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Health Care's Last Lap: Which House Democrats Are Still In Play?
President Barack Obama and Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA); inset (clockwise): Rep. John Tanner (D-TN), Rep. Scott Murphy (D-NY), Rep. Jason Altmire (D-PA), Rep. John Boccieri (D-PA), Rep. Bart Gordon (D-TN) and Rep. Brian Baird (D-WA).
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Last Updated: 7:49 PM ET March 21
As the Democrats' push for health care reform enters the home stretch this weekend, we've got our eyes on a small number of key undecided Democrats. The fate of health care reform largely rests in their hands. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi needs 216 votes to pass the Senate's health care bill in the House -- and she doesn't have them yet.
Here's our rundown on the key votes that are still in play. We'll be updating the list as these Democrats declare their intentions.
As of 7:49 PM ET March 21:
Undecided Dems Who Voted 'No' On The House Health Care Bill
Rick Boucher (D-VA)
Undecided Dems Who Voted 'Yes' On The House Health Care Bill
There are still some undecided pro-life Democrats who previously voted "yes" but remain leery of the Senate bill's abortion provisions. They include:
Jerry Costello (D-IL) and Dan Lipinski (D-IL)
On Sunday March 21, several undecided pro-life Democrats, led by Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI), announced they'd vote "yes." They include:
Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Nick Rahall (D-WV), Steve Driehaus (D-OH), Kathy Dahlkemper (D-PA), Alan Mollohan (D-WV), Chris Carney (D-PA), and Bart Stupak (D-MI)
Several other key House Democrats have already flipped. Reps. Scott Murphy (D-NY), Suzanne Kosmas (D-FL), Allen Boyd (D-FL), John Boccieri (D-OH), Bart Gordon (D-TN), Dennis Kucinich (D-OH), Betsy Markey (D-CO) and Brian Baird (D-WA) have all switched from "no" to "yes."
And Reps. Michael Arcuri (D-NY) and Stephen Lynch (D-MA) are switching from "yes" to "no."
Rep. Jason Altmire (D-PA), who voted "no" on the House bill but was undecided on the Senate bill, has also confirmed he's still a "no." So did Rep. Harry Teague (D-NM), citing cost concerns. Rep. Jim Matheson (D-UT) said according to the Salt Lake Tribune he will stay a "no" because the bill is "too expensive." Reps. John Tanner (D-TN) and Glenn Nye (D-VA), who both voted "no" on the House bill, have both said they will still vote "no."
And Rep. Brad Ellsworth (D-IN), a Stupaker who voted "yes" on the House bill but was undecided on the Senate bill, has confirmed he's still a "yes." Same goes for Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX), who moved from undecided to "yes."
In a last minute surprise, Rep. Zack Space (D-OH), who voted for the House health care bill last fall, has announced that he will vote no on the Senate bill tomorrow. We're told that this wasn't a surprise to Speaker Pelosi but that she didn't release him to vote no either, as sometimes happens late in the game when the leadership knows it has enough votes and can spare some to protect vulnerable incumbents.
Follow all the latest developments at our Countdown to Reform Wire.
Update Feed
7:49 PM ET March 21: Rep. Joe Donnelly, one of the pro-life Democrats, decides to vote yes.
6 PM ET March 21: Rep. Marion Berry says he's a no.
4:22 PM ET March 21: A group of pro-life Democrats announced they'd vote "yes." They include:
Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Nick Rahall (D-WV), Steve Driehaus (D-OH), Kathy Dahlkemper (D-PA), Alan Mollohan (D-WV), Chris Carney (D-PA), and Bart Stupak (D-MI)
1:50 PM ET March 21: Rep. Glenn Nye (D-VA) will stay a "no."
1:44 PM ET March 21: Rep. John Tanner (D-TN) stays a "no."
1:33 PM ET March 21: Rep. Brian Baird (D-WA) switches from "no" to "yes."
10:54 AM ET March 21: Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), one of our "hard to get Stupakers" has decided to vote yes. Other updates from around TPM we're adding to the wire this morning: Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-CA) is threatening to switch from yes to no. Rep. Michael Capuano (D-MA) will stay a yes.
6:35 PM ET March 20: Rep. Jim Matheson is a "no," and staying there.
6:29 PM ET March 20: Rep. Zack Space (D-OH) says he'll vote no, according to local press reports.
4:09 PM ET March 20: Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) issues a statement saying he'll vote "yes."
8:27 AM ET March 20: Rep. Harry Teague (D-NM) said in a statement his cost concerns can't be assuaged so he'll stay a "no."
6:19 PM ET March 19: Rep. Scott Murphy (D-NY) switches from "no" to "yes."
5:28 PM ET March 19: Rep. Brad Ellsworth (D-IN), a Stupaker who voted "yes" on the House bill but was undecided on the Senate bill, confirms he's still a "yes."
5:25 PM ET March 19: Rep. Suzanne Kosmas (D-FL) switches from "no" to "yes."
4:40 PM ET March 19: Rep. Jason Altmire (D-PA), who voted "no" on the House bill but was undecided on the Senate bill, confirms he's still a "no."
4:08 PM ET March 19: Rep. Allen Boyd (D-FL) switches from "no" to "yes."
11 AM ET March 19: Rep. John Boccieri (D-OH) switches from "no" to "yes."
Additional reporting by Evan McMorris-Santoro, Brian Beutler, Rachel Slajda and Christina Bellantoni.
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jsdc007
March 19, 2010 9:32 AM
Why does Marcy Kaptur refuse to believe Nuns and Catholic hospitals when they assert that the Senate bill is NOT a back door to unfettered abortion?
Stephen Lynch needs to be kicked out come November. What a primadonna.
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AlphaLiberal
March 19, 2010 9:56 AM in reply to jsdc007
I like her so much and am shocked to see her as a Stupak hardliner. Why would she want to extend the Hyde Amendment to also encompass private insurance? Has anyone called there?
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AJM
March 19, 2010 10:08 AM in reply to AlphaLiberal
Her voting record shows her protecting fertilzed human eggs -- including voting against funding stem cell research. She either has an erroneous mental picture that a tiny child inhabits such an egg or believes that her constituents do. As to the last Catholics for Choice polling in her district shows that her voters want women to be able to obtain insurance for abortions with their own money and want the Bishops to stay out of politics.
