CNN

Oh come on Paul! Don't be so naive, all politicians lie. Haven't you seen their lips move?

Teddy is incredible. How many people would survive what he has in his life? Yet Teddy still keeps coming. His overwhelming concern is for us and he will fight for us as long as he can. As he said health care is a right and not a privilege. With Teddy in the lead and with Obama in the White House maybe we will finally get what every other civilized nation has- health care for everyone.

Where was the "Lion" in July 1969????

LOSERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

KEVIN, RIGHT ON, DUDE!

Brendan H,

I don't disagree with your comments about the Bushes or McCain, but if you think the Kennedy's worked for what they have as opposed to the above mentioned people, you are kidding yourself. They are a great family, but they earned their money the same way the Bushes did. They stole it. Grandpa Kennedy was a bootlegger for Godsake!

paul: pathetic, dude. nothing but disdain for those with differing views than yours. you sound hateful to me.

TED is a Loser............period

G.R.I.T

does that mean that you know what God wants for his children?

Senator kennedy was asked by Senator Clinton to chair a subcommittee on working to provide universal healthcare for everyone. He turned her down. Lets see if he accomplishes this. i don't believe he will. All those years in Congress and he has very little to show for it. Gosh, I can't believe how this election cycle has open my eyes to how our elected officials are really are. Once, Senator Kennedy was a hero to me – no more. I think Senator Clinton has learned by her mistakes of trying to bring universal healthcare to America in l990's and I believe she is the only one who could get it right.

To Kevin @ 3:01,

Thanks to your idol, GWB, we're ALREADY BANKRUPT!!!

If we can fix our healthcare system, we will become more competitive globally. Every citizen should have some basic preventive health care. Beyond that, you and your employer can pay for it accordingly. Insurance companies should not be able to cherry pick their customers. The whole insurance idea is based on probability. There should be no picking in this industry.

Okay, so there is way too much hate going on, whoa. I am Canadian, we do have universal health care, and we pay higher taxes, but we are secure in knowing that if we are develop cancer for example, we don't have to worry about paying for the treatments etc., I am okay with paying higher taxes as I have had family members with serious illnesses, and they have had the best care....and yes there are waits, but my sister-in-law just had a CT scan and it happened two days after a visit to the doctor, where she complained of constant headaches.....so, perhaps more research by the people making these claims against our health care is in order. I cannot believe the hostility, as Sarah Palin would say, Golly Gosh!!

God bless Sen. Kennedy in his battle with brain cancer and God bless all politicians, regardless of party as they try to bring health insurance to millions of uninsured!

Note To CNN Moderator: Thank you for allowing my posts through to spur a rather raucous conversation here. I love my country and its Freedoms (speech, specifically here) much to the chagrin of the natives of other countries.

'Paul' is a fool. No one supports abortion. Most of us just think that a deeply "personal" decision for a woman is just that – none of your or my business.

To the guy who likes to shoot deer in Canada, I would very gladly be taxed more in the US to pay for health care. It would be a lot cheaper than the foolish and wasteful so-called system of health care we have now, where sick poor people end up in emergency rooms, where corporations go bankrupt because they can't afford to compete due to their high health care costs, where doctors are incentivized to give treatments, rather than care, and their patients get only sicker. I also don't rate a country by the size of its bloated military. Canada is a country far superior in most measures to our much-declared 'best country in the world'.

We've allowed ourselves to become second rate by our obsession with our own greed.

Welcome back, Ted. We need you. Now give 'em Hell!

Welcome back, Teddy!

welcome back ted!

I'm so glad Kennedy is back. He's a heck of a man and a great senator. Welcome back!!

I'm a health care administrator and for those who think a "universal" type health plan is socialist, anti-Christian, unconstitutional, etc., think again. Without some kind of fix that provides health care coverage to those who either don't qualify, can't afford, or have no access to coverage otherwise, those docs that you have the choice of seeing will be locking their doors. Physicians simply cannot provide free care to the indigent and uninsured who show up in ERs nationwide on a regular basis. Doctors will be employed by hospitals because they cannot afford to practice independently anymore. If something isn't done to cover all the uninsureds who are draining our health care system, there won't be care for any of us.

Welcome back, Senator!

Let me see.....how many people have lost everything in the US because of their medical bills? I ask you this, what is the point in being cured if you are just going to end up homeless and penniless? The healthcare system in the US only works for those who can afford it, the upper 20% of the population that has laid waste to the other 80% of the population. I applaud Senator Kennedy for making this his number 1 priority.
Yes here in Canada we have long wait lists due to not having enough doctors. They all bailed on us to follow the American dream where they could get filthy rich off of other people's misery. With any luck these will be the same doctors who are now losing everything in the stock market. Universal Health Care works when you take greed out of the equation.

Paul –

The rules that you believe Ted Kennedy should live by are the creation of the Catholic Church, not God's creation. If the Catholic Church wants to be so narrow minded, let them, it does not mean that everyone else has to follow. There are a lot of things the Catholic Church supports or requires that are not biblical in the least and are not what God wishes for his children.

The Kennedy lost three sons in service to the country, worked for evrything they have and continue to help humanity.

Meanwhile the Bush family stole everything they have and McCain married rich – a real challenge!

really conservative,

are you kidding me? what about the difference in age between europe and the US, are you going to state that talking about their healthcare system is ridiculous too?
and seriously...how rude and ignorant can you be?

Welcome back the lion. It is amazing that some people professed to be pro life,yet they support and encourage wars, what an irony?

Why does everyone on here have to spread such negativity and the random babble they heard on bias news shows?

Do your own research and see the positives and negatives of universal healthcare and look into what Senator Kennedy actually wants to institute before babbling on here just to vent your own confusion and pent up anger.

As for me.. Thank you for all your service to our country and working to try to better people's circumstances. Welcome back Senator Kennedy. I hope you continue to feel well and that you have a full recovery!!

