| Dear Mr. President:
While I am a mere citizen that posts my thoughts on the current state of Louisiana politics, I feel that it's time you heard from a member of the Democratic wing of the Democratic party here in Louisiana. God knows you ain't gonna hear this coming from Congressman Melancon nor Senator Landrieu, as they are afraid of the right wing attack machine that exists here in Louisiana.
You campaigned, Mr. President, on health care reform:
"The very first promise I made on this campaign was that as president, I will sign a universal health care plan into law by the end of my first term in office."
It has been announced by the Congressional Budget Office that the health care bill passed by Senator Kennedy's Senate committee - the Affordable Health Choices Act - will cost $611 billion over 10 years, a significant reduction from earlier estimates cited by Republicans.
Mr. President, I know that up in Washington, it seems that the political reality is that health care reform that includes a public option without a trigger cannot pass the Senate. That may be ... as I'm not well versed in the daily happenings in that exclusive club.
But what I do know is that there is widespread support for a public option amongst your bosses, the American people:
- The memo cited a CBS poll from September 1st, (pdf alert) saying it found strong support for action. What does it say on the public plan? Sixty percent support, 34% oppose.
- The memo cited a CNN poll done through August 31st, (pdf alert)saying it found deep public dismay with the system. What does it say on the public plan? Fifty-five percent support, 41% oppose.
- The memo cited a Kaiser poll from August 11th, saying it found overwhelming support for consumer protections. What does it say on the public plan? Fifty nine percent support, 38% oppose.
Guess what ... those polling numbers are higher than yours, Mr. President.
Your numbers are falling, because the public doesn't see you leading, sir. In that speech you give on Wednesday night, I hope and pray that you see the wisdom of calling on Congress to pass the Affordable Health Choices Act with the public option included. I bet if you do, you'll see your approval numbers rise again ... and you'll reward every one of your supporters from the campaign last year for their faith in you. Even here in Louisiana.
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