President Obama, You’re losing us!
61We still have the audacity to hope
What do I mean by “losing us?” I mean Mr. President, I’m respectfully asking you to get out of the Beltway and do the people’s bidding. The insurance companies did not vote you into office and they won’t be in your corner next time. You will never win over your hard core opposition, and compromise is not the way to keep your base at your back. Seriously, Mr. President, Jesus Christ himself would get nailed by Republicans today if he threatened their power. Can’t you see no matter how nice you are to the opposition they just want to stick it to you even harder? Have you forgotten us – the millions you inspired to fight to get you elected? You mobilized more young people to vote for you than any other President in history. You turned red states into blue ones. You ran for office on the promise of “Change we can believe in,” and promised you would fight for “we the people” against the rich and the powerful who had driven our economy into a near depression, produced off the charts unemployment, and supported a health care system designed to make CEO’s of insurance companies millions while gouging their customers and leaving millions uninsured. The previous administration left our nation bleeding and disgraced—we condoned torture, turned our back on the Geneva Conventions, rewarded the richest Americans with tax breaks while the middle class struggled to make ends meet, and cut programs to lift people from poverty, and went to war with a country that had not attacked or threatened us.
Mr. President, Caroline Kennedy compared you to her father, JFK, and took plenty of heat from the Clinton’s for supporting you. And, don’t forget Senator Kennedy, the Liberal Lion legend who endorsed you. He believed you were exactly the kind of President we needed to get real health care reform for Americans. We believed you were on our side, and would take on Wall Street, lobbyists, and the bought and paid for politicians who have always sold us out to the highest bidder. I guess we expected you to walk on water.
Ed takes on Axelrod - go Ed!
Watching your back is conditional.
“We didn’t elect Democrats to pass crap.” – Governor Howard Dean
Mr. President, you were hard for us to resist. You knocked it out of the ball park with the inspirational speeches. You give one hell of a speech; I’ll give you that. We all got teary eyed on more than one occasion, but the night of the election, when millions throughout the world watched the results on television, and we saw the blue states lighting up across America, we had hope, President Obama, the hope you promised we could dare to believe in. Together, supporters across the world embraced the audacity of our hope. .
So, this past year, your first year in office, we have given you plenty of slack. When you first came to the White House, we were rooting for you with every ounce of our being. We have given you benefit of the doubt when you allowed Joe Lieberman back into the fold as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs, even though he backed the John McCain and Sarah Palin ticket (even though he voted against you and for the same old policies of Bush and Cheney). We know you choose the high road whenever possible, or perhaps it was simply the way of pragmatism. Then you appointed Tim Geithner to U.S. Treasury Secretary in spite of our concerns that Geithner would not fix the root of the economic meltdown because of his willingness to give billions of U.S. tax dollars to banks and insurance companies with no strings attached. In the past 9 months, not only has the administration failed to fix anything, they have actually made things much worse for anyone who isn't a Wall Street banker. Where is the change we can believe in?
So, President Obama, the Progressives are now on fire. We are calling for you to stand up and get a health care proposal on the table that is for us not the insurance companies. Remember MoveOn.org? That little group of 5 million who helped put you in office with the little $5 and $10 donations—it’s amazing how those dollars add up! Well, they aren’t buying the Senate health care bill and are urging Democrats to block it. Move On reflects the views of your base—we want health care reform that has a government-run insurance option and expansion of Medicare and is not a massive giveaway to the insurance companies.
Move On has written to progressives in the Senate such as, Bernie Sanders of Vermont, Roland Burris of Illinois, and Russ Feingold of Wisconsin to "block this bill until it's fixed." And, Howard Dean is urging Democrats to nix the current health care bill.
Mr. President, is it too
late to ask you to stop being quiet—it’s time for a shout out. We’re wondering
why you haven’t fought for a public option. We are calling on you to fulfill your
promises – we’re not satisfied with the extension of the Bush/Cheney years. Are
you unable to fight the tea-baggers, the obstructionists in government, and the
lobbyists who pray you fail?
Recently Michele Bachmann said regarding the health care bill,
“This cannot pass. What we have to do today is make a covenant, to slit our wrists, be blood brothers on this thing. This will not pass. We will do whatever it takes to make sure this doesn’t pass.”
Now it looks like Michele Bachmann’s prayers that the health care bill will die will be answered.
Selling out Health Care Reform to the Insurance Industry
The Ed Show – Ed wasn’t always so liberal!
It's Time to Fire Tim Geithner
MoveOn.Org Comes Out Against Senate Health Care Bill
CommentsLoading...
Hi Taxman, Thanks for your comments! I'm able to be critical of the President and the Congress, and still believe that the current admin. is a big improvement over the last administration. I find the policies of the Bush/Cheney years to be a blight on American history. I will always call it like I see it no matter who is in charge. And, in spite of my concerns, the Republicans have become so extremist and reactionary, they have gone beyond anything I have ever seen. Not one has offered any alternative to what Democrats have proposed and there are many good Democrats and Progressives fighting for good ideas and who want a public option or medicare for all - not one Republican has brought anything of value to the table here - in fact, they have only been obstructionists - they want to get the power back and will do anything to get it no matter how many Americans suffer for it. Unfortunately a large number of Democrats are just as corrupt - I'll give you that. The good thing is Americans can see these politicians for who and what they are now. And, as you say we need the government to work for us and I don't see that happening any time soon. Speaking of Ross Perot, he has some good ideas, but overall, I think he's a nut.