Who is "for" abortion? What is the punishment you guys want for a woman who chooses to have an abortion–always a terrible outcome? The death penalty? It is murder, after all, isn't it? I have not heard an answer to that question from my Catholic colleagues.

@George November 17th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

To answer your question: Because the child might turn out like you!

Rochelle – the nurse is coming by to give you your meds.

God does not "get" people. He loves his children, even when they make mistakes. He even loves them when they do not behave in Christian ways as taught by Christ. For example, threatening people that God will get them is not living by the example Christ set. Christ did not die on the cross so you can threaten people. God is love, you need to learn that.

Hey Frankie....I'm not a conservative. I'm just someone who has traveled and has family in many European countries who suffer from ailments that aren't quite severe enough for them to merit immediate medical attention under the universal health care program.

Before you start shooting your mouth off about people, countries and programs that you know nothing about, why don't you get your head out of the liberal democratic sand pit that you've buried it in and do some research, instead of repeating the rehetoric that is spoon fed you.

So, Paul, let's see now, you won't support Kennedy or any other politician because they "lie"????
Gee, wasn't it tough to vote for McCain, knowing that he lied repeatedly to his loyal, disfigured wife while he was out cheating on her with Cindy and countless other bimbos?

Looks like you're the hypocrite, my friend.

On Universal health care, relatives of ours in both England, and Ireland are very happy with universal health care and are in very good health. We on the other hand find in our retirement that at times it takes three or more months to see a specialist in this country except when you are brought into the emergency room by ambulance. We are also very tired of seeing our hard earned money redistributed upward to the rich and greedy by Republicans in power.

Delighted to have him back!

When DMD wrote; "Medicare, Medicaid and Unemployment benefits are socialized programs that we do have in this country, and unfortunately we have a lot of people who abuse these systems off the hardworking taxpaying americans. So, stuff it!"

I am curious to learn what subsidies to FDIC, dairy farmers, fishery and bailouts of FDIC, Mortgage Companies, Investment Brokers, Banks, Airline Industry, is called? It's called socialism.

And oh, wait I hear Federal Government is debating bailing out automotive industry.

The above is fiscal conservative list. As a libertarian I would add the US Military, military foreign add to countries like Israel ($5B) and others.

Liberian-Canada in Toronto

It is laughable for a Canadian [with your weaker military, much younger, much weaker constitution, and more highly taxed peolple] to speak under the guise of advice toward your southern neighbor. I'm glad you are our ally, but just think before you type.

I do love coming to Canada and shooting those big Alberta deer. My bad, you likely think this is barbaric.

The word "senator" means "old one." Presumably experience can make one wise. At least that's what we hope. The agism on this list is apparent and appalling.

People must understand that HEALTH CARE is a right for with little and those with much. Tell where the founding fathers disagree with that concept? To the conservative evangelicals: Why would Jesus oppose such concept? You hypocrites!!!!! You model your belief system after the greedy and ungodly and want to preach "justice for all!" There is a huge number of AMERICANS that DIE for they cannot afford health care, or are DROPPED off they policies for pre-existing conditions, or are denied treatment everyday. How AMERICAN is that? BTW, take time to go to Canada, France, England, Switzerland and other countries to analyze their health care systems first hand... Educate yourself by exploring a diverse number of sources and FIRST HAND experience. Many POLITICIANS make millions of dollars from "private health care" of course the thought of losing their "sponsors" will drive fear into their souls... Do you want to do something American? Help this country care for those who cannot care for themselves...

Welcome Back Teddy! We love you!! THE LION IS BACK and ready to fight again!

ted,

i care what he has to say, and i for one am glad Bush is gone. lets hope that obama and his democratic team members can do what they've been promising us

Senator Kennedy may be long-serving, but he does not have my support or admiration:

Claims to be Catholic

Supports Abortion

Accepts the Eucharist

He cannot be true to his professed faith yet accepts the eucharist, fully knowing that he shouldn't because he is obstinate about his support for abortion which, by the act itself, excumminicates himself from the Catholic Church. He should not be accepting the Eucharist and knows it. He is living in a lie and knows it. I would not support any politician who knows that he, himself is a liar.

I pray that he changes his will and supports the most innocent of human lives.

For Scott of Tucson: Bush was allowed to earn his reputation. Let's give Obama that same right.

God Bless You Senator Kennedy. Welcome Back!

The healthcare issue is not only ensuring that everyone in the USA has access to health insurance, it is also making sure that those who are covered receive the care they need and that mental health coverage is brought to par with physical health coverage. So far, this is not happening and these two issues should be given as much consideration as providing every person access to medical coverage. I trust that Mr. Kennedy and the new administration will do their best to address this problem.

i'm covered now under a universal healthcare system and I dont have to wait ages to have surgery, though priority cases will always have priority...and YES you can choose which physician you go to...

Welcome Back! You are needed and LOVED!!!
What a great time for you to be around!

I believe that it is time for the Senator to retire and let others carry the torch

I also believe that it is time to start putting "Term Limits" for the Senators for then the "Special Interest groups" will have less time to promote their own agenda..

welcome back teddy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jesse-- You cannot throw away all Senators because they become old. God willing, most of us will see long age. President Elect Obama is wise enough to know that senior Senator's have much to offer having learned through their years in government with failures and success. It's as if you were listening to grandparents give you the benefit of their experience in life. You make the decision, hopefully, merging various elements in your decisions. Besides, America needs to stop throwing away our senior citizens believing they donot know anything or haven't anything to give. President Elect Obama knows the final decision rest with him, but also knows the more infromation one has, the better the decision.

Does anybody care on what Kennedy says ? Let the old man go to pasture.

Duuuh, ROSE, read David from NC's post before you start mouthing off. He has actual experience, comparing his health care costs in Canada to those he incurs in NC.

