Image 01

Obama Reconciliation Strategy Rallies Moderate Democrats

February 23rd, 2010 by AHFF Geoff

Democratic Senators are Rallying Around Obama's Health Plan and the Use of the Reconciliation Process

In the wake of the release of the 11 page Obama Health Plan, which clearly envisions the use of the parliamentary procedure known as reconciliation, moderate Democratic Senators who are on record opposing the use of reconciliation for Obamacare are now reversing themselves. Senators Evan Bayh (D-Ind.), Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), Ben Nelson (D-Ne.) and Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), who all previously stated their opposition to the reconciliation procedure, are signaling that their opposition to reconciliation is now waning. Additionally, some House Democrats who previously opposed the Senate bill are also softening their opposition. Both House and Senate Democrats appear both impressed by Obama’s release of his own plan as well as accepting the Obama Administration’s argument that a bad bill is better than no bill for Democratic electoral prospects in November 2010. Obama’s strategy to paint the GOP as obstructionists is also helping garner Democratic support for the use of reconciliation. Indeed, as Thursday’s health care summit approaches, the continual White House assertions of GOP intransigence on health care appear to be paying off by providing moderate Democrats political cover to abandon their prior anti-reconciliation stances.

Politico’s Carrie Budoff Brown reports:

An idea that seemed toxic only weeks ago — using a parliamentary tactic to ram health reform through the Senate — is gaining acceptance among moderate Democrats who have resisted the strategy but now say GOP opposition may force their hands.

The implications of the subtle shift among this small group of centrist senators could mean the difference between success and failure for health care reform — giving Democrats a potential road map for passing a bill that had been left for dead after the Massachusetts Senate defeat.

That mood in the Senate was matched Tuesday by a growing momentum for President Barack Obama’s health care proposal in the House, where Democrats were beginning to coalesce around the view that passing a flawed bill is better than passing none at all.

These shifts couldn’t come at a better time for Obama ahead of Thursday’s health care summit. The White House has signaled he’s prepared to use reconciliation, which would require just 51 votes to pass health reform.

The comments also seemed to reflect the early soundings of a Democratic strategy for selling the public on the tactic, especially if no Republicans sign on to Obama’s plan after the summit: The GOP made us do it.

“Obviously, if the minority is just frustrating the process, that argues for taking steps to get the public’s business done,” said Sen. Evan Bayh (D-Ind.), who was one of the leading voices against the procedure after the Massachusetts election, calling it “very ill-advised.”

“At the same time … Republicans would probably shut the place down, but you could argue they are doing that anyway,” Bayh said.

Bayh’s remarks Tuesday came a day after Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) cited Republican obstructionism as a reason why she could embrace the parliamentary maneuver to pass health care reform. Last month, she said she was leaning against reconciliation.

“I’m staying open to see how these negotiations go forward,” Landrieu said. “I’ve not generally been a big supporter, but the Republican Party, the leadership, has really been very, very, very disingenuous in this process.”

Sen. Ben Nelson (D-Neb.) said he doesn’t prefer reconciliation, but it may be the only way.

“I’d like to see as many votes as possible,” he said. “But at the end of the day, with the obstructionism going on at the level that it is, I’m more interested in what’s in the package than I am in the process of how many votes it takes to get it through.”

To be sure, the hints on reconciliation do not signal any kind of ironclad commitment. Democrats remain hesitant about using the procedure, fearful that Republicans will be successful in convincing voters that it is an end-run around the normal legislative process.

However, it is a mixed bag for Democrats in the past few days, as shown by Steny Hoyer’s comments earlier today that “[w]e may not be able to do” a comprehensive health care reform bill. Some moderate House Democrats also voiced disapproval with Obama’s new strategy, including Blue Dog leader Heath Shuler (D-Pa.) and Jason Altmire (D-Pa.). Considering today’s shift of moderate Democratic Senators towards supporting Obama’s plan to use reconciliation, the tougher battle for Obama may now lie with finding 218 votes from the House of Representatives, especially as perhaps as many as 60 Democratic House members are facing defeat in November 2010. The Associated Press outlines the importance of Thursday’s summit and the uncertainty of House passage:

If Obama fails on a comprehensive health care overhaul where Bill Clinton and other presidents failed before him, the chance won’t come around again anytime soon.

The whole endeavor will now rise or fall on Obama’s ability to sell his plan at the summit Thursday, and the reaction from lawmakers and the public in the days ahead.

Some rank-and-file Democrats were openly skeptical that the White House and congressional leaders could pull it off. Rep. Jason Altmire, D-Pa., a moderate who opposed the health legislation when it passed the House, questioned whether Speaker Nancy Pelosi could hang on to the votes that allowed her to get the bill through 220-215 in November. Since then a couple of Democrats have left the House, and Pelosi may also lose votes from anti-abortion Democrats who oppose the less restrictive abortion language in the Senate bill, which Obama kept in his plan.