You know, it's gratifying to see the U.S. is much like Canada when it comes to politicians. In Canada, you vote Liberal this time, Conservative when Liberal let you down, then New Democrat as a last resort -- and as soon as they get to Ottawa, they forget all they promised and turn into clones of the previous parliament. Probably doesn't make you feel better, but it's a world phenomenon. Politicians, not matter how promising, all revert to the same low level -- survival.
I too, am very disapointed though I have no real vested interest. I hoped Obama would bring about real change for the people of this country, because God knows they need the help. I don't think the $2,500 for school is going to do much but waste the money. So, come on Mr. President, do something worthwhile, something important, something for the people of this country.
And stop with the pork barrel.
Excellent hub!
kartika, I share your frustration. I'm sorry to say, I hold out no real hope for the next three years. The worst thing about this situation is the one it may create. If enough people get angry enough, we may see, as a knee-jerk response to that anger, someone like Sarah Palin sitting in the oval office come 2012.
Hey, Immartin, as much as I hate to say it, everyone has a vested interest. As the amerikan empire slips into the final throes of decline and collapse, it may well drag much of the world along with it.
hey kartika,
great job, again.
i'm glad to see you are still civil about the matter. for me, the sense of betrayal is just to strong to be civil to the guy anymore. it's a sort of childish mentality i know.
just discovered that almost a billion taxpayer dollars have turned up missing re: afghan funding. it seriously amazes me. this crap has got to end. i fear for my life. not because i'm on the gov't watch list, but because i'll most likely go the way of my grandfather: a massive heart attack. i try to eat right, exercise, drink very little alcohol, but this political bs is bad for one's health.
maybe it would be healthier if i turned into an internet troll, becoming a dunce.
Thanks for getting into the conversation!
lmmartin, yes, we tend to go back and forth here as well. It seems though the stakes are very high now because we really need change, and of course, what goes on here is a powerful influence throughout the world - it's a small world. And Canada and the U.S. are pretty close!
CWB, I really share your concern about the political backlash! The Democrats could lose to some real wackos in the years to come - never underestimate the stupidity of the American people - they voted Bush in twice, for god's sake. So, why not a Sarah Palin or someone like her.
Blue Dog, I always like to hear from you on these matters! Your recent hubs have inspired me to express my thoughts on the matter - and I've learned a lot more about what is going on from you. Somehow, I still keep hoping! I keep thinking perhaps we'll see something different.
Kartika, I got more than a touch, of déjà vu as I read this. It has a troubling familiarity about it. In 1997, the British people were thoroughly sick of Thatcherism, and voted out the party responsible. I just hope Obama doesn’t turn out to be another Blair.
Nice work, as usual, from you.
Hi Amilliar! What you said resonates with me! I share your concern because I can see the analogy! And, I think the world is looking at us closely here to see if the Obamamania is going to crash and burn - I really think the power structures are so powerful it may be impossible to get anything done that amounts to any real change here. As usual, thanks for your insight!
kartika! I never comment on political hubs! BUT, this hub is really well written and I am let down by what is going on.......I always try to stay positive, but things just seem "dim." I keep hoping that Obama will surprise us! Best, G
Hi GPAGE, this was an article that came from the heart and the gut and thanks so much for your comment - I understand what you are saying because I really hated having to voice these concerns because I really want to give Obama the benefit of the doubt. But, I think we must stay vigilant and keep questioning all of our leaders - no one gets a free pass!
Have a great Holiday! It's always nice hearing from you.
Well Obama is not losing his hardcore supporters like me. Former President Clinton gave Obama some good advice about compromising on health care because fifteen years ago we did not get a bill, so this time around we may get one. It is weaker than we would have like, but I blame the Senate for that. Obama is doing what he can, and I am standing behind him.
Thanks Sweetie Pie - I appreciate your point of view and hope I can come back around and time proves my concerns are not warranted - nothing would make me happier! I was overjoyed to see Bush gone and Obama elected!
You are welcome to your viewpoint, but I as a steady and true Obama supporter never lost my faith.
Hi Sweetie Pie, Here are some on my concerns - when Obama ran for President he said he did not support a health care plan that mandated people pay for health insurance or they would be fined or their wages garnished - it looks like that could be in the works - Obama said he supports a public option, but I didn't seem him fight for it. And now in the midst of a continuing economic crisis, we are sending 30,000 more troops to Afganistan - why? For what - Al Qaeda can operate in Pakistan just as effectively. The minute our troops leave the region, Al Qaeda regroups in the region. I think the war is a waste of lives and resources and it looks like more of Bush and Cheney - it's the only move by Obama John McCain and other republicans have favored in a year. What does that tell you. I think Obama is a decent person, but I'm watching him and his administration carefully to see if he is delivering and making good on his promises. There is also the issue of the bail out and the credit card companies, banks, and mega corporations. I think he needs to get a lot tougher with these institutions that keep ripping off the people. His appointee Tim Geithner is under fire big time for failing to reign in these guys and for giving them even more breaks and less accountability. These are just a few points.
