrats would welcome a discussion. However, McConnell's rhetoric has been clear that he opposes anything that happened during the Obama Administration and wants to repeal Obamacare, not improve it. Let's end this false equivalency.
I was also deeply offended by one of the comments Moran made concerning the Democrats. While the Democrats are far from perfect, suggesting they would not negotiate is an outright lie. They have not even been consulted. In fact, most of the GOP was not consulted in Mitch's little boy bill on healthcare either.
If Republicans want to make Healthcare better, Democrats would welcome a discussion. However, McConnell's rhetoric has been clear that he opposes anything that happened during the Obama Administration and wants to repeal Obamacare, not improve it. Let's end this false equivalency.
2
Seems we may be hovering over a very delicate tipping point.
Will voters remain in the sunshine, where they can see accurately, where the GOP shadows are less effective, where they recognize how high the stakes are for themselves and their families? Where they see the puppet masters trying to sway their representatives against the needs of the people?
Or will the lying, propagandizing GOP machine, using the fictions of "freedom" and "choice" lull them back to sleep in the shadows?
A tipping point can go either way. But these are people we're talking about. Not statistical masses.
And these are elected officials, now being reminded of their Oaths to a Republic "of the People, by the people, and for the people."
Our Republic is in peril. Will the GOP do what's needed?
Will voters remain in the sunshine, where they can see accurately, where the GOP shadows are less effective, where they recognize how high the stakes are for themselves and their families? Where they see the puppet masters trying to sway their representatives against the needs of the people?
Or will the lying, propagandizing GOP machine, using the fictions of "freedom" and "choice" lull them back to sleep in the shadows?
A tipping point can go either way. But these are people we're talking about. Not statistical masses.
And these are elected officials, now being reminded of their Oaths to a Republic "of the People, by the people, and for the people."
Our Republic is in peril. Will the GOP do what's needed?
1
Mr. Moran's knowledge of history is, too say the least, shaky.
When what came to be called ObamaCare was being drafted, Obama and the Democrats included Republicans in the discussion of shaping the bill and also many outside groups. In contrast, this time around, the Republicans have drafted their bill in secret with no input from the Democrats nor anyone else. And Republicans resisted every move to address problems with ObamaCare saying it first had to be completely repealed. Yet Moran has the chutzpah to place blame on Democrats for not cooperating.
All I can say is that with senators like Roberts and Moran and a governor like Brownback and a president like Trump, the people of Kansas should get everything they deserve. They wanted officials who believe it's every man for himself and that the only people the government should help are the wealthy. When family members start dying off because of lack of healthcare perhaps they will rethink their decisions.
When what came to be called ObamaCare was being drafted, Obama and the Democrats included Republicans in the discussion of shaping the bill and also many outside groups. In contrast, this time around, the Republicans have drafted their bill in secret with no input from the Democrats nor anyone else. And Republicans resisted every move to address problems with ObamaCare saying it first had to be completely repealed. Yet Moran has the chutzpah to place blame on Democrats for not cooperating.
All I can say is that with senators like Roberts and Moran and a governor like Brownback and a president like Trump, the people of Kansas should get everything they deserve. They wanted officials who believe it's every man for himself and that the only people the government should help are the wealthy. When family members start dying off because of lack of healthcare perhaps they will rethink their decisions.
2
Mr. Moran's comments made me wonder what type of lies he tells himself to offer that 'truth' to his constituents. If he doesn't understand that the bill he and his cronies are offering the American people is nothing more than a tax break for the wealthy then he doesn't belong in congress as he doesn't have the intellectual capacity to understand this legislation.
1
Senator Moran, hear the frustration and worry, and stay the course. There can be a better bill. I think if you, personally, reached out to a Democrat or two, you might find that you could build a better, less draconian plan.
Fortitude. We're all watching.
Fortitude. We're all watching.
What that republican have no plans to replace any insurance that the 8 past years was about repealing a tax on the rich, that they don't care if we have an insurance. The republican fake bill does nothing to lower the cost, rein is drug companies, medical equip makers or address the with fraud in dr billing.
Maybe it time to remove all health and retirement benefits for all state and federal workers let face the same problem we have,
Maybe it time to remove all health and retirement benefits for all state and federal workers let face the same problem we have,
Ninety-five percent of all monthly benefit payments - AFDC, Food Stamps, General Relief, Medicaid and Medicare, Social Security, VA and Pensions - are spent in local economies within 30 days. Loss of $800 billion in Medicaid
funding over the next ten years is going to affect many more than Medicaid
clients. Consider all of the local businesses and business people who
will also be losers. Think of all of the job losses in healthcare, as well. Republicans are transparent mental lightweights as well as cold, callous and cruel. Every one of them needs to be repealed and replaced.
funding over the next ten years is going to affect many more than Medicaid
clients. Consider all of the local businesses and business people who
will also be losers. Think of all of the job losses in healthcare, as well. Republicans are transparent mental lightweights as well as cold, callous and cruel. Every one of them needs to be repealed and replaced.
