First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Chuck, WA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:22:54 GMT

Sudden thoughts and second thoughts

What is bigger, Jabba the Hut’s waste line or Rush Limbaugh’s? Why are we giving any credence to Limbaugh? Note to WH: Don’t lower yourself to his level. Note to MSM: if we want to watch walrus wrestling, we will tune in the Discovery Channel or Planet Earth, or go to SeaWorld.

Why is the FY10 budget going to be 3 trillion dollars plus? Would one year of reduced spending and services really hurt? Can we wait until FY11 to go for a health care plan?

What is older, the moaning and groaning about taxes and spending from John ‘Boner’, or dirt? Note to Speaker Pelosi: one district in California and a slightly larger caucus elected you, the whole nation elected Obama. Lay off your agenda or the highway crap.

Note to moderates in both parties: Speak! Your voices are equal to the ‘complainers’. Don’t tow your party line all of the time. And OBTW, people from other parties need representation in your districts and states before some party ditto heads.

Is the GOP falling faster than Obama is rising?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Liberal Dem — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:24:36 GMT

Health Care! Good!! I like free stuff! I like it a lot!!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Welfare State — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:26:52 GMT

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Nashville_fan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:27:29 GMT

"The other goal of this summit is to make it appear as if all the stakeholders have a say -- so they invited as diverse of a group as they could, including prominent opponents of Clinton's health care plan from the early 1990s. - First Read"
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Make it appear as if all stakeholders have a say?

Are you saying they don't?

If so, what are you basing this on, your own cynical view of the world?

Gee whiz folks, can we at least have the summit before you decide how much "say" these groups will have?

How will we ever get ANYTHING done with the cynical media running everything down before it can even get started?

Good grief.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:27:36 GMT

"... and now Republicans have found their own in … Rahm Emanuel. That’s right, House Minority Leader John Boehner released a statement yesterday blaming “political operatives” in the White House from diverting attention away from the country’s economic challenges to Rush Limbaugh (even though Limbaugh was in the news because he was the concluding speaker at the same conservative confab Boehner addressed). And on TODAY this morning, Newt Gingrich compared Rahm to Nixon chief of staff H.R. Haldeman."
_________________
The Obama White House should have gone after Rush Limbaugh. The guy wants the President - no, he wants the country - to fail. He's an idiot. He's just looking for attention. Well, he's getting it and as usual, it hasn't helped the GOP one bit.
__________________
It seems to me that the only person in Washington DC who doesn’t want to hang President Bush and Vice President Cheney is President Obama. He continues to says that no one is above the law – but he looks very uncomfortable when he says this. There appears to be a tidal wave of support out there for delving deeper into the last 8 years. We now hear members of Congress coming out and talking about us perhaps having just lived under a dictatorship during the Bush Administration. I always thought this was the case.

I just wonder what will happen when President Obama makes his first trip overseas. I would imagine that a lot of the questions he is going to have to answer will no doubt have to do with George W. Bush and his entire Administration’s policies. And however he answers these questions will be heard all around the world.

It seems we have paid a terrible price because of Richard Nixon’s pardon. The message clearly being sent at the time was that no price had to be paid for executive abuses of power. And while many have said over the years that President Ford’s intentions were good - that he just wanted to put Watergate behind us – I don’t believe now it was the right thing to do, even though I agreed with President Ford’s decision at the time.

So I think we all need to get over this notion of “moving on”.

Because since 1974, we have had the Reagan & Bush Administrations. By the end of his term, 138 Reagan administration officials had been convicted, had been indicted, or had been the subject of official investigations for official misconduct and/or criminal violations. In terms of number of officials involved, the record of his administration was the worst ever. And we have now gone through 8 years of the Bush Administration.

Nixon. Reagan. Bush. All from the Republican Party. All believing that they were above the law.

President Obama I believe is in a very difficult position right now. But as he said so often during the campaign – this election wasn’t about him - it was about us. And we as a country can no longer allow abuses of power to go unpunished. Because as history has shown - if we turn a blind eye - it will happen again and again and again.

We have taken a huge hit internationally. And now President Obama has to go out and show the world that we have a new Administration with new policies. I don’t know if this will be enough for the rest of the world.

He truly is in a very difficult position. But he is correct. This isn’t about him. It’s about the United States of America.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Can't Make This Stuff Up — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:28:51 GMT

Funniest scene yesterday in Washington? Tim Geithner testifying to Charlie Rangle about the need to crack down on tax cheats.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

OBAMA THINKS THAT THE VOTERS ARE COMPLETE FOOLS ! — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:30:22 GMT

WHO WILL BE OBAMA'S SACRIIFICIAL LAMB (LIKE WAS HILLARY)ON 'HEALTH CARE REFORM' WHICH WILL GO DOWN IN FLAMES AS DID CLINTON'S HEALTH CARE PROPOSALS?

AFTER SPENDING US INTO A TOTALLY UN-RECOVERABLE DEBT --- OBAMA THINKS THE VOTERS WILL WANT TO PAY MORE TAXES SO EVERYONE - INCLUDING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS - WILL HAVE FREE HEALTH CARE.

OBAMA THINKS THE VOTERS ARE COMPLETE FOOLS. HE IS WRONG. ONLY OBAMANUTS ARE SUCH FOOLS!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:30:23 GMT

"GONZO-GATE" IT JUST WILL NOT FADE AWAY. STAY TUNED.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Dan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:30:42 GMT

We got some important 2010 news yesterday as well, with the new Kansas Governor saying he will NOT run in two years and Pat Quinn drawing his first Republican opponent. (Roundup: http://campaigndiaries.com/2009/03/04/brady-watts/ )

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Lois T., NY — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:31:05 GMT

If government takes over health care, will health care work as well as the public education system we have in the country?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Nashville_fan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:34:12 GMT

With today's focus on health care, it's worth noting that the new NBC/WSJ poll doesn't show a huge appetite for an overhaul of health care right now. According to the poll, 49% say they would be willing to pay higher taxes so everyone could have health insurance, versus 45% who say they'd be unwilling to do this. - First Read
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How can you take a poll number that is basically 50-50 and interpret that there isn't a "huge appetite" to reform healtcare right now?

Could it be that the way the question was worded, with a heavy emphasis on TAXES instead of HEALTHCARE is part of the problem?

Even so, half of the electorate is willing to do whatever it takes to fix healthcare - that represents a BIG APPETITE, don't ya think?

We have had people elected President with a smaller mandate than that.

