Sad Day for Democracy
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This is a sad day for our system of representative government. Congress has passed, by the slimmest of party-line margins, a health-care “reform” bill that was consistently opposed by the American people.
I don’t know what else the people could do to express themselves to their elected representatives. Rarely has anything been debated this much or this long; and the longer it went on, the more the people said they did not approve.
Opinion surveys showed again and again that the bill was not supported by the American people, even those who recognized a need for serious health-care reform.
For months, the phone lines and mailboxes of our senators and representatives have been overwhelmed with messages from the American people saying they did not want this bill.
Thousands of people from across the country traveled to Washington to protest.
The voters expressed themselves in the elections in New Jersey, Virginia and Massachusetts.
Don’t worry, the president said. I’ll explain it to them again, and they’ll come around. But the more speeches he gave, the more the people opposed it.
In spite of all of this, the Democrats pressed forward without a single vote from the other party in our two-party system of government. In the end, 34 of their own party voted against the bill.
The only thing left for the people to do now is to express their displeasure in the elections next November. Voters who think their opinions should mean something should now dedicate themselves to the defeat of every Senator and Representative who voted for this bill. Even supporters of the bill should be concerned. Remember, if Congress can ignore us to implement something you like, it can do it on something you don’t like, too.
John Rowerdink
Pinehurst
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Comments
RmeMP 3 years, 1 month ago
just curious expatriate, if you would care to further explain President Bush's "squandering our money on some middle east rabbit holes"? I am just wondering what you blame on him directly, what he did exactly, that wasn't approved by congress, NATO, or anyone else?
annettespal 3 years, 1 month ago
Well, Expatriate, if I ever agreed with you, it would be this statement right here!! HERES THE NEWS: THEY ARE ALL IN THE SAME GAME! Loot the Taxpayer! We do see eye to eye :)
RmeMP 3 years, 1 month ago
Look ex, I agree that both Republicans and Democrats are "in the same game"; however, that being said, you reallly shouldn't comment on things you know nothing about, except of course what you've heard on tv... Just to let you know, from someone who has a little bit of first hand knowledge about this topic, the Iraq war was/is not an unnecessary "rabbit hole". We can go back and forth all day about this, so I will try to let it rest knowing what I know, and you knowing what you know. Everyone is able to form their own opinion in this GREAT country, even if it is formed by opinions and the facts that only they choose to see...
TheNeedle 3 years, 1 month ago
Yes indeed, it is a sad day for democracy when duly elected representatives pass something by a majority vote.
RmeMP 3 years, 1 month ago
It is a sad day, when congress passes something by a majority of THEIR vote - not the American people's; last time I checked, 73% is WAAY more than a majority - and that's the percentage of American's who opposed it:) Not to mention the "deals" that had to be made, WITHIN THEIR OWN party to get the votes...
TheNeedle 3 years, 1 month ago
"It is a sad day, when congress passes something by a majority of THEIR vote"
Perhaps you and Mr. Rowerdink should find a high school civics textbook and look up "representative government" before you embarrass yourselves any further.
None 3 years, 1 month ago
So Bush didn't implement tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans?
RmeMP 3 years, 1 month ago
Considering that this country isn't even a "democracy", last time I heard the pledge of allegiance it was a "republic", maybe you needle need to be the one reading.
Just to save you some time, start by reading this: a democracy is a form of government in which the people decide policy matters directly--through town hall meetings or by voting on ballot initiatives and referendums. A republic, on the other hand, is a system in which the people choose representatives who, in turn, make policy decisions on their behalf. So, believe it or not, we are actually a "republic". How's that for my high school civis reading?!
None 3 years, 1 month ago
To RmeMP i take it you are a conservative republican and thats is all well and good. That 73% were numbers of those that were polled. The numbers are skewed like they always are and all americans were not polled so don't believe for one moment they were. The republicans are never for the middle class or working poor they stand for the elite and want money spent on the elite and trivial things that may or may not have a positive effect on all. My suggestion is that you run for office and see how many vote for you. Maybe you will understand when you live from paycheck to paycheck and can't afford healthcare for your family.
None 3 years, 1 month ago
@John Rowerdink:I would venture to speculate that you are a Fox News Fan. That you support Rush Limbaugh for President and Glenn Beck for VP. Sarah Palin as Secretary of State ~ nice bod and legs...would go far with the Chinese and Arabs. Frankly I haven't spoken with any person who was considered middle class prior to the Bush Administration that didn't support quality healthcare for Americans'. After Bush our county has become two classes: Rich and poor!
Why are we considered a world leader when NATO alliance countries have healthcare. Canadians are content with their healthcare; they also can mail pharmaceuticals back to this county at a substantially reduced cost. Please explain why we could purchase drugs from Canada cheaper than here in NC when they are manufactured 68 miles away at the Research Triangle...recall when Bush cautioned Americans about buying drugs from Canada? Go to: http://www.opensecrets.org and see why the republicans voted against health care! They were bought out by the Insurance industry, hospital conglomerates, and the pharmaceutical industry.