4
Having grown up in Kansas, one doesn't need to watch the Republicans there long to realize that their love of government "welfare" is just as strong if not stronger than any other demographic group, be it the recurring largess of the Farm Bill (suggest ending the CRP program to these "fiscal conservatives" sometime), FEMA relief, or subsidized rural care facilities. Republicans hate government so long as they can rail against programs that help persons that don't look or think the same as rural Kansans', but by god you leave your hands off their government handouts - those are different.
117
Good point. Government largess reaches everyone, and it's hypocritical to pick who does or doesn't deserve a handout.
It's funny how Mr. Moran uses euphemisms when it comes to porcupine sex and reproduction. The inability to deal with sex is only one of the failings of the Republican health care debacle. If they want to start from scratch, we need single payer or Medicare for all. Otherwise they need to work with democrats and fix Obamacare.
71
It's Sen. Roberts who's talking about porcupines- but otherwise, you're right.
1
Pat Roberts--not Jerry Moran--used the unsophisticated, worn-out porcupine illustration. As a lefty who grew up in Jerry's district--three cheers for Jerry for doing right by his constituents in not towing the current Republican party lines.
It was Roberts, not Moran, that witnessed the pocupine "love-making". But I agree, single payer and an end to/re-purposing of Health Insurance companies (they could continue to serve us well in co-ordinating care, scheduling, and monitoring patient progress) and is the best way forward. To some extent, I am fine with profit driven motivations when it comes to research and development of techniques and products that improve health for people who suffer from any and all conditions... but when it comes to access and delivery of care, the public good is NEVER served when profit is an active motivating force. There are likely many ways to get from the present dysfunctional system to one that serves us all, but as long as there are stake-holders with hand-over fist profits to protect and lobbyists to work on their behalf, their resistance to change will rule the day.
I do not know Senator Moran and whether he is trustworthy or not, but I am impressed that he seems to want to stand up for the citizens of his state, unlike so many Senators who deceive themselves into believing that they will be covered with glory if they repeal the ACA.
I am hoping that Sentator Moran's skepticism of the Republican health care plan -- or lack thereof -- is a sign of a return to Democracy.
The US is the only country in the developed world that does not provide free health care to all its citizens and its failure to do so is harming our country on an international basis.
It is criminal that the Republicans are so in the thrall of the billionaires and care so little about the citizens of the country. Our current system is wasteful and harmful. We pay more than all other countries and we get less health care for our money and the Republicans want to keep it that way.
I am hoping that Sentator Moran's skepticism of the Republican health care plan -- or lack thereof -- is a sign of a return to Democracy.
The US is the only country in the developed world that does not provide free health care to all its citizens and its failure to do so is harming our country on an international basis.
It is criminal that the Republicans are so in the thrall of the billionaires and care so little about the citizens of the country. Our current system is wasteful and harmful. We pay more than all other countries and we get less health care for our money and the Republicans want to keep it that way.
90
One doubts that GOP Senators want to be "covered with glory." Not this way. Try, covered-with-cash. That is their business. Those who want glory run for higher office.
1
It's heartening to hear that there are still moderates in the Senate who can take a common sense approach to legislation rather than follow the rigid party line. Now if they can only get rid of McConnell, Ryan, and the Tea Party, Congress might become productive again. Down the road, if American's expect reasonable behavior by Congress, we need to elect reasonable politicians, who can look at what's best for the people, rather than extremist hacks.
54
Moran is about as much a moderate as Warren Buffet is a member of the middle class.
1
The voters in Kansas are like skinny dippers in the North Pole who didn't realize how cold the water was going to be until they jumped in. I think they're starting to figure out that the " freedom " the Republican Party has been pushing all these years translates. for the average American, into the freedom to freeze to death.
135
Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose. Liberty is the power to negotiate one's contractual gives and gets equitably.
I guess this is one of the republican senators that the right-wing powers-that-be decided could put up a lil' stand to make it seem like republicans in general weren't entirely uncaring when it comes to you and your health.
I can't wait for him to vote right in line with every other republican politician.
I can't wait for him to vote right in line with every other republican politician.
48
That's exactly what he'll do. Until I have proof of a change, I expect all republicans to vote for their anti-American bill.
1
We've seen this show way too many times before.
I have little doubt Mr. Moran has concern for his state and his constituents but, like my own Senator Portman, I also have little doubt that he is crafty enough to ride out this "don't go to a town hall" Republican hell by holding out until The McConnell tosses him enough of a bone to back the Republican bill and still claim some lame kind of victory.
I especially enjoyed "Republicans pursuing repeal and Democrats saying, he said, “Not one inch are we giving.”"
Because if the Democrats give an inch, if they were even allowed to make that offer (which they have not been) it would mean caving 100% to Republican demands for destruction of the whole health care edifice. Because McConnell will not be moved.
Baby seals rarely have successful conversations with sharks.