Stop imposing your personal biases on reality. Healthcare must be reformed in order to SAVE us money, not to raise our taxes.

The "high tax" boogeyman is not gonna fly this time, you're gonna have to do some thoughtful analysis.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Gail, TN — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:35:21 GMT

Has First Read been hacked again? Just got an email from "Megan Metz" to the First Read mailing list.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Karrs Kidds — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:35:49 GMT

Well now Obama, GM just went under. What's your "Car Czar" have to say about that little problem? Maybe you should expropriate the car companies, just like Chavez is doing to all the major industries in Venezuela.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Juan,Ft lauderdale, FL — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:36:10 GMT

Lets just the throw the book at Rove and Miers considering they have no respect for laws of this country and due process and while we're at it why is'nt John Yoo not being hauled in as well? Thats right, what a waste of ti.me, they're just going to plead the fifth and/or the bogus execuetive privilege.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Nashville_fan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:36:21 GMT

Oh yeah, about demonizing Rahm?

*yawn*

Wake me when he gets his own radio show and starts spouting off 3 hours of lies everyday that people in the media are afraid to correct, because the don't want to be on his sh!t list.

Until then, Rush stands alone. (Sorry Hannity.)

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Seattle Sue — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:37:11 GMT

Best wishes to Mrs Barbara Bush but who is paying her medical expenses?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:37:48 GMT

Look how much smarter Obama is at making appointments. He has appointed another republic party operative, this time to head FEMA. Instead of worrying about personal political loyalty the way Boy Georgie did in appointing incompetent Brown Obama has looked for a qualified person to run FEMA despite political loyalty. While I'd like to see a liberal appointed I'm more interested in seeing someone competent get the job.

That is so funny how the repugnant ones try to fiund anyone but Obama to demonize because they are cowards who are too chicken to take on Obama just as they are too chicken to take on Mount Lushmore. The Blubbering Mouth is running the repugnant one chicken hawks over the cliff and they're just a bunch of lemmings being led to extinction.

In Obama We Trust!
In Lush Limburger they Bust!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Appearances — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:39:01 GMT

"The other goal of this summit is to make it appear as if all the stakeholders have a say"

Kinda like Obama's so-called reach-out for bipartisanship with the Pork Stimulus Bill.....he only wanted it to APPEAR that he was listening to the other side. But in the end it was "I won. Do it my way."

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

jp,michigan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:41:01 GMT

OBAMA RUNS THE WHITE HOUSE JUST LIKE NIXON, SO WHY WOULDN'T HIS STAFF ACT JUST LLIKE NIXON STAFF. OBAMA LEFT CHICAGO , BUT TOOK CHICAGO/ILLINOIS POLITICS WITH HIM TO THE OVAL OFFICE

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Anonymous — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:43:00 GMT

The cost of health care causes foreclosures and bankruptcy???? I think it's the lack of jobs and income. When you have no money, it's THE COST OF LIVING AND SURVIVING that brings us down. Health care is a part of it, but not the only reason.

Give us jobs first!! How many has Obama created or saved this week? NONE. Unemployment keeps going up.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Ron Indiana — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:43:03 GMT

I confess it was fun watching the Republicans bow low to King Limbaugh. Steele will not last two months. The big vacuum in leadership is already filled by big Rush. When I saw that the GOP favorability poll numbers were lower than whale sh*t at the bottom of the sea, it became apparent that the Limbaugh nonsense is not where the action is.

It is big that GM auditors doubt the automaker's viability. After bankruptsy, GM will restructure down to maybe two or three brands, Chevy, Cadillac, and a hybrid/green car.

Months ago I predicted the Department of Justice will hire a special prosecutor to investigate torture and wire tapping in the Bush administration. That will likely happen. There will be evidence to prosecute Bush/Cheney, but President Obama will eventually pardon both. It just doesn't look good to see a past POTUS in a prison.

It is easy to minize the importance of PM Brown's speech to the joint session in Congress. The nugget in his comments is that several world governments are working to address the global recession. It is not just a US problem. President Obama, House and Senate Democrats and 3 GOP senators supported the American stimulus plan. China will announce their own stimulus package. Japan will bail out Toyota. European governments will follow suit. So what are the Republicans in Congress going to do? Probably follow Rush and oppose the world. That is how out of step they are! Pathetic!!

Bank on Franken in the Senate by April 1. No joke. Judges will not throw out this election.

McCain is a jerk and a sore loser.

BTW Hillary is not involved in the Health Summitt, because she is SoS and it is not her job. Don't be dumb with comments about her not attending.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Media Skeptic — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:43:10 GMT

First Read "The other goal of this summit is to make it appear as if all the stakeholders have a say "
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How do you know that President Obama's goal is to deceive the public and not to _actually_ let stakeholders have a say? You're attempt to insinuate that the motives of the president are dishonest is pretty obvious.

As was the case with Bill Clinton, the corporate media seem to be in a war against the president, starting from his first day in office. It's only during a Republican presidency that the media fawns, even when the president is G. W. Bush, one of the worst in history.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Len Pasculluie, Omaha, NE — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:43:19 GMT

Doesn't anyone else think it's the least bit unusual that a President, and his administration, are waging a coordinated attack on a radio talk show host? Never has a President attacked a member of the media on a personal basis like Obama has. It's Nixonian what Obama is doing. Not only does Obama have an Enemies List like Nixon did, but he's very open and public about who is on that list. And Obama goes after Limbaugh like Bush went after terrorists. Frankly, doesn't Obama have better things to do? Look at Bush who had main stream media types attack and lie about him on a daily basis (Dan Rather anyone?). Did Bush whine and cry about it? Nope. Bush never said a word. But the first thing Obama does when he gets in office is not pick a fight with terrorists, but he does pick a fight with, Rush Limbaugh? It really makes Obama look weak and naive to go after a radio talk show host.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Common Sense, USA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:43:33 GMT

Hey First Read, let's demonize 'Boner' before we start demonizing Emanuel.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Pete - Albany, NY — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:43:49 GMT

"And on TODAY this morning, Newt Gingrich compared Rahm to Nixon chief of staff H.R. Haldeman."

Who?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

matt — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:43:58 GMT

Despite the early bipartisan rhetoric, health care will not be easy for Obama. The GOP will rant as loud as they can about "socialized medicine" and cost overruns, and the Blue Dogs will always be wary of costs, too.

http://www.political-buzz.com/

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:44:04 GMT

I like how Obama is so upfront with his plans, so unlike Darth Cheney's Energy Taskforce who plotted behind closed doors. So hilarious to hear the repugnant ones whine about Obama not being forthcoming about his plans when he's so much more honest and upfront than Clueless George ever was.

