June 17, 2009
Posted: June 17th, 2009 09:22 AM ET

From
The Republican National Committee is urging GOP members of Congress to take to the local airwaves next week.
The Republican National Committee is urging GOP members of Congress to take to the local airwaves next week.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – The Republican National Committee is urging GOP members of Congress to take to the local airwaves next week to discuss their approach to healthcare reform in an effort to counter an ABC News primetime special featuring President Obama speaking on the issue.

The RNC is informing GOP congressional offices this morning that it will pay for and help schedule the interviews with local television reporters in their states and districts.

The RNC tells the Republican lawmakers it is taking this step because they said their request to be included in the special “was denied.”

“This means that President Obama and the Democrats will have an entire day to push their government-run health care agenda without hearing Republicans’ policy ideas and principles on health care reform,” the RNC writes in the memo that was obtained by CNN.

Read the full memo after the jump

MEMORANDUM
TO: House and Senate Republican Chiefs of Staff, Communication Directors, Press Secretaries and Schedulers

FROM: RNC Communications

DATE: June 17, 2009

RE: June 24th Republicans’ Opportunity to Respond to President Obama on ABC News

On Wednesday, June 24th, the ABC News network will devote an entire day of programming to President Barack Obama’s health care agenda. According to an ABC News report, in addition to a primetime health care reform “town hall” at the White House, Good Morning America, World News, Nightline and ABC’s web news “will all feature special programming on the president’s health care agenda.”

The Republican National Committee asked ABC News to include Republicans in their health care reform programming on June 24th but our request was denied. This means that President Obama and the Democrats will have an entire day to push their government-run health care agenda without hearing Republicans’ policy ideas and principles on health care reform.

Next Wednesday, the RNC will make our television studio available, for the entire day, for House and Senate Republicans to conduct satellite interviews with local network affiliates in their home states or congressional districts, including the 211 ABC affiliates nationwide. The RNC will absorb the cost of the satellite time and offer assistance in setting up the satellite interviews with the local affiliates. Republican Members of Congress can use this opportunity to discuss his or her views on health care reform as well as to respond to President Obama’s health care plan.

The RNC TV studio will be available the entire day of June 24th. Please RSVP at your earliest convenience as space is limited.

Filed under: President Obama • RNC


FRANK, Las Vegas   June 17th, 2009 10:57 am ET

Of course. It should be a pretty short program, we already know what you're going say, "NO". Idiots!

Larry - Hazleton, pa   June 17th, 2009 10:56 am ET

Lets try a noval approach to the health care problem – "make sure that all americans have what there elected officials get that we pay for" I have not heard any member of the senate or the congress suggest this approach. Lets also start asking at every opportunity just how much we taxpayers pay for there healthcare.

Joe Smoe   June 17th, 2009 10:56 am ET

on obama and fox why are you asking for comments then say it is closed

Samuel B.   June 17th, 2009 10:55 am ET

The Republicans' policy ideas and principles about health care amount to nothing more than "get private insurance or do without." There's nothing novel about that, and ABC was right to turn them down.

If the GOP wants to present their nonplan to the American people then they can always get their supporters at Fox News to put together some propaganda piece for them, but since Fox News viewers are already likely to agree with Republican policies this won't do them any good.

Ben   June 17th, 2009 10:55 am ET

Poor RNC. The request was more than likely denied because the RNC is completely irrelevant to most people today. Who cares what they have to say? I don't!

enough   June 17th, 2009 10:54 am ET

I can not understand for the life of me why republicans don't want Americans to have tax funded health care. Last I checked every single one of them have a tax funded health care plan and they don't seem to complain about it.

Edward Veidt   June 17th, 2009 10:53 am ET

We heard all about the GOP's "ideas" during the election season.

And we strongly rejected them, as proven by the GOP's massive losses in November.

Allan   June 17th, 2009 10:53 am ET

LOL. How desperately they lie. I'm no fan of ABC, but to suggest that they won't ask any tough questions of the President, or allow any Republicans to participate in the town halls, is absolutely are-these-people-on-drugs insane.

WhoCares?   June 17th, 2009 10:53 am ET

American Citizens :

Understand what these Republicans are doing. They do not want you to have the same healthcare that THEY AND THEIR FAMILIES HAVE. You in their eyes are not worth the extra money needed to make it happen.

They did not get the message last election....make sure they get this next one.

gl, From Pittsburgh   June 17th, 2009 10:52 am ET

The RNC TV studio will be available the entire day of June 24th. Please RSVP at your earliest convenience as space is limited.

GOOD LUCK! YOU CAN NOT COMPLETE WITH A POPULAR PRESIDENT.

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   June 17th, 2009 10:51 am ET

RNC is only representative of the health care industry design to maximize profits, not actual health care. Everything they will suggest plays right into the hands of the pockets of the medical oligopoly which is lead by the monopolistic AMA.

And don't be fooled by the dictionary definition that "oligopoly" does not control the market. It does!

Ask yourselves, have I ever met a poor doctor?

Sharon   June 17th, 2009 10:51 am ET

What ideas?? Tax cuts? That's the answer to everything for the Republicans. Try to be innovative and actually care for the people instead of big business. Oh yeah, I forgot, that's the democrats. If it will not help the rich and business, it is totally off the Republican radar!

Jeezo   June 17th, 2009 10:49 am ET

what communications director writes like this? it's a really confusing read. seems typical for a hardcore republican tho... loaded to the gills with zealotism but doesn't have much else (including education, apparently).

I never thought i'd be wishing for Bob Dole and Jack Kemp style republicans. they'd have been kicked out.

JT   June 17th, 2009 10:48 am ET

The GOP has nothing to offer. So, this would be a whole day of paid programming about nothing?

Taa Taa   June 17th, 2009 10:46 am ET

These guys are just stupid. At some point they will have to concede that attacking President Obama is not working. They will have to concede that saying "NO" to everything makes them look like a bunch of "Old" whiney, cry babies. This is really beginning to be stupid to the 10th power.

