Comments on: Clinton lays in to critic at forum http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/ All politics, all the time Mon, 21 Dec 2009 22:07:36 +0000 http://wordpress.com/ hourly 1 By: Harry, Niagra Falls http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-110723 Harry, Niagra Falls Wed, 24 Oct 2007 06:28:20 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-110723 I currently live in canada where we have universal healthcare "sort of" It is a waste, anyone who needs real surgery just heads to the US anyway. Dont be stupid, universal healthcare will never make it through congress.... I currently live in canada where we have universal healthcare "sort of"

It is a waste, anyone who needs real surgery just heads to the US anyway.

Dont be stupid, universal healthcare will never make it through congress....

]]> By: Lewis County Democrats Blog http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-39051 Lewis County Democrats Blog Wed, 15 Aug 2007 01:55:10 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-39051 [...] >>Read More  Posted in Democrats, Hillary Clinton | [...] [...] >>Read More  Posted in Democrats, Hillary Clinton | [...]

]]> By: Yao, Boston MA http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37759 Yao, Boston MA Mon, 13 Aug 2007 17:44:51 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37759 This situation along with people's reactions to it have demonstrated what I feel to be characteristic of American politics today. Elections and politics isn't concerned so much with the absolute unvarnished truth, but rather the presentation and spin of that truth to serve a specific purpose. My impression is that the majority of American voters will not be basing their voting preferences on personal careful study of candidates' positions, or personal readings of candidates' published plans. How many among the people who have commented here are 1) willing to read through a 50 page policy proposal on healthcare reform, 2) if willing, able to understand and synthesize information contained to inform his/her personal opinion of the plan's efficacy? That is not to say that there aren't many voters who would do that, just not the majority in my opinion. In light of this, along with biased media coverage obssessed with the soundbyte, how can candidates seriously expect to explain the intricacies and subtleties of their positions to the majority of voters? It is impossible for them to have Q&A sessions with even a small fraction of voters, and therefore are forced to reach most through 10 second bytes in the news, 30 second commercials, and by way of print/internet median and the deluge of bloggers all of whom color the truth with their perspective. Add to this the fact that the in the current political environment of the country, where in the past 8 years, ideological and political divisions have become so salient, people so firmly entrenched in their us versus them mentality that discussion and compromise seem to be impossible. In this particular case of healthcare reform, why are people so antagonistic towards different points of view? The way I see it, one basic truth is that there are millions of uninsured or under-insured in this country, and even those who are insured, are sometimes victims of inefficiency and bureacracy. Another basic truth is that no system will be perfect, people inevitably get left out. The question we face is of 1) in what way can we change the system institutionally and 2) how much will it cost and finally 3) are we willing to pay that cost? If you were to ask people whether they supported making sure healthcare was available to everyone, I imagine most if not all would say yes. But if you asked them how much they were personally willing to pay or sacrifice, I imagine the answers would differ wildly. There are so many nuances in possible answers to those questions but the ability of candidates to explore them are constrained by the environment they are forced to operate under, when one sentence, one uttered suggestion, can spell instant condemnation. Unfortunately, the spin machine that runs political campaigns and the American voter's susceptibility to it make innovation impossible. This situation along with people's reactions to it have demonstrated what I feel to be characteristic of American politics today.

Elections and politics isn't concerned so much with the absolute unvarnished truth, but rather the presentation and spin of that truth to serve a specific purpose. My impression is that the majority of American voters will not be basing their voting preferences on personal careful study of candidates' positions, or personal readings of candidates' published plans. How many among the people who have commented here are 1) willing to read through a 50 page policy proposal on healthcare reform, 2) if willing, able to understand and synthesize information contained to inform his/her personal opinion of the plan's efficacy? That is not to say that there aren't many voters who would do that, just not the majority in my opinion. In light of this, along with biased media coverage obssessed with the soundbyte, how can candidates seriously expect to explain the intricacies and subtleties of their positions to the majority of voters? It is impossible for them to have Q&A sessions with even a small fraction of voters, and therefore are forced to reach most through 10 second bytes in the news, 30 second commercials, and by way of print/internet median and the deluge of bloggers all of whom color the truth with their perspective.

Add to this the fact that the in the current political environment of the country, where in the past 8 years, ideological and political divisions have become so salient, people so firmly entrenched in their us versus them mentality that discussion and compromise seem to be impossible.

In this particular case of healthcare reform, why are people so antagonistic towards different points of view? The way I see it, one basic truth is that there are millions of uninsured or under-insured in this country, and even those who are insured, are sometimes victims of inefficiency and bureacracy. Another basic truth is that no system will be perfect, people inevitably get left out. The question we face is of 1) in what way can we change the system institutionally and 2) how much will it cost and finally 3) are we willing to pay that cost? If you were to ask people whether they supported making sure healthcare was available to everyone, I imagine most if not all would say yes. But if you asked them how much they were personally willing to pay or sacrifice, I imagine the answers would differ wildly. There are so many nuances in possible answers to those questions but the ability of candidates to explore them are constrained by the environment they are forced to operate under, when one sentence, one uttered suggestion, can spell instant condemnation. Unfortunately, the spin machine that runs political campaigns and the American voter's susceptibility to it make innovation impossible.

]]> By: Tricia M Charlottetown PEI http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37605 Tricia M Charlottetown PEI Mon, 13 Aug 2007 12:22:43 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37605 TERRY Drayton Valley Alberta : I don't know why your paying 40% plus in taxes due to having Government Sponsored/Medicare Health Care?? I have relatives in Alberta who do not pay 40% plus! I live in PEI Canada and I sure do not pay 40% plus in taxes to have Medicare. In fact one stay in a US hospital would likely triple my yearly tax amount! These are the facts with our PEI Medicare Coverage as I know them: I only take the time to list this information because I feel it would be regretable for Americans to pass up Government Subsidized Health Care due to being ill informed. If the Plan your politicians are speaking about is the same or similar as our Medicare Coverage you have much to gain and nothing to lose. Dr. Visits, Surgeries, Blood tests, Pap tests, Mammograms, Cat Scans, MRI Scans,Yearly Physicals, Transfussions, Hospital Stays and Care in regualar units, ICU or Progressive Care, Maternity Care and Delivery, Gynecologists appts,Bone Density X-Rays,General X-Rays,All Lab Work/Follow Ups/Treatments,Cancer Treatments/Chemo Therapy/Radiation,Out Patient Service and Emergency Services/Treatments, Referrals to Out of Province Specialists and treatments, Night Clinic Services, Kidney Dialysis, Surgically Implanted Pace Makers, are covered under Medicare. Physican Prescribed Dieticians for Heart Healthy/Diabetic/Celiac/ Consultations and Menu Plans are also Covered. Cost of drugs: Covered for Government Assisted Citizens. Senior Citizens have a Green Card Government Plan reducing prescription costs and eye exams. Middle Income Brackets can purchase Corporate Plans covering prescription costs, eye and dental care,Semi and Private Hospital Accomodations while still being elligible for the above Medicare coverage. I have purchased such a plan and my cost is not $400. per mo. I pay $135 per mo/for a family of two. If your work place has Employee Benefit Plan Packages you can enroll and still have the same services as above covered by Medicare. Those stating that in Canada: waiting times are six months and longer - IS UNTRUE where I live. Critical and Life Threatening Surgeries are given priority. All other Surgeries have a two week to one month waiting period. TERRY Drayton Valley Alberta :

I don't know why your paying 40% plus in taxes due to having Government Sponsored/Medicare Health Care?? I have relatives in Alberta who do not pay 40% plus! I live in PEI Canada and I sure do not pay 40% plus in taxes to have Medicare. In fact one stay in a US hospital would likely triple my yearly tax amount!

