July 15, 2009
Posted: July 15th, 2009 11:39 AM ET

From
A new ad Wednesday targets fellow Democrats and centrist Republicans.
A new ad Wednesday targets fellow Democrats and centrist Republicans.

(CNN) – President Obama’s political operation will begin running television ads Wednesday targeting fellow Democrats and centrist Republicans urging them to support the president’s call for health care reform this year.

The 30-second TV commercial will run in eight states: Arkansas, Indiana, Florida, Louisiana, Maine, North Dakota, Nebraska, and Ohio for two weeks, according to a preview of the ad provided to CNN by Obama’s Organizing for America (OFA).

The commercial, which features five people discussing health care problems, will also run on national cable television, in Washington, D.C., and online, according to OFA, which is now housed at the Democratic National Committee.

The ad running in the eight states does not mention the senators by name, but it does ask viewers to call Capitol Hill, and provides the telephone number for the U.S. Capitol switchboard. Two of the states, Arkansas and North Dakota, are represented by a pair of Democratic senators, while the six remaining states are represented by centrist Democrats and Republicans. The commercial that is running nationally follows the same script, but it does not ask people to call their senators.

Stewart said the people in the commercial “were among hundreds of thousands of people who shared their stories with OFA.” Next week, OFA will hold news conferences, town halls and other grassroots events to shine a spotlight on healthcare reform, a major domestic priority for Obama. The president has called on Congress to deliver a healthcare reform bill by October.

Full script follows

"It's Time"

Woman 1: My son has cerebral palsy and epilepsy. He's four.

Man 1: When I lost my job, I lost my health insurance too.

Woman 2: My health insurance wouldn't fully cover me when I got sick.

Man 2: My father in-law walks with a limp because he didn't have health care.

Woman 3: My husband's job covered us, until he was laid off.

Man 1: It's time.

Woman 2: It's time.

Man 2: It's time.

Woman 1: It's time for health care reform.

VO: The Democratic National Committee is responsible for the content of this advertising.

CHYRON: It's time for health care reform. Join the fight: healthcare.barackobama.com

[State Version]: CHYRON: It's time for health care reform.

Filed under: Health care • OFA


More TV content online - About Town   August 24th, 2009 3:09 am ET

[...] the TV you want online. And here's another example. Starting today, we Mainers will be offered TV ads demanding healthcare reform. Funded by the Democratic National Committee, the ad suggests we call our senators. (Good idea – [...]

johnnie   July 15th, 2009 10:59 am ET

I will make a prediction, those democrats who are not on board with this health care plan, will be reformed,without seats and the centrist (republicans)who already are in jeopardy of losing their seats, the american people are paying close attention to them.President Obama is taking his (health care ) proposal to the people ,who are in great need. The greedy politicans and their partners in health care ,are being put in the spotlight,and they finally are being put on notice. We need afordable (health care) americans have suffered long enough,these adds show ,that the power of the people,will bring results,and the President is tapping into the urgency of what the (american people ) want. And the President wont be denied, we are close for the first time in american history (HEALTH CARE REFORM)..The nation will demand this (CHANGE) and health care will be passed,the momentum is strong ,and cant be stopped.Democrats .,(WAKE UP) because it is time for (CHANGE)

william gair   July 15th, 2009 10:53 am ET

19 years batteling HIV and still working. Now I have no regular job and no health insurance. Don't know how much longer I can keep surviving in this type of system. I need to be able to go to my doctor even if I've lost my job.

ms.shell - California   July 15th, 2009 10:52 am ET

Here Here. I love it. Healthcare is essential. I can't wait to see the ad, I am an self employed individual and am excited to have the options available thru the new administration. President Obama said, CHANGE, now let's take him at his word. Everybody has a right to health care. The republicans continue to be the party of no.... and they continue to want tax cuts, tax cuts to cover any situation. This did not work in the past and its' the reason why we are in the mess. Stop being so bull headed, open your minds, think outside the box, help america, don't ruin it due to your personal preference of politics.

Charlie in Maine   July 15th, 2009 10:49 am ET

I would remind those Democrats thinking of voting against this of what happend in 1994 when the GOP came out with their "Contract on America". The GOP's ideas were all wrong but we were powerless to stop them because our party did not have the "backbone" to pass healthcare reform. ( I write backbone but I am thinking a bit lower).

Lead follow or get out of the way.