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ohiomeister
March 19, 2010 11:13 AM in reply to AJM
I think the most vocal Fox News watchers and AM radio listeners cause more concern than is warranted in a lot of swing districts. Just b/c they yell the loudest doesn't mean they are the majority or that the rest of the district agrees with them.
They constantly lie about the abortion funding, and they need to be called out for those lies.
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AlphaLiberal
March 19, 2010 12:12 PM in reply to ohiomeister
Yes, you're quite right. What's more is that that the anti-health lobby has the assistance of FoxNoise and hate radio pushing people to call the hill which they are doing in huge numbers. And that freaks out the elected.
Please make those calls now! Call the district offices, too!
http://politicsol.capwiz.com/politicsol/bio/id/467
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Silence
March 21, 2010 6:44 PM in reply to ohiomeister
DEMOCRAT LEADERSHIP RELEASE: “The Congressional Budget Office estimate of the health care legislation shows an increase in Social Security revenues… CBO projects that the resulting increase in wages will generate $29 billion in additional FICA contributions to the Social Security Trust Fund.” (“Health Care Reform Update,” Office of Rep. Steny Hoyer, 3/21/10)
CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET ACT: “LIMITATION ON CHANGES TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, it shall not be in order in the Senate or the House of Representatives to consider any reconciliation bill or reconciliation resolution reported pursuant to a concurrent resolution on the budget agreed to under section 301 or 304, or a joint resolution pursuant to section 258C of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, or any amendment thereto or conference report thereon, that contains recommendations with respect to the old-age, survivors, and disability insurance program established under title II of the Social Security Act.” (Congressional Budget Act Of 1974, Sec. 310g, P. 31)
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Zmaz
March 19, 2010 2:39 PM in reply to AJM
As one of her constituents, I'm pretty annoyed about this too. Although, I doubt that she'll end up voting for this. Look at her interview in the Toledo Blade; she's said stuff along the lines of "I'm going to have to weight the number of unborn children at risk against the number of infant deaths due to lack of health insurance."
Really, for any "pro-life" person to vote against this bill is simply hypocrisy: We have 45,000 deaths a year due to lack of health insurance.
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AJM
March 19, 2010 5:33 PM in reply to Zmaz
Even in terms of the anti-abortion arguments her arguments are misjudged. To the extent that their claim is that all lives count and do not depend on the condition of that life, her comparison should be between the imagined number of "unborn" at risk versus all deaths due to lack of health insurance. Otherwise, she is prizing some souls over others.
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Fifty Eggs
March 19, 2010 10:08 AM in reply to jsdc007
WTF? Lynch is my rep (MA 9th) and I phoned his D.C. office the week after Scott Brown won. The aide I talked to, after he gave a boilerplate 'right now we're waiting to see what happens', was pretty reassuring that his boss would stay one of the good guys on HCR.
A Catholic organization ran a radio ad this morning urging people to call his office, so he'll be under at least some pressure. If you live in his district, please pick up the phone and amplify that pressure.
DC: 202-225-8273.
Local: 617-428-2000
MA 9th District: Medfield, Walpole, Norwood, Westwood, Dedham, Canton, Milton, Randolph, Braintree, Stoughton, Avon, Holbrook, Easton, Brockton, Whitman, Hanson, the 3 Bridgewaters, West Roxbury (maybe some other parts of western Boston, too, hard to tell from the map I'm looking at).
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ohiomeister
March 19, 2010 11:06 AM in reply to Fifty Eggs
South Boston
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teabagger
March 19, 2010 11:06 AM in reply to Fifty Eggs
I live in Milton and called Lynch's office to thank him for his "No" vote.
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CVille Dem
March 19, 2010 11:11 AM in reply to teabagger
I guess that's because you don't know what it is like not to have insurance. Go suck on someone's "tea bags."
Once this bill passes even YOU won't have to fear losing your insurance.
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ohiomeister
March 19, 2010 11:25 AM in reply to CVille Dem
Some people in Massachusetts have the attitude of "I've got mine, Jack." since they already have near-universal health insurance, which even Scott Brown was afraid to say anything bad about in the Senate campaign.
That's why it's so obvious Mitch McConnell is full of it when he says they are going to try to repeal the bill if it passes.
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CVille Dem
March 19, 2010 7:28 PM in reply to ohiomeister
Right. Just try to take insurance away from people once they have it!
Next stop: SINGLE PAYER -- Then we can start saving money!
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Fifty Eggs
March 19, 2010 2:54 PM in reply to teabagger
Obviously I take the other side of the issue, but I begrudge no one their vote or their activism, so long as they don't begrudge mine. So you have my respect, if not agreement, for making your voice heard.
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Iris
March 19, 2010 1:29 PM in reply to jsdc007
Besides, this bill is bound to do good things for America's horrible level of infant mortality, and for kids with chronic conditions. A child's life should matter, if concern for children continues outside the womb rather than stops at the birth canal. Stupak is hurtful to the sick, and the sick are less able to conceive or carry a baby to term. Stupak, you're hurting your own cause, the unborn.
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fkaZk0sm0
March 19, 2010 9:39 AM
so, if pelosi doesn't have 216 yet, what is the latest (estimated) whip count?
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Brownbagger
March 19, 2010 9:48 AM in reply to fkaZk0sm0
It seems they have the votes.
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fkaZk0sm0
March 19, 2010 10:02 AM in reply to Brownbagger
and i think that makes sense.
at this point it's as much about whose votes they won't need as it is about whose votes they will need.
you don't want to be 'wasting' any votes - you only need as many votes as it'll take.
(which all lends itself to the pre-written talking points about 'last minute deals' and 'barely enough votes'... yawn)
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loria
March 19, 2010 10:07 AM in reply to fkaZk0sm0
I just read exactly that. They are looking to see which votes they can spare for Representatives that live in difficult districts. If they can spare them, they will be given a pass. Still, I wonder if taking a pass will matter in November. Likely, people will have moved on by then and there will be some other hotly contested vote or position that will either save or sink them.