And while you're at it, just put your Medicare card in an envelope and return it to the government who sponsors health care for ALL Americans since you are so adamantly opposed to government healthcare! Be sure to include all family members who have and are benefiting from Medicare.
RmeMP 3 years, 1 month ago
@nbmoore: I do consider myself a conservative republican actually, and I don't hold it against others to have differing views; but I would also like to let you know that I am not for the "elite" as you put it, and I assure you that am in no way myself wealthy - monetarily speaking. I pay my bills every month, to include several hundred dollars per month for healthcare. What I don't want to do is support other people who can not have control over themselves to live within their means. Would I like a bigger house, or nicer car than what I have? Of course, we all do; but unlike some people, I have found a way to be responsible and not look to my government to take care of me. I actually find myself on the lower end of the "middle class", so it's not a matter of being rich by any means - it's a matter of being an adult.
commonsense77 3 years, 1 month ago
So our duly elected officials voting is a sad day for democracy. Can someone explain to me how democracy is bad for democracy?
I guess in Mr. Rowerdink's world the people with the least number of votes should get their way..
None 3 years, 1 month ago
@RmeMP: I just have to respond to one comment of yours ~ tongue and cheek. I wouldn't buy a new car if I could afford one - I will drive my cars until the wheels fall off. Primarily because I would rather drive old than to pay one more red cent to county government in taxes on a new car. They tax it when you buy it, they collect taxes on inspections (yep that's right), they tax it when it's not running, and they tax it when you sell it. Not one red penny more from me! I am taxed drunk with ere!
RmeMP 3 years, 1 month ago
@toda: lol I hear ya :) By the phrase "a new car", I meant any kind of upgrade, to include buying one gently loved from a neighbor; as long as it's better then what I have, I consider it a new car:)
blessherheart 3 years, 1 month ago
Even if the majority as you all say did not want this bill; not all legislation is about the majority.
TheNeedle 3 years, 1 month ago
"Considering that this country isn't even a "democracy", last time I heard the pledge of allegiance it was a "republic", maybe you needle need to be the one reading. "
Perhaps you should read what you're writing. A "republic" is indeed what we have.That means elected representatives vote, and the majority wins. What you and Mr. R are whining about is that we didn't determine the fate of the health care legislation by polls.
In other words, you're unhappy we DON'T have a "form of government in which the people decide policy matters directly."
Coherence isn't a conservative value, apparently.
theonewithsense 3 years, 1 month ago
well, we will just have to fix the majority. The government taking over 1/5 of our economy should not be allowed by 51% of the vote. Next think you know they won't allow filibusters or they'll start taking over car companies or allow federal searches without warrants in the name of security...
publius 3 years, 1 month ago
It will be interesting to see what the majority feels about the legislation once they understand what it really is. Popular opinion has been fueled by innuendos, falsehoods, and misrepresentations: the polls reflect, in some measure, what people feel about what they think the bill is not what it really is. Pardon my bias, but I would like to hear Republicans explain what it is about the bill -- which is modeled in many ways on past Republican proposals -- that they exactly have a problem with (other than the fact that is was pushed by Democrats). The key word here, of course, is 'exactly'.
None 3 years, 1 month ago
@expatriate ~ yea the new model is amply named "The Kamikaze", just depress the pedal and hang on =>--------------!
@RmeMP ~ ironically MooCo will still hit you when the title is transferred. The next piece of legislation from Blake and Boles; if a vehicle is more than 10 years old, add an additional "antique" car tax, that way they keep up the tax value...;-)"
theonewithsense 3 years, 1 month ago
publius, did you read all 2000 pages or so of the bill? If not, I will not pardon your bias (ignorance). I don't believe many in congress completely and totally understand the bill. Until I understand exactly what a bill entails, I will not support it. I don't want my representative voting for a bill that they do not understand either.
Yukonjohn 3 years, 1 month ago
Hey ya'll, just know that there are places that have NO, or very little taxes!! I just went and switched a title to a pickup that I just bought from a friend for 5 grand. It cost me 15 dollars. No taxes, no registration frees, just 15 dollars for a title switch. We are so fortunate that we have no sales tax, no income tax, no vehicle tax, but we do have a minimal property tax. Ours is 11 mills. Alaska is a very fortunate place in that we have some money, and we enjoy many freedoms that America USED TO enjoy. Ya'll do have my best wishes, and hopes for better days ahead.
silentbob 3 years, 1 month ago
Then you and TODA would fit right in.