“Is she going to be able to hold everybody that was for it before?” Altmire asked. “What about the marginal members in the middle who got hammered over this vote and would love a second chance to perhaps go against it?”

Be Sociable, Share!

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

147 Responses to “Obama Reconciliation Strategy Rallies Moderate Democrats”

  1. When I originally commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox and now each time a comment is added
    I get several e-mails with the same comment. Is there any way you can remove me from that service?

    Bless you!

  2. However, the prime benefit of buying DTCP approved plots in Bangalore is that it is safe and little risk on title.
    Some countries such as Spain, Germany and France for example
    offer attractive interest rates and payment schedules to buyers from other European nations and many countries offer mortgages to international purchasers who can provide a decent sized deposit.
    They are a great investment – and can indeed be very profitable in the long run.

  3. I am really thankful to the holder of this web site who has
    shared this enormous article at at this place.

  4. We’re a group of volunteers and opening a new scheme in our community.
    Your website provided us with valuable information to work on. You have done an impressive job and our entire community will be grateful to you.

  5. Pricing is something that requires a bit of polish in order to be successful.
    Modified Gross lease rates require the tenant to pay rent plus utilities,
    cleaning and interior maintenance. One thing that I’m not too crazy about is that personal property is only covered up to $5,000.

    Look into my weblog :: real estate license florida

  6. Yesterday, while I was at work, my cousin stole my iphone and tested to
    see if it can survive a thirty foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My apple ipad is now broken and she has 83 views.
    I know this is entirely off topic but I had to share it with someone!

    Feel free to surf to my page – ,wireless home security

  7. Compared to popular 2-piece bikinis or backless swimsuits,
    modest swimwear covers much more skin, yet still delivers a lot of style.
    But when an old favorite serves it’s purpose so
    simply and perfectly, many retro-inspired swimmers don’t feel the need
    to constantly update their style. February 27 – March 1,
    2011 – JA New York Winter Show:.

  8. Liliana says:

    Great post. I used to be checking constantly this weblog and I’m impressed!
    Very helpful information specifically the last section 🙂 I maintain such information much.
    I was seeking this certain information for a very
    lengthy time. Thanks and good luck.

  9. Brent says:

    Moreover, elders are far regular in paying their premiums.

    Six years ago I had a very unexpected situation occur.
    Choose the best pet insurance by their customer service department, not just the sales department.

    Here is my web page: cheapest pet insurance for dogs boulder (Brent)

  10. Many if not all the styles are fashionable, trendy and hip.
    The website will have a special section called “The Rainbow
    Connection“, which will serve as a social media site for children. Do you want to look your best and want the best bridal wear for yourself.

    Feel free to surf to my homepage … last minute celebrity dress up ideas

  11. boat says:

    Everyone loves what you guys tend to be up too. This type of clever work and exposure!

    Keep up the amazing works guys I’ve included you guys to our blogroll.

  12. I go to see daily some websites and blogs to read content,
    however this blog gives quality based writing.

    Feel free to visit my webpage … hair and salon scranton

  13. Most importantly ‘ Go with a result that you have seen on your friends or that suits your skin complexion. Similarly, the resin found in high quality resin wicker pool furniture is just as rugged and
    weather resistant. Normally I go ahead and use the Medium to Dark anyways because I just feel the Light is too
    light.

    Visit my page chloe sims dry shampoo

  14. I think the admin of this website is actually working hard in favor of his web site, as here every data is quality based information.

    my page – attorney and lawyer amarillo

  15. Fake Tans says:

    Find a company that handles every aspect of a woman’s appearance, including make-up, hair, dress style and body language.
    In order to get a rich and spotless tan while keeping your skin smooth and glowing,
    it is necessary to use the best quality tanning products.
    Of course, a fresh coconut cake is always a special treat at Christmastime,
    just as using coconut in the favorite holiday fruit salad of the
    south, Ambrosia.

    Here is my web blog – Fake Tans

  16. If you must use a credit card, take the budgeted amount as a cash advance.
    Give them some specific solutions to achieving higher levels of enquiry and inspections from
    the marketing effort. Once you have established your rental standards and are prepared
    with a lease, you are ready to locate a tenant.

    Feel free to surf to my blog … Investors Village

  17. Exclusive apparels cost more than the ordinary clothes.
    Militants dress themselves up in camouflage coats in such a way that it is hard to distinguish
    them from the surroundings. If you are confident, bodycon clothing can look absolutely amazing.

    Here is my blog post white plus size bodycon dress

  18. With just few dollars, you can achieve a golden-bronze tan and also manage
    to look gorgeous and hot. The most incredibly efficient solutions and options encompass a dynamic piece
    referred to as DHA. Back to your skin check, the first time you do the check be sure to take as many pictures as possible to
    show what your skin looks like.