Isn't that funny how Neuter Gingrich is trying to compare Rahm Emanuel to a Nixon badboy Haldeman? So hilarious that he uses a fellow repugnant one to use as the example of someone bad, but then Nixon gave us nothing but bad apples. Why does MSNBC tv still keep that Nixon hack Pat Buchanan on? He is mentally disturbed and his quakery just makes me switch the channel until I figure he's done mouthing off his nonsense.

Dump Buchanan MSNBC TV!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

gepa — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:44:05 GMT

Newt Gingrich was on 'today show' this morning and admitted republicans held the house for 12 years. He said repubs got the house in 1996 and kept it for 12 years; yet most Repubs keep blaming the Democrats for our failed economy. Repubs should agree with Newty, they had control and did the worst job since the Great Deppression of the 1930's.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Broken Arrow — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:45:29 GMT

People are wising up to the idea that someone is going to have to pay for all of Obama's deficit spending. And people are starting to realize there are not enough "rich" people around to do so. It's getting to be that a "rich" person is anyone with a job.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:45:31 GMT

Love Is In The Air. In The Rising Of The Sun.

I notice this week that Joe Scarborough keeps asking his guests how they would “fix” the Republican Party. Joe should have a suggestion box set up on his set, so people can extend both their suggestions … and sympathies.

Carlos Watson, Michael Crowley, Chris Cillizza – great work this week. And of course always Lawrence O’Donnell – a handsome man who possesses a charming personality. But one who can knock anyone down in an instant with the actual truth. It appears that since President Obama gave his non State of the Union speech, the GOP has been on a downward spiral, starting with Bobby Jindal’s response and continuing with Rush Limbaugh calling for President Obama to fail. Oh well.

Ron, Indiana (wink). – Thank you!! I enjoy your posts as well. Some of the democrats on this Board are awfully funny. Baseball is coming. Real soon. Yes, love is in the air. And so is Spring.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Heckuva job!! — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:45:58 GMT

Competence over ideology. What a novel concept!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Nashville_fan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:46:38 GMT

I just wanted to apologize for my earlier post insinuating that Rush Limbaugh told 3 hours of lies on his radio show.

It turns out that there are in fact commercial breaks, and so in fact, my statement was not entirely true.

Rush, sometimes I just get in front of the keyboard, and I get carried away, but I recognize what an important source of misinformation you are for America . . .

Can you EVER forgive me?

*sigh*

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:48:20 GMT

I certainly hope that the 4 wise men that Obama is relying on to get health care passed can do the trick. It's way past time for Universal Health Care for all, just like all the other civilized countries have whose health care systems rank above ours.

That was so cool that Gordon Brown could announce yesterday before Congress that Ted Kennedy had been knighted by the Queen. Just have to love that the repugnant ones were given a kick in the seat of their pants by the Queen as she knighted one of their favorite Democrats to demonize. Bow down before Sir Ted repugnant ones!

Universal Health Care Now!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Tommy O'Tool — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:48:34 GMT

So now drunken Irishmen are being Knighted. How quaint. The Queen must have choked back her crumpet on that idea when Brown brought it up to her.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Monkberry Moon — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:49:07 GMT

Interesting that the Dems have succeeded somewhat in taking some of the heat off Obama for what is now known as The Earmark Bill by concentrating on Rush Limbaugh's remark about not wanting Obama to succeed.

Hey, I don't like Obama's policies and I want them to fail too, because they're a waste of taxpayer's money and will only make our economical situation worse.

And with all of this wild spending by our president you can take Bush out of the equasion.

The only positive is that the Dems will drown with the rest of us.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Bob Smith, Obamanation, USSA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:49:08 GMT

Sure, let's try to capitalize on the crisis created by Washington, to transfer even more control to Washington! Brilliant! After all we wouldn't want to "waste a serious crisis," right Emanuel?

A "Timothy Geithner moment" has also already appeared in our lexicon. He is testifying again today, so we can probably expect to shed the modest gains in the market we had yesterday (already down 100 as of this morning) and then some.

Great work on the economy, guys. really. While the Obamanation continues to ramp up the highest debt in all of human history, he continues to look elswhere to save, like the Defense Department. He is like a girl on a shopping spree, bragging about how much money he "saved." Pathetic.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Anna Molly — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:50:36 GMT

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Media Skeptic — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:51:39 GMT

Think Team Obama learned not to repeat this Bush administration mistake -- appoint someone to head FEMA with little prior experience in emergency management?
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Obama didn't have to learn that. Anyone with a functioning brain wouldn't hire someone who trains Arabian horses to head a major federal agency that manages natural disasters. Unlike his predecessor, Obama's brain seems to function quite well.

His choce of a _qualified_ Republican is also in line with his campaign promise of bipartisanship. There's nothing at all surprising about Obama's choice for FEMA.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

BJ, CA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:51:48 GMT

Boy the GOP is really getting desperate; relying drug loud mouth addicts and skinhead writers to keep the message alive...
Oh democracy we need you more now than ever...
Obama's in the drivers sit so let's buckle up, shut up and put up our best side..or are we doom to grind our teeth for four years...

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

MSierra, SF — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:52:07 GMT

On the Daily Show last night, John Stewart went over CNBC's record
WHAT a bunch of BOZOS !!

They were WRONG about EVERYTHING !!
'... If I followed CNBC's advice, I'd have a Million dollars today (as long as I started with a Hundred Million dollars)

They were advising people to buy real estate before the crash
To buy AIG, to buy B of A .....

These guys are BOZOS !!

Now, Santelli is complaining about foreclosed homeowners ???
STFU !!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Polythene Pam — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:52:14 GMT

Rahm Emanuel. Barack Hussein Obama.

Now those are two good clean-cut American names, don't you think?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

MSierra, SF — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:52:35 GMT

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Jitts Joe — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:54:11 GMT

Did you know that Teddy Kennedy's father was the ambassador to England during WWII. The English had to send him home because he was frightened by the bombings of London by the Germans. Joe Kennedy was known as "Jittery Joe" for his propensity to run for cover to an air raid shelter at the slightest sign of an attack.