K. Workman   June 17th, 2009 10:46 am ET

Dear CNN:

The symbolism of the fly and how it came to its end is perfect with regards to Fox News. Fox News may be a fly bothering the President. But, Fox must remember that the government / people control the licenses and details that allow a station to opperate and use the publicly owned air. Some flys die by the swap of a quick hand and yet others others wither away from lack of attention and the swat of paper licenses and regulation. Thank You

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   June 17th, 2009 10:46 am ET

RNC Reply: One minute commercial defending doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and, of course, their handlers, the health insurance industry, for whom they run interference!

See, that was easy!!!

B.H.   June 17th, 2009 10:45 am ET

They were denied because they- have not- put fourth ONE positive idea dealing with major concerns that Obama is trying to solve.

GOP = NO

Steven   June 17th, 2009 10:43 am ET

Would we expect anything else from the "Party of NO!"?

Balance   June 17th, 2009 10:43 am ET

ABC? I thought the GOP only existed on Fox.

CHANGE.COM   June 17th, 2009 10:43 am ET

ABC didn't want to be a part of the obfuscation propaganda megaphone for the Republicans with same old tax credits idea to healthcare solution. Wise move. The POTUS does not need that pestering fly in the room, the GOP, discussing healthcare reform. Time for real solution for the choking healthcare problems this country faces.

Reggie from LA   June 17th, 2009 10:42 am ET

That's right!! Go for it. As usual, spend more time shaping and molding potential constituent votes instead of trying to provide solutions. Yes, put on your capes and show the people you stand behind them warding of the children and grandchildren boogieman. Hell you had eight years to approach health care reform for EVERYONE. They have not introduced anything to remedy the problem. They've only tossed out well-spun road blocks that convince the "common man" that their efforts are to save us from the evils of government involvement in health care. Aren't THEY like, BIG government or something themselves? What IS the RNC Agenda on health care anyway

Malia   June 17th, 2009 10:42 am ET

Appalling! If ABC does not offer a counter view, then this is nothing more than Democrat propoganda infomercial. I will boycott ABC nonsense.

Wendy McMillan   June 17th, 2009 10:41 am ET

I think the republicans are sick in the head. They are a bunch of rich white idiots trying to get poor white dummies to follow them. They make a lot of noise about what the President is doing but they have no plan. And besides, who cares if they have a plan–no one wants to hear them. They are clouds with no water.

Lee W. in Raleigh, NC   June 17th, 2009 10:41 am ET

I'm pefectly happy to listen to the Republicans plan. One Republican appeared on cable this morning to start telling about the plan, but I swear I couldn't hear much in the ways of details. And when questioned, he immediately went into the "Party of No" response of what is wrong with the Democrat plans. I hope the Republicans will have some real details and not just more negativity.

It's a vitally important topic. I'll personally be listening to all who have constructive details to offer.

E. Elliot   June 17th, 2009 10:40 am ET

I propose a solution. Let the GOP inflict their plan on 5 states that voted for McCain. And then try the President's plan on 5 blue states. Run both as a trial for 3 years. Which ever plan reduces the cost of providing health care would be used for the whole country and the losers simply crawl off and hide, right before the next election. I am confident that the GOP plan would not win & if they stopped obstructing the majority the job would be done right. But their goal is not really lower costs. The guys getting that extra money are prime contributers for their re-elections.

RepubliKLANs Are Stupid As Stupid Does   June 17th, 2009 10:39 am ET

When "FALSENEWS" was in the tank for GW Bush during the last 8yrs of his torture and illegal Irak war regime that bankrupt the USA, these GOP dimwits didn't say anything!!....Obama is only trying to reach to Americans to educate them on the healthcare plan before the Got "0" Plan Party of No! start scaring folks with their usual fuming-at-mouth mantra of socialism and fascism!!!!

Fool me once, shame on you! Fool me err...   June 17th, 2009 10:38 am ET

Republican members of congress enjoy government-paid healthcare coverage. But to the rest of us, they say – you're on your own. Surely it doesn't take any tv programming to convey such a simple message!

Republican hypocricy is shameless and mind-boggling. Narcissism is what comes to mind.

jojeaux   June 17th, 2009 10:38 am ET

Go for morons !...as if anyone listen to you

Dave   June 17th, 2009 10:38 am ET

Funny, the GOP doesn't have a problem when Fox News acts as a shill for their moronic and simple-minded ideas without offering any countering viewpoints. Now that ABC is doing it, they are crying foul. You people become more of a joke every day.

Too True For You   June 17th, 2009 10:38 am ET

Who wants to hear an endless stream of republicans chanting "Reduce taxes for the wealthy. Eliminate controls on big business. Screw the middle class." over and over and over again?

They don't want a free market approach – that might impact their big money masters.
They don't want a government managed approach – that might affect their big money masters.
All they want is obfuscation and confusion to allow things to proceed as they are.

That's the republican way.

Texas Doc   June 17th, 2009 10:37 am ET

GOP Health Care Plan: If you can't afford insurance as good as Senator McConnell's well too bad. All of you other slobs just aren't trying hard enough. Being poor is UnAmerican.

Saboth   June 17th, 2009 10:37 am ET

Do republicans need more than 1 minute to outline their healthcare reform? I can sum it up: "We want things to continue as they are. The government takes care of our healthcare, so we don't know why the average citizen is concerned over costs that go up 10-20% per year and is the cause of the majority of bankruptcies that occur in our country. We say vote "NO" on any kind of healthcare reform. Our lobbyists...I mean *we* thank you."

David   June 17th, 2009 10:37 am ET

How can the democrats and obama even claim to the american people that they are trying to work with Reppublicans?

Ronald Clowney   June 17th, 2009 10:35 am ET

The GOP doesn't have any policy ideas and principles on health care reform. Unless it's NO!