Obama steamroller   July 15th, 2009 10:49 am ET

Now no one is safe.

bill   July 15th, 2009 10:45 am ET

Can we park talking points on both sides for a moment. Does the intense pressure to rush through make anyone else feel increasingly bizarre. These folks in these commercials will have sad stories, which all will symathize with, but dont let that bring you to the conclusion that the only way to help them is this massive, mostorous 1001 pg bill paid for by fictitous efficiencies and tax hikes on succesful americans.

Someone tell me why we need a Govt plan and what they are pointing to as a successful model. I am not trying to antagonize, just find out. Cause when I see the postal service, Social Security, and every other Govt run plan, they consistantly are inefficient and over budget.

If it is a good Bill and a good idea, it can and should stand scrutiny.
Can we agree to that? Most Americans 80%, are at least somewhat satisfied with their current plan, but do want to help reign in costs and expand coverage to those that need it.

Work on tort reform, offer money to those that really need it to make it affordable, restrict pre existing conditions barring access, and make insurance portable, like a 401 K.

There are other ways, other plans, other proposals that address the issue, lets examine them all.

Phil   July 15th, 2009 10:45 am ET

I wrote and called all of my state Senators and Congressman, to Vote NO to health Care Reform and Cap and Trade. I am a democrat, but enough is enough on government taking over the whole infastructure of America. What people do not realize is, with the proposed tax increases on these bills, business owners will end up hiring or keeping less employees around to make up for the difference – that isn't creating jobs, it is creating more hand outs – that isn't the America this Democrat dreamed.

Saul   July 15th, 2009 10:44 am ET

You bet run out there and call your Senator. Tell them the government runs things so well like the stimilus and everything else they need to reform healthcare. They are the catalyst for al great work and so lets throw them healthcare – MORONIC.

Traj   July 15th, 2009 10:43 am ET

It's simply the right thing to do. Eveyone, not just the so-called majority needs healthcare. I really can not understand the republicans thought process to say "NO" to everything this president is trying to accomplish. This is the most idiotice thing I have ever witnessed in my life time.. I pray daily ( I really do) that Father God would lay his hand down on our President and speak mightily and powerfully through him to the entire conservative base of people, that it is not their world. This President is the best thing that could have happened to this country at this particular time. He's fighting for us all, even the racist, the bigots, the conservatives, the republicans (they all go hand and hand), the angry bitter, gun toting nuts.. he's even fight for the ill advised such and Rush, and Ann Coulter (I don't know why he would even waste his time on these two nut jobs). Anywy, I love my president, and I truly believe God has this man, and this man has God.

nardofree va.   July 15th, 2009 10:40 am ET

cnn , you guy's are using the word targeting dems. and repubs. as if they will be facing a firing squad if they don't support the Presidents health care plan .

jaye   July 15th, 2009 10:34 am ET

These democrats "blue dogs" best wise up – I guarantee they will not be re-elected if they do not support health care reform.
Why would anyone be against healthcare reform? Why???
Millions without healthcare already, and millions more on the horizon.
Wise up people and support healthcare.

Aunt Bea and Opie   July 15th, 2009 10:34 am ET

Trying to teach rednecks that it might be good to have health care can be tough in some states.They just go to the ER for care now, but not until they are in bad shape or half dead.They dont want to offend their leader,Rush Limbaugh,who says he doesnt want to fund them with his hard earned millions,and that dying is a good thing, just like greed.

Anonymous   July 15th, 2009 10:32 am ET

As a physician, I can say that the administration is approaching this entirely the wrong way. Increased government intervention, especially with a public plan and payment mandates is NOT the answer. As an example, it has been proposed that medicare payments to cardiologists to perform cardiac catheterizations, echocardiograms, and other life-saving procedures be reduced by 25-45%. If that in fact happens, good luck getting an appointment to see your doctor or getting the procedure that you need. It is inevitable that many physicians will stop seeing medicare patients out of necessity, not want, because they will not be able to sustain their practices under these conditions. THAT IS THE REALITY, WAKE UP AMERICA.

Peoples Voice   July 15th, 2009 10:31 am ET

It needs to be aired here in AZ. The health care/drug lobby has been all over TV with their garbage.

The question is; are you tired of having a bean counter getting between you and your doctor. I for one am very tired of it. It's time for change.

SAGG   July 15th, 2009 10:31 am ET

Well, it's a little late in coming, but at least they're getting it in gear, now. It's time to put some Blue-dog Dems on the hot seat...

Zack   July 15th, 2009 10:30 am ET

Go Obama..I support you 100%

TCM   July 15th, 2009 10:29 am ET

The ad needs some more lines like....