I have little doubt Mr. Moran has concern for his state and his constituents but, like my own Senator Portman, I also have little doubt that he is crafty enough to ride out this "don't go to a town hall" Republican hell by holding out until The McConnell tosses him enough of a bone to back the Republican bill and still claim some lame kind of victory.
I especially enjoyed "Republicans pursuing repeal and Democrats saying, he said, “Not one inch are we giving.”"
Because if the Democrats give an inch, if they were even allowed to make that offer (which they have not been) it would mean caving 100% to Republican demands for destruction of the whole health care edifice. Because McConnell will not be moved.
Baby seals rarely have successful conversations with sharks.
94
Who are the baby seals in this scenario?
Sen. Portman's contact details are easy to find, and he or someone in his office reads and responds to messages. Let him know that he's on the right track and encourage him to continue that stance. We have a Republican senator and governor who are smart enough to understand that our state hurts more than some because of industry/economy concerns, along with mental health and addiction problems.
Sen. Portman's contact details are easy to find, and he or someone in his office reads and responds to messages. Let him know that he's on the right track and encourage him to continue that stance. We have a Republican senator and governor who are smart enough to understand that our state hurts more than some because of industry/economy concerns, along with mental health and addiction problems.
Eric
Done. A few times. Nice to think you're on it, too.
As you know, though, we have a state legislature preoccupied with proving their macho bona fides by serially overriding many of Mr. Kasich's best vetoes.
In both cases this admirable concern for Ohioans is far enough out of the norm that there still is some cause for concern.
Still, as you say, good job so far Senator.
Done. A few times. Nice to think you're on it, too.
As you know, though, we have a state legislature preoccupied with proving their macho bona fides by serially overriding many of Mr. Kasich's best vetoes.
In both cases this admirable concern for Ohioans is far enough out of the norm that there still is some cause for concern.
Still, as you say, good job so far Senator.
1
Other than ideological purists, no one seems in favor of repealing the Affordable Care Act, yet, the House passed it and the Senate might. Do we need any more proof that we should not cut mental health care?
102
Unfortunate McConnell and most of his Republican cohorts don't give a damn about healthcare. All they care about is removing the name of Obama from anything that bares the name of the first African-American president. Yes, Obamacare is flawed because Obama tried too hard to get a bipartisan compromise instead of working to get a really good single payer plan that covered all citizens at affordable costs (affordable for both the government and the citizen consumers). If the Congress really wanted a REAL affordable and effective health care bill they would look at the health care systems now in place for the 20 other countries with the highest GDPs and put together something already tested in those countries instead of pretending to re-invent the wheel. Not all of us are as stupid as Republican voters.
144
Ok! Condemn the Obama care aa a flawed first attempt to provide health care to more people. Take it and improve it and call it Trump Makes Health Care Great Gain- mo one will care what you call it-just check with everyone who didn't know Obamacare and the ACA were the same thing!
1
well said!
There is human life in Kansas after all?
Brownbeck, Roberts, Kovach don't represent the wonderful people of Kansas that I knew as a student at KU in the 1950's and 60's. Brown v. Board didn't just happen. Even Paul Wilson, who defended the Kansas law in the Supreme Court that allowed separate but equal schools wrote, later, if ever there was a case that should have been lost - that was the case defending the Kansas law about segregated schools that led to the Brown suit against the Topeka board of education. And the story about Wilt Chamberlain's role in helping to reduce segregation in Lawrence and at KU has been told many times from various angles. Kansas has been a leader, albeit an awkward one at times, in America's living the dictum that 'all men are created equal'. The good people of that State are called upon to lead America once again - maybe its happening? Protecting the poor has to be an important part of that.
Jayhawks show that you can be America's conscience again.
Brownbeck, Roberts, Kovach don't represent the wonderful people of Kansas that I knew as a student at KU in the 1950's and 60's. Brown v. Board didn't just happen. Even Paul Wilson, who defended the Kansas law in the Supreme Court that allowed separate but equal schools wrote, later, if ever there was a case that should have been lost - that was the case defending the Kansas law about segregated schools that led to the Brown suit against the Topeka board of education. And the story about Wilt Chamberlain's role in helping to reduce segregation in Lawrence and at KU has been told many times from various angles. Kansas has been a leader, albeit an awkward one at times, in America's living the dictum that 'all men are created equal'. The good people of that State are called upon to lead America once again - maybe its happening? Protecting the poor has to be an important part of that.
Jayhawks show that you can be America's conscience again.
31
remarkable how out migration out of the state has led to demographics that allow such people to be elected.
Death Panels!!!!
5
You mean your insurance company?
That porcupine quote tho
8
Senator Moran is to be applauded for his courageous stand in a deeply red state. I only hope he will consider the needs of ALL Kansans in voting on a health care program. Kansans know better than anyone in America, based on Kansas Governor Brownback and the Kansas legislature's massive give back to the wealthiest in the state via Brownback tax cuts just how much harm taking from the middle to give to the wealthy can do. As they taught every Kansas kid in school aim high Senator Moran - Ad Astra per Aspera. Cheers from Wyandotte County, Kansas.