Texas Teacher   June 17th, 2009 10:35 am ET

Whoa.... come on, Repubs, how quickly you forget YOUR bipartisanship efforts during the last 8 years! NOW you have the gall to cry, "unfair?" Why is this not surprising? So far I have heard little but empty rhetorical criticisim in their plan for Medical reform. ALL they want to do is protect the entire Medical community... and then call it a plan that helps all of us. Pfffft.... phew... something stinks about the GOP plan! And I think it is obvious.. they simply want the status quo.... I surely hope that all those many thousands of people who have just lost their jobs are listening to this concern for their medical insurance which is now nonexist!

Stay alert, We, the People! We have a scam in the progress... and it is being fostered by this new bipartisan cry! You lost, Repubs.... We, the People, have won... now let our administration remember this as well!

JFK   June 17th, 2009 10:35 am ET

Well the GOP had plenty of time to come up with their own ideas for years. Where were they? Oh ya, thats right, they didnt think their was a healthcare problem!!!

Sam I Am   June 17th, 2009 10:35 am ET

The Republicans don't need to pay for any special TV time. They have Fox News. I'm sure the 18 people that still watch Beck, Hannity and O'Reill will be impressed.

Big G   June 17th, 2009 10:34 am ET

ABC reporting (one-sided news) directly from the white house and Obama has to utter gall to dispute Fox News' coverage of him and his administration? What nads. CNBC and MSNBC are so totally in the tank for Obama and he cannot stand a media outlet that tells the truth!! Thank goodness we do have Fox News and their ratings double all of the others. Someone has to get the word out to the American people because if they didn't, all we would have is lies, lies, lies. This administration is running this country into the ground!

Zack   June 17th, 2009 10:33 am ET

This should be interesting: same old tired ideas as before. Please, let the RNC flood the airwaves with this same tired old diatribe. It will only remind people why they don't vote in November to put them in power. They have no new ideas.

David   June 17th, 2009 10:33 am ET

The main point of this article is that obama is having to go on primetime news to "sell" his plan (translation: manipulate the ingorant liberals to get googly eyed and not really listen to anything he's saying). The guy will be campaigning his entire life because he doesnt know how to do anything else...

David   June 17th, 2009 10:33 am ET

Republicans can't agree on a plan between themselves, let along try and create a 'draft' of a plan for the American people.

So now there are three(3) different 'groups' within the republican party with special 'club' names, that have their own 'plan' for healthcare that conflict with each other. Healthcare is too complex of a project for republicans to handle who see education and intelligence as bad thing.

This is very much like the 3 page Budget the republicans created on their own and submitted to the President. Such Incompetence.

Brad, California   June 17th, 2009 10:33 am ET

And the Republicans really have any ideas to push?

Rosa Birmingham, AL   June 17th, 2009 10:32 am ET

Can someone please explain to me how a tax credit helps someone without a job get health insurance. These people are so out of touch you would think they lived on Mars. THe argument that everything is fine and we can get away with incremental change will not work this time.

Steve A. , New Braunfels , Texas   June 17th, 2009 10:30 am ET

Good golly miss molly, is the RNC and the GOP that scared and desperate,I'll be watching ABC for sure. All this did was give ABC news network good advertisement.

Doug, New Jersey   June 17th, 2009 10:30 am ET

What media bias?

I'm sure that if Rush Limbaugh or Dennis Miller said what Letterman said about Malia, every Democrat in America would be attacking Michelle Obama and excusing Rush, right?

Please see Democrats for who they really are. Examine the facts of their hypocrasy, lies, double standards and hate. See that NOW, NAACP, and GLADD are only about liberals since they never once will stick up for anyone who is a woman, minority, or gay if they are not a liberal. If you can look your children in the eyes knowing you support the evil that is the Democratic party then I can understand why you skip church every Sunday.

katiec   June 17th, 2009 10:30 am ET

Principles?? The republicans do not know the meaning of the word.
Their inciting hate, anger, distortions, fear and division of our country have put them into the position of becoming our countries most dangerous domestic terrorists.

Bill from GA   June 17th, 2009 10:29 am ET

Seems like the Repubs had 6 to 8 years to air their plan.

Wastedyrs   June 17th, 2009 10:29 am ET

ABC no longer has news coverage. They are a left-wing propaganda media outlet. You won't get any breaking news stories here. Unless you count what Bill Maher thinks of a situation. In that case, ABC may break the story.

tedious898   June 17th, 2009 10:28 am ET

....and who again does the GOP represent other than the Clitus, Fred Barnes of the country?

It amazes me these guys are still out there fighting against the president in this really tough times with no ideas, even less public support but primarily with "racist fly by emails".

When you look at one of those idiot GOPers (ranting about ...on no we're dead, here comes big government) on TV you're upset our educational system doesn't do a better job for all the tax money we pay. We have ten year olds able to bring forth a coherent idea these days as opposed to the constant blather from the GOP

victor   June 17th, 2009 10:27 am ET

Was it not a republican majority that rewrote the rules several years ago?

Monrob   June 17th, 2009 10:27 am ET

You had 8 years of Idiot Bush and Democrats could not be heard.

Sorry, your turn to be silenced.

Gary   June 17th, 2009 10:26 am ET

Let the GOP pay for their own programming!

Rob Kole   June 17th, 2009 10:26 am ET

Hurm do it my way or the highway... seems we had this kind of leadership before. ...recently in fact,.

Ken, Vail, AZ   June 17th, 2009 10:22 am ET

This sound like the GOP (Government Opposition Party) has already decided to oppose the president's plan all together. They should make their policy positions known in the appropriate congressional committees.

pat c   June 17th, 2009 10:22 am ET

just a suggestion to the GOP....boys before you go on the air please have your facts together, so far you can't put a price on anything you've come up with and oh yea don't waste air time by just saying NO!!