These are the facts with our PEI Medicare Coverage as I know them:
I only take the time to list this information because I feel it would
be regretable for Americans to pass up Government Subsidized Health Care
due to being ill informed. If the Plan your politicians are speaking about is
the same or similar as our Medicare Coverage you have much to gain and nothing to lose.

Dr. Visits, Surgeries, Blood tests, Pap tests, Mammograms, Cat Scans,
MRI Scans,Yearly Physicals, Transfussions, Hospital Stays and Care in regualar units, ICU or Progressive Care, Maternity Care and Delivery, Gynecologists appts,Bone Density X-Rays,General X-Rays,All Lab Work/Follow Ups/Treatments,Cancer Treatments/Chemo Therapy/Radiation,Out Patient Service and Emergency Services/Treatments, Referrals to Out of Province Specialists and treatments,
Night Clinic Services, Kidney Dialysis, Surgically Implanted Pace Makers, are covered under Medicare.
Physican Prescribed Dieticians for
Heart Healthy/Diabetic/Celiac/ Consultations and Menu Plans are also Covered.

Cost of drugs: Covered for Government Assisted Citizens. Senior Citizens have a Green Card Government Plan reducing prescription costs and eye exams. Middle Income Brackets can purchase Corporate Plans covering prescription costs, eye and dental care,Semi and Private Hospital Accomodations while still being elligible for the above Medicare coverage. I have purchased such a plan and my cost is not $400. per mo. I pay $135 per mo/for a family of two. If your work place has Employee Benefit Plan Packages you can enroll and still have the same services as above covered by Medicare.

Those stating that in Canada: waiting times are six months and longer – IS UNTRUE where I live. Critical and Life Threatening Surgeries are given priority. All other Surgeries have a two week to one month waiting period.

]]> By: Jeff Ronthi, Commerce, MI http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37509 Jeff Ronthi, Commerce, MI Mon, 13 Aug 2007 02:18:32 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37509 He turned down an oppurtunity to have a one on one with her? What a journalist. Any blogger would have been jumping at the chance. Bottom line: He has his position on health care; she has hers. Neither can have their minds changed. He just wanted to take a shot at her. He's obviously not a pro. He turned down an oppurtunity to have a one on one with her? What a journalist. Any blogger would have been jumping at the chance.

Bottom line: He has his position on health care; she has hers. Neither can have their minds changed. He just wanted to take a shot at her.
He's obviously not a pro.

]]> By: A. Thomas, New York, NY http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37453 A. Thomas, New York, NY Mon, 13 Aug 2007 00:00:55 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37453 Hillary beats Obama hands down in terms of her experiences in: a) Domestic and international politics - Obama would unilaterally invade Pakistan, and sit with foreign dictators, YECK! b) Critical thinking skills while staning on own feet - This is clear in Hillary's last two NCNN debates. c) Presidential & leadership quality - During the CNN debates, she praied other democratic candidtes in general and Biden and Richardson in particular, while other candidates are bashing others. Accoridng to most recent polls. Hilliary is gaining support, while Obama is losing grounds. She is winnng, while the Obama supporters are whinning! To know her is to love her. Granted, Hillary has flaws, but they are too few to mention. No one is perfect, and she has been around for decades that some people may feel jealous of her. Familiarity (to Hiliary) breeds contempt, and distance (to Obama) lends enchantment. In my view, Hillary is the BEST of all presidential candidates of america, democrats or republicans. She has my vote, my wife's votes, my daughters' votes, and a good role model for all my grand-daughters! Hilary rocks. You go girl! Hillary beats Obama hands down in terms of her experiences in:

a) Domestic and international politics – Obama would unilaterally invade Pakistan, and sit with foreign dictators, YECK!

b) Critical thinking skills while staning on own feet – This is clear in Hillary's last two NCNN debates.

c) Presidential & leadership quality – During the CNN debates, she praied other democratic candidtes in general and Biden and Richardson in particular, while other candidates are bashing others.

Accoridng to most recent polls. Hilliary is gaining support, while Obama is losing grounds. She is winnng, while the Obama supporters are whinning! To know her is to love her.

Granted, Hillary has flaws, but they are too few to mention. No one is perfect, and she has been around for decades that some people may feel jealous of her. Familiarity (to Hiliary) breeds contempt, and distance (to Obama) lends enchantment.

In my view, Hillary is the BEST of all presidential candidates of america, democrats or republicans.

She has my vote, my wife's votes, my daughters' votes, and a good role model for all my grand-daughters!

Hilary rocks. You go girl!

]]> By: Kate M, Los Angeles, CA http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37443 Kate M, Los Angeles, CA Sun, 12 Aug 2007 23:42:06 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-37443 This Roland Martin is a OBama presidential "campaign worker", promoting Obama in his CNN TV shows & commentaries. CNN should not give this "journalist" a forum to promote his biased views in nick picking Hillary Clinton. In my view, in comparision with Hillary, Obama has much much more flaws that Roland Martin has failed to point them out. I guess both blacks and from chicago helps. This Roland Martin is a OBama presidential "campaign worker", promoting Obama in his CNN TV shows & commentaries. CNN should not give this "journalist" a forum to promote his biased views in nick picking Hillary Clinton. In my view, in comparision with Hillary, Obama has much much more flaws that Roland Martin has failed to point them out.

I guess both blacks and from chicago helps.

]]> By: Dozie, Blackwood NJ http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-36872 Dozie, Blackwood NJ Sat, 11 Aug 2007 23:25:52 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-36872 Clinton's response perfect! Ashanti should really get educated. To suggest that "socialized healthcare" or whatever name you choose to call it, will hurt blacks more is absolute nonsense! Rather the converse is the truth. The very poor will benefit best (white or black), and the influence of personal wealth or privilege will be diluted. It is probably not the best system (as it will at least hurt the earnings of healthcare workers, since I belong to this league), but it is a system sure to guarantee coverage for every American. More Americans need to have access to the best healthcare system in the world that the United States possesses. Forget political rhetoric, people like Ashanti should stop misinforming people, enlighten themselves and provide us with unbiased information with Clinton's planned healthcare reform and its similarity or differences with other first world countries where this same system has worked or failed. Clinton's response perfect! Ashanti should really get educated. To suggest that "socialized healthcare" or whatever name you choose to call it, will hurt blacks more is absolute nonsense! Rather the converse is the truth. The very poor will benefit best (white or black), and the influence of personal wealth or privilege will be diluted. It is probably not the best system (as it will at least hurt the earnings of healthcare workers, since I belong to this league), but it is a system sure to guarantee coverage for every American. More Americans need to have access to the best healthcare system in the world that the United States possesses. Forget political rhetoric, people like Ashanti should stop misinforming people, enlighten themselves and provide us with unbiased information with Clinton's planned healthcare reform and its similarity or differences with other first world countries where this same system has worked or failed.

]]> By: Bill , Bloomington Il http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-36427 Bill , Bloomington Il Sat, 11 Aug 2007 16:48:56 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-36427 are people upset that Ms Clinton appears to be racist? If a white man from the republican party had said this there would be big accusations. are people upset that Ms Clinton appears to be racist? If a white man from the republican party had said this there would be big accusations.