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eatbees
March 19, 2010 11:01 AM in reply to fkaZk0sm0
This is why Heath Shuler, NC-11 should be on the above list. He voted no last time, but he has the potential to flip this time if they need him. He is from a swing district that was strongly Republican for many years, but he captured the seat from the corrupt Charles Taylor in 2006, and in 2008 was reelected in a landslide, at the same time that the district went for Obama by 12,000 votes. He's running for his third term this year, and I think he's secure now.
He voted no last time out of fiscal conservatism, so he should like the new CBO numbers a lot better. Of course he's also pro-life, another obstacle. But his vote is gettable because he needs to balance his rural Appalachian constitutents with the strong progressive base in Asheville. He's done enough for the former, and now the activists want something. He values his friendship with Obama and Emmanuel which could leave him open to a charm offensive. If they need him to do it for the team, he could be a yes vote.
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glblank
March 20, 2010 12:41 PM in reply to Brownbagger
What is the count of heads who have stated they will vote yes
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C0mm0n5en5e
March 19, 2010 9:39 AM
I'm not sure Ellsworth is an "easy to get" Stupaker. He's running for Senate. In Indiana.
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zonk
March 19, 2010 9:47 AM in reply to C0mm0n5en5e
If he thinks he's winning that Senate seat without DSCC or Presidential help, then he's not easy to get because he's bona fide crazy.
He's got only a slim chance either way, but if he spits in the Demcorat's face - he's got zero chance.
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AJM
March 19, 2010 10:03 AM in reply to zonk
Bayh was pro-choice. If Ellsworth is going to be elected he is going to need the votes and support of pro-choice Democrats. If he keeps this up, those votes will be hard to come by regardless of what Democratic leadership may do. The bright line for Big Tent Pro-Choice Democrats is that they support any measure which makes like better for a child -- making the decision to carry to term easier but oppose any steps which burden a woman's right to choose. Ellsworth has crossed that line but has the opportunity to cross back.
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Moses2317
March 19, 2010 9:44 AM
Let's continue to turn up the heat on Lipinski. Watch this video of a Mother's Open Appeal to Congressman Lipinski, call his office, and then forward the video to all of your friends and encourage them to do the same.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfAXXID4Mu0
D.C. Office - 202-225-5701
Chicago - 312-886-0481
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zonk
March 19, 2010 9:53 AM in reply to Moses2317
At least he has a Chicago number now.
Damn nepotistic carpetbagger.
Why Danny boy doesn't get his ass tossed out of the (D+11) seat his daddy bequeathed him is beyond me.
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shortstop
March 19, 2010 11:01 AM in reply to zonk
Because his dad's still alive and still uses his goons to walk the precincts. And Pop still has his transportation "consulting" business, which blatantly and fuck-you-edly runs out of the same office Little Lip used for his reelection campaign office (and Dan Jr. sits on the transportation committee. No conflict of interest there).
Once Dad buys the farm, the treat bag will be empty and Little Lip will go down. The transportation corporate masters will try halfheartedly to keep him around, but he doesn't have the juice his dad has and his constituents are sick of him. How sweet that will be.
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markg8
March 19, 2010 10:00 AM in reply to Moses2317
Here's the rest of Lipinski's numbers. He was one of the last hold outs in the November vote and after making noises about voting against the bill back them - just like he is now - he voted yes. I just called his office and the receptionist said his objections are the abortion language and the pay offs to FL, LA, and NE. It's my understanding the FL cash is out of the bill, most states are going to get help like NE to pay their Medicaid bills and LA is only getting money they should have gotten after Katrina but were screwed out of by Bush. With 59,000 nuns, the Catholic Hospital Association, and reps like Dildee and Gordon on board there's no excuse for him to vote no.
866-822-5701 (D.C.)
312-886-0481 (Chicago)
708-424-0853 (Oak Lawn)
708-352-0524 (LaGrange)
202-225-1012 (Fax)
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lousgirl84
March 19, 2010 9:44 AM
This makes my tummy turn and churn. I want this to be over already!!!
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Numbersguy
March 19, 2010 11:17 AM in reply to lousgirl84
If you think this is bad, wait for Immigration reform. That is going to make this look like a picnic.
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mans_best_friend
March 19, 2010 11:25 AM in reply to Numbersguy
EFCA. If you think Republicans are pulling out all the stops now, just wait until EFCA comes up.
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Silence
March 21, 2010 7:03 PM in reply to mans_best_friend
No problem with EFCA. A nice little Chinese man is coming to make an offer on my business tomorrow. Early retirement!!!
No constitution, no allegiance.
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Jackster
March 20, 2010 8:58 AM in reply to lousgirl84
second that
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stillidealistic
March 20, 2010 11:08 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Third that...I've been pukey all day.
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ABrod
March 19, 2010 9:51 AM
It really boggles the mind that the country has to scramble for votes to take the first step on insuring that citizens have reasonable access to health care. Something every other advanced first world democracy wrapped up decades and decades ago.
I appreciate the civil liberties this country provides (albeit belatedly to blacks and other minorities), but the legislature's inablity to address as fundumental a problem as this, and that the first baby steps towards reform hangs in the balance, is really a national disgrace.
The idea that our founding fathers were some kind of prescient geniuses is really a bunch of abject crap. This is a nearly dysfunctional system.
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fkaZk0sm0
March 19, 2010 10:10 AM in reply to ABrod
any talk of 'founding fathers' wrt hcr ought to trigger an insistence on the offending bloviator's understanding of the science and economics of 18th century medicine.
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Leftflank
March 21, 2010 8:53 PM in reply to ABrod
Good point about the system, at least it allows for it's own fixing.
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Chris
March 19, 2010 9:51 AM
I talked to a Costello staffer this morning and he seemed rather optimistic he would be a yes vote. Costello always talks the sly conservative voice to the media. But he is a loyal Democrat in a very blue district. I wouldn't move him out of the maybe column just yet but I'd say from what I heard this morning, he'll be there in the end.