And now his son, the drunken son, is a knight. The standards certainly have been lowered haven't they?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Bruce Oregon — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:54:49 GMT

Newt and the Republican congressional leadership are displaying very good message discipline regarding the 'Limbaugh as head of the Republican Party' theme by claiming the issue is nothing but a diversion and reminiscent of tactics used by the Nixon Administration. Comparing Rahm Emmanuel to H. R. Haldeman, however, will likely fall on many deaf ears inasmuch as the vast majority of the electorate won't have a clue who Haldeman was or what he and Erlichman did. This seems to be a recurring problem for Republicans. The veneration of Reagan is another example of Republicans living in the 'good 'ol days'. If they really want to attack the Obama Administration they should try to live in the 21st Century. Meanwhile, no one doubts that Limbaugh remains the titular head of the Republicna Party.

Regarding the newly selected head of FEMA, what ever happened to "Heck of a job Brownie"?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Anna Molly — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:55:09 GMT

Not only is it ironic, but it goes to show how desperate republicans truly are when they begin comparing Rahm Emanuel to H.R. Haldeman. Or did they simply forget which party provided the democrats with the role model for cut-throat politics?

And since when did the republican party become the party of warm fuzzies? Give me a serious break.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:55:39 GMT

Stabilizing foreclosures and the housing market is the primary key to our economic recovery/survival. A very close second is reforming healthcare. Many family healthcare plans cost more than most Americans pay for housing. And the lack of portability (COBRA costs are not reasonable or sustainable) is what puts an undue burden on those who have health insurance - ESPECIALLY in a downturn, with high unemployment. People seek emergency treatment, knowing they won't be turned away, for non-emergent care. We all pay for this. These two things will do more to reframe our prosperity potential then any other issues.
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Of course at some point today someone will start to blame Obama for the stock market. I think the following article should be required reading for anyone who ventures into that murky water:

http://www.wired.com/techbiz/it/magazine/17-03/wp_quant

Tzalaran is correct (and I wish I had his/her restraint) when trying to frame the discourse. I let my 'not better side' react to the stupidity du jour and my point gets lost in my venom. So, I will work on that. But derivative trading, swaps and all of the 'risk' sharing that occurred with other people's money is really how and where this all went south. These were untested models based on fantasy assumptions that there would never be a downturn. The fact that we are now picking up the pieces by sharing the loss; while the ones who enjoyed privatizing the gains slink quietly to an offshore location; well that should have more people incensed than they apparently are. Until we unite to solve the problems, well the problems will magnify and the distractions will be plentiful. Stepping off my box in 3-2-1.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

J. Ellis, Virginia — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:56:46 GMT

Demonizing Rahm? I don't think so. All this spin about Repubs not bowing down to Limbaugh as their great political guru is pure horse hockey. The crowd at the CPAC meeting was practically slobbering during his speech. The Repubs are embarrased by it, but can't risk the wrath of Limbaugh so they blame it on the Dems. Good luck with that.

The entertainment value of the Repubs trying simultaneiously to distance themselves from Limbaugh while maintaining that GOP Goosestep is absolutely priceless. Who needs the funny papers--Limbaugh and the rest of the Republicans give us a laugh a minute.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Alan, NJ — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:01:56 GMT

Another Day, another summit. Still he persists in attempting to fix problems that are laudable but pale beside what the economy is going through.

To me it is now apparent why he did not stop his campaign during the beginnings of this crisis last September. It was because he had nothing useful to contribute. The unfortunate fact is that in six months he still has nothing useful to contribute.

Hey President Obama, go talk about change again, or why don't you tell us that Limbaugh is the leader of the Republics? I could care less who leads that bunch of dopes. However, you are the leader of the country and you seem to have an inability to prioritize.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:02:42 GMT

RUSH LIMBAUGH resembles a fart:

All Air
No Substance
And he Sure Does Stink!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:06:00 GMT

Some cheese with your wine John Boehner.Lets get real for a change,your party has seen how the country has responded to your party of NO.You and your out of touch party needed a distraction,Rush is your scape goat,your out of touch party saw your numbers in the tank,while Mr.Obamas numbers are soaring.So bring in the Rush to fight your battles,MR windbags,Mr, Hop head,MR.Racist.he is the voice of the wing-nuts,he admitted it.While Boener,Cantor, and the rest of the talking heads have seen little or no press the last few days,like you are don't exist.So let me see ONe of you so called party heads come out and shut up jelly roll Rush,not one of you have any backbone,it's easier to slither around on the ground like a snake,thats how low you and your party has gotten,lower then a snakes belly.So you needed another name to throw out,trying to blame someone else for your partys short commings,which seem to number into the thousands.So you whiners just keep your glass's full,your cheese cold and your dope leaders mouth a flowing,since you and your party have given up your leadership rolls to the new Mouth of the south The Rushster,the Rush man,the pill poping hip hopping bag of wind.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Josh Sutton, St. Louis — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:10:56 GMT

Nashville_fan:

Make it appear as if all stakeholders have a say?

Are you saying they don't?

------------------

The Democrats in the country are slowly figuring Obama out. Let's just hope they do so before it's too late.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Jody, Iowa — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:13:28 GMT

The polls on health care seem contradictory. If 69% feel its important and necessary but only 49% are willing to pay for it, it's because people don't understand the affect health care costs has on the economy and their pocketbooks. You can bet the White House will be working on the message just as they did with the stimulus package. It's time the U.S. moved into the 21st century regarding health care.

It's time we have someone in charge of FEMA who understands emergency management, excellent choice. The previous Bush choices were less than average and definitely not qualified.

John Boehner sure has credibility on solving the economic problems, he did so much to help with the stimulus, didn't he? Interesting that he only criticized the White House regarding Limbaugh, and not the republicans who run crawling back to Limbaugh with apologies for having spoken out of turn when they dared to cricize him. Rahm Emanuel is still right to point out that fact--the GOP has no backbone; they won't stand up to Limbaugh out of fear and when they do, they must bow at his feet and say they didn't mean it. That tells me that the GOP agrees with Limbaugh's narrow-minded, intolerant, prejudiced views; not even smart enough to realize that he's using them for selfish purposes and not for the good of "the party".