]]> By: martygrn http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-36358 martygrn Sat, 11 Aug 2007 15:59:07 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-36358 I have sent to all the candidates for president a rather lengthy discussion of what is wrong with the system and how to fix it. I clearly point out why single-payer healthcare will not work and invite them to discuss my points with me. I am an RN who works in a Pediatric ICU, so I know the workings of the system from inside. How many have answered my email? none, not one. Most, I just end up on their campaign mailing list asking for donations. Even requesting donations ON THE BASIS of the fact they promote single-payer healthcare. Basically, they have their ideas and are not open to true discussion and debate, period. I have sent to all the candidates for president a rather lengthy discussion of what is wrong with the system and how to fix it. I clearly point out why single-payer healthcare will not work and invite them to discuss my points with me. I am an RN who works in a Pediatric ICU, so I know the workings of the system from inside. How many have answered my email? none, not one. Most, I just end up on their campaign mailing list asking for donations. Even requesting donations ON THE BASIS of the fact they promote single-payer healthcare. Basically, they have their ideas and are not open to true discussion and debate, period.

]]> By: Kim, Pueblo, CO http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-36296 Kim, Pueblo, CO Sat, 11 Aug 2007 15:23:15 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-36296 It's disgusting how many times Clinton gets slammed on her attempts at coming up with a solution for the uninsured problem in the United States. Uninsured people in this country pose a huge problem; not only for themselves when the bills come in, but also for the hospitals who have to carry the burden. Do you think most people understand the importance of this issue? I don't. Not until they are in a hospital bed asking how they are going to pay the bill. Then it becomes important. Stop bashing Clinton for trying. It's more than anyone else has done or attempted to do. How simple minded to say "stop taxing the crap out of people...let them keep their money and make their own decisions." To think that is absolutely ridiculous. People generally don't make a decision to purchase health insurance..who are you trying to kid? It's disgusting how many times Clinton gets slammed on her attempts at coming up with a solution for the uninsured problem in the United States. Uninsured people in this country pose a huge problem; not only for themselves when the bills come in, but also for the hospitals who have to carry the burden.

Do you think most people understand the importance of this issue? I don't. Not until they are in a hospital bed asking how they are going to pay the bill. Then it becomes important. Stop bashing Clinton for trying. It's more than anyone else has done or attempted to do. How simple minded to say "stop taxing the crap out of people...let them keep their money and make their own decisions." To think that is absolutely ridiculous. People generally don't make a decision to purchase health insurance..who are you trying to kid?

]]> By: sulochanosho http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35957 sulochanosho Sat, 11 Aug 2007 04:29:52 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35957 When I went through the reported tough exchange of words here, it made me feel that Sen. Hillary Clinton is no more a lady of freedom and fragrance but of high-dom and arrogance. Bulls and hills are inComments are moderated by CNN, in accordance with the CNN Comment Policy, and may not appear on this blog until they have been reviewed and deemed appropriate for posting. Also, due to the volume of comments we receive, not all comments will be posted. Comments that do not include your name, city and state will not be posted. the forefront. When I went through the reported tough exchange of words here, it made me feel that Sen. Hillary Clinton is no more a lady of freedom and fragrance but of high-dom and arrogance. Bulls and hills are inComments are moderated by CNN, in accordance with the CNN Comment Policy, and may not appear on this blog until they have been reviewed and deemed appropriate for posting. Also, due to the volume of comments we receive, not all comments will be posted.

Comments that do not include your name, city and state will not be posted.

the forefront.

]]> By: Rachel, Charleston IL http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35924 Rachel, Charleston IL Sat, 11 Aug 2007 03:32:00 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35924 Wow. Well, maybe she has had to do some hard thinking in the years since she proposed "Hillarycare." I've never seen her incensed like this -- reminds me of her husband's interview on Fox with Chris Wallace. But she held her ground just as well. Still, I agree it's annoying that she makes such an issue -- as does everyone else -- of the loaded term "socialized healthcare." It is what it is. Also - a serious question; I'm underinformed: How does universal healthcare hurt the poor and minorities? Wow. Well, maybe she has had to do some hard thinking in the years since she proposed "Hillarycare." I've never seen her incensed like this - reminds me of her husband's interview on Fox with Chris Wallace. But she held her ground just as well.

Still, I agree it's annoying that she makes such an issue - as does everyone else - of the loaded term "socialized healthcare." It is what it is.

Also – a serious question; I'm underinformed: How does universal healthcare hurt the poor and minorities?

]]> By: Jen Columbus, Ohio http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35907 Jen Columbus, Ohio Sat, 11 Aug 2007 03:15:08 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35907 On a side note: I'm glad the majority of the people posting here articulated the need for more information. The American public would be much better served by clear, concise information rather than the he said/she said political rhetoric. The latter gets us nowhere but voting along party lines. Demand more information and vote for the person, not the party, you think will be a tremendous leader. On a side note: I'm glad the majority of the people posting here articulated the need for more information. The American public would be much better served by clear, concise information rather than the he said/she said political rhetoric. The latter gets us nowhere but voting along party lines. Demand more information and vote for the person, not the party, you think will be a tremendous leader.

]]> By: John from America http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35839 John from America Sat, 11 Aug 2007 01:45:11 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35839 Health care in America is so profit driven that the vast majority of Americans are being deprived of equal access to good health care. And what do you "GOP fools" advocate - free market - if your rich you can get healthy! It seems like any other solution for the majority of Americans is "socialistic" - really?" Well majority rules in this country and "bs" aside the GOP has no solution other than "us rich folks deserve better". Left wing my behind, you rich folks are sick in the head - GOP = "Greedy Old People" It's time the majority took control of this country! Health care in America is so profit driven that the vast majority of Americans are being deprived of equal access to good health care. And what do you "GOP fools" advocate – free market – if your rich you can get healthy! It seems like any other solution for the majority of Americans is "socialistic" – really?" Well majority rules in this country and "bs" aside the GOP has no solution other than "us rich folks deserve better". Left wing my behind, you rich folks are sick in the head – GOP = "Greedy Old People" It's time the majority took control of this country!

]]> By: Gert Jan van Wateringen, Groningen, The Netherlands http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35828 Gert Jan van Wateringen, Groningen, The Netherlands Sat, 11 Aug 2007 01:16:28 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35828 I don't get many Americans. But many Americans don't get politics as well. We all can slam down Hillary Clinton, but isn't it true that America needs at least a more progressive Washington? More progressive politics? A more progressive-minded White House? Here in Holland, we enjoy a magnificent infrastructure: cycling lanes, burried electrical wires and cables, excellent bridge structures, dikes and impressive Delta Works. Alas, the American government seems incapable of bringing good solutions to these problems. Here on Dutch news we see: collapsing bridges in America, exploding steam sewers in NYC and a city, called New Orleans, that isn't properly protected by dams and dikes. The same goes with social health care system in Holland. The government subsidizes a lot........to good result. Everyone in Holland is compulsorily insured and will get a minimum wage from our government. Result: We don't get life-threatening situations in our hospitals when it comes down to people who are underinsured for social health care. Alas that is not the case in the Unites States of America. Please give her a chance. During the days of his husband's reign, she tried to do something about it, but she met with great opposition from right-wing politics. Hillary Clinton wants to do something about it.........and being a president, together with democratic majorities in both Senate and House, she will get excellent instruments to finally solve these social health care problems One thing is for sure: The more to the right you go into the political spectrum, the less people really want to solve these kind of health care problems. So don't get high hopes on Romney or Giuiliani for solving these problems. I don't get many Americans. But many Americans don't get politics as well.