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akunz
March 19, 2010 10:42 AM in reply to Chris
I just got off the phone with Costello's office and they gave me no indication that he was preparing to vote yes. All I got (from a very uninformed staffer) was that he is concerned about voting for the Senate Bill because of the cost (I asked if they read CBO analysis), abortion language, and the corn husker kickback. I reminded them that a vote against this bill is vote to bring down this presidency and the Democratic party. Folks, there is a lot more than health care on the line right now. Give Costello a call (202 225-5661) and remind him of that!
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lousgirl84
March 19, 2010 11:04 AM in reply to akunz
Just did. Thanks
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Chris
March 19, 2010 12:51 PM in reply to akunz
I still think he'll be there in the end. He did the exact same thing last year on the house bill and ended up voting for it.
He's in a safe district, running unopposed. Well, running against a tea bagging cougar that doesn't even live in the district. If he votes no, it will be a disgrace.
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markg8
March 19, 2010 1:14 PM in reply to Chris
Just called Costello's office and was told he is on the fence because of the abortion language and the overall cost. If those are his concerns he'll vote for the bill because he has a lot more cover from the Nuns, the Catholic Hospital Association on abortion and the CBO on cost than he'll get for opposing the bill.
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AJM
March 19, 2010 1:31 PM in reply to markg8
I don't really understand the anti-choice forces on this one. HCR will save born lives, probably reduce abortions by making it safer to raise a child and does not fund abortions. They seem to be motivated by overweening pride to be able to falsely brag that they 'voted pro-life' when in reality they are probably increasing the number of abortions.
Politically it is idiotic for Democrats in swing district bcause any pro-choice voters will be among the Democrats and they will lose those votes if they persist in these positions.
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Chris
March 19, 2010 3:44 PM in reply to markg8
I agree. I have no idea why Costello is always so secretive and always makes it appear as if he is riding fences. Personally the guy is more liberal than me and is in one of the safest districts in the state.
The staffer I talked to this morning sounded encouraged that he would be a yes vote.
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AlphaLiberal
March 19, 2010 9:52 AM
Marcy Kaptur is so progressive on so many issues! What is she doing backing Stupak's disingenuous campaign?
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eatbees
March 19, 2010 9:59 AM
What about Heath Shuler, NC-11? From today's Asheville Citizen-Times:
"As of Thursday, Shuler was still undecided on the bill, [his chief of staff Hayden] Rogers said."
http://www.citizen-times.com/article/20100319/NEWS/303190026
This guy is a key Blue Dog swing vote, but I've never seen his name mentioned on TPM with all the weeks of speculation I see here.
He has bragged to constituents about how tight he is with Obama, and a year ago, said he was waiting to see what specifics Obama wanted in the bill before getting on board. Obama has thrown himself behind this personally, which removes that excuse.
He voted no last time for budgetary reasons, he said, but the new CBO numbers should remove that excuse as well.
And he says he still hasn't made up his mind (in fact he has a habit of "deciding" big issues the very day of the vote) so maybe you should get on his case and see if you can get a statement from him?
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Walter Mitty
March 19, 2010 10:56 AM in reply to eatbees
He's a open C-Streeter - he'll vote no.
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Numbersguy
March 19, 2010 11:07 AM in reply to eatbees
Larry Kissell is another as.s.hole Blue Dog. He got 331,000 from ActBlue, and I contributed. Now, we get kicked in the teeth by this tu.rd. I know his district, having sold books door-to-door there in the 70s. There are a LOT of shit-poor people in that district, who do not have high-priced union insurance.
Why is he holding out? PRIMARY HIM! It's not worth spending money on ungrateful Blue Dogs like this guy.
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eatbees
March 19, 2010 11:20 AM in reply to Numbersguy
Yeah, Kissell too. He ran as a progressive (or let progressives think he was) so that's even more of a disappointment. With Shuler it was clear all along that he was a conservative, so at least he was honest about it. His argument was, "You need a guy like me to win this district." Progressives supported him because the man he took out, Charles Taylor, was far worse.
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pmb50
March 19, 2010 10:22 AM
Last week ABC News reported there is NO language in the bill for federal funding for abortion. Reps. Arcuri and Lynch should be honest and say the only reason they are voting against the healthcare bill is because they are afraid of republicans and whatever 30-second attack they will run against then this fall. Being a miserable coward is no way to go through life
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Elizabeth2
March 19, 2010 11:26 AM in reply to pmb50
Since they already voted 'yes' once (to a far more liberal bill) do they REALLY think this turn-coat and (please, please) futile 'no' vote is going to immunize them from those 30-second ads? That's just plain crazy. "When it counted, Rep Lynch voted to give this county ....... blah, blah, blah"
And that's assuming that by Nov. anyone but the hardest right voters see these 'no' votes as something good.
All they are doing is saying goodbye to *any* respect or chance of support from the left. If they'd voted no initially, there could be an argument to stick with that but this is just plain nuts.
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pmb50
March 19, 2010 10:23 AM
Take note America you are witnessing live and in person the members of the Congressional Taliban
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pmb50
March 19, 2010 10:27 AM
This would never happen with republicans.
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waltersobchak
March 19, 2010 10:52 AM in reply to pmb50
Actually, it happened quite frequently with them. I specifically remember the vote for the Central American Free Trade Agreement in 2005 was decided by two votes. The vote was held open an extra two hours to get former NC Rep Robin Hayes to change his vote in favor and end the stalemate. Larry Kissell beat him last year.
Congressional cowardice on hard votes tends to hurt each party equally...unless they're in the minority (remember when Blanche Lincoln supported card check in the minority!?).
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Numbersguy
March 19, 2010 11:10 AM in reply to waltersobchak
And now that little tu.rd Kissell is voting "No" on this bill. I sent him money through ActBlue, probably $100. I wanted Hayes out, but not in exchange for a useless -D filling the seat with no help on important bills.
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Numbersguy
March 19, 2010 11:13 AM in reply to pmb50
Yeah, this was definitely a strategy. They wanted to pass bills with 1-2 votes to spare, to allow those who needed cover to get it. Plus it gave them political capital if they could show that passage of even hard bills was inevitable, by just 1 or 2 votes. They traded votes off (I'm not saying that was bad, mind you).
