I tried to think of another way to express the disgust that I currently have for the U.S. Senate. Now, I am the first to admit, I am a bit bias. I do not believe that the current health care reform bill is a good idea, nor will it work. But my disgust in the bill is dwarfed by the disgust in what the Democratic Party is doing to pass this bill.
Bribed Nebraska's Senator Ben Nelson with a special provision that has the Federal Government permanently paying Nebraska's share of the forced increase in Medicaid under the Health Care Reform Bill.
Bribed Louisiana Senator Mary Landrieu with a special provision that has for a limited time, the Federal Government paying for Louisiana's share of the forced increase in Medicaid. CBO estimates the cost to be $100 million. Senator Mary Landrieu estimates it at 300 million.
Bribed Vermont's Independent Senator Bernie Sanders with a special provision as well, where the Federal Government pays their share of the forced increase in Medicaid under the Health Care Reform Bill for seven years.
Hawaii also has received a special provision where the Federal Government pays their share of the forced increase in Medicaid under the Health Care Reform Bill for seven years. Who changed their mind for these inclusions, I do not know. Hawaiian Senator Dan Inouya states that they applied for the exception because: “We’ve requested the exemption to ensure that whatever bill emerges from the debate, Hawaii’s employer mandated health-care law would not be rolled back.” (Quoted from Senator Inouye's position on Health Care Overhaul, Nov 9, 2009) But the exemption is for the State to not have to pay their share of the increased Medicaid.
And Massachusetts also has received a special provision where the Federal Government pays their share of the forced increase in Medicaid under the Health Care Reform Bill for seven years. But since both Senator John Kerry, and former Senator Edward M. Kennedy were for the bill, this provision wasn't for changing their vote.
If all this bribing needs to be done to get the bill to pass, should it? After all, current polls show that Americans oppose the reforms by 56%. Only 40% favor the reforms. Call or email your Senators, and stop the madness.
