Obamacare... Part 1: Who's Fer It, Who's Agin' It?

The Senate version of Obamacare passed on Christmas Eve by a 60-39 vote, completely along party lines.  Thank God, President Obama has managed to UNITE the country as he promised while campaigning! Ninety-two year old Democratic Senator Robert Byrd, (presumably along with his dog, Billy), had to be wheeled in to vote, while Republican Senator Jim Bunning of Kentucky refused to vote at all!

Proponents will be easier to enumerate, so let's start there first.  They include the administration and the 60 Democrats in the Senate.  And, of course, most of the House of Representatives, led by Nancy Pelosi.  This is, of course, PREPOSTEROUS, since NONE of the provisions of Obamacare will apply to any of them! 

As to the opponents, the list gets a bit more extensive.  Among the nays include the American People, who, according to the most recent Rasmussen poll, oppose Obamacare  by 55%, with only 41% in favor.  This poll was conducted less than a week ago.  Therefore, Obamacare should prove VERY UNHEALTHY for Democrats seeking re-election in 2010!

Other opponents include Big Pharma and the AARP.  Big Labor opposes Obamacare, too, because of the 40% excise tax it levies on so called "Cadillac Plans", the portion of existing health-care plans that are very lavish, such as the ones enjoyed by many unions and Congress.  Oh yes, that excise tax applies to everyone BUT CONGRESS!

On the 23rd of December, one congressman, Democrat Parker Griffith of Alabama, switched parties BECAUSE of his opposition to Obamacare.  Prior to running for Congress, Griffith was an oncologist.  He opposes the bill because of the impact on doctors and quality of patient care.  But what does he know.  It's not like he was a doctor!  Republican's haven't held this seat since the Civil War!

Before the bill is enacted, it must be first reconciled between the House and Senate versions, which is expected to take place in February.

Now that we know how the sides line up, we'll continue tomorrow with another aspect of Obamacare.

I hope you had a Merry Christmas.  I did.  "Take me on" with any comments below.

Marko's Take