17
It seems that all the repub senators are more interested in guaranteeing their reelection than crafting a fiar and humane health policy. Big suprise! Mr. Moran may be the exception.
10
Seems to me that everyone who resides in Moran's district ought to be drowning him with calls, emails, tweets and Facebook posts, in an effort to let him know that in addition to the fewer than 300 constituents who showed up, there are a lot of others who aren't comfortable with the Senate Health Bill.
32
As a Democrat, I feel a grudging respect for Senator Moran's stance. While his scaredy-cat Republican colleagues hide out from their constituents, Moran faces his thoughtfully and civilly. That he'll cave and go along with McConnell in the end is probably preordained, but taking even a tiny stand against the McConnell/Ryan machine shows gumption, so kudos.
53
Agreed.
If the latest iteration of Trumpcare is simply to repeal Obamacare, in addition to some 32 million people losing health care coverage they now enjoy, a great many hospitals and nursing homes will be permanently shuttered, particularly in rural communities. Sen. Moran recognizes the devastating effect on the American people and on his party and, so, reaches out for a problem solving approach with the Democrats, though he falsely disparages them as being unwilling to work together to iron out kinks in Obamacare.
It's hard to imagine that other Republicans will be so myopic as to not recognize the disastrous consequences of simply repealing the Affordable Care Act. If it happens, the American people will suffer, and only a successful Russian campaign to scuttle our democracy will insure that Trump and the GOP remain in control.
It's hard to imagine that other Republicans will be so myopic as to not recognize the disastrous consequences of simply repealing the Affordable Care Act. If it happens, the American people will suffer, and only a successful Russian campaign to scuttle our democracy will insure that Trump and the GOP remain in control.
15
Why can't ordinary folks graciously give up their health care so the Koch brothers can enjoy the tax breaks they so richly deserve? It's almost as if the citizens of Kansas think they're human.
152
Not really. They still vote Republican.
Don't be fooled. The Senator is angling for a "deal", from his party leadership. For his PERSONAL benefit. It's Kansas. Now and forever.
43
I gather you know your Senator and his ways.
10
Well said. McConnell will throw in a couple million symbolic dollars towards some issue like opioids or rural hospitals, Sen. Moran will declare ex cathedra that the bill has been fixed and vote for it. Second verse, the same as the first.
2
Unfortunately, yes. Slightly more sly than the usual. Just wait for the big reveal.
2
They "promised to repeal and replace Obamacare" simply because they attached President Obama's name to it. How many times did the Congress repeal a law that had a few problems and replaced it with one that had many more issues hurting the people they pretend to protect? Think about repealing the penal code, for instance, because it has some parts that do not work. How will the members of the Congress feel about and explain it to the public? Why on earth does the same line of thinking not apply to the ACA?
Oh, I forgot, ACA is aka Obamacare! Kill it!
Oh, I forgot, ACA is aka Obamacare! Kill it!
14
Don't get hurt west of Topeka.
12
“Tell me how you’re going to get to the point where the bulk of Obamacare is repealed, and when will you get it done?”
this type if thinking is the problem and the reason that democrats won;t give an inch.
this type if thinking is the problem and the reason that democrats won;t give an inch.
21
At least Senator Moran had the decency to hold a Town Hall meeting. Shame on the many Republican Senators who do not. Your constituents want, and need, to hear from you. Our Democratic Congressman in our small state of CT held a town hall meeting last night and it was packed. I am so proud to live in a state where elected parties understand who they answer to, and why it's important to listen to their constituents.
38
It strikes me as absurd this conversation is even taking place in our so called first world nation.
While of no consolation to those who will die as a result, if this bill replacing the ACA is passed, the representatives who vote for it will pay a steep price when they seek reelection
While of no consolation to those who will die as a result, if this bill replacing the ACA is passed, the representatives who vote for it will pay a steep price when they seek reelection
20
Trump won Kansas by 20 "points"?
Shame - if he had kicked after that last touchdown it would have been 21.
Shame - if he had kicked after that last touchdown it would have been 21.
4
Mr. Moran is to be congratulated for actually listening to the citizens of Kansas and actually responding in a positive way to their concerns. I hope he has the courage to continue to resist pressure from Mitch McConnell and company.
Finally one Republican who really understands how important the ACA is.
Now if he can lobby his fellow Senators to do the same.
Finally one Republican who really understands how important the ACA is.
Now if he can lobby his fellow Senators to do the same.
11
Interesting. Whether or not he eventually caves, the fact that he's comfortable voicing opposition, in Kansas, based on the negative policy outcomes of the bill gives some reason for hope. The overwhelmingly conservative electorate of that deep red state, now having years of actual experience being governed by hard-right ideologues, appears to be coming around to the idea that functional government really is necessary. Hopefully Kansas becomes a lesson for the rest of the country and we pull back from the brink of disaster in the 2018 mid-terms.