We all can slam down Hillary Clinton, but isn't it true that America needs at least a more progressive Washington? More progressive politics? A more progressive-minded White House?

Here in Holland, we enjoy a magnificent infrastructure: cycling lanes, burried electrical wires and cables, excellent bridge structures, dikes and impressive Delta Works. Alas, the American government seems incapable of bringing good solutions to these problems. Here on Dutch news we see: collapsing bridges in America, exploding steam sewers in NYC and a city, called New Orleans, that isn't properly protected by dams and dikes.

The same goes with social health care system in Holland. The government subsidizes a lot........to good result. Everyone in Holland is compulsorily insured and will get a minimum wage from our government. Result: We don't get life-threatening situations in our hospitals when it comes down to people who are underinsured for social health care.

Alas that is not the case in the Unites States of America. Please give her a chance. During the days of his husband's reign, she tried to do something about it, but she met with great opposition from right-wing politics. Hillary Clinton wants to do something about it.........and being a president, together with democratic majorities in both Senate and House, she will get excellent instruments to finally solve these social health care problems

One thing is for sure: The more to the right you go into the political spectrum, the less people really want to solve these kind of health care problems. So don't get high hopes on Romney or Giuiliani for solving these problems.

]]> By: Grant, Kirkland, WA http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35776 Grant, Kirkland, WA Fri, 10 Aug 2007 23:37:24 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35776 Any system which requires the majority (taxpayers) to pay for benefits given to the minority IS socialized. That's the very definition of the word! It's no different than any of the other entitlement systems that are ruining this country. We already have socialized health care in this country, and it is dreadful. Medicare and Medicaid are a joke, and they are far too costly for far too little benefit. Requiring employers to provide insurance is also a mistake. It raises the price of health care, since hospitals know they can charge the maximum, and it forces employers to cut costs anywhere they can, shipping our jobs overseas. I think the only person I've seen who actually has a plan for health care that has a chance of working is Ron Paul. We need to decouple insurance and employment, allow people to decide for themselves, and drive down costs. Instead of forcing me to pay a tax, then using that tax to pay for my health care, give me that money back and let me make my own decision on how I want to be treated. Any system which requires the majority (taxpayers) to pay for benefits given to the minority IS socialized. That's the very definition of the word! It's no different than any of the other entitlement systems that are ruining this country. We already have socialized health care in this country, and it is dreadful. Medicare and Medicaid are a joke, and they are far too costly for far too little benefit. Requiring employers to provide insurance is also a mistake. It raises the price of health care, since hospitals know they can charge the maximum, and it forces employers to cut costs anywhere they can, shipping our jobs overseas. I think the only person I've seen who actually has a plan for health care that has a chance of working is Ron Paul. We need to decouple insurance and employment, allow people to decide for themselves, and drive down costs. Instead of forcing me to pay a tax, then using that tax to pay for my health care, give me that money back and let me make my own decision on how I want to be treated.

]]> By: Robert A. Payton III, Mobile Alabama http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35750 Robert A. Payton III, Mobile Alabama Fri, 10 Aug 2007 22:57:10 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35750 Now this is the type of response Americans and the world for that matter want to see from candidates. The passion in Hillary's voice on the subject as well as her response to the person's accusations displayed totally the leadership I expect to see in a presidential candidate. Now this is the type of response Americans and the world for that matter want to see from candidates. The passion in Hillary's voice on the subject as well as her response to the person's accusations displayed totally the leadership I expect to see in a presidential candidate.

]]> By: David Sheffield Los Angeles http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35702 David Sheffield Los Angeles Fri, 10 Aug 2007 21:40:48 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35702 Senator Clinton tried before to come up with sensible healthcare plan but she was shouted down by the insurance lobby. Guys like this clown Ashanti care more about a conservative ideology than they do people in need. Go get em, Hillary. Senator Clinton tried before to come up with sensible healthcare plan but she was shouted down by the insurance lobby. Guys like this clown Ashanti care more about a conservative ideology than they do people in need. Go get em, Hillary.

]]> By: VanReuter NY NY http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35662 VanReuter NY NY Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:39:29 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35662 You think this thread would have almost 500 posts if it had been anyone other than Senator Clinton? You think this thread would have almost 500 posts if it had been anyone other than Senator Clinton?

]]> By: Lynn, Baltic, OH http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35652 Lynn, Baltic, OH Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:28:15 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35652 Why is it that if anyone questions Hillary and her motives, then they are automatically labeled "Republican" or "right-wing"? Why don't we all open our eyes and see our health-care system, Social Security, and Medicare for what it actually is - failed programs, begun mostly by Democrats, that need to be reformed? There are millions who don't have health-care by their own choosing, not because they can't afford it. Most people pay hundreds, even thousands of dollars a year, just for health insurance, while those who cannot "afford" it pay practically next to nothing for services they receive. Who pays for that? That's right - we do! Social Security may have been a good idea years ago, but will it be there when our generation gets older? Doubtful! We have too many politicians, on the left and the right, who can't seem to deal with it because we're in way over our heads. Wasn't it President Bush who proposed to reform S.S. several years ago, and was promptly scorned for supposedly making this a much bigger issue than what it is? And I will admit, Medicare has helped numerous people, but how many more "fellow Americans" are there out there that consistently abuse the system? Same goes for our welfare system! Whatever happened to the "Great Society," or the "New Deal," all programs originating from Democrats, that years ago were supposed to eliminate poverty, care for our ill,provide for our elderly, and wipe out social and racial injustice? Have these problems been solved? Nope! We still can't seem to get it right, so don't believe any politician, left or right-wing, who promises health care for everyone, and another "Great Society," because it just won't happen. There is too much politics in government, and not enough common sense. I, personally, do not want to depend on a government to govern my health choices and my retirement needs and tell me what is the best for me. If that's what you want, then vote for Hillary. She doesn't have my vote though. The less she is involved in my life, the better I say! Why is it that if anyone questions Hillary and her motives, then they are automatically labeled "Republican" or "right-wing"? Why don't we all open our eyes and see our health-care system, Social Security, and Medicare for what it actually is – failed programs, begun mostly by Democrats, that need to be reformed? There are millions who don't have health-care by their own choosing, not because they can't afford it. Most people pay hundreds, even thousands of dollars a year, just for health insurance, while those who cannot "afford" it pay practically next to nothing for services they receive. Who pays for that? That's right – we do! Social Security may have been a good idea years ago, but will it be there when our generation gets older? Doubtful! We have too many politicians, on the left and the right, who can't seem to deal with it because we're in way over our heads. Wasn't it President Bush who proposed to reform S.S. several years ago, and was promptly scorned for supposedly making this a much bigger issue than what it is? And I will admit, Medicare has helped numerous people, but how many more "fellow Americans" are there out there that consistently abuse the system? Same goes for our welfare system! Whatever happened to the "Great Society," or the "New Deal," all programs originating from Democrats, that years ago were supposed to eliminate poverty, care for our ill,provide for our elderly, and wipe out social and racial injustice? Have these problems been solved? Nope! We still can't seem to get it right, so don't believe any politician, left or right-wing, who promises health care for everyone, and another "Great Society," because it just won't happen. There is too much politics in government, and not enough common sense. I, personally, do not want to depend on a government to govern my health choices and my retirement needs and tell me what is the best for me. If that's what you want, then vote for Hillary. She doesn't have my vote though. The less she is involved in my life, the better I say!