Off topic but can't MSNBC find another republican besides Pat Buchanan to argue the conservative point. I listened to him rant on Hardball last night and he's already at it this morning. The man sounds like a broken record, a slightly unhinged broken record. I know it's important to present both sides and he represents one but his rants have become a sideshow. He's a sore loser in my book and doesn't like it that today's world requires more than the old GOP philosophy of tax cuts, deregulation. In 2006 and on Nov 4, 2008, the voters rejected the republicans and voted to change direction. Pat seems to miss one point in his rants, President Obama campaigned for health care reform, increasing taxes on those making more than $250,000, increased effort in Afghanistan, energy modernization, etc., and guess what--a large majority voted for it so Pat's view that Obama has shifted sharply left is out of step with reality; the people voted for that shift. He's as clueless as other republicans that Reagonomics was tried and it failed miserably; in fact, the ideology imploded the entire global economy. Life must be tough for him to see that conservative views collapsed the economy. Maybe Pat should take a vacation, a nice long one and give us a rest from his high-pitched screaming.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Not Born Yesterday — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:13:37 GMT

Stop imposing your personal biases on reality. Healthcare must be reformed in order to SAVE us money, not to raise our taxes.

The "high tax" boogeyman is not gonna fly this time, you're gonna have to do some thoughtful analysis.
Nashville_fan

The annual growth rate of government is 3-4 times that of inflation. And you're telling us that a government owned and run health care plan will save us money?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Houston — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:15:35 GMT

Before Chris Matthews pops a blood vessel, would somebody please tell him the President Obama never promised to end earmarks during the campaign? This is a lie that the corporate media has been spreading furiously. I doubt that Matthews deliberately lied, but he seems to accept anything he reads in the Washington Times as the gospel truth.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Dottie, Swarthmore, PA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:16:16 GMT

I agree with Eric, Salinas, CA. Pat Buchanan is a Republican hack and way past his prime. He should retire and give us all a break. When I see Pat on MSNBC I change the channel to CNN. I pleaded with David Shuster in an E-mail not to have Pat Buchanan on his show. Morning Joe and Hardball seem to hang on his every word. I guess he has a lifetime contract with MSNBC, too bad because there are other smart, young Republicans who could do a better job.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Nashville_fan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:17:09 GMT

"Doesn't anyone else think it's the least bit unusual that a President, and his administration, are waging a coordinated attack on a radio talk show host? Never has a President attacked a member of the media on a personal basis like Obama has. It's Nixonian what Obama is doing. - Len Pasculluie, Omaha, NE "
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Len,

There is no provision in the Constitution that provides special protections to radio talk show hosts.

If Rush Limbaugh, Rick Santelli, and Crazy Cramer get to open their pie holes everyday and spout lies, then the President of the United States has every right to refute them.

The fact that the "media" is actually a corporate profit center and refuses to create any type of baseline for truth telling in the media only adds to the problem.

"Fairness" in the media apparently means letting both sides of an issue spout their talking points, even if they are filled with demonstrable lies.

The fact that the President of the United States addresses those who lie about him by name is what concerns you? That is actually the saddest part - you have gotten so comfortable with unrebutted lies, that it is the response that offends.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Pete - Albany, NY — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:18:59 GMT

Rahm Emanuel. Barack Hussein Obama.

Now those are two good clean-cut American names, don't you think?
Polythene Pam (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:52 AM)

------------------------------------------

To borrow from Hillary Clinton..."It takes a village to have an idiot."

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

RT Collins, Houston — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:21:05 GMT

In other words, by removing "profit" from the equation, and focusing solely on the "problem," they were able to solve it.

Maybe from this success conservatives will FINALLY learn that universal health care isn't socialism, it's humanitarianism. After all, as someone on the show so aptly pointed out, we're all in this together.

Anna Molly

Chavez is doing the same thing in Venezuela. Chavez is also dealing with food shortages and electical outages in his country on a daily basis. Still think that taking the profit out the equation is a good idea?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Mike Groshong, McMinnville, Or — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:21:19 GMT

Rahm Emmanuel a demon? He does look the part and his behaviors certainly give the Republicans nightmares unlike Rush Limbaugh to generates either laughter or pity except on the far right. Rush does look a lot like pork and is not scary at all. I suppose he is a demon in disguise?

I guess the Democrats win again.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Alan, NJ — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:22:14 GMT

The Mayor of San Francisco was on Morning Joe this morning explaining how they've been able to provide health care for the uninsured in San Francisco without adding to total expenditures; in fact, they've saved federal dollars. How did they do it? By focusing on providing "care," rather than providing "insurance," they came up with ideas for providing medical services without breaking the bank.

In other words, by removing "profit" from the equation, and focusing solely on the "problem," they were able to solve it.

Maybe from this success conservatives will FINALLY learn that universal health care isn't socialism, it's humanitarianism. After all, as someone on the show so aptly pointed out, we're all in this together.

Anna Molly

So my question is Why does President Obama need an additional 650bn dollars for health care? Also, Mayor Newsom was very precise in his reply when he said "We have made no expenditures from the general taxation fund to pay for this program". And with a little online research it turns out it was financed by employer mandate.

"How do you know a politician is lying? His lips are moving".

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Jose Von Hussein - The United States of America — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:22:16 GMT

Give us jobs first!! How many has Obama created or saved this week? NONE. Unemployment keeps going up.
Anonymous (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:43 AM)
******

Ah... the reactionaries that don't read the news:

"Still, the tally of initial requests for unemployment benefits fell to 639,000 from the previous week's figure of 670,000" - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29526718/

Oops.

Joblessness went DOWN. Meaning more people are working. And on the TV last night, I saw a job fair where companies were hiring BECAUSE of the stimulus bill. And on the radio this morning, they were talking about how states have gotten the federal money in record time and have started projects that... OMG, CREATED JOBS THIS WEEK.

Wow, it's fun when obvious facts totally obliterate people intent on "hoping the President fails."

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:23:12 GMT

*** Demonizing Rahm: The Democrats have found their boogeyman in Rush Limbaugh, and now Republicans have found their own in … Rahm Emanuel. That’s right, House Minority Leader John Boehner released a statement yesterday blaming “political operatives” in the White House from diverting attention away from the country’s economic challenges to Rush Limbaugh (even though Limbaugh was in the news because he was the concluding speaker at the same conservative confab Boehner addressed). And on TODAY this morning, Newt Gingrich compared Rahm to Nixon chief of staff H.R. Haldeman.
==========
Really? I don't recall Democrats tripping over themselves to kiss Emanuel's a$$ after pissing him off. Nor do I recall Emanuel hoping for Obama's failure. It's always the same old song with the Generally Obsolete and Pathetic party. When one of their own attracts too much negative attention, blame the people paying attention. This is the same failed tactic they tried with Silly Sarah. If Lord Limbaugh is merely a diversion, then perhaps Boehner should explain why their entire party is so terrified of him, and why Tim Pawlenty turned ghost white at the mere mention of his name on Rachel Maddow last night.