VOR1972   June 17th, 2009 10:21 am ET

OK, so if I understand the Republican plan, it is essentially based on "tax credits" for health coverage for low income earners? But isn't it the Republicans who are always rallying against low income earners who pay "too little" or no taxes at all? So, if you have a household earning $30-40K who already is paying little or no tax, will they be eligible? Is there a possibility that these credits will eliminate their tax burden all together theoretically? Won't this just lead to more animosity from those on the far right who already feel it is an injustice for low income earners to not carry their "equal share" of taxes? Or will it just be a case that these lower income families just won't be eligible for this plan, or even worse, that they will be eligible and in essence will be receiving free (in other words, gulp, socialized) health care anyway because they do not have a tax burden to be credited against?

David   June 17th, 2009 10:20 am ET

ABC will decline this invitation. The RNC has FAUX News promoting their 'agenda' 24 hours a day. Why are they wasting time trying to create another media event, when they should he working on viable policies that meet the needs of the American people. Instead, they are stuck trying to defend their rejected concepts that only benefit corporations.

RealityKing   June 17th, 2009 10:17 am ET

$1.6 trillion for Obama-care. And yet he still has the gall to say the words Pay-Go. Only morons still believe Obama's elegant words at this point..

Bill, Bloominton IL   June 17th, 2009 10:16 am ET

Big deal. Nobody watches ABC anyway.

E   June 17th, 2009 10:16 am ET

Yes it was denied. Did they EVER let the Democrats have a part in the Republican programs? Nope. And if Dems had tried this counter thingy on another network the Republicans would have freaked out entirely and found a way to keep them off the air.

Gary   June 17th, 2009 10:16 am ET

ABC loves Obama – - they need to be challenging his ideas not running free commercials for him under the guise of "news." What happen to our independent journalism? This is why the news agencies like ABC get a reputation as being biased and unethical. All news agencies need to challenge both sides of the isle, especially issues as important as healthcare. This is sad.

Lisa in FL   June 17th, 2009 10:15 am ET

"Democrats will have an entire day to push their government-run health care agenda without hearing Republicans’ policy ideas and principles on health care reform..."

Oh please GOPers. All America has to do is tune into Fox News (aka the Obama Bashing Channel) 24/7 to get the "Republicans' policy ideas and principles".

Wah, wah, wah. How 'bout a little cheese with that wine?

Mick   June 17th, 2009 10:15 am ET

The GOP has Fixed News to air their platform 24×7x365. Why do they need another network to bail them out? Besides, the GOP plan is the same plan they always roll out for every issue, tax cuts for the wealthy and deregulation. After hearing the same nonsense for 30 years, we get your plan GOP. There's no need to restate it, yet again.

Patty   June 17th, 2009 10:15 am ET

President OBAMA will not host a "Debate" with the party of no on June 24, 2009. This will be a time to tell all who are interested in Health Care Reform exactly what the program is about.

The RNC should hold tell all who are interested in their ideas when ever they chose. It would be a good idea to hold their program on
Health Care Reform
BEFORE the Presidents air time so it will not look as if the GOP does not any new ideas of it's own and is only waiting to react.

Tim   June 17th, 2009 10:15 am ET

ABC is a disgrace.

Big Ed   June 17th, 2009 10:14 am ET

Instead of the RNC taking an offensive position against President Obama, what I think would really impress the voting public, is for the Republican lawmakers to initiate a positive dialog with President Obama to work on a common solution. Continuting to take a combative position against any positon by the Democrats results ijn one thing – we as a nation, lose.

deborah, WV   June 17th, 2009 10:13 am ET

Wow! They came up with A POLICY. Now that IS news!!!!!

UNHAPPY LA. Dem   June 17th, 2009 10:12 am ET

Health care reform sucks.

Ron   June 17th, 2009 10:12 am ET

I don't ever recall a time when former President Bush allowed the DNC to speak to issues while he was at the White House speaking to the press. RNC, you assume, far too much.
Perhaps the RNC should consider why they are no longer in power and why the American people do not trust them.

john   June 17th, 2009 10:12 am ET

Why in god's name would ABC, when doing a special on Obama include the GOP? Are they just plain stupid or what. Thats not the subject which is the president. Man they sure can add a warped slant into everything!

THE MEDIA IS THE MASTER   June 17th, 2009 10:11 am ET

LET THEM FIGHT IT!!

The MORE they put themselves on NATIONAL television, the MORE we citizens SEE just how HYPOCRITICAL they REALLY ARE.

Okay, you say you have a plan? LET'S SEE THE NUMBERS.

TODAY, ALL they have to say, is that they have a 'better plan' but OFFER NOTHING to PROOVE IT. Just MORE HOT AIR.

NO MORE DOUBLE TALK.

WE WANT NUMBERS

Free Thinker   June 17th, 2009 10:11 am ET

ABC = All Bylines Communist

bradvado in boston   June 17th, 2009 10:10 am ET

let we not foget how congress was run over the past six years when the GOP held the majority, I will remind a few of you that bills were drafted, plans were crafted, and deeds were hatched behind closed doors (without Democrats allowed in) and in some cases, late night as whispers floated in the halls of Congress.

Now why would the Democrats want to exclude such "game players" who obviously have the common good of their constituants in mind – NOT!

Exclude them and pass the bill. Then when we have Universal Health Coverage and in ten years it is working well like it (almost is) is in Massachusetts, the GOP can remember how they "proposed their own ideas."

tsk tsk. What a mess this fissure of ideas has become. I blame The Actor from California in the 80's for driving the chisel deeper and deeper.

We need another IKE!

MikeWall   June 17th, 2009 10:10 am ET

Have they forgotten that ABC did a story on the Health Care plans of the President of the United States and did not feel obligated to include the views of an out-of-power, out-of-touch fringe group that has been thoroughly repudiated by the citizens of this country? Why not include a spokesperson for the Whig party and every other irrelevant group that screams about being ignore? It would make just about as much sense and be just about as meaningful. The Republican party has become the laughingstock of the world!

iupg   June 17th, 2009 10:09 am ET

"The Republican National Committee asked ABC News to include Republicans in their health care reform programming on June 24th but our request was denied".

Translated: ABC news is obviously getting tired of the constant "Wah, Wah, Wah, No, No, No" whining of the republicans and would like to actually focus on progressive ideas.