None 3 years, 1 month ago
@Yukonjohn ~ South Carolina doesn't collect taxes or require registration either. Gas is cheaper as well as state taxes. North Carolina is ranked 10th as one of the most taxed states in the nation. And according to the state auditor, we're running a deficit...go figure where all the tax revenue is being funneled.
lroberts22 3 years, 1 month ago
o dear...here we go with people complaining about taxes and how the rich should be taxed until they are poor! lets make everyone in the U.S. equal and give everyone a fair chance! its all a load of crap!! And take a look and how much they already pay before you start complaining about tax cuts. The wealthiest 1 percent pay over 60% of their income in taxes and that accounts for something like 97% of all taxes paid in the country. While the remaining 3%, 99% of that are paid by people who make over 250 thousand. so stop complaining. You know why those people are rich? They worked for it. They worked hard, possibly went to school, and hit the ground running when they got a good idea or found that dream job. I would go out on a limb and say that the majority of people that are poor either didn't graduate highschool or decided in highschool that they would slack off, skip class, not do their work, and barely pass with C's never going to college. Yes. there are those who get left by the wayside and that sucks for them but those are very few people in the grand scheme of things. I want to see more people taking some personal responsibility and stop relying on the government to solve all their problems. this healthcare bill was an abomination and i couldn't even watch when they started to chant 'yes we can, yes we can' it was the creepiest thing i have ever seen. Also if anyone can explain how this whole healthcare thing is going to work, like how they passed the bill but now they are gonna make changes to it and pass that? let me know. because my thing is...what if they dont pass the changes? Are we stuck with this abomination of a law that is in place right now? I mean really? Is that what our country is all about? Pass a bill into law that no one supports and say they are gonna make changes and dont? i hope it isnt true for the sake of not only my future but the future of all of our children.
TheNeedle 3 years, 1 month ago
"o dear...here we go with people complaining about taxes and how the rich should be taxed until they are poor! "
Who, exactly, has said this here? You're working yourself into a lather over something no one's saying.
TheNeedle 3 years, 1 month ago
I swear, I never knew there were this many raving paranoids in Moore County. I feel like I've wandered into some sort of lunatic asylum where people are arguing with the wallpaper.
Poundman 3 years, 1 month ago
I haven't read all the comments so this may be covered but I ask John if he has been listening to his buddies at "The Club' or actually reading the news. The actual poll results show the majority agree with the health care bill.
Now it's not a 75-25 majority but IT IS THE MAJORITY!
jp150 3 years, 1 month ago
Obama's approval rating is around 47? Congress has been running 20% or lower for several years The Health Care bill is 1,000 plus or 2,000 plus dependent upon how the house and senate version were reconciled The reform at last look was at 48% approval rating and slipping The system is broken. They all have to be replaced. www.goooh.com>
- Suggest removal
HeelsHoopFan 3 years, 1 month ago
The only mistake the Obama administration made was trying to reach across to the "Party of No" in the first place. They won the election and had the majority to pass landmark legislation. Nice try by all the far right talking heads who have been feeding the folks all this BS for so long that conservatives can hardly come up with an original thought without consulting with Brother Rush et al. Turn off your radio or turn the channel and listen to some music instead of this rhetoric that is 50% contrived to push your buttons.
Now let's get America back to work and pay people a "living wage" so our people can have a little something to look forward to in the future. Support our troops and the families they leave behind. They always get lost in the shuffle. Peace.
GeorgiaMan 3 years, 1 month ago
"From each according to their ability, To each according to their need"
Redistribute the wealth, make sure that eveyone gets the same, no higher class, middle class, no lower class - just all the same......except for the power elite of course (our political parties) because they know bette than us. I think it is time that people go to their bookshelves and reread "Big Brother", "Atlas Shrugged" and the manifesto of the Communist Party. Excuse me now the "Bureau of Equal Work for Equal Pay" just called and said my new "viewscreen" will be ready soon so I want miss their new special on " Lenin - The Misunderstood Man".
Comrade GeorgiaMan
TheNeedle 3 years, 1 month ago
If you can get through the turgid prose, endless hectoring monologues, and cardboard characters of Atlas Shrugged, you have far more patience than I.
The book isn't "Big Brother" by the way. It's "1984."
Which leads me to believe that you've actually read none of these works you're so fond of holding up as must reads.
None 3 years, 1 month ago
@lroberts22: Lewis check out this link I was telling you about: http://www.Fairtax.org
Then everyone including drug dealers, illegals, and those with off-shore accounts pay their fair share....
wixie 3 years, 1 month ago
@Toda: I dont always agree with you but on this Fairtax, Right on.. About time the drug dealers and illegals and all the others who escape their fair share pay up! I am for healthcare reform but it is sad it came this way, but the insurance companies ect.. sure had to know something had to give if they kept on the path they were on. It is shameful in a country that is supposedly so great the working poor can't afford insurance.
armytrucker 3 years, 1 month ago
Funny how this bill was supposed to provide health care to all Americans, or at least most and it was to make drug and health insurance companies more accountable to the American people. Yet it still makes it allowable for health insurance companies to deny health insurance for preexisting conditions for four more years and drug companies who create new medicines can charge exorbitant rates for 12 years because no competition is allowed for 12 years from those companies wanting to produce generic drug alternatives. Obama wanted his legacy first and actual health care second. Sounds like his election all over again.
nunya 3 years, 1 month ago
I have been a Registered Republican all of my life. I am very happy that health care has passed. I have finally had enough of the Republican Party and am going first thing in the morning to change my affiliation and from this day forward I will be voting a straight Democratic Ticket in every election. I voted for Obama by the way and will vote for him again and I believe he will go down in history as the greatest president this nation has ever seen.