Health care reform is “hanging on by a thread,” and one or two votes could determine the outcome of the heavily-debated bill, Democratic Sen. Chris Dodd told CNBC Monday.
“Everyone feels, I guess, to some degree who have been for this, that they would have liked something different, and that’s not uncommon when you’re considering an issue of this magnitude,” Dodd said.
Some progressives, for example, are disappointed that the Senate bill, unlike the House version, does not include a public option, he said. Senators Joe Lieberman of Connecticut and Blanche Lincoln of Arkansas are two people who voted for the bill in its original form and are now carefully watching what changes are being made.
President Obama’s administration has come under fire lately for putting too much emphasis on health care reform, causing many to question whether Democrats will retain their majority control come November. But Dodd, who is retiring this year, said it’s an issue that needed to be dealt with — otherwise it would “strangle our economy,” he said.
“If this is all about surviving politically, then we’re missing the whole purpose of what we’re supposed to be doing,” he said.
Last week, Dodd, 65, announced that he would not run for reelection in November. His announcement was seen by many as a concession that he and the Democratic party are facing an uphill battle. But Republicans have said that as a result of his retirement, Democrats have a much better chance of holding onto his seat.
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5 Responses
This could be a major threat to the Republicans. If the health bill passes it will result in many people being forced to pay more and receive less than they do now. These people will blame the Democrats.
If the bill doesn’t get approved, those who will be worse off (which is probably most Americans) won’t blame the Democrats, but the minority (which include many frum Jews) who would have benefitted may blame the Republicans.
illegals will have health care either way
I am happily uninsured and don’t want to be forced to buy insurance that I can’t use. I only use alternative health care and I don’t know of any insurance that covers that. I was sick a few years ago, and B”H got better with natural doctors and of course Hashem’s help.The money I spent on the doctors was far less than insurance would have been.If I would have had insurance, none of it would have helped me an iota.
akuperma – I have no idea what you said
akuperma,
are you forgetting that they dont need the Republicans to pass the lousy bill?? They have the numbers in both houses so whats the problem?? Oh, its a lousy bill and congress people know they are history if they vote for it.
There is no reason people will be “worse off” if it doesnt pass. They should be happy because there will be less tyranny due to us not being taxed to death (on this matter).
Forced healthcare or being put on any type of govt plan is NOT the answer. Tax breaks and allowing insurance companies to compete better would be a good start. Personal health accounts would be something worth looking at as well.