[Democrats] will use the budget reconciliation process, which would eliminate the Republicans’ ability to filibuster, to pass health care legislation. However, they will hold off on reconciliation until October 15. That gives them nearly six months to put together a bill that can garner Republican support. Ultimately, Democrats are sending a clear signal that if Republicans won’t participate in crafting a bill they can support, the Democrats will pass health reform on their own.
A couple of months ago, the Democrats were ready to push health care reform through the system without Republican support if necessary. Now, the discussion has focused almost entirely on how the Dems will water down the health care bill to gain Republican support. I hope the Democrats will realize that there must be a limit on the concessions made to Republicans.
I’m glad the Democrats want to build consensus on health care reform. But there need to be limits. The Republicans’ ideas should be heard, but the Democrats need to set certain minimum expectations for health reform. If Republicans aren’t willing to accept a plan with a robust public option, then their votes simply aren’t worth it. Sen. Charles Grassley yesterday said that any sort of public option would be a dealbreaker for Republicans. If that’s true, we have nothing to talk about. They can wait until October and deal with a bill that takes none of their ideas into consideration.
There is no room for compromise between the Democratic position that government needs to protect peoples right to affordable care, and Republicans position that the private market should charge whatever sick and vulnerable can be forced to pay.
Thats like trying to find common ground between a geologist and a flat-earther.
Republicans are wrong on this issue, and compromising with them is wrong. They won’t support a plan that limits the insurance companies profits.
People don’t have a “right” to “affordable care” any more than I have a “right” to a good tasting hamburger from Snuffy’s. If you’re suggesting we amend the Constitution to provide an affirmative right to “affordable health care,” whatever that means, I’m all for it. But people don’t have a “right” to it as we speak.
You are correct Jason, universal health care is no more of a right than bridges that don’t collapse. It is however a smart choice that would serve us all well.