The truth is that for sheer entertainment, watching the Limbaugh Zombies bow and scrape to their Lord Limbaugh is the best thing to come out of the GOP since Sarah Palin. (And aren't we due for another GIFT from here soon?)

http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Ted K, Hyannis, MA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:23:37 GMT

actual Obama quote from MSNBC site refering to his "healthcare paln" and forcing Americans to purchase a product from a private company for the stated purpose of making that company more money "a historic commitment to reform that will lead to lower costs and quality, affordable health care for every American." I agree, it WILL lead to lower quality, and I DISAGREE it WILL NOT lead to lower costs. Folks, lower costs = lower profit. You can be sure, if the insuance industry, that bought 19 million dollars worth of Obama's campaign, is happy or satisfied with his proposal IT IS BAD FOR YOU!

welcome to changeville

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Ollie — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:28:29 GMT

Hey Seattle Sue...The Bush's health insurance plan, after they meet their $400.00 deductable per family or $200.00 per individual will pay 80% of the cost, up to a $10,000.00 out of pocket expense. This plan only cost the Bush's $40.00 a week. Also did you know that people in Seattle drink very little coffee?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Mike Groshong, McMinnville Or — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:29:09 GMT

Rahm Emanuel. Barack Hussein Obama.

Now those are two good clean-cut American names, don't you think?

Polythene Pam (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:52 AM)

@@@@@@@@@@

Well clearly in contemporary America, and obviously not white, Anglo-Saxon, Protestant either which I think is a good thing.

Mine is Alsatian and Catholic from the 1600's. Is it American?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Rick, NC — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:32:35 GMT

I will bet anyone a paycheck that the only ones against healthcare for all are the ones with heavily subsidized healthcare already...if you get you insurance through an employer or the government you are the same...you have subsidized healthcare....

Trust me...when your employer dumps you or your inssurance you will find out it is 1200-1600 for a 50 year old man with a family...how many of you rightwingnut chowderheads can afford that each month? hmmmmm?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Market Watcher — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:33:28 GMT

Wonderful !!!!

Hey market watcher??? What is your beef today????
Nj

What do you think of today Nj? You were saying?

Obama better get his act together, and soon, else that glow in the west won't be a sunset, but will be the mob carrying torches coming to extract him from the White House. And Limbaugh will be leading the way.

Market Watcher

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Obama, One and Done/Atlanta — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:34:19 GMT

Another day, another big drop in the Market.
Obama and Geithner must have opened their mouths.
When the DJI hits zero, will Obama stop blaming Bush?
And people thought McCain was clueless on the economy......

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Truthslayer — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:34:49 GMT

Do like I did. Fire some republicans and watch them change their tune pronto on subsidized health insurance and other "socialist" prograns like unemployment or job retraining. Its fun to watch them squirm as they realize their party really does mean yer on yer own

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

See, two can play that game — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:37:08 GMT

Rahm Emanuel. Barack Hussein Obama.

Now those are two good clean-cut American names, don't you think?
Polythene Pam (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:52 AM)
***********
Hmmm, the good old american name "racist whore" suddenly comes to mind

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Republicans Discover Key to Everything — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:37:48 GMT

The Republicans have it all figured out:

Economy in crisis (Reagan) - Cut taxes and defecit spend our way out of it.

Economy is doing good (after Clinton) - Cut taxes and defecit spend our way out of it.

Economy in the tank (after 8 years of Bush cuting taxes and defecit spending) - Cut taxes and cut spending.

You have to hand it to the Republicans as they have it all figured out. Cutting taxes is the answer to everything.

You see, if we just eliminated all taxes on all rich people, the defecit would go away, everyone that needed a job would have one, health care would not be a problem, and the world would be saved.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Paul Florida — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:41:13 GMT

First Read: Team Obama learned not to repeat this Bush administration mistake -- appoint someone to head FEMA with little prior experience in emergency management?

We just elected a President will little (actually no) prior experience. GM just went under, and the market is plunging again, so that will tell you how well that's working out.
Welfare State (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:26 AM)

-----------------------------------------------

Must be Obamas fault that GM's in the tank...The stock market, Obamas fault, Economy-Obama....shall I keep going? Enough already from the extremists that want to blame Obnama for everything. He's trying to fix the mess that he inherited. Doing nothing is not an option.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

All In Are You? — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:42:58 GMT

Bob Smith, Obamnation, (Small Part of the World Hegemony) (Sent Wednesday, March 04, 2009 2:47 PM)
==========
Hey Bob! Where's your running stock market tally today? The DOW finished up 155+ today. You must really be disappointed.

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA.

How's it going today jawillie? You still holding that GM stock?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Archie Haase — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:43:06 GMT

The problem is not government involved in health care. It is corrupt mafia health care providers, and their lobbyists.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

G.W.B. — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:46:20 GMT

No comment.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Freebies — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:47:53 GMT

I sure like all the free publicity that the dems are giving Rush.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Phil, NY — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:53:56 GMT

Doing nothing is not an option.
Paul Florida

Doing the wrong things is worse.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:56:24 GMT

>>> just wanted to apologize for my earlier post insinuating that Rush Limbaugh told 3 hours of lies on his radio show.

It turns out that there are in fact commercial breaks, and so in fact, my statement was not entirely true.

Rush, sometimes I just get in front of the keyboard, and I get carried away, but I recognize what an important source of misinformation you are for America . . .

Can you EVER forgive me?

*sigh*
Nashville_fan (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:46 AM)

==========
NOT YOU TOO, NASHVILLE! SAY IT AIN'T SO!

IS THERE NO END TO THE POWER OF THE DARK LORD LIMBAUGH?

http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Polythene Pam — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:58:50 GMT

See (above)

Except I'm not playing a game.
Sticks and stones.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Meathead — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:03:46 GMT

The problem is not government involved in health care. It is corrupt mafia health care providers, and their lobbyists.
Archie Haase

Aren't they all one and the same?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Nashville_fan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:03:50 GMT

"Stop imposing your personal biases on reality. Healthcare must be reformed in order to SAVE us money, not to raise our taxes.

The "high tax" boogeyman is not gonna fly this time, you're gonna have to do some thoughtful analysis.
Nashville_fan

The annual growth rate of government is 3-4 times that of inflation. And you're telling us that a government owned and run health care plan will save us money? -Not Born Yesterday
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Dear Not Born Yesterday:

I don't follow your logic.