]]> By: Maria Burpee, Austin TX http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35651 Maria Burpee, Austin TX Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:27:41 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35651 Ashanti and everybody should check out the movie "Sicko" it's really poignant. Yea it's Michael Moore and he has his momments but the examination of the health care system is really cool. Ashanti and everybody should check out the movie "Sicko" it's really poignant. Yea it's Michael Moore and he has his momments but the examination of the health care system is really cool.

]]> By: Dean Seigneur, Cleveland, OH http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35644 Dean Seigneur, Cleveland, OH Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:12:45 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35644 Perhaps Ms. Clinton thinks "her" health plan is NOT socialized medicine but when one examines its principles, it is actually more "socialized" than those in the UK or Canada. If one thinks they are so great, one need only to look at the statistics of how many come to the U.S. and particularly Cleveland Clinic for medical care. Ms. Clinton could not even keep her husband happy, how will she keep America right? We need strong leadership...Condi Rice should be our next President! Perhaps Ms. Clinton thinks "her" health plan is NOT socialized medicine but when one examines its principles, it is actually more "socialized" than those in the UK or Canada. If one thinks they are so great, one need only to look at the statistics of how many come to the U.S. and particularly Cleveland Clinic for medical care. Ms. Clinton could not even keep her husband happy, how will she keep America right? We need strong leadership...Condi Rice should be our next President!

]]> By: Alfred, San German, PR http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35643 Alfred, San German, PR Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:10:21 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35643 In Puerto Rico, today, social medicine or as a better description, government sponsored medical care is practiced. The set of people who qualify for this is targeted toward low-income families -- the poor. I know a few families who have shared their horror stories regarding government sponsored health care and their stories would break anyone’s heart. The main idea is that a primary Dr. is responsible and gatekeeper of all medical advises and costs. Along with this the doctor is paid by the government a predetermined small fee to handle all the associated services. What doctors have been forced to do with these patients in order to survive is to reduce visiting time to less than 5 minutes regardless of the medical need. They also limit the number of test performed and limit or deny referrals, as these costs will reduce the doctor's payment balance. The standard advice from doctors are something like, "Your tumor is not critical. If you should be admitted to a hospital for surgery, or if something serious happens, then we will look deeper into it. For now I’ll prescribe some aspirins for the pain." A friend spent years in pain and finally experienced such severe pain that she had to be admitted into the emergency room for surgery. The surgery had to be performed because in case of an emergency, the hospital does not need permission from the primary doctor. Does a human being have to reach this level of pain in order to be properly cared for? Who looses? The poor! I believe this system is a disaster, as they do nothing to help the poor, except maybe allow the poor to die quicker. From this perspective, I believe the freelance writer Kiara Ashanti has a very valid question. Unfortunately, Senator Hilary Clinton appears to have another view of government sponsored medical care that she did not wish to educate neither Kiara nor the public. In Puerto Rico, today, social medicine or as a better description, government sponsored medical care is practiced. The set of people who qualify for this is targeted toward low-income families - the poor. I know a few families who have shared their horror stories regarding government sponsored health care and their stories would break anyone’s heart. The main idea is that a primary Dr. is responsible and gatekeeper of all medical advises and costs. Along with this the doctor is paid by the government a predetermined small fee to handle all the associated services. What doctors have been forced to do with these patients in order to survive is to reduce visiting time to less than 5 minutes regardless of the medical need. They also limit the number of test performed and limit or deny referrals, as these costs will reduce the doctor's payment balance. The standard advice from doctors are something like, "Your tumor is not critical. If you should be admitted to a hospital for surgery, or if something serious happens, then we will look deeper into it. For now I’ll prescribe some aspirins for the pain." A friend spent years in pain and finally experienced such severe pain that she had to be admitted into the emergency room for surgery. The surgery had to be performed because in case of an emergency, the hospital does not need permission from the primary doctor. Does a human being have to reach this level of pain in order to be properly cared for? Who looses? The poor! I believe this system is a disaster, as they do nothing to help the poor, except maybe allow the poor to die quicker. From this perspective, I believe the freelance writer Kiara Ashanti has a very valid question. Unfortunately, Senator Hilary Clinton appears to have another view of government sponsored medical care that she did not wish to educate neither Kiara nor the public.

]]> By: Leonard, Dallas TX http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35640 Leonard, Dallas TX Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:06:29 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35640 Maybe what Kiara Ashanti wants is for the US to remain #37 in the world rankings in healthcare with close to 50 million people without insurance and at the same time having the most expensive healthcare system. He is either an idiot or is paid by a lobbyist to propagate an agenda. I am BLACK (and proud)I have experienced first hand what medical care is like in the US and abroad and I can tell you that a lot can be done to improve the current healthcare system. So for him to say that Hillary's healthcare plan will most negatively affect African American communities is preposterous. Maybe what Kiara Ashanti wants is for the US to remain #37 in the world rankings in healthcare with close to 50 million people without insurance and at the same time having the most expensive healthcare system. He is either an idiot or is paid by a lobbyist to propagate an agenda. I am BLACK (and proud)I have experienced first hand what medical care is like in the US and abroad and I can tell you that a lot can be done to improve the current healthcare system. So for him to say that Hillary's healthcare plan will most negatively affect African American communities is preposterous.

]]> By: Betty, Southlake, TX http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35630 Betty, Southlake, TX Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:47:14 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35630 You tell them, Hillary! This lady is no pushover-- she's a tough cookie who can hold her own. This "freelance journalist" was a shill who thought he could attack Hillary & get away with it... guess he found out differently. If he really had ANY real interest whatsoever in health care for the U.S., he would have jumped at the chance to meet with her staff. The fact that he didn't says volumes! You tell them, Hillary! This lady is no pushover– she's a tough cookie who can hold her own.
This "freelance journalist" was a shill who thought he could attack Hillary & get away with it... guess he found out differently. If he really had ANY real interest whatsoever in health care for the U.S., he would have jumped at the chance to meet with her staff. The fact that he didn't says volumes!

]]> By: Al http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35629 Al Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:47:08 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35629 "If that is the evil of a "socialized" care, then we have a serious detachment from reality and if the evil view prevails, we'll soon have quite a border hop for medicine up here in the 'socialized' Canada. Then again, we allready do." Balderdash, my detached Canadian friend. People might buy generic drugs in Canada, but as far as medical care itself is concerned the flow is heading the other way, and how. "If that is the evil of a "socialized" care, then we have a serious detachment from reality and if the evil view prevails, we'll soon have quite a border hop for medicine up here in the 'socialized' Canada.
Then again, we allready do."

Balderdash, my detached Canadian friend. People might buy generic drugs in Canada, but as far as medical care itself is concerned the flow is heading the other way, and how.

]]> By: Roger - Westchester, IL http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35628 Roger - Westchester, IL Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:46:11 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35628 Do you want to know why Countries like Canada and in Europe have universal healthcare? It is because the US subsidized their Military spending during the Cold War. These countries could then put more money towards their healthcare systems. We as a people are going to have to decide how we want to pay for our healthcare. Do we want it taken out of our taxes, or do we want it out of our paychecks. One way or another, it will be you and I who will pay for this. Do you want to know why Countries like Canada and in Europe have universal healthcare? It is because the US subsidized their Military spending during the Cold War.