Oh, I forgot, you probably can't read very well....must be a product of all those social/education cuts ordered by your fellow conservatives who would much rather line their own pockets (can you spell W-A-L-L-S-T-R-E-E-T??) and fund military endeavors than put our tax money back into our domestic health and education programs.

Two more things.

Re: Janine: I agree. Let's save our money for us without becoming isolationist. We give far too much money to people who hate us.

And two, on a personal note. Although I disagree with your politics and disagree with pretty much every single thing you've ever stood for, Senator Kennedy, I'm glad you're feeling better.

.... We "waded" through the republican administration that did nothing for anyone or anybody but other countries, big corporation and the RICH. It is time for another approach -- why can't you do the same? It is indeed a republican trait to think you are the only people who know anything - that is why the rest of the world thinks America is nothing!!! Chill ...

Rose – you are soooooo correct. Where are we going to get all the doctors, hospitals, and general all around healthcare professionals if everyone and his/her dog are covered under a "universal" program? Egad, you democrats are stupid! Good friends of mine from ENGLAND, became U S citizens, mainly because of healthcare!!! They could buy their own here and get coverage! Wake up foolish dems.

Anyone who doesn't think a cure for cancer exists is a fool. Start naming powerful people/world leaders who die of cancer; short list, isn't it?

This man and the rest of the democrat cronies in Congress will bankrupt us all. R.I.P. Free Enterprise. If you are lazy and have your hand out, the democrats come to the rescue.

Welcome Back Teddy, We Love You!

For Carl from MI...we had to listen to the consitant ranting ravings of hate comments from the democratic loons attacking Bush so as far as CHANGE goes..it's our turn to attack your president...fair is fair.

Wonder if he was sober when he showed up?

Hey Liberian-Canada in Toronto....Did you know that the Canadians who can afford it come to the USA for medical care. Does that mean the health care in Canada is not good or just that you have to wait so long for it that you may be dead before your turn for care somes up. I say no to socialized medicine.........

ive been living in belgium for a couple of years now and belgian people need not worry bout ANYTHING when it comes to healthcare, sure they pay more taxes, but seriously how much do we pay the insurance companies?
and calling people like ted kennedy socialists? what is that about, because we should still fear even the hint of communism? this isn't the cold war anymore and just as a reminder last time i checked the free market system wasn't treating us that well either...

If only you people knew anything about universal healthcare other than the rhetoric fed to you by the liberal Dems. IT DOES NOT WORK. Ask anyone in Ireland, England, Canada or any other country who participates in this program. Unless it is a life-threatening situation, you wait on a list.....sometimes a very, very long list. My aunt in England had to wait TWO YEARS to have back surgery. Most Americans are only fed what the Dems want them to eat - nothing more.

Ted's medical plan since the 1980's was to enroll all uninsured Americans into the federal plan since, as taxpayers, if they are good enough to pay for federal healthcare they are good enough to get it. The Clintons stole his idea and Obama filched theirs. I hope we call it the Kennedy Healthcare Bill. A fitting tribule to a policy we needed since WWII, when Eleanor Roosevelt said we needed healthcare because over 25% of the men were unfit for military service to fight fascism due to the absence of national health care. And, for the record, Medicare has the lowest percentage of revenue spent on "administrative" costs compared to any private insurer. So much for the conservatives worship of the private market.

Rochelle, why do you feel a need to fear your god? I'll never understand religion, or those who practice it...

This comment thread reinforces beyond doubt what gutless, spineless, pathetic morons "conservatives" and Republicans really are.

Reprehensible losers. Go hang out with people who care about your loser opinions, the rest of us let you know what we thought of them on Nov. 4th.

lindsey,

Until moving to the US for an employment transfer I lived in Ontario canada for 30 years under Universal healthcare- and it was great. I have noticed no comparable difference in care between Ontario and Nc where I live now- except I pay more here in bills and paid less i Canada in healthcare tax. bottom line: I pay more here for basically the same thing I received in Canada. Stop spreading disinformation on the quality of Canadian healthcare, please.
PS- It was a CONSERVATIVE government in Ontario that brought Universal healthcare in during the 1960s- considered it their Christian duty. No joke.

Who is John Galt?

I guess the haters just need to hate. They have no life without it. They live in their own pool of corrosive poison. The saddest part is they hate themselves the most.

Ted Kennedy sure brings out the wingnuts. Most of them show by their comments that they don't have the first clue about anything. They don't know what Ted is proposing. They don't know the first thing about health care in every other first world democracy (and which work). They don't know what the word 'socialism' means. They still think the government is bad at everything – that's what Republicans tell them, and Republicans *are* bad at government. They don't know that Ted is dying and still working for a better America. They even call him a murderer, though they'd never call Laura Bush a murderer despite her fatal car accident. (And I wouldn't either.)

David Stein wrote, "Medicare – a Canadian perspective.
Cost of delivering our two beautiful children w/ o work insurance:$0
Cost of treating and rehabilitating my brother in law after a severe brain injury: $0
Cost of peace of mind : priceless

COST – $0 ???!!! In other words this didn't cost YOU ANYTHING!. This is the problem!!! Nothing is FREE David; someone else paid YOUR expenses. You could at least say "Thank you" to the hardworking people who were ROBBED tp pay YOUR expenses.

Why won't this dweeb just stay home?

And we don't need socialised medicine! The only people who want it are politicians like Kennedy who think the can buy votes by promising suckers "free" government goodies, and losers who want anyone other than themselves to pay their medical bills.

Hey DMD!

Relax. You are going to get responses when you make untrue statements about something you know nothing about.

I suggest Ted only receive treatment from (socialized) Canadian hospitals for the rest of his illness/life. Then we'll see if he really believes in what he preaches.

Universal Health Care YAY!!! France have it and they have the best health care in the world.

How sad is it that Republicans grumble about having to help other fellow Americans but are okay with sending billions of aid to other countries?

Socialized medicine... Socialized medicine... Socialized medicine...

Let's throw out some more Republican talking points!!