    Feel free to surf to my web site :: st tropez fake tan mousse

  19. After looking into a number of the articles on your site, I truly like
    your way of blogging. I added it to my bookmark site list and will
    be checking back in the near future. Take a look at my web site as
    well and tell me your opinion.

  20. I am really thankful to the owner of this website who has
    shared this great piece of writing att at this time.

    Also visit mmy website habitaciones de matrimonio

  21. I’m curious to find out what blog system you have been working with?
    I’m experiencing some minor security issues with my latest blog and
    I would like to find something more secure. Do you have any solutions?

  22. Country-style macarons require whole almonds to be pounded with a mortar and pestle, resulting in chewier, heavily almond-flavored cookies.

    Coconut macaroons have a dense, chewy texture
    from the addition of coconut. You need to know one thing that this rich and delectable desert is not the one, which you can prepare at your home.

  23. There are many types of gifts that can be given for Father’s Day.
    For teens and adults, find out what the person’s hobbies or interests
    are. Now comes the second part; what you choose to give as a gift
    and what it signifies.

  24. I pay a visit every day some web pages and sites to read articles, except this website
    gives feature based posts.

    my webpage: http://melitingpottours.com

  25. shop health says:

    Уоu’ve made somе good pointѕ there. I looked on tɦe web foг
    mоге info аbout thе issue ɑnd found most people will ɡo alοng
    with ʏour views on this site.

  26. Madeleine says:

    It’s amazing to pay ɑ visit this site and reading the views οf all mates regarding thiѕ article,
    ԝhile I ɑm also zealous of ցetting familiarity.

  27. Climb up the ladders of success with promotional
    gifts having your company logo from Ideasbynet. For this reason, most of
    the companies like the above mentioned are desperately waiting to revert to the
    request they receive for baby free gifts or baby gifts online.
    Subscribe to the Sales & Deals Examiner for instant email updates on more last-minute holiday deals.

  28. I am really happy to read this website posts ԝhich consists of lots of valuable
    factѕ, thanks for providing ѕuch data.

  29. This is considered to be the main risk with rhinoplasty and it accounts for 5-15%
    of the cases that cause revision surgery as based on studies.
    However, apart from beauty purposes, nose jobs are also used to correct
    problems that might have occurred due to a misshapen nose,
    such as breathing. Information You Should Know About Plastic Surgery
    is another excellent instance of this.

    My weblog :: Breast Augmentation Clearwater

  30. non surgical vaginal rejuvenation

    Obama Reconciliation Strategy Rallies Moderate Democrats | CentristNet

  31. Thank you a bunch for sharing this with all people you actually know what
    you’re talking approximately! Bookmarked. Kindly
    also visit my website =). We can have a link change contract between us

  32. Please let me know if you’re looking for a author for your weblog.
    You have some really good articles and I think I would be a good asset.

    If you ever want to take some of the load off, I’d love
    to write some content for your blog in exchange for a link back to mine.
    Please shoot me an email if interested. Thanks!

    Stop by my site … war thunder golden eagles hack

  33. Hello! I’m at work browsing your blog from my new iphone 4!
    Just wanted to say I love reading your blog and look forward to all your
    posts! Carry on the excellent work!

  34. Can you tell us more about this? I’d like to find out
    some additional information.

  35. With havin so much content and articles do you ever run into any problems of plagorism or copyright infringement? My site has a lot of exclusive content I’ve either created myself or outsourced but it seems a lot of it is popping it up all over the web without my agreement. Do you know any methods to help prevent content from being ripped off? I’d certainly appreciate it.
    sosdatenrettung http://www.sos-datenrettung.com/

  36. danskin yoga says:

    I do not leave many comments, however i did some searching and wound up
    here Obama Reconciliation Strategy Rallies Moderate Democrats | CentristNet.
    And I do have 2 questions for you if you usually do
    not mind. Could it be simply me or does it seem like a few
    of the comments look as if they are written by brain dead people?
    😛 And, if you are writing on additional online social sites, I’d like to keep
    up with anything fresh you have to post. Could you list of the complete urls of your
    social pages like your linkedin profile, Facebook page
    or twitter feed?

  37. Longchamps.Fr Trousse Longchamps cHlGH I possessori del biglietto Eh
    garantiti posti a sedere e personale del parco è a disposizione per aiutare in caso di
    problemi. Stampare i biglietti a casa è su entrambi
    i lati di visitatori fuori dalla zona di San Francisco Bay.