These countries could then put more money towards their healthcare systems.

We as a people are going to have to decide how we want to pay for our healthcare. Do we want it taken out of our taxes, or do we want it out of our paychecks. One way or another, it will be you and I who will pay for this.

]]> By: Peter Augustine, Cincinnati, Ohio http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35625 Peter Augustine, Cincinnati, Ohio Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:44:21 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35625 The fact is the Senator had an opportunity to provide a detailed response and elected instead to play the 'Right Wing Conspiracy' card. In 1994 she did propose creating a bureaucracy that would dictate the scope and nature of health care for the country. If she thought it was a great idea then, does she still believe it to be so today? What she and Ira did behind closed doors is no different from what this administration did on setting energy policy. So how was her sin then any less egregious than that of Dick Cheney now? Bottom line is still the economics of it, our population is aging and as Japan and Italy have shown, these entitlement programs cannot be sustained. What happened to individual responsiblity in this country? Have we grown so lazy that we need a nanny state to care for us? The fact is the Senator had an opportunity to provide a detailed response and elected instead to play the 'Right Wing Conspiracy' card. In 1994 she did propose creating a bureaucracy that would dictate the scope and nature of health care for the country. If she thought it was a great idea then, does she still believe it to be so today? What she and Ira did behind closed doors is no different from what this administration did on setting energy policy. So how was her sin then any less egregious than that of Dick Cheney now? Bottom line is still the economics of it, our population is aging and as Japan and Italy have shown, these entitlement programs cannot be sustained. What happened to individual responsiblity in this country? Have we grown so lazy that we need a nanny state to care for us?

]]> By: Pam - Denver, CO http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35624 Pam - Denver, CO Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:43:49 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35624 If you think George W. Bush is stubborn, this country will learn what real "stubborn" is IF she is elected. If you think George W. Bush is stubborn, this country will learn what real "stubborn" is IF she is elected.

]]> By: Georges de Lorraine, Montreal, Quebec, CANADA http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35623 Georges de Lorraine, Montreal, Quebec, CANADA Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:43:24 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35623 What a moron ! I can't believe a jounalist would be so ignorant. It's a disgrace to his profession. We have Medicare in Canada and it's wonderful for people of all ages that cannot afford the high cost of private healthcare such as in the USA. It's anything but socialist. It's progressive and the US is backwards for not having it. Senator Clinton was right on with her answer and I hope she gets in as President. We need someone who was gifted with intelligence instead of the joker you now have in the Oval Office ! What a moron ! I can't believe a jounalist would be so ignorant. It's a disgrace to his profession. We have Medicare in Canada and it's wonderful for people of all ages that cannot afford the high cost of private healthcare such as in the USA. It's anything but socialist. It's progressive and the US is backwards for not having it. Senator Clinton was right on with her answer and I hope she gets in as President. We need someone who was gifted with intelligence instead of the joker you now have in the Oval Office !

]]> By: Mindy Chatsworth, Ca. http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35622 Mindy Chatsworth, Ca. Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:43:14 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35622 As someone who has had personal experience with the horrors of HMO's and denial of benefits and endless bureaucracy, I say bravo to Hillary Clinton for telling this guy off. I am sick and tired of Republican conservatives using the stigma of "socialism" every time they don't like something, as if that means that it is somehow unAmerican. It is the essence of democracy and human decency for our government to see to it that all of its citizens have access to health care. I saw Michael Moore's Sicko when it first came out and I was crying for the last half hour of the movie. When he showed the despicable practice of hospitals dumping indigent and mentally ill homeless people on the street, he asked the question, "Who are we?" Yes, that is the question. What about the man who stood up at the AFL-CIO debate with the Democratic candidates the other night to tearfully ask how he could have lost his pension and not be able to afford health insurance for himself and his wife? He was asking the same question, but in a slightly different, yet still powerful way. He asked what's wrong with a government that can allow this. That is the one truth in this entire discussion. Throwing words around like socialism to bring up the ghosts of our communist pinko days in the 1950's, does a disservice to the people of this country who just want decent health care. It is also dishonest, period. I think we need to stop wasting time and words on people like this Republican ignoramus and vote for candidates who will implement some type of universal health care coverage for Americans. As someone who has had personal experience with the horrors of HMO's and denial of benefits and endless bureaucracy, I say bravo to Hillary Clinton for telling this guy off. I am sick and tired of Republican conservatives using the stigma of "socialism" every time they don't like something, as if that means that it is somehow unAmerican. It is the essence of democracy and human decency for our government to see to it that all of its citizens have access to health care.

I saw Michael Moore's Sicko when it first came out and I was crying for the last half hour of the movie. When he showed the despicable practice of hospitals dumping indigent and mentally ill homeless people on the street, he asked the question, "Who are we?" Yes, that is the question. What about the man who stood up at the AFL-CIO debate with the Democratic candidates the other night to tearfully ask how he could have lost his pension and not be able to afford health insurance for himself and his wife? He was asking the same question, but in a slightly different, yet still powerful way. He asked what's wrong with a government that can allow this. That is the one truth in this entire discussion. Throwing words around like socialism to bring up the ghosts of our communist pinko days in the 1950's, does a disservice to the people of this country who just want decent health care. It is also dishonest, period.

I think we need to stop wasting time and words on people like this Republican ignoramus and vote for candidates who will implement some type of universal health care coverage for Americans.

]]> By: TERRY Drayton Valley Alberta http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35621 TERRY Drayton Valley Alberta Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:42:58 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35621 If you like socialized medicare come to Canada and pay 40+% income tax! Free Hey!! If you like socialized medicare come to Canada and pay 40+% income tax! Free Hey!!

]]> By: Bill Pohnan, Streamwood, IL http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35620 Bill Pohnan, Streamwood, IL Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:42:54 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35620 Can you imagine the White House allowing any journalist to challenge George Bush like that? I think not. The journalist would loose his/her White House Press clearance so fast that it would make your head spin and then we'd get two-days of spin from Tony Snow-job telling us what Bush really meant in his response. If nothing else, Democrats seem to enjoy being challenged and the give-and-take that follows. I guess that they realize such dialogue lets them know what the people are thinking. When was the last time a Republican gave any audience that same feeling? Can you imagine the White House allowing any journalist to challenge George Bush like that? I think not. The journalist would loose his/her White House Press clearance so fast that it would make your head spin and then we'd get two-days of spin from Tony Snow-job telling us what Bush really meant in his response.

If nothing else, Democrats seem to enjoy being challenged and the give-and-take that follows. I guess that they realize such dialogue lets them know what the people are thinking. When was the last time a Republican gave any audience that same feeling?

]]> By: Rob S., Ottawa, Ontario http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35618 Rob S., Ottawa, Ontario Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:40:59 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35618 <b>Tim Delfino</b> said <i>If you had universal health care, besides the waiting lines, you would be paying roughly $5000-$7000 more in income tax to pay for it (seeing how you pay about %24 now on your income as the current tax rate). Therefore, it ends up costing you more money to have universal health care!</i> and <i> he (Obama) refuses to go into details about how it will be funded, but the truth of it is, it will be a large income tax anywhere from 40-60% of income</i> Where did those numbers come from? Absurd. I'm pretty conservative, but would fully support a single-payer, tax-base funded health care system. The paperwork is almost nothing - when I first visit a doctor I fill out a medical history form. Each time I go, I show my health coverage card as identification. THAT'S IT! No paperwork at all regarding payment. No approvals to seek. No grovelling before an HMO trying to get them to pay for something. Is it perfect? Of course not. Is it free? Of course not. But if I get seriously ill, I'll be worrying about the disease, not about how to pay for treatment or whether my family will ever get out of debt after I'm gone. Tim Delfino said If you had universal health care, besides the waiting lines, you would be paying roughly $5000-$7000 more in income tax to pay for it (seeing how you pay about %24 now on your income as the current tax rate). Therefore, it ends up costing you more money to have universal health care! and he (Obama) refuses to go into details about how it will be funded, but the truth of it is, it will be a large income tax anywhere from 40-60% of income

Where did those numbers come from? Absurd.