Socialism... Socialism... Socialism...

Let's throw out some more Republican talking points!!

Spread the wealth around... Spread the wealth around...

Let's throw out some more Republican talking points!!

Increased taxes... Increased taxes... Increased taxes...

This ticker is supposed to be about welcoming back Teddy Kennedy... and all you Republican knee-jerks can do is continue to spew your hate and trash talk.

America voted your guys out of office and out of power for a reason... because membership in the Republican Culture of Corruption just got out of control. Time for you guys to ride the bench for awhile!!

Why do you Republicans even waste your time here on CNN, when you can go post on FOX all you want and be with your kind? Nobody wants you here, why waste your breath? Go where you're wanted.... not where you're despised!!!

Why would you want the Federal Government in charge of anything, they are terrible at it!

Don't let the insurance companies handle the healthcare. We will just end up bailing them out too.

I don't really care about Kennedy. He is an old time liberal who hates small government. He should retire.

GOD they need to dump this old clown along with Byrd!

Slapdown to Hillary – He'll show you again and won't put up with your stuff raining on HIS parade!!!!

Ted, it is time for you to retire. No need to come back to the senate.
Universal; healthcare is a bad idea. You need to visit Canada and UK to find out the results. We do not need such bad projects.

Hey Tam, this just in: Ted Kennedy IS the far left.

God bless you Senator Kennedy. Welcome back.

Though I am not his biggest fan, I am happy he is doing better and bless him for taking on health care reform. There are WAY too many good, hardworking, prosperous people in this country who are losing their SHIRTS over medical costs. Insurance policies as they currently exist will not save you in a catastrophe.

Go Ted!!! And Obama!! And McCain, too!! And what the heck, Hillary as well

Hey Van Houten: Socialized medicine isn't work that well for Great Britian and Australia either....so what that Canada is mentioned in the same sentence as Cuba and Russia....Socialized medicine is not the answer, this I believe. Medicare, Medicaid and Unemployment benefits are socialzed programs that we do have in this country, and unfortunately we have a lot of people who abuse these systems off the hardworking taxpaying americans. So, stuff it!

According to a quick Google search it looks like around 460,000 people in the US declare bankruptcy each year due to medical bills. I wonder how many people in Canada have to do that? To me that indicates that Canada is a country that cares about it's citizens' well being, and America is not. Are we proud of that?

God bless you Mr. Kennedy. I pray every Day for you and your Family.

GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS Ted Kennedy !! And May GOD BLESS our Next President and his entire family – BARACK OBAMA !! Universal Health Care Coverage is Mandatory at this point. How can we, the Greatest Nation on the entire globe, be one of only a select few that does not offer Universal Health Care Coverage to it's citizens? Oh, I know the answer to my own question – The GOP thinks is socialist !! Well then GOP – What exactly is Social Security, Medicare, MediCaid, and all the other GREAT programs that were started by Democrats for the benefit of ALL USA citizens? Being socialist does not equate to being communist !! But unfortunately, for the GOP, it also does not equate to being CAPITALIST (Money, Money, Money) !!

RIGHT! With the economy screwed up, we're going to implement another expensive fiasco.

Not to sound rude, but I would think Teddy's top priority would be not dying. Good to see you back!

Something needs to be done re: health care. We've got upwards of 50 million people in the U.S. (about 1 out of every 6 Americans) who don't have access to quality health care. The U.S. consistently ranks at or near the bottom of industrialized countries in terms of infant mortality (while all the so-called "right to life" screams about protecting the unborn and then screams "socialism!" when it comes to caring for those already born). What we are doing is clearly broken and doesn't work. I'm sick and tired of all the impotent right-wing extremists blocking everything and am more than willing to change course and come up with an AMERICAN health care plan that makes sure everyone is covered, especially children. With that in mind, have at it Senator!!!

God will get you people of ill will toward Good Christian, God Fearing people! Mr./Mrs DMD and Dave your day will come and the rath will fall upon you really bad.

Do you you people really think universal healthcare has a chance? There will be strong opposition from Republicans and even some Democrats, likely enough opposition to kill any legislation dealing with universal healthcare.

I'm happy to know that Senator Kennedy, is well enough to return to Capitol Hill. I wish him the best. I hope that something can be done to help ensure all Americans, can receive the health care Insurance, we all need to cover Illnesses that are so hard to get coverage for, to stay well and healthy. I believe Senator Kennedy, can play a large role, in reforming our health care system for the best. I'm hoping, with the help of the Senate and Congress, they can move forward in pasting a bill, that will benefit all Americans.

Wonderful, he is back and looking good! What a blessing! He was also able to vote Senator Obama in as President of these United States of America

TO:
Where's the Change
Terry in NY
Nom dePlume
Welcome to the Obama Show
DMD

FROM:
A Veteran and Patriot

It is high time to change your politics and attitude. Accept the outcome as did the majority of the electorate or you can simply move to your country of choice ruled by a dictator or an ayatollah. I predict that this Administration will outperform the last one and will be re-elected in 2012 with a bigger plurality and electora votes. Hopefully, by then, your attitudes will change.

GOD BLESS THE IRISH, GOD BLESS TEDDY and GOD BLESS THE KENNEDY'S.

Welcome back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Re: Allen " November 17th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

"The obama (show) is about giving life. The bush (show) is about death."

Unless you're an unborn baby, then the Grim Reaper will be waiting for you.

Why is it that Liberals who cry when a man who kidnaps, tortures and murders a child is put to death are so gung-ho on allowing the murder of the unborn?

Can I get a better answer than:

1. It's a choice.
2. Nobody would want the babies.

Both of them are bogus answers. It's not a choice for the baby, who dies. And there are lists of people just waiting for a baby.

So let's try again.

DMD...
Let me guess......Dumb, and More Dumb?

