The problem was the failure to have a plan to modify Obamacare in a way that could be sold to the American public. Instead, the Republicans had a marketing problem. They lacked a simple, easily explained plan. It would be something what most Americans would agree was a good plan like fixing the high cost of the premiums.
Newt Gingrich had a ten point plan he called The 21st Century Contract with America. Boehner had no such a plan.
Then when Zer0 threatened to shut down the government because he would not accept the plan, the Republicans could have said they will not fund Obamacare without the provision in the budget. The American public would have supported the Republicans with this tactic. The Republicans now will have to fight Obamacare in a more complicated way.
Having a credible plan to improve on Obamacare would have been a big help in the public relations battle, but I thought the tactic of refusing to raise the debt ceiling until Obama agreed to defund or delay Obamacare was not a good idea. My basic premise is that the US, as one of the world’s largest debtor nations, should do nothing to cast doubt on our ability or intent to pay our debts. Uncertainty means higher interest costs, which we simply cannot afford.
It seemed to me that those who were leading the fight believed that if they won the support of the majority of the American people, that Obama would back down and make the desired concessions rather than face the possible calamity of the US running out of funds. But Obama had an advantage in this scenario—he was the only one who didn’t care if the US was seriously harmed. That, after all, has been his goal from the start of his presidency. And here he was almost handed the means to bring possible ruination AND he could blame it on the “radical Tea party fringe.” Perfect for him, not for us.
“marketing problem” ha!
They have a problem because of McCain et al always collaborating.
Cruz message was simple: obamacare is a disaster because....
people are not concentrating on the alleged government shutdown, so are trying to sign up, 99.1% of the people who see the prices are refusing.
Simple message: obamacare is a disaster tada!