Posted on 09/14/2009 9:12:28 AM PDT by La Lydia
President Obama had a national audience Wednesday night, but his key message was tightly focused -- to buy time with his fellow Democrats who hold seats in Congress. He’s had at least temporary success because none of them publicly jumped ship after the speech and virtually all expressed willingness to explore what Obama proposed.
At least a key Republican, Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), was quoted as expressing disappointment: "I would have preferred that the [public option] issue were taken off the table as I have urged the president."
Nevertheless, liberals were giddy and Blue Dog Democrats stressed commonality but not disagreement. That served Obama’s purpose of focusing on those he needs the most. Congressmen and Senators have direct votes to decide the fate of national health care; the rest of us do not. A majority of Americans told pollsters before the speech that they oppose Obama’s plan -- but so what? We will be stuck with whatever Congress passes. A bad bill could not be reversed even if incumbents are voted out next year and the majority changes hands. Because Obama is in office until 2013, he can veto any repeal efforts...
What’s next? Efforts to isolate nervous Congressmen from their constituents while amplifying the voices of the left.
During the August recess, Democrats had little choice but to listen to the voters. But now they’re back in Washington where Congressional leaders and the White House dominate their time and attention. The schedule has already been extended, planning to keep Congress in session up until Christmas, with perhaps a week-long break at some point. For as long as possible, Congress will be held in D.C. -- where voices from home are harder to hear.
Travis Childers in MS 1, had one conference call during all of August. I talked to a lady a couple of weeks ago who at the Southaven tea party said she was the third call in line, and he never called of her!!
I have a feeling swords are being sharpened by many Dems, especially after last Sunday’s demonstrations. Beware the Ides of March, Obama. Just a feeling.
I get angry every time I see that R behind Snowe’s name.
Why did he have to buy Time Magazine, they're already in the tank for him.
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