GOD BLESS YOU SENATOR TED KENNEDY. America needs you . I am very happy to have you back on the Hill. You have always been there for the everyday people of America. I sincerely Thank You for your service to our America. You represent the Kennedy Family as we have seen there patroitism, courage, and faithfulness to the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. SENATOR TED KENNEDY A TRUE AMERICAN AND A TRUE KENNEDY.

thanks for the warning!

Used to be a fan of T Kennedy. But took a dislike to him when he and the rest of the Kennedy clan piled on on Hilary Clinton. Now they strike me as opportunists trying to keep the family name as legendary.

God bless you senator kennedy and your healthcare reforms

Teddy, you are one of the great politicians of our time. Hope yoou live a long and healthy life and that you continue to do well by the American people.

Bless you!

welcome back ted....definitely my favorite politician and defintiely the most honest one out there...glad to see you doing well.

Another worthless program from those who gave us the 3 trillion dollar "Great Society."

God bless you Sen. Ted Kennedy. You're a true warrior and I hope you live to be 100.

Let's bankrupt healthcare too. So far USA has the best quality healthcare and delusion that universal healthcare is the answer is growing.

SOCIALISM is not the answer – look at USSR and Eastern Europe – it failed, bankrupt, collapsed and hospitals and going down, cause the BUDGET doesn't have any money to pay them. Is this really what you think it will take to solve the problem? No, prosecuting incompetent doctors and staff and taking licenses away instead of malpractice insurance and endless lawsuits. Anytime you involve the lawyer, the price sticker doubles or triples.

If we reduce the government spending and reduce taxes for everyone, more companies will be offering better health insurance. It's easy for congressman to make economical changes without any knowledge how it will effect the economy.

Stop export of jobs and economy will be better, cancel CAFTA and unemployment will go down. That should be the most important task for anyone wasting their time in Capitol.

Welcome back to Ted Kennedy. I feel Hillary should be the one to push Universal Healthcare not Kennedy. Since Kennedy backed Obama during the primary I believe that he also backed Obama's plan which is not Universal Heathcare. Clinton is the one who should be pushing the plan and I am not sure why Kennedy thinks he should received the credit.

I hope Ted Kennedy will work with Obama as he moves to the center and keep the far left under control so we can actually get something done in Washington.

Let us not forget, Ted Kennedy is the very type of Washington Politician Barak Obama said he wanted to change. Now, they are more vocal and even in his cabinet.

Do you honestly think that this man will will allow Obama to change his ways?

So much for change you can believe in. Obama played you, and you fell for it.

He's been a Senator for over 40 years and has still been unable to get his heath reform. His Senate record is on par with his driving record!!!!

I never understand these people. Why do they think that others can't take over their places and do an even better job. You are old Senator, you are sick. Stay home and rest up. Even without you, life goes on. The senate and America is bigger than you. Retirement age is 67 for the rest of us. The same should apply to Mccain, and ted stevens. Just give other people the chance to take your places.

for those of you who are less informed : the United States is a Repbulic. Go look it up, we are the Republic of the United States of America. My intentions are not to offend anybody, and I apologize ahead of time, but I kinda resent people from other countries telling us here how to run our country, who to vote for and what should work for us and would not work for us. All this stuff is for US to decide. Otherwise, come here and become a citizen before you tell us how things are done.

I know Robert Byrd will probably cry tears of joy seeing Kennedy back......

"Thank God for you, Ted.........Thank God for you........I love you..........and I miss you"

ha ha, remember that??

Thanks for the warning.

To the complainers...Senator Kennedy has accomplished more by just moving his little toe than you will in your entire lifetime.

He has done more to help the average American than anyone in the Senate.

Yes, he made a mistake in 1969 and has to live with that...but he wnet forth and contributed to this country while the complainers continue to do just that....complain!!!!!!

Welcome back Senator Kennedy. You have been missed. Go yell at some Republicans – please?

To allen:

Full term abortion support is about life? what are you thinking?

Canada in the same breath as Cuba and Russia,jeez DMD you sure are an enlightened one aren't you.You're the type that gives Americans a bad name everywhere in the world one travels.

May God Bless you Ted. We can do better with your presence on the political stage.

May health be with you!

so happy to have you back Senator Kennedy; and yes, I believe we can accomplish wonderful things now that we have a new administration...and a new lease on hope and promise for our country. Welcome home!

Welcome back Senator Kennedy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He's a champion for immigration reform also!!!!!!!!!!!! He will help on that matter, I'm sure, so we can get the economy back on track. Legalization means more taxes, more money, fines, more money, more consumers, more money!!!!!

I'm soooo happy to see him well.

To the idoit that responded to John:

You are an Idiot! You go away – to maybe Alaska or Russia?

Lucky for Senator Kennedy that he has health insurance to cover his medical expenses. How much longer will we have to have spaghetti dinners and bake sales to help families pay to save their children from devastating illnesses? What kind of country is this anyway, where you can lose your home and entire life's savings if you are diagnosed with an illness and are unfortunate not to have adequate health care? It seems to me that as along as the people making decisions about ordinary citizen's health care have the best insurance in the country, nothing will get done. Let them go without it until everyone has coverage and we'd all be insured within the month!

What a guy! God Bless and stay well our guy Barrack needs you!

Great to see you back – I wish you well!

Welcome back Senator.
You will always be remembers for giving us the gift of your support for Barack Obama. Now let's get to work and get get health care for the millions of AMERICANS who need it!

ted wrap it up you did your time on the hill now is the time to sit back and enjoy what is left of your life, thanks for your imput.

Sorry to hear you're back in the Senate, but I guess your socialist agenda can use your support.

This piece of garbage needs to retire! We do not need universal healthcare! Its will just be more money stolen from our paychecks to give to the lazy!!! People come here from Canada and England to escape socialized medicine, IT DOESNT WORK!!!

Here comes sexist Ted who lied and pretended Hillary never helped his agenda as first lady.