    Sac Longchamp 4×4 Sac Longchamp Bandouliere Pas Cher xgETk Se volete
    unirvi donne si avvicina la scadenza periodo, Williams probabilmente sentirsi a proprio agio a piedi il corso più difficile da spostare ed evitare l’esercizio a
    un livello che li incoraggia. Martedì e Giovedi mattina nel
    villaggio di Venezia, il signor Williams conduce la classe in un livello uno, Level Two offre alcune delle classi di Boot Camp per i bambini
    locali, anche se la maggior parte sono Level One.. Longchamps.Fr Cabas Longchamp pcPHP Versione
    stomaco attraversato mi ha tenuto al mio posto. Il seguente prezzo 13 minerale a Tokyo, ho provato
    di tutto, Bridget Jones dice a The Wedding Planner ha scritto un cittadino più gente viveva la password magazine.
    Valise Cabine Longchamp Sacs Longchamps En Solde FeWss Lui è
    un grande sostenitore della Komen, dal momento che sua madre
    è un sopravvissuto al cancro al seno e ha combattuto la malattia negli ultimi 20 anni.
    Ha entusiasta che lei sta per festeggiare il suo 80 ° compleanno.
    Maroquinerie Longchamps Sacs Longchamps En Solde CwpCL
    Buy Cheap Canon 200DG Fotocamera Digitale Gadget Bag
    Ci sforziamo di offrire ai nostri clienti una grande esperienza di shopping ogni tempo e ogni passo del cammino.

    Offriamo la più grande selezione di prodotti e giochiamo
    al prezzo più basso, in particolare Canon 200DG fotocamera digitale borsa gadget nero, in modo da essere sicuri di acquistare con noi.

    Sac Longchamp Pliage Prix Sac Longchamp Nouvelle Collection aeDkE Quindi, per migliorare il gioco mentale?
    In primo luogo, è necessario superare programmazione negativa.
    Se non si riesce a venire a voi. Prix Sac A Main Longchamp Goelia Saint Francois Longchamp RFqRb Come gettare
    un comunicato balla il mio lavoro era sollevarlo e gettarlo hyvogn. Torna alla stalla ero
    nelle get palle transportbnd soffitta e li butto in un buco che ha fatto pila
    ordinata. Prix Longchamps Sac A Main Longchamp Pas Cher Dsyrk Nel settore della moda, Christian Louboutin Outlet è sinonimo di
    alta moda e qualità. La mia vera passione, scarpe da basket, scarpe sportive, in possesso di diverse paia di scarpe che ci si può fidare.

  38. This paragraph will assist the internet people for setting up new
    web site or even a blog from start to end.

  39. Jung says:

    Can I just say what a relief to uncover a person that actually understands
    what they’re talking about on the web. You certainly understand how to bring an issue to light and make it important.
    More and more people need to read this and understand this side of
    your story. I was surprised that you aren’t more
    popular given that you surely possess the gift.

  40. I read this post completely on the topic of the difference of latest and preceding technologies, it’s remarkable article.

    My web-site: steam wallet codes (inshadnews.com)

  41. SBO says:

    You really make it seem so easy together with your presentation but I to find this matter to be really something that I
    feel I might never understand. It seems too complicated and very large
    for me. I’m taking a look ahead on your next
    submit, I will attempt to get the cling of it!

    Take a look at my weblog: SBO

  42. Maricruz says:

    Very nice write-up. I absolutely love this
    site. Keep writing!

  43. Chana says:

    It’s a shame you don’t have a donate button! I’d most certainly donate to this brilliant
    blog! I suppose for now i’ll settle for book-marking and adding your RSS feed to my Google
    account. I look forward to fresh updates and will
    share this blog with my Facebook group. Talk soon!

  44. I’m no longer certain the place you’re getting
    your info, but good topic. I must spend a while studying more or understanding more.

    Thanks for excellent information I was looking for this info for my mission.

  45. Trying to make your body, and apply to the effective
    oily natural oily skin treatment skin and clogged,
    which is a powerful anti-inflammatory action from white
    willow. I really can’t use a colored loose setting powder, or the way you eat for
    one to produce even more oil produced by our friends at TheBeautyBean.

  46. It’s a shame you don’t have a donate button! I’d definitely donate to this fantastic blog!
    I guess for now i’ll settle for bookmarking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account.
    I look forward to brand new updates and will talk about this website with my
    Facebook group. Talk soon!

  47. little paint says:

    little paint

    Obama Reconciliation Strategy Rallies Moderate Democrats | CentristNet

  48. order advanced garcinia

    Obama Reconciliation Strategy Rallies Moderate Democrats | CentristNet

  49. estate planning Attorney duluth mn

    Obama Reconciliation Strategy Rallies Moderate Democrats | CentristNet

  50. Wow! Finmally I got a webpage from where I know how to in fact get
    helpful information concerning myy study and knowledge.

    My web page create a website for your business

Leave a Reply