I'm pretty conservative, but would fully support a single-payer, tax-base funded health care system. The paperwork is almost nothing – when I first visit a doctor I fill out a medical history form. Each time I go, I show my health coverage card as identification. THAT'S IT! No paperwork at all regarding payment. No approvals to seek. No grovelling before an HMO trying to get them to pay for something.

Is it perfect? Of course not. Is it free? Of course not.

But if I get seriously ill, I'll be worrying about the disease, not about how to pay for treatment or whether my family will ever get out of debt after I'm gone.

]]> By: Aidyn, NY, NY http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35617 Aidyn, NY, NY Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:39:57 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35617 I am so gald Hillary stood up for herself!! I am so gald Hillary stood up for herself!!

]]> By: Wendy, Goldsboro North Carolina http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35616 Wendy, Goldsboro North Carolina Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:39:23 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35616 Dear Rachel, Linsey, Anon and all the rest... If Health Care is to be a right not a privlege then will the millions of us that pay about 400 dollars a month for our family health care plan be able to stop those plans and partake in the free health care or is that only for the "so called" poor people. I can barely afford the plan we have and pray each week that our rates do not go up because we are a few paychecks away from disaster...so will this new plan she is proposing be available to ALL AMERICANS or just the ones that you seem to classify as NEEDY? Maybe these people that want free health care need to stop adding to their Brood....then they could afford to take care of themselves FIRST. Dear Rachel, Linsey, Anon and all the rest...

If Health Care is to be a right not a privlege then will the millions of us that pay about 400 dollars a month for our family health care plan be able to stop those plans and partake in the free health care or is that only for the "so called" poor people. I can barely afford the plan we have and pray each week that our rates do not go up because we are a few paychecks away from disaster...so will this new plan she is proposing be available to ALL AMERICANS or just the ones that you seem to classify as NEEDY?

Maybe these people that want free health care need to stop adding to their Brood....then they could afford to take care of themselves FIRST.

]]> By: Julie, WA http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35615 Julie, WA Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:39:20 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35615 Americans are brainwashed by the insurance and drug companies when it comes to our views of other countries' medical systems and their supposed shortcomings. I lived in Canada for a couple of years with my 3 children, and my daughter was referred by her doctor to a pediatric gastroenterologist for stomach issues. She was seen by the specialist less than two weeks after her doctor's referral. Since returning to the US, she has twice been referred to pediatric gastroenterologists. The first time, it tooks over 3 months to get an appointment, and the second time over 5 months. Not to mention all the hassling with the insurance company over whether they would cover the specialist, etc. And by every measure of health, countries whose governments provide health care come out far better than the US. Give me Canada's system any day! Americans are brainwashed by the insurance and drug companies when it comes to our views of other countries' medical systems and their supposed shortcomings. I lived in Canada for a couple of years with my 3 children, and my daughter was referred by her doctor to a pediatric gastroenterologist for stomach issues. She was seen by the specialist less than two weeks after her doctor's referral. Since returning to the US, she has twice been referred to pediatric gastroenterologists. The first time, it tooks over 3 months to get an appointment, and the second time over 5 months. Not to mention all the hassling with the insurance company over whether they would cover the specialist, etc. And by every measure of health, countries whose governments provide health care come out far better than the US. Give me Canada's system any day!

]]> By: Casatech, Boston http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35614 Casatech, Boston Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:39:08 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35614 Not any idiot who can string a few words together on a web site is a "journalist." Journalism requires skills and knowledge that this freelance ranter obviously lacked. It gives those of us who are true journalists a bad name. Not any idiot who can string a few words together on a web site is a "journalist." Journalism requires skills and knowledge that this freelance ranter obviously lacked. It gives those of us who are true journalists a bad name.

]]> By: Alan, Biloxi Mississippi http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35613 Alan, Biloxi Mississippi Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:38:40 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35613 Typical Clinton supporters. Worthless individuals who waste your childhood popping out babies instead of getting an education, expect taxpayers to support you, too lazy and stupid to get a job, cry because minimum wage is too low or the government doesn't give you enough. What are you going to do when there are not enough taxpayers to support your sorry backsides. Hillary is just another socialist buying votes with tax dollars. The health care system is broken because the politicians are shoveling money hand-over-fist to anyone who will vote for them. Typical Clinton supporters. Worthless individuals who waste your childhood popping out babies instead of getting an education, expect taxpayers to support you, too lazy and stupid to get a job, cry because minimum wage is too low or the government doesn't give you enough.
What are you going to do when there are not enough taxpayers to support your sorry backsides. Hillary is just another socialist buying votes with tax dollars. The health care system is broken because the politicians are shoveling money hand-over-fist to anyone who will vote for them.

]]> By: Scott, Los Angeles, CA http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35610 Scott, Los Angeles, CA Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:36:46 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35610 In all fairness, the comments to this article are misrepresentations of Kiara Ashanti's journalistic credentials. He is not some dumb blogger. He is a freelance writer. Have any of you commenters read Black Enterprise, for instance. It is a very credible business magazine. While his question was worded in a provocative way, the same question has been asked in less provocative ways by a lot of journalists. This democrat would like to see the details of her plan. Hillary, if you don't like being characterized as pushing "socialized medicine" then please explain the details to those of us who want to listen. I do understand what a single payer system is and how it differs from socialized medicine, but I would still like to hear you explain how you will implement it. In all fairness, the comments to this article are misrepresentations of Kiara Ashanti's journalistic credentials. He is not some dumb blogger. He is a freelance writer. Have any of you commenters read Black Enterprise, for instance. It is a very credible business magazine. While his question was worded in a provocative way, the same question has been asked in less provocative ways by a lot of journalists. This democrat would like to see the details of her plan. Hillary, if you don't like being characterized as pushing "socialized medicine" then please explain the details to those of us who want to listen. I do understand what a single payer system is and how it differs from socialized medicine, but I would still like to hear you explain how you will implement it.

]]> By: Salvatore, Scarsdale, NY http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35606 Salvatore, Scarsdale, NY Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:33:03 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35606 America should demand a lot from their leaders, and I think leadership, vision, and courage might be a good place to start. In her time as Senator, has Hillary taken a "true" leadership role in anything? We should demand more than just soundbite answers that deflect questions of the day. Leadership means more than just taking a stand behind poles. Vision means more than just seeing your audience, it means seeing solutions too. And, courage means having the will to put your own self aside to make that vision happen for your people. So far, I haven't seen any of those qualities from my Senator. America should demand a lot from their leaders, and I think leadership, vision, and courage might be a good place to start. In her time as Senator, has Hillary taken a "true" leadership role in anything? We should demand more than just soundbite answers that deflect questions of the day. Leadership means more than just taking a stand behind poles. Vision means more than just seeing your audience, it means seeing solutions too. And, courage means having the will to put your own self aside to make that vision happen for your people. So far, I haven't seen any of those qualities from my Senator.