Lue Blackwell   June 17th, 2009 10:08 am ET

Why are the "repugs" all of a sudden so concerned about healthcare? They have rejected everything Pres. Obama has tried to do-they need to go somewhere and "fly a kite"- mccain, cantor, pence really are insane- they ARE NOT the president-how do they think they can go over Pres. Obama head-and do what they want to do-they are really CRAZY! The thought that "morning joe"- think that he could be a contender for the GOP-is laughable to say the least- he is an arrogant fool!

jayeandvic   June 17th, 2009 10:08 am ET

Wake up people, the GOP dosen't want healthcare for everybody....period. They don't like the poor, the hungry, or the needy.

Jmurillo   June 17th, 2009 10:06 am ET

Government run health care, why not call it what it is, Socialized medicine? What's next Government run grocery stores? Government run schools? We already have Government run automobile manufacturing? This isn't an administration, it's a regime!

Kahuna   June 17th, 2009 10:05 am ET

Didn't the GOP have 12 years control of congress and 8 years control of the WH? Where were their proposals during that time? Nada. Couldn't be bothered. Now, the party of NO must be heard?

I don't think so.

Drew Heitner   June 17th, 2009 10:04 am ET

What GOP Policies and ideas?
Never has a party been so devoid of such things.
They are the party of "No".
They spew nothing but fear and hate.
They are all that remains to be fixed in our society.
Why does the media continue to give a platform to the veiled hate-speech of these unAmerican Idiots?

kathy Garrett   June 17th, 2009 10:04 am ET

OK, so the plan the GOP has is 'tax credits' to the poor. Tax credits would indicate a tax due that then is credited.
How does that work when you LOST your insurance due to getting laid off, and do not have income tax due as you do not have income?
What a brilliant proposal by the GOP, the truly Got No Plan party.

Melissa   June 17th, 2009 10:03 am ET

Not surprising. They want more biased news to make Obama look and them look good. I'm so tired of it.

Bill/CA   June 17th, 2009 10:03 am ET

He's spot-on with that assessment. It's funny how during the Bush administration, Fox News was quick to imply that any critics of the administration were unpatriotic, but now that they are on attacking the President 24/7, you don't hear those complaints anymore. Even outside of their political coverage, the rest of their reporting just seems very trashy and of tabloid quality.

Donna from Colorado Springs   June 17th, 2009 10:03 am ET

Republicans don't have any ideas of their own on health care reform. Who are they trying to kid? They just want to trash the presidents plan because that's what they do best.

Dude   June 17th, 2009 10:01 am ET

Yup, no liberal bias in the media whatsoever. The mdia i nthis country makes me sick. Whatever happened to just reporting the news in an UNBIASED way. Pathetic.

John G   June 17th, 2009 10:01 am ET

There's bipartisanship for you! Only let one side argue their points and make a decision based on that,,,,and Obama is upset that FOX is mean to him-sickening

Julia Thies   June 17th, 2009 10:01 am ET

From what I understand, Congress is trying to put through a bill that will TAX those of us who have health insurance through our employers to p ay for the health insurance program they want to institute for those without insurance! This will cut out OUR benefits as employers will not want to do this and why should WORKING people have to pay for those who either do not work are illegally here and cannot afford health care. This take from those that have and give to those that have not is RIDICULOUS. I personally have WORKED for what I have, which isn't a lot, but the benefits were my goal in the first place. I had to pass a test and score higher than most people to achieve my current position. i don't want to pay for someone else's insurance!

Jason   June 17th, 2009 10:00 am ET

I would love to hear a plan from the GOP. Something that would actually improve health care for the uninsured and make it easier to change jobs. Something other than "no, no, no" to progress. Since killing reform in 1994, they haven't done a thing. Let's see what they can come up with!

Now we have news wars...   June 17th, 2009 10:00 am ET

The RNC has also sent out a biased questionaire to their members on subjects that range from health care to the economy and a little intergration sprinkled in. They sent the "survey" (with a request for money) so they could use the one sided comments against President Obama's plan for health care. IF the repub's would sit down and work on a good health plan as hard as they work at trying to figure out how to make President Obama look bad, they could possibly add some sound and positive thinking to the whole health plan idea. BUT they waste the little brain power they have on how to foil the President. How unfortunate for we the people.

Shucks   June 17th, 2009 10:00 am ET

And when at any time during any of the last republican presidential administrations were the democrats asked to participate in a presidential address. Just the fact that they think they are owed participation for some unknown reason shows how looney this party has become. They didn't have any policy ideas or principles until 2 days ago. What a bunch of Morons. Americans are getting sick and tired of the republicans whining at every move this President makes. We are the ruling party at this time and the republicans need to accept this like we did during the Bush administration. Just because you are trying to distance yourselves from the Bush administration and it's policies doesn't mean you deserve instant respect and equal time. It was your blind following of the Bush administration that has gotten us to this point where we are in crisis both domestically and abroad. Quit acting like President Obama is destroying America. He is fixing a huge and disastrous mess left to him by all of the sheeple and republican politicians of the last 8 years.

I Fell Ill   June 17th, 2009 10:00 am ET

Geez, GOP why don't you open that big checkbook for the status quo and politics as usual. If you have no program, just say "no" again and again ad nauseum amen!