Hopefully, the universal health care plan that will be 'forced' on the working people will also be the same health plan all of our government workers (including congress and the president) will have. That would be appropriate would it not?

CNN, please post this...
Medicare – a Canadian perspective.
Cost of delivering our two beautiful children w/ o work insurance:$0
Cost of treating and rehabilitating my brother in law after a severe brain injury: $0
Cost of peace of mind : priceless

What a hypocrit. If he wanted and believed in Universal Health Care, he should have went to the VA or a free clinic instead of Duke to have his tumor fixed.

Universal health care hasn't worked anywhere, why would it work here. Anything the government touches it screws up. Social Security, government housing, I would not like to see health care added to that list, it's a nice dream, but we are not capable of achieving it

Awesome! WELCOME BACK TED!

Old Teddy must have come back to pay homage to Obama with the hope that Obama can absolve him of his sins (and there are so many of them.) I think it's awful that so many people in AK voted for Ted Stevens but why shouldnt they when MA keeps electing a murderer to the senate.

TO SEE TED KENNEDY STILL WILLING AND READY TO FIGHT FOR THE COUNTRY HE LOVES IS INSPIRING ESPECIALLY TO THOSE WHO ARE ILL.

Dear Jane: Get a clue.

Michael Vick deserved to be punished for his dog-fighting involvement. But lets be realistic, most of the actual purpetrators 'rolled over' on him in order to recieve lighter or no sentences. I can't belive he actually had that much time to devote to the actions. Another case of a poor kid who gets rich playing sports and can't separate himself from his thug friends.

Believe me, I am no fan of Vicks on or off the field. But to throw him in jail and ban him from the NFL is over-kill. To compare him to OJ Simpson a double-homicide (suspect) is stupid.

If you are such a dog lover, wouldn't making vick work in an animal shelter for a year, and a stiff fine have been more appropriate?

What about the rich wall street brokers and their theft of millions? Do they deserve jail??

I am so proud of you for all you've done for your country...welcome back!

HAHAHA!!

Hillary had 8 years to work on health care before and didn't do anything. Nothing but pandering and lip service.

Why do we keep electing people that don't do what they say they will do?

Stayed blessed, it is only God who knows your heart. Thank you for taking Obama as your son and the love you have for him. Obama all the way.

That is great! Welcome back Ted! Ted is here to stay!

Thank you Sen.Ted Kennedy for all what you did for Barack Obama during both the primaries and election proper. I salute your courage and will continue to pray that the good Lord will give you a more beffiting life time here on earth.
Iroko

... in response to "John":

I am not an idiot. I am informed.

Enjoy your koolaid to the last drop.

Welcome back, Senator Kennedy, and may God bless you!

Welcome back Ted, we need your expertize,,,,,,,,,,,,,stay Well. God bless You !

God bless Teddie and give him more years to do his good work for the people of this country. He is truly a lion and a great man, the people of MA love him except for a few nut cases.

WELCOME BACK WARMLY TED !

Let H. Clinton work with Ted on health care. There must be an answer to the problem.

welcome back teddy.and god speed.you are looking good

Liberian-Canada in Toronto: I have known Canadians that have moved here because their taxes that pay into their Socialized Medicine were TOO high for them and that the waiting period for such things as surgery were very long and people have come to this Country because they didn't want to wait that long to get the surgery/medical care they fel they needed. Granted, some people here get their mediciines from Canada because they are cheaper, but you are paying enormously higher taxes to fund such public medicine. And we have freedom of speech here that allows me to vent in any which way I can, despite some foreigner telling me otherwise. Perhaps it is you, Liberian-Canada in Toronto who should stay out of US Political conversations that go on in this country.

God Bless the liberal lion. Now let's hear you roar with healthcare and immigration reform.
President Obama and the county need you.

Change? Don;t bet on it. Now all the long term Dems come out and tell Obama what HIS agenda will be - Look for Kennedy, Pelosi, Reid, Kerry, Dodd, and other long term DC fixtures to run the country.

Any of you Obama groupies that really thought Barack was going to bring change to washington, get a grip on yourself. It is business as usual for the Dems – tax and spend us into oblivion

The joke is really on all you Obamabots -- I will be watching to see how CNN spins this about their hero. Jack McCafferty and Roland Martin – you two are gonna have egg on face

Go Ted Kennedy! Help Obama put this country back together.

Those who commit murder apparently go to one of two places... to prison, or to the senate. Depends on the lawyer I guess

Welcome back, Mr. Kennedy!

you are looking well senator kennedy, i hope all goes well for the health care plan.

Single-payer government-provided iPods for everyone NOW! Hip and nifty digital music players are a right not a privilege!

Maybe our beloved president-elect Mr. Obama can give Uncle (*hic*) Teddy a cabinet position. I mean, he's hiring every other washed-up Clinton administration staffer available... I guess this is more of that "change" we keep hearing about. So when does Monica get her job back?

Regarding the McCain/Obama meeting: I think it's LONG overdue that partisan nonsense becomes history. Our country is in dire straits and anyone who is truly American and loves this country realizes we all fall or rise TOGETHER. That's why Obama had such an overwhelming victory.

I also feel McCain truly loves this country or he'd be out on Bush's ranch hunting instead of sitting next to Obama.

Welcome back to work, Sen. Kennedy! You are a true American hero. Democrat, Republican, Independent, whatever, we all prayed for you, and it's good to have you back.

to the idiot that said Sen Kennedy should "go away"...check his record, he has been a hard working senator for all his terms, he fights tirelessly, he has turned out to be a great champion for us all....inform
yourself before you speak.

Welcome back Senaotr Kennedy. So glad to see you are doing better. I prayed for your recovery and now I will pray for your continued health.

Yeah! Welcome back Ted am so happy that you have return... the American People know you are working for us..... and praying that your health care agenda will work according to your plan.

