It's highly unlikely the Dems will get a filibuster proof vote on this bill. I wonder how many more Democratic senators will have the guts to stand up and say no.
Landrieu says she would likely oppose government insurance option
U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu told a relatively friendly overflow Monroe Chamber of Commerce crowd that she would likely oppose any government insurance option in health care reform and lobby against a proposed energy tax known as Cap and Trade.
Landrieu, D-La., who spoke during a chamber luncheon today, also met with local doctors earlier and briefly addressed about 15 demonstrators opposing a public insurance option and Cap and Trade.
When asked after her speech if the senator would support a public option under any circumstances, she said, “Very few, if any. I’d prefer a private market-based approach to any health care reform that would extend coverage.”
“I’d like to cover everyone — that would be the moral thing to do — but it would be immoral to bankrupt the country while doing so,” Landrieu said.
As to Cap and Trade, Landrieu said, “I’m not supporting that approach, but I’m open to hear modifications.”
“I’m going to be as strong a voice as I can that we still need oil and gas in America,” she said. “We don’t need less drilling. We need to do more as we move toward a greener grid.”
Donna Griffin of Ruston was among the demonstrators outside the Civic Center.
“We’re not just protesting a health care bill, but all government spending,” Griffin said. “We’re taxed enough already. I think it’s time we cleaned house in Washington. We should get rid of the Democrats and Republicans — all of them.”
Griffin is one of the organizers of local tea parties where demonstrators protest larger government. She said the next tea party in northeastern Louisiana is scheduled at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer at 504 Tech Drive in Ruston.
The March for Liberty Coalition has also scheduled a bus trip from West Monroe to Washington to voice concerns about health care legislation and other issues on Sept. 11. Those interested should call group leader Nell Bradley at 387-1928.
Edith Parish of Ruston said she was “somewhat reassured” by Landrieu’s comments to the demonstrators, but fears government would fund health care reform by reducing Medicare benefits.
Judy Work of West Monroe said Landrieu should conduct public local town hall meetings to accommodate larger crowds.
The chamber’s luncheon was open to the public, but there was limited seating and a cost of $30 for non-members.
“There should be a larger forum so she can take some time with us and taken some questions,” Work said.
I don't believe a word any of them say. Right now, they are trying to avoid protests. They say what people want to hear. Then go on and bow at the throne of obama.
I actually think she is going to be the first of many. The poll numbers are terrible for both congress, the white house, and this health care plan its going to be 1994 all over again.
I tend to believe that when they reconvene after the recess, the senators and congress will be "wined and dined" for their vote for Health Care. They will be offered support on their upcoming re-elections, support for "pet" projects (aka pork), and a host of other tempting things. And, if this fails, the usual Chicago style "thuggery" will take place.
Unfortunately, many will cave-in to the pressure.
And, of course, many are just saying whatever might "quiet the masses", without any intention of carrying out what they say.
This is just my opinion . . . I am very cynical right now.
I hear ya, Calico, but I don't think there's a chance that Landrieu will go that route - she is up for re-election next year in a state where this bill is very unpopular. There's no chance of the WH being able to make a deal with her if the "public option" is anywhere in the bill.
As to Cap and Trade, Landrieu said, “I’m not supporting that approach, but I’m open to hear modifications.”
I know this discussion is about health care, but I just wanted to say that cap and trade hasn't worked in Europe to lower emissions. They are currently reworking that program and scrapping cap and trade measures. I saw an article about that a while back. If we are really interested in helping the environment and lowering emissions cap and trade isn't the answer. In that respect I support Landrieu. C&T is a money-making measure, not a plan to help the environment.
I tend to believe that when they reconvene after the recess, the senators and congress will be "wined and dined" for their vote for Health Care. They will be offered support on their upcoming re-elections, support for "pet" projects (aka pork), and a host of other tempting things. And, if this fails, the usual Chicago style "thuggery" will take place.
Unfortunately, many will cave-in to the pressure.
And, of course, many are just saying whatever might "quiet the masses", without any intention of carrying out what they say.
This is just my opinion . . . I am very cynical right now.
I agree with you.
I hope this woman stands up to them, but he controls the money for their runs for re-election. Why on earth did they let him move the DNC to Chicago? I don't trust any of them anymore.