KEITH   June 17th, 2009 9:59 am ET

........, but it would be racist to suggest the president is being coddled by the press.

teacher   June 17th, 2009 9:58 am ET

What is wrong with the GOP that they criticize anything Obama tries to do before they even give it a chance to see if it works. It is almost like the GOP wants to make sure they have shown opposition to any program so that if it doesn't work, they can say, "I told you so!" What has happened to the Grand Old Party that used to be. Didn't we elect Congress to work for the American people, not just a political party. I am so tired of the way the Republicans have been since the election that I am changing parties. I no longer want to be associated with a bunch of "Wa-Wa Babies" who won't even try to work with everyone in Congress. If this keeps up, the Grand Old Party will just be Old – no Grand and certainly no Party.

john u   June 17th, 2009 9:57 am ET

The party of "no" will do anything to keep the health insurance elites in power to keep the bribes (donations) coming in while presenting the same old crap they been espousing for years about "the markets". Obviously their health plans are so good they've never been turned down for a procedure from their HMO (rationing), experienced an emergency room wait, or have had to declare bancruptcy over health care bills they can't afford (which are responsible for 62% of all bancruptcies in the USA). It's time these overprivileged suck ups to the insurance industry went away.

sgj   June 17th, 2009 9:57 am ET

Republican tried this before with Clinton. They try to scare us or say everything is fineand all we need to do is just tweak things....

This time the republican sponsors the insurance companies are running scared since they know they are going to reap the wind for all the years of screwing over people and driving them into bankruptcy or worse into the grave...

For more details see this article....

http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/06/16/health.care.hearing/index.html

Talk about do ANYTHING for a buck even if someone dies as long as it bolsters the quarterly revenue.

Denise   June 17th, 2009 9:57 am ET

Sounds like the GOP are playing defense. It also sounds like they have no ideas of their own. it never would have occurred to them to present their views on TV if Obama had not first had the idea

Va. Boomer   June 17th, 2009 9:57 am ET

hey..., there is always fox..., they are always looking to put some fair and balanced news up.... not!

The black spider   June 17th, 2009 9:57 am ET

It's been more than 2 years now since Obama is talking about health care reform and more than 6 months he started the dialogue about the reform and i have yet to hear a single republican proposal.
Oh sorry I know what it is or will be! Wait until the democrat propose something and propose the opposite or say no and diabolize the plan and scare people with phonies and lies.
I am ashamed of a political party in USA in 2009 acting like bunch of alcoholics or a bitter divorce wife. They have lost reason and the party is left with haters with no substantive ideas. It's sad

A Kickin' Donkey   June 17th, 2009 9:56 am ET

Have we ever had an opposing party take to the airwaves to fight a duly elected POTUS so shortly after he won a such a clear mandate from the people? I don't think so ....

I'm not saying .... I'm just saying ... you know

Sure seems strange that the GOP is fighting against the best interests of the people that make up the fabric of America

palmer   June 17th, 2009 9:56 am ET

So lets lie and misinform so we can deny payment for the uninsured.

Seriously?   June 17th, 2009 9:54 am ET

Coudl the GOP being any bigger whiners? Why should you be on the President's special? What's wrong with you people? Good grief.

GG NYC   June 17th, 2009 9:53 am ET

What a bunch of idiots.

Dennis   June 17th, 2009 9:53 am ET

Ok, first the republicans would have to have viable policy ideas and principles that they would be putting forward. After the seeing the 19 page budget plan with no numbers in it what would they have for this problem. All they want to do is keep things the way they are so insurance, medical supply and pharmaceutical companies will keep those "campaign contributions" coming in. They do not care what is happening to most Americans on this issue.

DaMaestro   June 17th, 2009 9:53 am ET

The republican are a sad lot. They don't seem to get that they lost. For 8 years we had to put up with GOP warmongering propoganda BS. I am happy to hear what the Dems bring to the domestic table. What was the GOP doing for us on the homefront for the past 8 years besides tapping our phones and throwing us in jail.

Jojo   June 17th, 2009 9:52 am ET

What no memo to Fox?

ATTENTION FOX NEWS!!!!

Report to RNC headquarters IMMEDIATELY to receive your instructions and talking points!!!

Folks, we must remain UNITED if we are going to keep control of health insurance and its profits in the hands of our corporate friends at the HMOs. There is too much money at stake here to let Obama and the Democrats enable everyone to get health insurance!

Jeff   June 17th, 2009 9:51 am ET

Why is the GOP so anti health? If we were talking about the health of a large corporation, and not the health of Joe Schmo, then they would be all for it. The GOP needs to learn that people vote, corporations don't.

James   June 17th, 2009 9:51 am ET

Maybe if the Republicans had an idea what to do about healthcare, rather than just let it stay in the sorry state it's in, they'd have something worth putting on tv. Nobody wants to hear why you don't like the obama plan, when the plan you have is to stay with much worse, the status quoue.

D. Tree   June 17th, 2009 9:51 am ET

The Republican Senators and Congressmen all receive government sponsored Health Insurance.

So CNN and the rest of America here's the question I would like to see you asking the Party of NO: "If government sponsored health plans are GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU, then why aren't they good enough for the rest of us?????"

Seriously, its so obvious that the GOP is opposing true health care reform for the most cynical of reasons: ideology and lobbyists. Enough is enough!

Fair is Fair   June 17th, 2009 9:51 am ET

What is so terrible about airing opposing viewpoints?

It looks like ABC has joined CBS, NBC, MSNBC, and CNN in Obama's Department of Homeland Propoganda.

Very disturbing.

T   June 17th, 2009 9:50 am ET

No No No to their plan. The plan does not help those with out a plan.
Same plan the McShame rolled out last year. More tax breaks........

AndyB   June 17th, 2009 9:49 am ET

Funny how Republicans were at the helm for 6 years before Americans started seeing right through them and now they are all concerned about health care. Make that eight years if you want to count when boy wonder was still acting like he was a President.

Joanna   June 17th, 2009 9:49 am ET

GOP we already know your plans,,,tax cuts for the wealthy, cooperate favoring as always!!

Debi   June 17th, 2009 9:49 am ET

The GOP should talk to FOX. They get free air-time there.

Randall in Torrance - Desert Storm Veteran - Welcome to the end of the era of dumb ass Republicans and Stoopid Retards like Cheney and Bush in power   June 17th, 2009 9:49 am ET

Thank you ABC News for not allowing the party of NEVER from saying one thing on the air against health care reform. Let the revolution move forward and succeed. This is great news. You guys have guts. Thank you for denying those idiots one word. You deserve a medal.