You go, girl! You've stated how a lot of us are feeling right now. A health plan without a public option is just pouring more money into the hands of the rich and powerful. Obama needs to wake up and recall what it is he was supposed to stand for. You can't make 'friends' with certain people, the right wingers will just stab you in the back.
Hi Dolores, you said it! I keep hearing the Democrats saying this is just a first step, etc. etc. etc. and Oh that it were true - but, when I think of mandating people buy the crap the insurance industry is selling it makes me furious! And, where has Obama been during the debates? Thanks for the visit!
I dunno Kartika. I still support Obama. When issues (or design, lol, I know that intimately) are settled by committee they are never pure and contain (sometimes too many) compromises. It is frustrating. Two steps forward, one step back. It still is better than the alternative...or making no moves forward at all. The American health care system really makes no sense at all, in reality, as compared to the Canadian or European systems.
We tried to warn you guys. To redo a saying from the Bush Days, "Don't Blame Me, I Didn't Vote For Him!" How does it feel now, that the shoes on the other foot?
Hows all this hope and change working out for all of you?
Keep on Hubbing!
Of course, eovery! I expected these comments! - although I want to see more change and have reservations about certain choices made, I still believe that Obama was a gift to the country after the Bush Cheney years! You know, eovery, the Republicans ran this country into the sewer and left the new administration to address the mess they left behind! They also catered to a base of mindless uneducated followers who are still obstructionists to the changes that need to be made. I see Cheney speaking every other day against everything he can just to undermine Obama for political purposes - let's not forget 911 happened on HIS WATCH after they were warned! And now he blames Obama for not making us safe! As if torture makes us safe. So, I will always speak my mind, but there are still good Democrats standing up against the Republican machine.
Hey Lita! I too still support Obama! I also think he is a decent and brilliant man - but I do voice my concerns. That said you are right about committees lol! Lets face it he has so much obstructionism in the Senate and by those bought and payed, for it's absurd! It's obvious he has a ball and chain that continues to fight for the status quo!
We thought it couldn't get much worse with Bush, but it has gotten worse. Obama a gift? The only thing he has done is directly towards socialism and further bankruptcy of our country.
Point of interest to think on. The terrorist want to bankrupt us by making the government spend billions to trillions on security. Under Keynesian principles and Obama's statement that we need to spend-spend spend, this would help the country. So I guess the terrorist not terrorizing but trying to help the economy. This principle shows the fact that Obama's spend-spend-spend mentality is wrong-wrong-wrong!!!! So from that logic, Obama is doing to us the same thing the terrorists want to do. Obama Has to go!
Keep on hubbing!
eovery, How has OBAMA made things worse? Be specific - we know things are tough on lots of levels, but how has HE actually made anything worse. Perhaps he is not enough of a magician to solve all of the problems that have been escalating over decades in 12 months. I'm curious who you think would actually be a better option - who would you like to see in office?
How about a trillion dollars in debt. But maybe you don't care about debt. I thought I was pretty specific about his spend-spend-spend process. He asks Pelosi and Reid to create an almost one-trillion dollar spending bill that was just that, spend-spend-spend. It was nothing but pork.
With the things Obama said he was going to do during the election made a big change in how many businesses did business. They are not sure of the rules right now. There is healthcare which will take over control of a major portion of our economy. The threat of cap and trade is hindering the growth of the economy. Most of the companies are in wait and see mode on what the new rules of business are going to be, and are not expanding nor hiring. Obama made threats to bankrupt coal companies and electrical power plants. These things became apparent during the election and a lot of the company started holding back, which along with the banking problems, that democrats like Barney Frank was supposed to oversee, but failed at his job. So you can see he influenced the economy failure during the election.
He and the democratic congress are causing a lot of havoc. Change, yes he is changing things and it is not working.
In the healthcare, he has made big concessions to the big corporations. This is not how it should be! Healthcare reform is failing because of the things he is doing, while the front of Pelosi and Reid is a distraction. This is why most people do not want his healthcare because it is not right!
Keep on hubbing!
oh, so Obama ran the dept up to a trillion in a year all by himself - are you serious?! And, don't forget the House and the Senate are creating the bill that will then go to Obama to sign! And, I agree they are in the pockets of insurance companies who are preventing reform. Do you think business should regulate its own pollution? And, tell me who you would like to see in office.
![On Principle and Pragmatism I - U.S. Constitutional Convention [9]](http://s3.hubimg.com/u/4029670_50.jpg "On Principle and Pragmatism I - U.S. Constitutional Convention [9]")
taxman 2 years ago
Wake up and smell the coffee. It's politics as usual.Obama sang a good tune but in the end you'll see he's no different. Not only do we need a President that will work for the people, we need a Congress that will too. As Ross Perot said, "someones got to go to Washington and clean out the barn". The shit is piled high and stinks.