See if you can follow mine:

Americans need affordable health care. The current system is not working.

No amount of pontificating about the size of government is going to help one dying child without health insurance.

Trying to make money by deciding who lives and who dies is immoral and ineffective.

This is not about theories of government. It is about human lives.

If we can't create a system where sick Americans can receive care, what is the point of having a government?

If you were dying of cancer and unemployed, would you wanna hear about the size of government?

Me neither.

P.S. I thought Gov. Jindal said Americans can do anything? What happened to that?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Tzalaran — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:06:29 GMT

Clara Kansas City, MO (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:55 AM)
****************************************************
That link you provided was excellent reading, and i appreciate your comments. my wife is often surprised by the tone i strive for in writing about political philosophy, but i feel that i owe it to those who came before me to be a calming voice of reason when writing about the direction and fate of our country. (during the campaign i didn't always live up to that, but hey, i'm human too. but i'm trying to fix that ;) lol)

Partisan politics in this country has deteriorated the level of discourse, and blind faith in ideology has made us blind to the ways that compromise can make the best of both worlds. i'd rather throw out ideas and debate them than reduce myself to grade school name calling that i've seen destroy so many young people's self esteem (including my own until i grew up). i have the romantic notion that there is no greater force for good in the universe than homo sapiens, but i'm enough of a realist to see that there is no greater force for evil than homo sapiens as well.

a history professor in college once told me that there is a 3 step process to dehumanization of opponents that has existed since the dawn of civilization. 1)they don't look like us, so they don't feel things as we do. 2)because of the preceeding arguments, they aren't really humans, so 3)they don't deserve to live.

you see this process unfold in Prothero's rants on the radio everyday. create the division line, make your audience feel superior to their "enemies", and draw them to the desired conclusion. and it is sad that so many educated people listen to this garbage and throw away their right to think for themselves, instead giving that power to someone who profits on their laziness.

thought for the day: i've always been a believer in the concept, "lead by example". the U.S. has long told other nations to leave their rain forests alone, while if you take a look at a forestation map of the U.S. from 1800 and compare it to today, you will see a 75% reduction in forested area in North America. The entire East coast to the Missouri river was once forested, and now it has been severely cut back for agribusiness and development. If we want to tell other nations to not deforest their land, we need to take steps to reverse this process. i suggest that we make a push to reforest the US (where it is ecologically feasable; the plains won't support forestation well due to climate)> doing this would provide 2 benefits: 1)gives our land more capability to absorb pollutants, and can help to pull more Co2 out of the air and convert it to o2. 2)gives us a firm platform to show other nations that developing without destroying the natural ecosystem is important and possible.

it is only through sustained development and learning to live off the land again that we will be able to make the earth a safe place for humans to grow and reach our full potential. it i sour responsibility to make sure there is a planet left for those who come after, because those who came before didn't know about the full effects of their actions. we do, and it is time to stop passing the buck on to those who come after us.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

MSierra, SF — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:10:30 GMT

Lois T., NY: '...If government takes over health care, will health care work as well as the public education system we have in the country?...'

How well does the health care system work now for the uninsured ?
How about if they have a catastrophic illness ?
I talked to a notary public one time
He had no healtgh insurance and broke his leg
He was in hock to the City for over $150,000 and didn't see how he could pay that off

How's that work for you ??

By the way, how efficient are/was AIG ? GM ? Bank of America ? Bear Stearns ? Enron ? Dynergy ? Linclon Savings and Loan ??

Tell me more about the 'miracle of free enterprise'

Public education in San Francisco is just fine, thank you
It just needs motivated parents and children and then it produces wonderful results

Both my daughters are in college now
Make you jealous, Lois ?
Don't be a drop out, Lois

(and don;t blame it on public education)

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Rush Limbaugh Is A Big Fat Idiot — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:11:45 GMT

I find it hilarious how people like Rush and Sarah do their best to turn themselves into attention whores, then rage against they attention they are getting. Rush, you can't sit there every day and say "look at me, look at me, look at me" and then turn around and say "hey, stop looking at me and focus on the real issues". If you don't want negative attention, then don't put yourself in the public eye. Comes with the territory. Live with it, or change your diapers more often.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Lenny — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:13:00 GMT

The fact that the President of the United States addresses those who lie about him by name is what concerns you? That is actually the saddest part - you have gotten so comfortable with unrebutted lies, that it is the response that offends.

Nashville_fan

Well now, this certainly is a brave new world. You sure you want to tread that path NF? Using public money, and that what Obama is doing, to be critical of the media is just fine with you? You don't see a conflict there? You don't seem to think the idea of an independent press is something that is important to the country? But yet, that's the direction you're advancing.

So what's next? A cabinet position for Controlling the Media? So now the government can lean on people it doesn't like. Lean on their sponsors and ask them to tone it down? And of course, just like with the banks and the automakers, at some point the government will need to nationalize the media. It of course will be "For our own good". You really want to go there NF?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Hypocrisy — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:22:58 GMT

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Jackson, Seattle — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:27:08 GMT

Rahm Emanuel. Barack Hussein Obama.

Now those are two good clean-cut American names, don't you think?
Polythene Pam (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:52 AM)
__________

And the last time Barack Obama addressed Congress, who did the GOP choose to give their rebuttal? Oh, right, Piyush Jindal.

What exactly is your point again?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:33:46 GMT

"...Doing the wrong things is worse." Phil, NY (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 10:53 AM)

Finally, you are seeing the DEM point of view - Bush's policy of doing the wrong thing WAS indeed worse!

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Cindy Lou — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:35:48 GMT

Rahm Emanuel. Barack Hussein Obama.

Now those are two good clean-cut American names, don't you think?
Polythene Pam (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:52 AM)
________________________________________

Now let's see...... Clean-cut American names. Wouldn't that be Pocahantas, Sitting Bull, Sacagawea ??????

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:42:23 GMT

So what's next? A cabinet position for Controlling the Media? So now the government can lean on people it doesn't like. Lean on their sponsors and ask them to tone it down? And of course, just like with the banks and the automakers, at some point the government will need to nationalize the media. It of course will be "For our own good". You really want to go there NF?

Lenny (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 11:13 AM)

==========
He doesn't need to go there, since Bush already did in his attempts to subvert media outlets and suspend first amendment rights.

I love how you all defend Bush in one breath, then try to paint Obama as Bush in the next. It's as if you hate Obama, but want your party to be like him (and what was the purpose of electing Michael Steele anyway).