Moderate Conservative   June 17th, 2009 9:49 am ET

The American people will not consider any Republican ideas until they redesign their core principles on fair trade, universal health care, and affirmative action.

FORMER republican, NEVER again!   June 17th, 2009 9:48 am ET

The republicans had 8 LONG years to try and fix and come up with a plan for health care and they did NOTHING! Because they didn't care and still don't but Now all of a sudden that President Obama is trying to fix it they have ideas????

Kenyan Wonder Kid   June 17th, 2009 9:48 am ET

Obama's state-controlled media is chilling. Thanks to Fox (and some of the foreign press) for giving us at least ONE balanced reporting source. I know this upsets the messiah terribly, and Fox must now watch their backside.

Nut Jobs   June 17th, 2009 9:48 am ET

“This means that President Obama and the Democrats will have an entire day to push their government-run health care agenda without hearing Republicans’ policy ideas and principles on health care reform,” the RNC writes in the memo that was obtained by CNN.

Duh, that's because they have none. Nobody wants to hear a bunch of mumbo jumbo and hoo doo from these nay sayers. When they come on TV, I immediately switch the channel and run for the Pepto Bismol.

Randy K   June 17th, 2009 9:47 am ET

Oh good, the Gop on healthcare. Let's hear from the fox more information about how to protect the hen house.

FactCheck   June 17th, 2009 9:47 am ET

Given the laughable points of the GOP plan, they should buy time on Comedy Central. Maybe all of the 15 people who protested the Letterman show (i.e. the Republican party) will watch it.

Laughing   June 17th, 2009 9:46 am ET

So the GOP actually has a plan for Health Care? That should be news itself as they have not had a plan for anything for years...........

I can see Canada from my house!   June 17th, 2009 9:46 am ET

Its interesting that the RNC has no details or reasons as to why their request to be included on the ABC special was denied. My guess is that Michael Steele and his staff were thinking so outside the box that they simply forgot to ask. I have never seen such a group of grossly incompetent people running a political operation in my life as Steele and his colleagues. However, the solution is simple: just ring up FOX, and they will provide at least a week of wall-to-wall coverage slamming the President's speech. As usual, they will offer no solutions, but that is not their job: blaming and distracting is. Meanwhile, lets hope that the few GOP adults left in the Senate will have crafted some kind of thoughtful response that does not use the phrase "socialized medicine" more than 20 times. We need a thoughtful opposition providing real alternatives, not a screaming mob with pitchforks and torches.

J Wills   June 17th, 2009 9:45 am ET

OBAMA: We need to provide health care to those who lose their jobs. To children whose parents can't afford to give their kids healthcare.

REPUBLICANS: We are so sick of people whining about they want health care. We've got ours, let them do for themselves.

Gary D.   June 17th, 2009 9:45 am ET

Grand Obsolete Party : you are history.

Dallas   June 17th, 2009 9:45 am ET

I need a new car and a house! Hey I live in America and the American dream guarantees me these things, right? I need a raise, maybe the goverment can sponsor a bill that will give me a pay increase, new car and house? I need some more vacation time so maybe the govenment can interfere more than it already does and force business to do this? Socialism at its best! If someone wants health insurance than they should get a job and pay for it on their own. Spread the wealth is Obama's philosophy! If we continue down this path of socialism than eventually no one will want to work because their is no incentive to work! Why would someone work when the government will pay for all their expenses! Eventually the democrats will have no one left to steal from to pay for these programs.

RICK FROM PA   June 17th, 2009 9:45 am ET

What Republican Health Care Ideas – all that they want is to maintain the "staus quo" and protect those who are lobbying against any change!

Randy Buckner   June 17th, 2009 9:44 am ET

Typical Democratic manure - they don't want differing opinions. They just want to ram Socialism down your throat. Wake up America!

Nija   June 17th, 2009 9:43 am ET

GOP has noting to offer to the poor but to the rich.

Matt   June 17th, 2009 9:43 am ET

They have to first figure out what their approach to health care is. The GOP is dead. Time for a new party. Look at the last 12 years of GOP control of congress, all they did is increase their pocket size. Never advanced the right's agenda and used the churches to get re-elected. Played on the fears of the American people and only increased the threats.

mw   June 17th, 2009 9:43 am ET

We have heard from repugs,and they say NO,NO, NO.

Markus   June 17th, 2009 9:40 am ET

The Republicans have never seriously wanted to reform health care in the past, so why should we listen to them now?

joy   June 17th, 2009 9:40 am ET

what a bunch of moron.Yes I am talking about the republican party. If President plan is so bad, why are they afraid that the President will have a full day to talk about it. They don't want the truth to get to the American people. Public option is the best plan. What can of reform will it be if there is no public plan? This health care debate will really tell u the can of party that is for the people. And I believe this will put the final nail on the republican party. The racist party. That should be there new name. They are anti any good thing for the people.

jean   June 17th, 2009 9:40 am ET

Wonder if the ABC News reporter doing this free ride interview with Obama will bow to him the way Brian Williams did. These so-called journalists are a joke, they all remind me of Mary Hart when it comes to Obama (fawning all over the big celebrity of the moment). How many pictures of the puppy and the family will this "news" special inlcude – wonder if they can think up any inane questions that haven't yet been asked. Maybe we will find out who REALLY wears the pants in the Obama family. This media bias is bordering on hysterical and talk about overplaying someone. Is there anyone else who loves the camera more – loves to see and hear himself on TV? Good God I never thought I would agree with Bill Maher but in this case I think he is spot on and Obama would be wise to listen to him – GET OFF OF THE TV!!!

Eric   June 17th, 2009 9:38 am ET

They will be all over cable news whining like they always are. I don't know what they are so worried about.

Michael   June 17th, 2009 9:37 am ET

For 6 years the republicans had the luxery of of completre control. As a result, President Bush would not even talk to democrats. Now this president is including the republicans but they are accusing him of doing exactly whqt they themselves did. "Do as we say, not as we do" or in this case, did. This is just one reason why they were voted out.