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Lord Mike
March 19, 2010 10:27 AM
I wouldn't trust ANYONE from MA wight now... Clyburn better keep a close eye on the whole MA delegation.... They are still panicked over Scott Brown and are inclined to do crazy, treasonous things...
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Publishermike
March 19, 2010 10:32 AM
My guess is that Lynch in gunning for Brown in the next regular election and thinks that HCR was the key to Brown's victory. Take it out of the equation and Mass has no reason to return a prettyboy to the senate...
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ohiomeister
March 19, 2010 11:29 AM in reply to Publishermike
I agree that Lynch is just idiotic enough to think that, but it's a really stupid political strategy. He couldn't win the Dem nomination in a million years b/c the Dems who will turn out in a primary are even more progressive than overall and hate Lynch (and will hate him even more now), and he's not winning that seat as an Independent either.
He always claims to be great on Union issues, but I see all the Unions supporting this bill, so why is he voting NO???
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mrut
March 20, 2010 9:05 AM in reply to Publishermike
Lynch had a better chance of state-wide office before he tried to run in the special election Dem. primary--that is, before anyone knew him. Once Dems learned about him, they rejected him big-time. He is a Class A coward; a frightened, unprincipled politician who will only do what polls as popular. And he runs as a "conservative."
Don't expect what's right (unless you mean "rightwing") to come out of this guy.
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shle896
March 19, 2010 10:32 AM
These Dems who are on the fence because of it's possible political fallout (particularly re-elections) have got it all wrong.
By time November is here, all the smoke from the GOP will have cleared and the public will have a better understanding of the ACTUAL bill and thus will be much more supportive.
The only political fallout will be for those who voted AGAINST it. They all need to grow a backbone and stop trying to distance themselves from it while at the same time supporting it.
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mans_best_friend
March 19, 2010 10:42 AM in reply to shle896
Exactly right. Despite their bravado now, by November Republicans will be changing the subject every time health care is brought up and Democrats who voted against it will be trying to explain why. And it's not going to be an easy explanation.
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Clear
March 19, 2010 1:39 PM in reply to shle896
Copy.
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sunnysteve
March 19, 2010 10:41 AM
Lynch killing Teddy Kennedy's lifelong dream is not going to win him Ted's Senate seat.
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truth > spin
March 19, 2010 11:02 AM in reply to sunnysteve
FIFY: Lynch killing Teddy Kennedy's lifelong dream is not going to win him The People's Senate seat, now occupied by Senator Brown.
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Pete Bilderback
March 19, 2010 10:41 AM
Pelosi has the votes she needs. You can see it in her and Hoyer's body language. Also, they never would have taken a hard line with Stupak if they weren't confident they could make up the votes elsewhere.
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mans_best_friend
March 19, 2010 11:03 AM in reply to Pete Bilderback
I think that's right. I suspect a lot of these "No" votes are actually "I'd rather vote No, but if my vote is the difference between passage and failure, I'll vote Yes."
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acamus
March 19, 2010 11:42 AM in reply to mans_best_friend
Not to mention if there was a general belief they had enough votes, then pro-HCR folks wouldn't be motivated to make the phone calls which is probably still needed to help keep some of the reps from wavering at the last moment.
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Little Fish
March 19, 2010 10:50 AM
I called Rep Murphy. Once at the Saratoga Office (a polite but coy receptionist answered) and once at his DC office (answering machine only). Also, on his website there is a survey on HCR. I recommend that interested folks take a few seconds to register their opinion.
If he can't vote for HCR that reduces the deficit and provides coverage and reforms insurers, then I'm not sure why I voted for him and made calls on his behalf and volunteered for him during the 2008 election. I'm one cranky constituent today.
DC office- (202) 225-5614
Saratoga office- (518) 581-8247
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Elizabeth2
March 19, 2010 12:06 PM in reply to Little Fish
It's sometimes easier to get through to his offices in less-populated sites:
Hudson, NY 12534 Phone: (518) 828-3109
very nice young man at that location
Glens Falls, NY 12801 Phone: (518) 743-0964
Clifton Park, NY 12065 Phone: (518) 280-1791
Delaware/Otsego Counties Phone: (607) 746-8449
On his web site (in addition to the poll) Murphy has this statement:
"Washington, DC, Mar 18 - Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Scott Murphy released the following statement regarding the publication of the final health care reform bill:
“I am happy to see that we now have a final bill. I am in the process of reviewing it and will determine if it goes far enough to fix the broken incentives in our health care system. I am posting this, along with the Senate bill on my website so that the public has a chance to review it. I continue to encourage people to contact my office to let me know their questions and opinions.” [and then links to all the relevant documents, including CBO score]
AND I've been told by someone close enough to his office that they *should* know that he's a safe 'yes' if they need it (and perhaps even if they don't) ..... won't let my breath out until the vote's over but also have no reason to doubt that information. Cautiously optimistic about him.
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Little Fish
March 19, 2010 12:38 PM in reply to Elizabeth2
I've been chewing on the notion about how the House's most efficient (politically) path is to get a mere 216, leaving no-voting dems some wiggle room in tough R+ districts, such as NY-20. I suspect that Scott is one of a handful of D's that could be pulled from this pool of vulnerable districts to get 216, but that the House will wait until the last moment to lean on those vulnerable districts and then only if absolutely necessary to secure the 216th vote. PS- thanks for the heads up on other ways to contact the rep.
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Elizabeth2
March 19, 2010 1:28 PM in reply to Little Fish
Makes sense and I've really got no problem with it, given the district. But the more contact, pressure there is from the "others" in his district, the more legitimacy he will have if they do need him to cross that line. My gut says you are right on: he's just the kind of district (a chance but not a great one for re-election)where they would want to give him that protection. ...... But as for those who already voted 'yes' the first time - like the guy in Utica, I honestly can't think of any rational reason for what they are doing??????
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Tommy Douglas
March 19, 2010 6:54 PM in reply to Elizabeth2
HE HAS SOME REAL TOOLS WORKING IN HIS OFFICE.
THEY SEEM BE SAYING THAT THE BILL ISN'T PROGRESSIVE ENOUGH BUT THEY ALSO DON'T WANT TO PISS OF THE RIGHT WINGERS.
