Discussions about health insurance reform continue through newspapers, blogs, news, and radio/TV talk shows – even a few sensible ones. Meanwhile, as President Obama is attempting to push the process forward, it’s time for a look by a voice of reason.
Point 1: At first, I saw President Obama making his insurance plan public before the summit with the Republicans as a major faux pas. Upon further review, he posted in advance simply to show that he listened to the other party. In other words, he went into the “summit” knowing what he would add. In other words, I’m not buying the appearance of compromise.
Point 2: To discover the rationale behind the positions of both parties, all one has to examine is their respective donor list. Ask yourself these questions: Why are Democrats against tort reform? Why are Republicans against controlling costs? Why is neither party focusing on what is best for people?
Point 3: Because of their bully-pulpit tactics, the Democrats have politically backed themselves into a corner with a no-win situation thinking they are giving the people what they want. As Mr. President pushes the bill toward reconciliation, the Republicans are licking the chomps because they seeing opportunities for them – not for the people. Besides, they are enjoying watching Speaker Pelosi leading her flock of lemmings toward the cliff. Does anyone think she will jump?
Conclusion: Two things are certain: continual health insurance debate takes away time from discussions about the economy in terms of jobs, and the both President Obama and the Democratic leadership have talked this supporter of health insurance reform into an opponent. Sorry Republicans, I’m not on your side either.
Meanwhile, here are some good columns on the mess.
- David Brooks and Kathleen Parker about the health insurance summit
- Dana Milbank on bullying
- David Broder on polls
- A Brooks and Shields PBS discussion on reconciliation
- A Common Ground conversation
A Frank Angle 
The more I read about this mess, the more confused I get. I’ve decided to wait it out until a decision is made, then see how it affects me and those around me (ie, in the same tax bracket).
It may not be the most prudent decision, but it helps my sanity.
Good work Frank
LikeLike
Rad,
Between intentional confusion, finger pointing, lies and distortion, special interest dollars, there’s no wonder why the debate/issue is frustrating and difficult to follow. I continue to maintain that Capitol Hill inhabitants are more concerned about themselves than citizens. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLike
This topic has driven me crazy for awhile now…Everyone knows that there are problems with the healthcare system, and insurance companies…But they’re all in be with each other which makes it harder for them to see what is best FOR THE PEOPLE.
As much as everyone talks about compromising and working together…It isn’t happening…And if we want to stay informed, we have to dig through the lies and misdirections…
Through all of this I have found a few politicians that I liked to be total fakes…I ave also found others that I like only because they haven’t been bought and paid for yet…
In the end, I don’t think there will be any true reform, until the way our political system runs is reformed…Because right now it’s broken…It’s all about the sound bite and nothing more.
LikeLike
Beeze,
You hit the nail on the head – simply outstanding. The crazy thing is that it’s all about the special interests funding the parties and nothing about the people. It’s insane! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
LikeLike
**********************************************
Conclusion: Two things are certain: continual health insurance debate takes away time from discussions about the economy in terms of jobs, and the both President Obama and the Democratic leadership have talked this supporter of health insurance reform into an opponent. Sorry Republicans, I’m not on your side either.
***********************************************
My good friend Frank, you have said a mouthful! The process is so politicized with the blame game, finger pointing, and party level ego, it is untenable and unacceptable behavior in adults.
Joe
LikeLike
Joe,
Thanks for the kind words, but I appreciate the way you described the process! Excellent. Thanks for commenting.
LikeLike