Stanley Lehto Washington   June 17th, 2009 9:36 am ET

Obama is correct. Fox news is completely devoted to destroying the Democratic party, it is owned and operated by the RNC. I hear that is the only news outlet allowed in Wyoming.

joe smith   June 17th, 2009 9:35 am ET

has anyone seen the past due report of the status of Freddie Mac; again, this report was due the American people by Mays' end,( 2009 ),perhaps, Cnn could ask the administration for an update, instead of beating a dead horse about some comedian who has no clue..

FL   June 17th, 2009 9:34 am ET

The campaign is over. Obama won. It is now time to get the work done and stop running his mouth on TV. The media is showing their liberal bias by worshiping at Obama's feet. We all know Obama is an eloquent speaker, but the question remains... can he actually govern? Shut up and do something Obama. I never thought I would agree with Bill Maher, but his recent assessment of Obama is very accurate.

GI Joe   June 17th, 2009 9:34 am ET

Hmmmm – wonder how fair and balanced FOX will be on this.

Maybe GOP congressional people should be forced to actually USE their suggestions for one year. (Oh, that's right, their suggestions have "tax credits" that benefit the wealthy that itemize their deductions.

The middle and lower income people mostly DO NOT ITEMIZE.

Donkey Party   June 17th, 2009 9:34 am ET

The entire RepubliCON party should all be arrested and tried for treason for their continued attemts to undermine the Presidency. Their hatred and contempt for the President is glaring. These sub-humans have no regard for the interests of the country, just for their own marginalized positions of power.

John Pinter   June 17th, 2009 9:33 am ET

How do the republicans plan to pay for their plan. I have an idea.
Lets start by requiring all members of Congress and The Federal Government pay the entire cost of their Health Plan. This is what a helleva lot of americans have to do. Why shouldn't they? They make more money and have access to more benefits than most americans.

I will gurantee you that if this were to happen, the cost of health care would go down in this country. Make it happen. Call, write, email your members of Congress and demand the same health care at the same cost that they pay.

djdjdjs   June 17th, 2009 9:33 am ET

The republican idea of health care is to buy more guns.

liberal say what?   June 17th, 2009 9:33 am ET

and I don't mean do it through ABC.. request a debate through Obama himself. If he says yes than you get a great opportunity and if he says no than he shows that he's being completely partisan on the issue and won't hear your ideas..

kyle from ohio   June 17th, 2009 9:32 am ET

During the last 8 years and 6 years controlled by repub congress and house, why did you not offer ideals about health care then, the problem did not just pop up from nowhere. You guys seems to be very reactive instead of being proactive. Oh now you got plans!!!!.

Scott   June 17th, 2009 9:32 am ET

What is wrong with us? we are the ONLY industrial country that does not have universal/ government ran healthcare. We are rank 37 in the world when it comes to health. Just cause the Rebulicans are throwing the word socializim around. Look the post office is government ran, police, fire department, libraies, etc. we have no problem with that though do we. The point is the Rebulicans n other folks don't want universal care boils down to greed point blank!!!

here we go   June 17th, 2009 9:32 am ET

Haven't the republicans been all over the networks on Sundays? I don't mind this as long as they have something to say, other than fearmongering. If they have something of substance to say, good, but if it is "be afraid, be very afraid" then they should just be quiet until they can come up with something...

southerncousin   June 17th, 2009 9:32 am ET

If this bone head move doesn't prove how the MSM is in the tank for the libs, following the disgraceful treatement of the Letterman/Palin controversy, I don't know what will. They have yet to follow up on the ACORN fraud, the union crimes, George Soros buying profiting from the recession he helped cause, the Charlie Rangel fraud, the Pelosi lies and the lack of Obama keeping his campaing promises. We live in a government controlled media environment, just like Iran, N. Korea and all of those "axis of evil" countries.

liberal say what?   June 17th, 2009 9:30 am ET

If I may be so bold... wouldn't it make more sense to request an open debate with Obama on it instead?

This route seems kind of obnoxious to me

Sue   June 17th, 2009 9:30 am ET

Obama and crew will shut down all opposing viewpoints as soon as they can worm their plans into the national woodwork. Too sad so many Americans are falling for it. This is no longer the Constitutional USA we have all enjoyed these centuries.

ghost   June 17th, 2009 9:30 am ET

wELL, REPUBLICANS, WELCOME TO THE PARTY. WE've been looking for solutions to thigns for awhile now. Hopefully, it will have more than the proposal put out yesterday. Telling me it's cheaper without any numbers amounts to nothing. Not telling me how it changes the game amounts ot even less. I'd also like to know if that tax break is good for anyone with insurance or only those that come outta pocket. I'd also like to know what kinda tort reform and what changes will be made for keeping tabs on these companies.

decent american   June 17th, 2009 9:30 am ET

does abc have a vested interest in obama?

what the heck is going on in this country?

Lynn   June 17th, 2009 9:29 am ET

I am sure John King will willingly give him his three hours of the Republican State of the Union on Sunday and then CNN will replay selected clips all week all next week.

Scott   June 17th, 2009 9:29 am ET

Why does the GOP hate Americans?

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA   June 17th, 2009 9:27 am ET

Why can't the GOP go to their beloced Fox news and delicer their un-detailed message?

felicia   June 17th, 2009 9:26 am ET

Good the gopigs needsa to take a back seat, and bow down.

SK   June 17th, 2009 9:26 am ET

It's about time the GOP got off their 'keisters'.

carlo   June 17th, 2009 9:25 am ET

Well, they have 24 hours, 7 days a week to push their agenda, or their lack thereof, on Fox, where all of their constituents go to for news, anyway.

phoenix86   June 17th, 2009 9:24 am ET

ABC is a joke. It is Obama's mouthpiece, nothing more.

Lowell   June 17th, 2009 9:24 am ET

Since when do the republicans have ANY policy ideas? All they've been doing is braying and naying and not coming up with ideas at all. That's one of the reasons they're not in power.

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