158
It's refreshing to read about a Republican Senator who, at least for the moment, has some common sense and some concern for the people he represents. We'll see if sticks to his guns in opposing this dreadful law. His characterization of the two parties being locked in opposition is disingenuous, however. The Democrats want to fix the ACA, which was working pretty well before the change of administrations, while the Republicans want to "repeal and replace" (most don't seem to care about the "replace" aspect). The way to guarantee Kansans the health care he seems to desire is to work with the Dems on improving the current system. Will he stick to this position? I can't say that I'm optimistic, but I am hopeful.
10
It would seem a low bar to hope that one's American political party of choice would refrain from causing your death. But in an era of vastly diminished standards and expectations, it would be wonderful to see Sen. Moran clear that bar.
If he does.
If he does.
24
It's like a sheep voting for a wolf, then thanking the wolf the one time the wolf doesn't try to eat him.
I think that for those people who sign on to pay taxes relative to health care in the form of a single payer system, they should be able to get their medical care accordingly. Under that program, basic services should also be available to those needing a safety net.
Those that don't want to pay into such a system, if they need medical care, if they don't have the money to pay for it...nothing but crickets. How much money would be saved by taking those people who don't pay into the tax system that supports a single payer system off the healthcare roles? Isn't that what they want...they don't want to pay taxes that support other people!
2
The US can afford to offer medical coverage as a right for all its citizens. It cannot afford to offer medical coverage to all the world as a right. Therefore the place to begin is with immigration.
We cannot have a million and a half immigrants entering the country a year. (1 million legal, 1/2 million illegal) without expecting that the standard of living, despite all the scientific advances will decline as it has over the last 30 years, that's hat happens when a population surges by over 50% to over 300 million.
This is not a knock on immigrants, it is a perception that natural resources are the basis for quality of life. that in the end is what drives these immigrants here, the fight over dwindling natural resources in their countries.
Let the democrats agree to a reduction in immigration, then the Republicans can agree to make medical care a right. Otherwise it will simply go bankrupt. 50% of births being paid for with Medicaid is a distortion caused by those least able to support their children having the most children. That is also a reflection of higher immigrant birth rates.
As we push towards 400 million and then 600 million, life will only become worse in the USA. Why can't we take a lesson from other industrialized countries in the world. Not to mention its impact on climate change.
We cannot have a million and a half immigrants entering the country a year. (1 million legal, 1/2 million illegal) without expecting that the standard of living, despite all the scientific advances will decline as it has over the last 30 years, that's hat happens when a population surges by over 50% to over 300 million.
This is not a knock on immigrants, it is a perception that natural resources are the basis for quality of life. that in the end is what drives these immigrants here, the fight over dwindling natural resources in their countries.
Let the democrats agree to a reduction in immigration, then the Republicans can agree to make medical care a right. Otherwise it will simply go bankrupt. 50% of births being paid for with Medicaid is a distortion caused by those least able to support their children having the most children. That is also a reflection of higher immigrant birth rates.
As we push towards 400 million and then 600 million, life will only become worse in the USA. Why can't we take a lesson from other industrialized countries in the world. Not to mention its impact on climate change.
2
Wait A minute!
In the 1830s a large percentage of Ireland moved to the U. S. Did our standard of living drop? In the 1890s huge numbers of Italians Poles Russians and Jews from Russia poured in. Did the standard of living plummet?
You see the issue as a zero sum problem with only so many assets available and each new arrival diluting the assets but that's not the way it works. Each new arrival is an asset ready to work making us all better off. They require little investment on the part of those who preceded them and the payoff has always been more than worth the price.
In the 1830s a large percentage of Ireland moved to the U. S. Did our standard of living drop? In the 1890s huge numbers of Italians Poles Russians and Jews from Russia poured in. Did the standard of living plummet?
You see the issue as a zero sum problem with only so many assets available and each new arrival diluting the assets but that's not the way it works. Each new arrival is an asset ready to work making us all better off. They require little investment on the part of those who preceded them and the payoff has always been more than worth the price.
3
If we kill coverage for contraception we will definitely see an increase in the birthrate, particularly among lower income women and teenagers (which has little to do with immigration policy). I was one of those lower income women when my daughter was born with my pre-natal care, delivery, and well-baby care provided by medicaid. Because I wasn't saddled with the huge cost of the medical care we needed, I was able to go on to graduate school, get a good paying job with health insurance, and pay taxes.
2
really - the population of the earth at the start of the 20th century was about a billion people. today it is over 7 billion.
I am a scientist, too familiar with the impact of too many people on the planet to all the other living things as well as ourselves.
What you are missing is the very notion of limits.
If you are all by yourself you might like a room-mate/partner.
Stick a hundred people in your house there are problems.
There are too many people for earth and the USA. Plus a tremendous number of those immigrants get there services in the emergency room. That is the way it is. Want to do something about medical care that is a good place to begin. Limit immigration for now, or work out exchange programs with other countries, giving preference with countries that pay heed to population limits,
I'm posting because the subject though obvious to many is too taboo to be honestly discussed - which helps explains why you seem to unfamiliar with the subject.