Regarding Obama's transition team and change: You would have to be deaf, blind and dumb NOT to see the progress already made by Obama. He has already put into place the most diverse transition team in history, met with President Bush, reached out to Hillary and John McCain and has already said he would include a Repbulican on his cabinet!! Duh...? And some would still question his committment to change?? He's already done more than the Republicans have done in almost 8 years. Get over the hate people, lets move on.

Hey DMD, I don't think that you know much about the USA let alone Canada. Canada is a capitalist and a federal country. One of the primary different between the US and Canada is that our (Canadian)constittution encourages collective security and welfare as opposed to the individual. Here in Canada, our law does not permit fatuitous lawsuit just to enrich the few. As well, our health care system is publicly founded and I wouldn't trade it for any thing or any country including the United States.
By the way did you know that every year, countless numbers of Americans come to Canada to take advantage of our health care? Flu shots, cheaper prescription and free hospitals stay etc.
Please know your facts before you write or talk, I did think you have visited Cuba, Australia or the UK to really speak about their health care issues...

The LION is back.

Welcome Back Ted Kennedy and glad to see him coming back to what he loves. Obama will need you on Capitol Hill to push Healthcare through Congress.

Will this guy EVER go away? We need new, fresh faces in gov't. I wish Kennedy would go and retire and enjoy your million$.

We can all debate health care with Sen. Kennedy some other time. The Kennedy family has had enough tragedy. I'm glad this didn't turn out to be another one. This Republican wishes him well.

I'm glad Ted has recovered enough to return to the Senate. With everyone else focused on the economy, it might be good to have someone with such clout focused on health care. If you divide the work, it might be possible to work on several agenda items at once. Now all we need is someone who says his main focus will be the war – and the money to make it all happpen.

DMD: the Republic of the United States of America??? Lay off the Star Wars.

Teddy my man. You have no idea how my family is glad you are back. Hope has finally return to the Hill. I will devote all my time in prayers just to keep you alive and well.

Universal Health Care, here we come. I feel healthy already.

Go Teddy go.

Sorry Americans, the socialized health care system in Canada works just fine. Stop drinking the Kool-aid. Your health care horror stories make ours seem like bedtime lullabies.

Universal health care is definitely a priority. I am a Canadian living in the United States. While the Canadian system has its problems and is far from perfect, I would trade it hands down, in a heartbeat, for what we have here in the US. Its no wonder our infant mortality rate amongst other measureables is so far down the pole compared to other countries. Who can afford to go to the doctor? Even with health insurance, which I have, I still avoid it as long as possible. Huge deductibles and copays and huge premiums. Its way too expensive!!! You gotta be rich to be able to get medical attention in this country or go broke trying to pay for it.

Too bad Mary Jo couldn't come back too. This guy should have been in prison for manslaughter. That said, I'm glad his health is improving. I don't wish cancer on anyone.

EVERYTIME I SEE TEDDY I CRY. HE IS A GOOD HUMAN BEING. I CAN ONLY WISH HIM THE BEST OF LUCK.HE IS A HARD WORKER AND LOVED BY MANY PEOPLE.

====i don't trust the Clintons===

********i Regret my vote if the Clintons will be in charge again.

The Clintons are all about Power and $$$$$$, and nothing more,
you got to be an idiot not to realize that.

Welcome back! Senator Kennedy

Welcome back Senator Kennedy.....I am glad you are going to have someone that cares and is willing to work with you on health care...the republican party could care less about those who are unable to afford or don't have health care until it effects them. I am so glad that the dems are back in control we may have our faults but they are minimal compared to the GOP....

Yeah, I want to get the same Health Coverage you got!

The obama (show) is about giving life. The bush (show) is about death.

Senator Kennedy has been a leader on the Hill for decades and has been in thoughts and prayers of millions. If our country listened to him more, we would not be in the poor condition we are in today.

IN ANSWER TO DMD. SOCIALIZED MEDICINE UP HERE IN CANADA WORKS JUST FINE THANK YOU. QUESTION FOR YOU HOW MUCH MONEY DO YOU HAVE FOR CANCER TREATMENT. TRY A SECOND MORTGAGE

Glad to see him back looking healthy. All the peole who are still sore over President-elect Obama winning need to put that behind them and support him. He won the popular vote and the electoral vote. That tells you the majority of America wanted him. Hard to believe that conservative Republicans, who are 99.9 Christian, forget what the Bible says and continue to be bitter. Step back and think.

Welcome back Mr. Senator! I don't agree with a lot of your ideas, but I'm glad to see you back to work!!

Idon't understand why people vilify this man. After all he has given his life to serve his country just as John McCain has. So your anger at Ted Kennedy seems a little stupid and illinformed. Ah well! So much for the so called American education system. May I suggest you all go and live in Alaska with all the other people who never got out of grade four.

Socialized medicine does not work....just ask Canada.

Socialism in and of itself does not work....just ask Canada, Russia, Cuba.

One must NEVER forget that while we live in a DEMOCRACY, we are the REPUBLIC OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Repeal or drastically rewrite NAFTA, avoid other pacts that are NAFTA-like, and bring our manufacturing jobs back home where they belong.

to Brian G, Sugar Land, TX. I hope that when you are there age that you will be ok with having someone put you out to pasture when all you want to do is still contribute. It's crazy to say they should go because of age. With Stevens, it should be for other reasons, but the whole group shouldn't be old or young. It's the mix that makes us as great as we are capable of being.

Glad you are back Senator Kennedy!!!

Welcome back, Senator Kennedy. I hope that you are up for one final accomplishment.

May you have the strength to finally win health care, as a matter of right, for all Americans.

It works in Canada, it works in Hawaii. It will work for all Americans if only we have the courage to try.

I like this guy Ted Kennedy best of luck to him and his family.

Welcome back Sen. Kennedy and we have you in our thoughts and prayers.

Does anyone ever wonder why senators do not want to retire like everyone else?! I am glad the Senator is doing well, but we really need term limits!