HE ALSO WAS "STILL READING THE BILL" AS OF YESTERDAY.
WHAT B.S.
HE IS BECOMING QUITE A DISAPPOINTING REP.
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mrut
March 20, 2010 9:08 AM in reply to Tommy Douglas
This is the coward's line. Stephen Lynch in MA is using it, too.
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lousgirl84
March 19, 2010 10:57 AM
Boccieri just announced yes!!
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ohiomeister
March 19, 2010 11:30 AM in reply to lousgirl84
Here's the story:
http://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2010/03/reps_john_boccieri_and_charlie.html
Toss him a few bucks for doing the right thing (and hopefully we can encourage others to do the same):
www.johnforcongress.com
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cadfile
March 19, 2010 10:58 AM
Toledo Blade reporting that Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio) is now leaning to "Yes" on HCR after Prez and Reid reached out to her.
http://tinyurl.com/y95noxd
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lousgirl84
March 19, 2010 11:01 AM in reply to cadfile
Good -
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AJM
March 19, 2010 1:40 PM in reply to cadfile
It should be a net plus for her. People in her district can use the help.
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human
March 19, 2010 11:06 AM
I'm glad they're working around Stupak. Besides being a completely unreasonable liar, he has essentially admitted that he's taking his orders from the Catholic Bishops and no one else. I don't want the vote of someone who takes orders on denying a legal medical procedure to women from an organization that protects rapists.
I hope they peel off all of his stupid gang of 12 and leave this scumbag standing alone.
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Elizabeth2
March 19, 2010 11:59 AM in reply to human
Well, gee, you don't think he should listen to the *nuns* do you? (Heavy sarcasm. I'm not in the least Catholic but his comment just made me a big supporter of the nuns and their very, very sane position on the bill.)
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human
March 19, 2010 1:46 PM in reply to Elizabeth2
I certainly think he should listen to the nuns, the Catholic Hospitals Association, or any other group of any religion that's actually involved in providing healthcare and working on the front lines. The bishops aren't one of those groups.
Also, listening to those groups is one thing, taking direct orders from them is another.
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Elizabeth2
March 21, 2010 3:43 PM in reply to human
Take it you didn't pick up my sarcasm. I think his dismissing what the on-the-front-lines and quite eloquent and logical nuns was the stupidist (and one of the most sexist) thing I ever heard.
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Scottsdalian
March 19, 2010 11:15 AM
Here's my message that I just sent to my Congressman, Harry Mitchell, D-AZ (his local and DC phone lines seem to be very busy this early AM!):
Congressman Mitchell,
As a registered Democrat and Scottsdale resident who voted for you in the last election, I am your constituent.
I DEMAND that you vote FOR President Obama's and the Democrat's Health Care Reform proposal. This is certainly one of the most crucial issues of our lifetime and the opposition party is doing everything in its power to kill this legislation. As President Obama stated the other day, it's time to show COURAGE by voting to APPROVE health care reform.
I follow the politics of DC very closely and I can assure you that if you vote NO on this final legislation, I will do everything in my power to vote you out of office due to your LACK OF COURAGE on this crucial issue.
Please do not let me and the rest of America down.
Thank you.
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terryaz
March 19, 2010 6:54 PM in reply to Scottsdalian
I wound up emailing Mitchell, too, since his phone lines were jammed. He voted to condemn "deem & pass" so that doesn't bode well. I worked with his office this year on a matter dear to my family and he was very responsive (McCain & Kyl couldn't be bothered). i will be very disappointed if he votes no. And angry if he votes no and it leads to healthcare being defeated.
What is sad is that so many Dems in conservative and swing districts somehow think voting no on heath care reform will protect them from republican attacks. It won't. It just makes them look weak and unprincipled.
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hologram5
March 19, 2010 11:40 AM
Look at the BIG PICTURE here, yes we need reform in a bad way. But this bill, which has had all oversight of insurers stripped as soon as it was put in. Also, when in American History has it been mandated that we MUST purchase a good/service to maintain lawful citizenship? If you "don't" buy into their system, you will be fined 5000.00 payable to the IRS. If you don't believe me, read it for yourself. The entire 2700 pages. We are being led astray. There are more logical ways to get this done. We all know about how wasteful the Fed Gov't is. Cut back their staff, cut back their pay (since it's our money to begin with) Bring Honor back into public service. Career Politicians equals career criminals.
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Scottsdalian
March 19, 2010 11:49 AM in reply to hologram5
You drive a car? You MUST buy auto insurance.
See? That wasn't so hard.
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sbv
March 20, 2010 1:46 PM in reply to Scottsdalian
you forgot, if you own a home with a mortgage, you must buy homeowners insurance and there was time, not sure if still is, if you put down less than 20% on a home you had to pay pri insurance. this like so much else, is just the gop fear mongering. as with "higher taxes" they want to give the impression it would be on everyone, not just on the few wealthier among us.
as an aside, i want to thank and am so impressed with so many of you here who have called and/or contacted your representative. once, hopefully, when this passes, we can keep the same fervor going for real financial reform.
as for me personally, i am hoping pete defazio, with legitimate and founded questions about medicare reimbursement disparities, will vote for this bill.
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hologram5
April 6, 2010 11:02 AM in reply to Scottsdalian
No, I don't "drive a car". I take public trans as I live in the city. Got another bright idea there? Or maybe I should help you.
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AJM
March 19, 2010 1:46 PM in reply to hologram5
The Republicans had eight years to fix it. They ignored the problems and they will do so again if they get back in.
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hologram5
April 6, 2010 11:09 AM in reply to AJM
Don't get me wrong, I can't stand them either. We need reform yes, but reform first to fix corruption at the highest levels. Lobbyism and special interests are killing us as a nation and you all freaking know it. This is exactly why we are here arguing this stupid point which should have been in place 20 years ago. We should have had health reform 20 years ago but the greed and BS lying of the ones we have held to "public service" have killed the American dream. Yes, it's dead. Those of us in middle class America are being killed with taxes. We no longer have the drive. Why the hell do you think that such a HUGE number of people are on anti-depressant medications? Why do you think that we have so many convicts in prisons for substance abuse? PEOPLE ARE STRESSED. Either be part of the solution and help fix the corruption, or go back to sleep watching American Idol. Take your postition because it's not going to go unheeded much longer. People are stressed now with the knowledge of corrupted politicians, why do you think you read so much about "Militias"? Think about it, if your not enraged, you're NOT PAYING ATTENTION!