>>>Who was it during the campaign that decried any Ayers or Rev Wright association as a 'distraction'? Who repeatedly said 'McCain only talks about these things because he can't talk about the issues?' Well, is talking about Limbaugh (not an elected official) talking about 'the issues'? Obama's team is deploying the very same tactics he claimed to despise during the campaign. And no one seems to notice.
Hypocrisy (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 11:22 AM)

==========
Except that Lord Limbaugh isn't talking about "the issues" in a way that makes any logical sense, merely creating talking points for the Generally Obsolete and Pathetic party to repeat to their rage-infected base. Maybe if members of your party would take his d1(k out of their mouth and their tounges out of his a$$ and grow a pair, it wouldn't be so easy to paint them as a pathetic bunch of whimpering little f@g-boys.
(no offense meant to anyone of the LGBT persuasion)

http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Jose Von Hussein - The United States of America — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:45:06 GMT

Obama better get his act together, and soon, else that glow in the west won't be a sunset, but will be the mob carrying torches coming to extract him from the White House. And Limbaugh will be leading the way.

Market Watcher
* * * * * * *

This is fascinating to me. When the market is going up, the "free markets rule!" people are all like, "Get out of the way of the market!" and such. Then when it goes down (due to corporate greed, lax regulations, and financial instruments based on fantasy - like derivatives), then they're all like, "Obama better fix this or we'll come at him with pitchforks!"

So... now you're saying you WANT a government-controlled market? Or just one that allows you all the profits on the way up, but none of the risks on the way down, including some of the government "letting the market work"? Or should Obama have a finger on the control of market investors?

What you're saying makes no sense, but I wouldn't expect it to, given that you're suggesting people go violently protest the President. See, here in reality, we take a LONG-TERM view of the market. Create the fundamentals that will provide a foundation for strong, lasting growth. Sometimes that means getting rid of the bad stuff, so the cream can rise to the top.

Unlike what GWB did, since the stock market dropped nearly 20 percentage points while he was President for two full terms. Thanks for helping my investments, GWB!! Nice going. I'll take the guy that's interested in the long-view, not short term profits at the expense of long term, sound planning.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

MSierra, SF — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:46:38 GMT

Say what you will about Jabba the Limbaugh

At least he's gotten Simple Sarah Palin out of the news !!
That's progress, isn't it ??

I noticed that Bobbi Jindal has the Republican Mouth Syndrome

Just like Dick Cheney, his mouth gets crooked every time he lies...

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Nashville_fan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:51:29 GMT

"Well now, this certainly is a brave new world. You sure you want to tread that path NF? Using public money, and that what Obama is doing, to be critical of the media is just fine with you? You don't see a conflict there? You don't seem to think the idea of an independent press is something that is important to the country? But yet, that's the direction you're advancing. " - Lenny
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Lenny,

We don't have a free press. We have a corporate narrative machine.

Do you have a problem with all the unrefuted lies in the media Lenny?

I want the truth Lenny, and I don't really care where it comes from.

Do you dispute that what you are calling the "free press" is a for profit sensationalism producing media show?

Lenny, did you hear about Nancy Pelosi's mouse? The train from Disney to Vegas? These are LIES Lenny.

But the "free press" gleefully repeates these lies.

What should the President do? Ignore it and hopes it goes away?

Welcome to the new reality Lenny - the media lies and social progress dies.

I'm willing to go down what ever path is the opposite of that.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Nashville_fan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:57:51 GMT

Who was it during the campaign that decried any Ayers or Rev Wright association as a 'distraction'? Who repeatedly said 'McCain only talks about these things because he can't talk about the issues?' Well, is talking about Limbaugh (not an elected official) talking about 'the issues'? Obama's team is deploying the very same tactics he claimed to despise during the campaign. And no one seems to notice. -Hypocrisy
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Who was the keynote speaker at CPAC? Rush Limbaugh

Who do Congress people apologize to when they disappoint? Rush Limbaugh

Who wants the President of the United States to fail?
Rush Limbaugh

Who does the media tip toe around so they won't get whacked? Rush Limbaugh

Seems pretty relevent to me.

When Congress people start consulting with Rev. Wright and Bill Ayers about policy matters, then get back at me, 'kay?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

jfpinter spotsylvania, va. — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:23:58 GMT

I will swap health care plans with any member of congress. My wife and I pay 1023.00 per month. Unlike members of congress we go to the local doctors and hospitals. Many of them go to the Mayo etc.

What all americans should have is the same health care plan that each of them have. To the republicans this is socialized medicine. But, they don't mind being a part of it, an we get stuck with the bills.

I think that members of congress of whom many are wealthy, should have to pay for a priviate plan. Wouldn't take long to get universal health care. They damm sure can afford it more than the average american worker, since they make 170,000 per year.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Inquiring Minds Want To Know — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:26:08 GMT

Rahm Emanuel. Barack Hussein Obama.

Now those are two good clean-cut American names, don't you think?
Polythene Pam (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:52 AM)
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So is Piyush Jindal, who the GOP chose to rebut Obama's speech to Congress.

If you have a point, please make it.

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

gp, Seattle, Wash. — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:32:04 GMT

Hey Polythene Pam, when is the next clan meeting?

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

MSierra — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:32:51 GMT

Ready
Fire
Aim

The Obama Way

First thoughts: Focusing on health care

Ted, Mid Michigan. — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:35:01 GMT

The Democrats in the country are slowly figuring Obama out. Let's just hope they do so before it's too late.
Josh Sutton, St. Louis (Sent Thursday, March 05, 2009 10:10 AM)

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And when will Repubs figure it out?

when will they figure out that thier top-down policies covering the last three decades have shown a steady decline in quality of life in America?

When will they figure out that their ideas / principals have been debated, attempted, failed, and rejected?

When, pray tell, will they figure out that their philosiphies were soundly rejected by every measure over the last few years, culminating in the devastating losses suffered on Nov. 4th?

When, I quander, will they figure out that we want alternative solutions, not just critisizing snark?

When, I wonder, will they realize that in the obstructionist role they've taken, they will continue to lose supporters.

When will they, the Republican's, realize that while they used to have an inferred "monopoly" on strength and patriotism, they are now being led around by thier noses by someone they are scared to stand up to?

Unfotunatley, It doesn't look like the Repubs. are anywhere near figuring it out.

Too bad for them.

But mostly, too bad for US.