llinois Democratic Sen. Roland Burris, the Senate's only black-member, says he will not vote for a health care reform bill that does not include a public option, reports Politico.
The statement reads: "I firmly believe in a public option and will oppose any bill that does not include one. Illinoisans have seen their insurance premiums skyrocket, while more and more families lose their coverage every day."
During Gay Pride, the senator came out very strongly for a repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." I'm really starting to like this guy ...
He's still in the Senate? Well, any help will do.
The Max Baucaus plan is so wretched that I'm starting to get a George W level of hatred for that man. Keith Olbermann ripped it to shreds on his show last night. The Baucus plan would be the biggest gift ever to the healthcare industry. 10-13% of your earnings would be taken out of your paycheck and given right to the healthcare industry.
You would be penalized up to $3,200 if you didn't pay this. All the while, the insurance industry could keep on with their unethical practices such as recision, denial of pre-existing conditions, like pregnancy, and sky-high deductable payments along with higher premiums (up to 5 times as much) for people over 50. That's what bi-partisanships get you. Oh, but no Republicans support it and still think it's socialism. Actually, it's crony capitalism.
Posted by: mjolnir202 | 17 September 2009 at 11:16
Good for him, this Baccus plan is nothing better than a deal for the insurance companies. When their stock goes up after the proposal came out, the gig was up and we knew it was not good for the public.
Let it fail in its present way as its nothing but a ode to his being in the pockets of the industry.
Posted by: Luther | 17 September 2009 at 11:58
Great comment. I totally agree with you on BaucusCare. It's a total gift to PhRMA. FWIW, the Republicans won't support any Democrat bill. -RM
Posted by: Rod Mc | 17 September 2009 at 12:00
BRAVO INDEED! I am so proud of these firestarters, especially in the Congressional Black Caucus, who refuse to even engage in this insult of a conversation at this juncture.
Real options. Real conversations.
No real options. No vote.
Posted by: TheRevKev | 17 September 2009 at 12:10
This is a big problem for the Democrats: A man who doesn't have to worry about campaign contributions.
From Wikipedia:
"Burris [when announcing he would not run in 2010] stated he would rather continue to serve the people of Illinois than try to raise money for a campaign."
Senator Baucus, on the other hand, has received $2M from the health care industry.
So, you know which senator the Democrats are hating right now.
Stay firm, Senator Burris!
Posted by: Jim | 17 September 2009 at 12:20
Senator Burris has nothing to lose! I ain't mad at him at all.
Posted by: Mr. FAMU | 17 September 2009 at 12:48