]]> By: John, Irvine CA http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35604 John, Irvine CA Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:32:49 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35604 I appreciate her attempting to clarify her true position, something most politicians are reluctant to do. By the way, whats wrong with a little socialism? I appreciate her attempting to clarify her true position, something most politicians are reluctant to do.

By the way, whats wrong with a little socialism?

]]> By: Chris, Austin TX http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35602 Chris, Austin TX Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:31:20 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35602 Tim Delfino: You're making a HUGE assumption there, one that isn't based on anything any of the candidates have said. Your assumption is that, if we went to universal health care, we would then also have to have the same level of taxes that they pay in whatever country pays 24% income tax. NONE of the candidates have suggested doing this, and they all address the issue of how to pay for it in ways other than outrageous tax increases for everyone. There's no basis whatsoever for suggesting that introducing a universal health care system in this country would cause income tax to jump to 24%. Your numbers aren't believable anyway. Why would it cost more to pay for the same amount of coverage? Would be nice if you at all sited your sources, if you have any, which you probably don't. Tim Delfino: You're making a HUGE assumption there, one that isn't based on anything any of the candidates have said. Your assumption is that, if we went to universal health care, we would then also have to have the same level of taxes that they pay in whatever country pays 24% income tax. NONE of the candidates have suggested doing this, and they all address the issue of how to pay for it in ways other than outrageous tax increases for everyone. There's no basis whatsoever for suggesting that introducing a universal health care system in this country would cause income tax to jump to 24%. Your numbers aren't believable anyway. Why would it cost more to pay for the same amount of coverage? Would be nice if you at all sited your sources, if you have any, which you probably don't.

]]> By: Rory-Dallas, Texas http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35601 Rory-Dallas, Texas Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:29:31 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35601 Way to go, Hillary!!!!!! Way to go, Hillary!!!!!!

]]> By: Mike G Raleigh NC http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35600 Mike G Raleigh NC Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:29:29 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35600 Go Hillary... At least she has the guts to make health care part of the national agenda. As far as having to work and save for health care that is absolute B...S..., five year old kids, old people, mentally handicapped, under-employed can't afford proper health care. So why not make sure they get decent care. We spend billions bombing Iraq back into the stone age but God forbid we should spend some money on health care. Go Hillary...
At least she has the guts to make health care part of the national agenda. As far as having to work and save for health care that is absolute B...S..., five year old kids, old people, mentally handicapped, under-employed can't afford proper health care. So why not make sure they get decent care.
We spend billions bombing Iraq back into the stone age but God forbid we should spend some money on health care.

]]> By: Richard, San Diego, CA http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35597 Richard, San Diego, CA Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:27:26 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35597 People need to stop fearing the simple word "socialized"---all that means is that taxpayer money is pooled for a common provision for the people, administrated under some branch of the government. Medicare does indeed meet that definition. So do public schools, public libraries, public road construction crews. I doubt that many citizens think that only those with "education insurance" should send their kids to school. Socialized medicine would not be perfect--but anybody who thinks our health care system today isn't loaded with flaws and inconveniences has probably never been to a doctor and had to present an HMO card. It's time to get the private health insurance companies out of the way--we don't need a for-profit middleman getting rich before any health care needs can be paid for. Taxpayers and citizens are taking a real bath due to the costs of private health insurance companies, even as they deny care and cause more red tape hurdles than Medicare ever did. I have been against nationalized health care in the past, due to the fact that I think there needs to be a cost for personal responsibility -- a great deal of health care costs are due to lifestyle choices (smoking, meat-based diet, lack of exercise). But now I think a government-based single payer system will be much cheaper than the HMOs and PPOs--just add on a co-pay price tag for certain costs associated with health problems people create for themselves through ignorance and apathy. People need to stop fearing the simple word "socialized"-all that means is that taxpayer money is pooled for a common provision for the people, administrated under some branch of the government. Medicare does indeed meet that definition. So do public schools, public libraries, public road construction crews. I doubt that many citizens think that only those with "education insurance" should send their kids to school. Socialized medicine would not be perfect–but anybody who thinks our health care system today isn't loaded with flaws and inconveniences has probably never been to a doctor and had to present an HMO card. It's time to get the private health insurance companies out of the way–we don't need a for-profit middleman getting rich before any health care needs can be paid for. Taxpayers and citizens are taking a real bath due to the costs of private health insurance companies, even as they deny care and cause more red tape hurdles than Medicare ever did.

I have been against nationalized health care in the past, due to the fact that I think there needs to be a cost for personal responsibility - a great deal of health care costs are due to lifestyle choices (smoking, meat-based diet, lack of exercise). But now I think a government-based single payer system will be much cheaper than the HMOs and PPOs–just add on a co-pay price tag for certain costs associated with health problems people create for themselves through ignorance and apathy.

]]> By: Richard Orlando, FL http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35596 Richard Orlando, FL Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:26:25 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35596 Rhetorical indeed! If Ashanti really had information to "refute", why didn't he accept Clinton's invitation to meet after the debate to discuss it? I guess that would actually require objectivity from this "journalist", not just hiding behind a closed mind and right wing propaganda with no substance. Rhetorical indeed! If Ashanti really had information to "refute", why didn't he accept Clinton's invitation to meet after the debate to discuss it? I guess that would actually require objectivity from this "journalist", not just hiding behind a closed mind and right wing propaganda with no substance.

]]> By: AK, Boston http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35594 AK, Boston Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:25:26 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35594 So many disturbing, knee-jerk reactions from people here... a lot of people love to act like they know what they're talking about, but from much of what I'm reading here, they really don't. Lots of latching onto catch-phrases like "socialism" and some pretty unfounded paranoia that Hilary's goals somehow involve "socializing" our entire country. This is where our terrible public education system has caught up with the U.S. over the years... we have a very uneducated, uninformed public... they are the ones suffering a "superiority complex." I'm scared for our future. So many disturbing, knee-jerk reactions from people here... a lot of people love to act like they know what they're talking about, but from much of what I'm reading here, they really don't. Lots of latching onto catch-phrases like "socialism" and some pretty unfounded paranoia that Hilary's goals somehow involve "socializing" our entire country. This is where our terrible public education system has caught up with the U.S. over the years... we have a very uneducated, uninformed public... they are the ones suffering a "superiority complex." I'm scared for our future.

]]> By: Rick, Atlanta Georgia http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35593 Rick, Atlanta Georgia Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:25:08 +0000 http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/08/10/harsh-words-get-educated-drop-the-rhetoric/#comment-35593 Wow! She takes 5 times the allotted time and still has to resort to talking down to her questioner - shows you a glance of the real Hillary Clinton. It's amazing so many posters feel the need to do CHB (Cover Hillary's Back) work when she so obviously shouldn't need it. I don't know if Ashanti is good or bad, but it's a fair question, and if anybody looked back when, her plan sure looked like a socialized medicine or health care scheme. Wow! She takes 5 times the allotted time and still has to resort to talking down to her questioner – shows you a glance of the real Hillary Clinton. It's amazing so many posters feel the need to do CHB (Cover Hillary's Back) work when she so obviously shouldn't need it. I don't know if Ashanti is good or bad, but it's a fair question, and if anybody looked back when, her plan sure looked like a socialized medicine or health care scheme.

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