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Cy Guy
March 19, 2010 11:48 AM
So are you concluding that Kratovil (MD 1st) is a definite no vote? He voted no on the House bill and has said he vote no on the Senate bill, but will look at the fixes to the Senate bill before deciding on them. It seems like he is unlikely, but I think he should at least be in the 'gettable' camp.
He is being lobbied hard still by both sides, http://is.gd/aOQib http://is.gd/aOQm6 and I don't think there would be such an effort if he was a lost cause.
He's positioning himself as a fiscal hawk / blue dog who doesn't believe the CBO deficit reduction numbers, but most concede it's likely that his district voted 58-40 for McCain when he won his seat in 2008, that is his biggest concern.
The MD Democratic party used a lot of its downtime during the Fall 2008 Obama campaign (like when databases were being updates or scripts being decided upon for our main mission of calling into VA) to make calls on Kratovil's behalf. I think it's time for Obama to cash in on those efforts. I know I assumed that when i was making those calls he would be voting for Obama's Health Care plan. And I am going to call Kratovil this morning ( 202-225-5311 ) and let him know that if he votes against HCR, he is going to lose that support this time, and I don't think incumbency alone is going to get him re-elected.
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JADAMS
March 19, 2010 12:05 PM
Lynch is seriously misreading the Scott Brown tea leaves. If Lynch isn't onboard for this vote, his defeat is all but certain because former supporters will tone down their support. The Brown victory was more about process (running a good campaing) than about policy. I thought Lynch was a more astute politician than he is demonstrating here.
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ErinPDX
March 19, 2010 12:13 PM
THEY ARE NOT PRO-LIFE. THEY ARE PRO-COAT HANGER. They are ANTI-choice, ANTI-PRIVACY, ANTI-WOMAN.
BUT THEY ARE NOT PRO ANYTHING.
What kind of Progressive site is this, anyway????
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ohyeathatsright
March 19, 2010 12:43 PM in reply to ErinPDX
Very true, this is the social control Beck is always talking about, and putting a bureaucrat between you and your doctor.
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KM
March 19, 2010 12:35 PM
I just talked to Congressman Costello's office and the official line is that he is still voting no, with the hedge that he is still reviewing the changes released yesterday. If you live in Costello's district, call and tell him he must support this. Call today, call tomorrow, call Sunday. Tell all your friends to call too. Bring to bear all the pressure you possibly can.
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dnegri
March 19, 2010 12:40 PM
John Lynch continues to mystify me. This isn't a Stupak holdout, but something like Kucinich. And if Dennis could come to vote YES,I really don't know what John Lynch is thinking.
There is absolutely no political upside for a Dem in MA to vote NO.He'll just suffer the Coakley Syndrome, where enough Dems will stay home to cost him the election.
I urge Lynch to read John Boccieri's statement explaining why he's voting YES.
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dnegri
March 19, 2010 12:42 PM
Memo to Stupakers:
If thousands of Catholic nuns believe the Senate language is OK, who are you to think Bart Stupak's "take" on it is more enlightened?
And when you weigh the real tangible harm that killing the Bill will inflict on the uninsured and others who are and will be victims of the status quo, for something that is more myth than reality ("abortion language"), how can you look in the mirror?
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Roma Victors
March 19, 2010 2:04 PM
Is it just me, or is this political process about the coolest example of democracy in action we've seen lately? The turns, the high, the lows, the angst, the drama...who will vote yes, who will turn, who will be on the right side of history. I'm thrilled. For the last four weeks, President Obama has been exactly the guy I voted for. Watching the Republicans squirm and squeal is like icing on the cake.
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Ironcomments
March 19, 2010 2:04 PM
"I belong to no organized party. I am a Democrat." -Will Rogers.
To the Blue Dog Democrats and to those in opposition to real health care reform, what are you afraid of?
Throughout the history of the Democratic party(Progressives) in the 20th century it has fallen to you to be the enactors of real societal change. From the introduction of the 19th amendment to the creation of social security, G.I. Bill, civil rights act, voting rights act, and medicare, these are all pieces of legislation that the American citizenry living today cannot truly fathom of the time of not having them. These items reinforce the reciprocity of government and its people, creating a “more perfect union”.
Today, citizens may fight for their nation and come home knowing that they can afford to continue their education. Today, citizens after spending their entire adult working lives paying into the government system that if their retirement funds suddenly evaporate in some Wall street Ponzi scheme there will still be some form of income provided by social security. Today, because of medicare, an elderly citizen can at least get the health care they need. Today, we as a nation can finally say that opportunity is truly available to all and every citizen has the right to effectuate their government regardless of sex or race.
The time has come again for Democrats (Progressives) to be the steadying hand to the invisible hand. It is neither mere accident nor divine providence that the legislative items mentioned above; all came about after a long uninterrupted term of conservative hegemony. It is the realignment of democratic principles with economic and social realities. History has taught us that those who heed the cry “socialism” in these times of change in our nation are regarded as persons with limited foresight by the generations to come. Those that were against the voting rights of 1965 could not imagine a day like November 4th 2008.
So the time has fallen unto us to establish once and for all, a citizen’s right to health care- a human right; if it were not a human right, than man should be considered no more than a pack of rapacious narcissistic jackals motivated by the hunger for profit. Capitalism does not stipulate that government can not be an equal player in the market place. Is it not competition that drives capitalism and innovation? Citizens have more choice in shipping companies to include the United States Post Office, than they have in how to pay for health care. How is that big insurance will not be able to stay competitive if they are truly providing a better service to the people than government?
Democrats(Progessives) be moved by your conscience and ideals, not by your ego and benefactors.
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DanF
March 19, 2010 2:05 PM
I just visited Baron Hill's office. The staffer said Hill still hasn't made a decision yet, although he intimated that he might vote yes. Like other's he claimed to be waiting for the final language to be put out there before making his decision.