I am a scientist, too familiar with the impact of too many people on the planet to all the other living things as well as ourselves.
What you are missing is the very notion of limits.
If you are all by yourself you might like a room-mate/partner.
Stick a hundred people in your house there are problems.
There are too many people for earth and the USA. Plus a tremendous number of those immigrants get there services in the emergency room. That is the way it is. Want to do something about medical care that is a good place to begin. Limit immigration for now, or work out exchange programs with other countries, giving preference with countries that pay heed to population limits,
I'm posting because the subject though obvious to many is too taboo to be honestly discussed - which helps explains why you seem to unfamiliar with the subject.
2
The ACA is a near mirrored image of a Bi-partisan, during a GOP governor (Romneycare to you), driven by the Heritage Society, field tested, very successful health program. The designer of Romney care even assisted in the design of the ACA. What problems exist are there because of the 151 changes to the ACA, to include eliminating the single payer option the GOP made to the program. Then the GOP defunded the logistical development of the program while it was being implemented.
Now considering that the ACA is a product of conflict it shouldn't be too difficult to see that the end result is one where the end product is just as conflicted. If the process of designing an optimal healthcare product is attacked and the attack is designed not to weaken but to siphon off as much money from where ever possible, the end result is where we are now.
IF the actual problem was described as "needing to developing healthcare for the population with the actual intent of caring for the population", I can easily see how there would be good healthcare at reasonable cost for everyone. But that is not what is happening. The rich just simply see healthcare as a means to acquire money from a large source of money.
Now considering that the ACA is a product of conflict it shouldn't be too difficult to see that the end result is one where the end product is just as conflicted. If the process of designing an optimal healthcare product is attacked and the attack is designed not to weaken but to siphon off as much money from where ever possible, the end result is where we are now.
IF the actual problem was described as "needing to developing healthcare for the population with the actual intent of caring for the population", I can easily see how there would be good healthcare at reasonable cost for everyone. But that is not what is happening. The rich just simply see healthcare as a means to acquire money from a large source of money.
8
"What problems exist" . . . are those that arise from the ACA being enacted under America's first black president who is also a Democrat. It sticks in some people's craw that Obama will go down in history as addressing the healthcare crisis in America despite the "Party of NO" doing everything in their power to obstruct.
Meanness and bigotry are alive in the U.S.
Meanness and bigotry are alive in the U.S.
3
If you research the history of the ACA you will see that Bill Clinton also attempted to put a healthcare system into place that too originated from the same place as the ACA. President Obama's race was only a tool to raise racism to the top to be used as a weapon against getting the healthcare program into place. Racism, ultra-right religion, fear of taking the people's guns, loosing jobs, out-of-control taxation, socialism, death panels...it goes on. This was a sad but well planned psychological attack on the fears of Americans in which their fears were used against them. The works of Joseph Goebbels and Frank Luntz were put to use.
1
Kudos to the Senator. It's sadly a rare case that any politician stands with the PEOPLE who elected him or her and resists the influence of party bosses and the big money that controls them. I admire any politician who puts constituent's concerns over party loyalty. Let's hope he holds out.
9
Actually, Mr. Moran is not so unlikely as a holdout, it seems to me. Unlike many of his GOP colleagues, he does not appear to fear the activist extreme-right wing of his party, probably because they represent a smaller portion of his base. Elsewhere, the antiquated primary rules allow the rabid right-wingers to swing the nomination process, thereby co-opting the effect of the less extreme voters.
Absent some GOP reforms to better democratize the primary process, we'll continue to see Republicans cower in fear of the extremists, and act as enablers to our out-of-control president (sorry - can't capitalize for an incumbent like T)
Absent some GOP reforms to better democratize the primary process, we'll continue to see Republicans cower in fear of the extremists, and act as enablers to our out-of-control president (sorry - can't capitalize for an incumbent like T)
3
I don't understand - It sounds like Senator Moran want to pursue a more moderate path. It seems like a majority of his constituents want him to pursue a more moderate path. it seems like Republicans in the state legislature and in the health care profession want him to pursue a more moderate path - and yet there are these conservatives who he feels some how compelled to satisfy. It doesn't sound like moving toward the center is going to jeopardize his job in the next election, in fact is appears to be just the opposite. I'm sure he isn't alone here, so why is it so hard for people like this to show a little leadership - a little backbone. i'm sure Dems would be happy to meet in the middle to improve health care.
9
Whom does he have to satisfy except his constituents? Is his concern being shunned in the Senate dining room, or to press for things citizens of his state and country need?
1
Kudos to Senator Moran for having the honor, and humility, to meet with the Kansans he is working for and tell them the good news and bad news. The good news, that he sees how badly the Senate's bill (like the House version) will harm nearly every aspect of health care in Kansas. The bad news, that as a GOP stalwart, he has no apparent ideas on how to fix it beyond making sure that he blames Democrats too; a ridiculous dodge of responsibility given that his own party controls the White House and has controlled Congress for years.