To Where's the Change-

Don't forget that your idol, George W, became the biggest socialist in America with his bailout program. Thanks to the ineptness of the GOP, we can all pay for their incompetence for the the next 40 years.

what a wonderful blessing and an historical moment for this country
and worldwide to have you and President ekect Obama to work side by side in my lifetime and the lifetime of my children. This the day
that the Lord has made and we will rejoice in it for everyone.

Welcome back Senator Ted Kennedy. We love you and will continue to keep you in our prayers.

This guy needs to retire.

Welcome back

You deserve to rest at home.

From another Ted in Canada

Welcome Back !

yes!! Health Care – is a good one to go after!

when you have been there! – you get another perspective!

the best to you!

"Welcome to the Obama Show"

Whomever you are you are a complete idiot!!!!!!

Senators have their own health plan. So, now Kennedy will attempt to ruin the health system for the rest of us. Way to go, Dummycrat.

And where is the money supposed to come from? Borrow it? Print it Iinflation)? Increase taxes? Sounds like a good plan to me. We'll just let our children deal with the mess.

What a trooper. What a life and he keeps going. Always looking out for us. I am proud to have him as a Senator.

I've lost two dear family members to brain cancer and I know what an enormous struggle this must be for him. I wish him the best and pray for him...it's wonderful to see him back at work!

Can I say this...what is CNN obsession with Hillary. President Obama says Hillary was tapped, and you make several tickers about why people want Hillary. Then your whole coverstaion is why Hillary is the best, and why others see her that way. Oh and the nonsense about her overshadowing him. I doubt that. He tore her up in the primaries, so don't count on it. I don't like Hillary, and neither does half the country. She can't be trusted.

However, if she were to be in his cabinet, keep her at AG and that's it.

Clinton News Network for sure!!

I am so proud to call you MY SENATOR!!! Welcome back!! Now I know things will get done!!! Best wishes for your continued recovery!!!

BLIND LEADING THE BLIND!!!!!!!!!!!

OBAMA-REID-PELOSI-RICHARDSON-FRANKIN-KENNEDY

Thank God he's back and I hope he is able to stay! What a great public servant he is!

BLIND LEADING THE BLIND!!!!!!!!!!!

OBAMA-REID-PELOSI-RICHARDSON-FRANKIN

Welcome back senator and may God continue to bless..

Ted Kennedy is one of the giants in our history. I applaud the Republicans who have acknowleged his contributions and shown genuine affection for a man they have apposed on issues for so many years. We are a better nation because of teddy

Welcome back! I'm pulling for you!

Much I as admire Kennedy, I do believe we need term limits and age restrictions. The likes of Stevens, McCain and Kennedy need to turn the keys ofleadership over to the current generation.

Godspeed Mr. Senator...

Terry in NY-YOUR life must really SUCK with your disgusting attitude. You need to work on your own life-or do you have a list of accomplishments that exceed the Honorable Edward Kennedy??

The Old Socialist wants to be in Washington DC to work with the New Socialist.

We love you Teddy! The Lion is BACK!

Tears again.

This is wonderful news!! Welcome "home" Senator-you're right where you belong. Best wishes for a continuing recovery to good health.
God bless you.

Brings a tear to my eye. The Lion is back to help lead the pack.

Senator McCain, who seems to be a gracious loser, can further this example by observing Senator Kennedy. There's lots of good, hard work to be done by the entire Congress and you can choose to become a part of the solution or a part of the problem. I'm hoping that McCain and the rest of the GOP will choose the former, rather than the latter.

God Bless You, Sen. Kennedy. You are still making a difference in the lives of everyday Americans.

ONE NATION

I am so happy to see Senator Kennedy back on the hill. Hope for a
miracle and all goes well. Everyone knows he is looking forward to
working with Pres. Elect Obama. Thanks for all you have done Senator.

WELCOME BACK!

I'm happy you're back Ted...

Wow, Terry in NY. .... I think he has had a full and productive life. But apparently you have a beef. For a man who lost 3 brothers in service to the United States and he still works beyond the age of retirement is admirable. He obviously does not need the money. I don't understand such bitterness.

Welcome back Sen. Kennedy.

I am SOOO very glad he is back! With him on Obamas side, health care reform will no longer be on the back burner! Lets get it DONE NOW! We have no excuse to not.

Welcome back Senator. You were missed! I am SO glad he is able to come back. With him there to guide and help President Obama with health care, we should have it done by the end of 2009. I HOPE!!!

Welcome back Senator Kennedy; wishing you a full recovery and success in your battle. Also it is a joy to know President Obama's polticial guardian is around to protect and guide.

Welcome back Mr. Senator...You truly deserve that title....I know that deep down in my heart that if your health were better. President -elect Obama would appoint you to one of his cabinet posts.

Apparently he's not over the Hill.

And now our new Politburo is complete. On to the nation's business of crushing the bourgeosie.

Make it happen Ted!

I am waiting for you and President Obama to reform healthcare so I can buy decent, affordable coverage.

»Good news. Senator Kennedy is a good man.

Welcome back Sen Kenndy, I will continue to pray for you and your family.

I do not agree with Kennedy on most things political, but best wishes to him during his healing process.

Glad Ted is still around to see Barack's victory!

He needs to retire......NOW.

It must suck not to have a life at his age!

HEALTH CARE FOR ALL AMERICANS. YES, WE CAN!

Welcome back, Ted. We're all behind you, Senator.

As much as I would love to see a universal-esqe type healthcare solution, this may not happen for a bit. Unless we issue a "whine" tax on the GOP for everything the Obama Administration and the Democratically controlled Congress does these next few years.

IT IS SO NICE TO KNOW THAT TED KENNEDY IS COMING BACK,WHAT A TROOPER HE IS I REALLY ADMIRE HIM ,HE NEVER GIVES UP A REAL KENNEDY.BEST WISHES TO HIM AND HIS FAMILLY.