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Elizabeth2
March 19, 2010 3:29 PM
Scene outside one of Scott Murphy's local office:
About 100 protesters led by ....
[Former GOP Lt. Gov. Betsy] McCaughey, who also railed against the Clinton health care bill in the 1990s, said the massive bill should be condensed to 20 pages of "plain, honest English" that anyone could understand as she toted around a massive binder containing the bill.
She rallied the group with calls of "Don't Kill Granny" and "Hands off our Health Care." She said she was not running for any political office again, but felt the need to fight the swelling cost of health care.
Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/ASPStories/Story.asp?StoryID=913329&LinkFrom=RSS#ixzz0ieUGIDyo
..... Of course,that's really a very GOOD NEWS story: she's not going to run for positical office again. Thank heaven for small mercies.
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whosiwhatzit
March 19, 2010 6:10 PM
Repeat after me "Everyone that doesn't think like I do is obviously crazy!"
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homophobama
March 19, 2010 8:11 PM
Adam Smith - D, My congressman in WA 9th, remains undecided on how he will vote on the Healthcare Bill, according to his office today. I quoted SouthPark to his staffer...saying the bill has problems, but in politics it is always a choice between a DOUCHE BAG and a TURD SANDWICH....and if the congressman did not SUCK IT UP and vote FOR THE TURD SANDWICH...I would do EVERYTHING in my power this fall to ensure the douchebag was voted out of office...INCLUDING Voting republican...because if we are going to have a Democrat who votes like a republican....we may as well have a republican that I can legitimately complain about. Rep Smith has an email form on his website.(adamsmith.house.gov)...I assume his staff will keep monitoring the email through the weekend. SO, IF you live in his district, of if you think there is any chance you may move here before Nov...SEND HIM EMAIL....TELL THE DOUCHBAG TO VOTE FOR THE TURD SANDWICH. you will need a zip+4 to send the email. Washington's 9th District includes RENTON, TACOMA, GIG HARBOR WA, Find Zip codes at USPS.com. and Thank you for your support!
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jenesq
March 20, 2010 6:04 PM in reply to homophobama
Why would you say something so vulgar and stupid? You need to remember that Congressional staffers are hardworking, regular people who don't enjoy being yelled at by irrational or foul-mouthed constituents (and non-constitutents) all day.
I hope other people who take your suggestion to contact your Congressman's office are more polite.
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terryaz
March 20, 2010 12:39 AM
From Phoenix Channel 12 news -- Mitchell to vote yes!!!
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LAB
March 20, 2010 9:55 AM
For Arcuri, he needs money, he gets money, from health care companies. case closed.
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besetfree
March 20, 2010 11:33 AM
my creep rep teague goes to no. his costs excuse is phoney- just as he is a phoney Democrat.
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D Mac
March 20, 2010 12:02 PM
At least you can contact your rep, my rep Glenn Thompson (r)here
in PA is looking out John Boehners Belly Button, I don't know
who has the better Tan.
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NCGoose
March 20, 2010 4:14 PM
I don't know why it's not getting any play here, but Bill Owens from NY 23rd said that he is a "Yes" at a press conference this morning. I don't know if he had been presumed to be in the "Yes" column all along or not but one more "Yes" at any rate.
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AllanCook
March 20, 2010 4:28 PM
Curiously, the Austin American-Statesman has been reporting all day that Lloyd Doggett is on the fence. http://www.statesman.com/news/nation/doggett-among-texas-holdouts-on-health-care-bill-402696.html
I have no reason to doubt Doggett will vote yes, and no reason to trust the Statesman's reporting, but that's what they say.
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JVMarizona
March 21, 2010 3:17 AM
It was said earlier in the comments that Rep. Harry Mitchell (D) Arizona district 5 is a 'yes'. His statement is on his Congressional website. http://mitchell.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=760&Itemid=80
He seems very outspoken for the bill, which pleasantly surprises me. In the statement he points out what horrible decisions our Arizona state government is doing to fix the mess it's in.
Jason
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nursepez
March 21, 2010 10:05 AM
13 abc in toledo is reporting Rep Marcy Kaptur is a yes vote.
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MyOwnPersonalBuddha
March 21, 2010 11:18 AM
Glenn Nye is a no.
http://hamptonroads.com/2010/03/firstterm-democrat-nye-voting-against-health-care-bill
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plan69
March 21, 2010 2:59 PM
Is there a running tally of decideds? I can't find one anywhere. How many more votes are needed to pass?
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micha1976
March 21, 2010 4:45 PM
I think Stupak said in his presser than Rep. Donnelly belonged to his group. So he is probably a yes as well.
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Tosh
April 26, 2010 10:23 PM
Adam Smith - D, My congressman in WA 9th, remains undecided on how he will vote on the Healthcare Bill, according to his office today. I quoted SouthPark to his staffer...saying the bill has problems, but in politics it is always a choice between a DOUCHE BAG and a TURD SANDWICH....and if the congressman did not SUCK IT UP and vote FOR THE TURD SANDWICH...I would do EVERYTHING in my power this fall to ensure the douchebag was voted out of office...
Tosh
buy viagra kamagra
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Tosh
April 26, 2010 10:24 PM
He's positioning himself as a fiscal hawk / blue dog who doesn't believe the CBO deficit reduction numbers, but most concede it's likely that his district voted 58-40 for McCain when he won his seat in 2008, that is his biggest concern.
The MD Democratic party used a lot of its downtime during the Fall 2008 Obama campaign (like when databases were being updates or scripts being decided upon for our main mission of calling into VA) to make calls on Kratovil's behalf. I think it's time for Obama to cash in on those efforts. I know I assumed that when i was making those calls he would be voting for Obama's Health Care plan. And I am going to call Kratovil this morning ( 202-225-5311 ) and let him know that if he votes against HCR, he is going to lose that support this time, and I don't think incumbency alone is going to get him re-elected.
Tosh
m65 acne
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jim144
August 1, 2010 12:08 PM
He seems very outspoken for the bill, which pleasantly surprises me. In the statement he points out what horrible decisions our Arizona state government is doing to fix the mess it's in.Wholesale Diamonds
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