"But Obama! But Hillary!" are only going to go so far in the face of real facts, real people losing health care, real rural hospitals closing, real children without pediatricians, real seniors without nursing homes, real families struggling to aid members with disabilities without any assistance from a ruthless Ryan-McConnell led government attack on anyone not rich, white, and living in the White House.
I have friends in Kansas, and yes they are Republicans, as I was for most of my life. And yes, they're angry that their party has put personal power over duty to country and care for its citizens.
Too bad my Idaho senators have neither the spine to face their constituents, nor the honesty to admit, like Moran, how disastrous their party's ideology is turning out to be for the people that pay their salary.
"But Obama! But Hillary!" are only going to go so far in the face of real facts, real people losing health care, real rural hospitals closing, real children without pediatricians, real seniors without nursing homes, real families struggling to aid members with disabilities without any assistance from a ruthless Ryan-McConnell led government attack on anyone not rich, white, and living in the White House.
I have friends in Kansas, and yes they are Republicans, as I was for most of my life. And yes, they're angry that their party has put personal power over duty to country and care for its citizens.
Too bad my Idaho senators have neither the spine to face their constituents, nor the honesty to admit, like Moran, how disastrous their party's ideology is turning out to be for the people that pay their salary.
294
Gore Vidal once said that the question for the Republicans was whether a party based solely on human greed could win the hearts and minds of the American voters.
In Kansas and Idaho they certainly proved they can.
What did your friends in Kansas think they were voting for when they elected Moran, Roberts, and Brownback? The New Deal?
In Kansas and Idaho they certainly proved they can.
What did your friends in Kansas think they were voting for when they elected Moran, Roberts, and Brownback? The New Deal?
5
They will be angry with the party, but they will vote with the Republicans. Why? Because it's their tribe and "Republican" is only a label. They don't follow any philosophy or ethical style, but simply ally themselves with the label.
3
I am also from Idaho and I couldn't agree with you more!
Trump voters I know in my extended family have, until recently, said that "Trump and the party will do the right thing," or "They wouldn't take away our insurance." All of a sudden, I am starting to hear doubts from those same people. Moran and others are just beginning to see what happens when reality sets in and takes precedence over blind faith in ideology.
69
Senator Jerry Moran deserves basic credit for standing in front of his constituents at a town hall-style meeting, something his fake fellow Republican representatives refuse to do.....but let's see what the guy the votes for...his actions matter more than his words.
Kansas’ other Republican senator, Pat Roberts, who gave his view of healthcare for 320 million Americans, appears to have serious mental health issues:
“Once in Glacier National Park, I saw two porcupines making love. I’m assuming they produced smaller porcupines. They produced something. It has to be done carefully. That’s what we’re doing now.”
America's 17% of GDP heathcare system is an unaffordable, complicated disgrace.
It needs single-payer or highly regulated true universal care and healthy taxes to properly fund it.
Neither of these Kansans appear terribly serious about healthcare.
Kansas’ other Republican senator, Pat Roberts, who gave his view of healthcare for 320 million Americans, appears to have serious mental health issues:
“Once in Glacier National Park, I saw two porcupines making love. I’m assuming they produced smaller porcupines. They produced something. It has to be done carefully. That’s what we’re doing now.”
America's 17% of GDP heathcare system is an unaffordable, complicated disgrace.
It needs single-payer or highly regulated true universal care and healthy taxes to properly fund it.
Neither of these Kansans appear terribly serious about healthcare.
210
It says much more about Moran's true stance that he did not come out against this travesty of a bill until AFTER the vote was delayed. Previously, he also did not express any opposition to the mean & nasty House bill until AFTER it had failed.
Do not be taken in - he is carefully orchestrating his position to maintain as many political options as he can for himself. This is not any sort of demonstration of his "concern" for Kansans, only about his own political future.
Like some of the citizens expressed in this article, I am concerned that in the end, he will vote for a mean and nasty bill which dumps on average Americans so the wealthy can get a tax break, insurance companies are out from under any sort of restraint on what they can do and pharma and medical device companies can charge stratospheric prices with no regulation.
Do not be taken in - he is carefully orchestrating his position to maintain as many political options as he can for himself. This is not any sort of demonstration of his "concern" for Kansans, only about his own political future.
Like some of the citizens expressed in this article, I am concerned that in the end, he will vote for a mean and nasty bill which dumps on average Americans so the wealthy can get a tax break, insurance companies are out from under any sort of restraint on what they can do and pharma and medical device companies can charge stratospheric prices with no regulation.
15
You are so right! The real problem is the high cost of health care in the US. This is all caused by our blind allegiance to competitive markets at all costs. All the other major western industrialized countries (Great Britain, Canada, France, Germany, etc.) whose health costs are about half that of our country and whose citizens have a longer life span have a government single payer system where provider prices are controlled and basic health care is provided to all citizens.
3
How extraordinary that an elected official's standing before his state's people is seen as brave or laudable. Those senators hiding this past weekend should rather be called to account for their failures to offer directly before their people some wise counsel (as senators are supposed to do). Likewise representatives only represent by hearing some of their people's views whether or not in accord with their own. I offer Sen. Moran my thanks for doing his job. See the great conservative Edmund Burke on a legislator's duty to his people--and himself.
4
If one of these guys was smart, they'd propose a bill with a public option, call it "MeanCare for Hardworking Americans Who Hate Handouts," and be hailed as heroes.
70
Then he'll quickly be labeled a "socialist" by the far right. Since many Americans don't even understand what "socialism" really means, or even understand how healthcare would work under a single payer system, it can be political suicide.
3
Good Hardworking Americans care bout fellow American. It is not about "handouts" rather it is about one united country with compassion and respect for all citizens and protection from self serving interests. No one snhould be gaming the system. All citizens should have healthcare to match those in congress.
2
Don't give Trump credit calling it " mean care ".
.Call it what it really is:
" Don't Care ".
.Call it what it really is:
" Don't Care ".
4
The biggest of Republican lies: "Mr. Moran, a Kansas Republican who came out last week against the Senate leadership’s repeal bill, ..., lamenting that both parties were locked in opposition over health care, with Republicans pursuing repeal and Democrats saying, he said, “Not one inch are we giving.”
Clinton and the D's have never said not one inch. They have consistently said let's keep what's working and improve what is not. Moran's comment is a demonstrable lie.
Clinton and the D's have never said not one inch. They have consistently said let's keep what's working and improve what is not. Moran's comment is a demonstrable lie.
458
Lying is the first principle of current Republican party political discourse. And voters love liars, we/they elected the Liar-in-Chief.
12
One party wants to throw 23 million off of health insurance, which would result in the deaths of hundreds of thousands per year. The other party says "no, we will not vote for a bill that kills people." The first party claims the second "refuses to give an inch." That kind of spin will make your heard hurt.
4
"The senator outlined how he was assessing the bill. Would it make premiums more affordable while still preserving coverage for people with pre-existing conditions? Would it help or harm the availability of health care in communities across Kansas?"
Thank you, Senator Moran, for thinking about your constituents first. If the Republican leadership had only set goals for coverage and affordability as their first principles for any health care legislation, we might actually have an improved ACA. We could even rename it from Obamacare to something less politically charged in return.
Thank you, Senator Moran, for thinking about your constituents first. If the Republican leadership had only set goals for coverage and affordability as their first principles for any health care legislation, we might actually have an improved ACA. We could even rename it from Obamacare to something less politically charged in return.
59
@ Ken L. I agree except for your last sentence. You are aware, are you not, that Obamacare is not the official name? It is actually named the Affordable Care Act (ACT). Republicans began to call it Obamacare right at the beginning.
2
Sorry, typo--that should be Affordable Care Act (ACA)
2
Whatever the outcome, Sen. Moran's break with the party line represents a crack in the monolith of Republican intransigence over getting rid of their arch enemy's greatest legislative achievement. What I did not find in the article but saw on TV is Moran's resentment over the way McConnell dealt in secret excluding most Republicans and all Democrats from considering the bill. That is truly refreshing although its practical effect is uncertain.
138
Moran will fall in line... No worry!
1
I am encouraged by the civil discussion in this town hall about the most important topic of the day. Kudos to Mr. Moran for spending July 4th to listen to his people in the constituency. Hope Mr. Moran will continue his stance and not buckle under pressure to vote against this "Make rich richer" health plan.
80
Asking for strength and character in these times of dark money, behind the scenes and public Tea Party zealot threats, unlimited corporate money and full scale public lying is, I'm afraid, too much for all but one or two of these Republicans congresspersons.
It's just dawning on me that they didn't run for office with any strength and character to begin with. They were drawn to it because it fits their personality type to a tee.
It's just dawning on me that they didn't run for office with any strength and character to begin with. They were drawn to it because it fits their personality type to a tee.
79
Moran's argument that somehow because Democrats have not cooperated, they've "forced both sides into corners" is utterly specious. It is cruel, inhuman and close to criminal to deny humans in need medical care and treatment in the richest country in the world. If steadfastly refusing to participate in such evil behavior regarding passage of Trumpcare is obstreperous, please, Democrats, glue yourselves into that corner and don't come out. Citizens in every corner in America are taking notice.
350
Especially funny since it was the GOP who held secret meetings behind closed doors. When the ACA was being debated, it was open and for public view and comment. ACA also took close to a year while now they're trying to jam through something in just a few weeks. Yes the president is right (never thought I'd say that) but healthcare is COMPLICATED.
13
There will have to be compromises, and gluing into a corner isn't helpful. That's the thinking that's gotten us where we are. There are a number of Republicans (some mentioned in this article and some not) that are on the right track (mostly in regards to Medicaid). Don't be partisan, and don't worry about not passing "TrumpCare." Worry about getting a good healthcare law in place.
1