"It's time that illegals get kicked out of the country, and refused healthcare on the US taxpayer nickel...."

"It's time welfare leeches get off their front porch and actually get a job, welfare reform is needed, reducing the length of the entitlement.."

Both measures would simply save millions, yet the Obama administration is bent on creating a weakly defended nanny-state...

Bob in Pa   July 15th, 2009 10:28 am ET

Say 'NO' to more Gov't corruption and spending. Keep the Government out of business. We already know they can't perform when in charge of our money.

Take a look at Medicare. It's full of fraud, costs way more than it supplies.

What happens when it goes the same route as Social Security. When all the money paid into Health Care coverage gets redirected to the general fund and spent ? You say it won't happen ? We put laws in place to prevent that from happening. All it takes is for these greedy politicians to look at the excess money in Health Care and those laws will be rewritten overnight.

When the American people are once again in charge of their government, when the politicians truly answer to the people paying their salaries, then it will be time to look again at Health Care reform..

Rick McDaniel   July 15th, 2009 10:26 am ET

What it is really time for, is to recognize that health care has become too costly for anything more than major medical coverage, that medical insurance is denying claims they should be paying.......and killing people in the process, and that most employers can no longer afford to pay for medical care for employees.......which drives them to manufacture off shore, with the resulting loss of jobs.

Obama's plan is too ambitious, does little to curb excesses in both the insurance industry and the medical field, and as Clinton found when he tried it, the solution is not that easy, and there can be no bill passed quickly.

Enough   July 15th, 2009 10:24 am ET

Just say NO to this disaster, they don't even have a plan or know how to pay for it. Look at Medicare and realize the government doesn't know how to run anything. People with a brain do NOT support this.

Hugo   July 15th, 2009 10:19 am ET

Meanwhile back at the old job office where new projects have hit an all time low or total stop to middle Americas income....
When government employees take a 25% cut in salaries and benefits should American citizens even consider backing a government controlled health care system. When politicians feel some of the pain for their shopping habit only then will they get a dose of our American reality! We now have over a trillion dollar deficit, we now have massive unemployment, we now have a government considering a tax on the air we breathe. How about putting a tax on public service officials, we could probably fund it all! If this is Obama's idea of Freedom, I am ready for CHANGE!

Katarina Hempstead   July 15th, 2009 10:19 am ET

The Democrats always assume that the general public is stupid and not paying attention. The 2010 voters will know and remember these tactics.

GG   July 15th, 2009 10:18 am ET

talk about bullying!!

I guess Obama has learned alot from Chicago tactics

Rose   July 15th, 2009 10:18 am ET

Obama is crippling our country with his ridiculouse entitlements. Free healthcare insurance is now a right.. Thank God they will not air that in my state since all the Obama sheep are farther north. Obama is going to turn the US into one big CA or MA – those states crippled by deficits & absurd healthcare giveaways run by corrupt liberal politicians. Now we have them running the Fed Gov.

TCM   July 15th, 2009 10:18 am ET

Obama reminds me of Denzel Washington in that movie, "Gangster.'

What a thug, and what a disgrace to have someone who's supposed to be a president, running around employing the services of thug cronies to threaten and intimidate people into voting his way. He simply cannot respect an elected official's vote and leave it at that; he employs unscrupulous individuals to go forth and tarnish the records, reputations and lives of those that oppose him. It's nothing short of something Hitler would do....

He's drained the country of individualisim, all in the name of trying to win votes.....What's probably the only "transparent," thing about Obama is he believes if he doesn't personally say it, but has a Czar or some other henchmen do the dirty work, that when it goes sour, none of it will stick on him...he feels he's installed a layer of security that will keep him from owning the destruction he's doing....wrong answer....
True conservative Americans, from both sides of the aisle, see through the facade. Also, the many liberals who were blinded by the glitz and glamour of the "Obama Change and Hope," circus..are realizing their mistake of voting fo him....ONE AND DONE!

RR   July 15th, 2009 10:16 am ET

Democrats targeting democrats. How funny. Trying their best to put the GOP back in charge in 2010!

Zach K   July 15th, 2009 10:15 am ET

Senator Ben Nelson of Nebraska. Please vote for this reform. If you don't, more people will be uninsured, and more money will be spent fixing a broken system.

European-American   July 15th, 2009 10:14 am ET

We can't afford Social Security anymore, how are we going to afford this? If Congress and the rest of the elites were just average Americans they would all be in prison right now. How long are we going to be conned America?
We have been told to tighten our belts, when is Washington going to do the same? You cannot spend your way out of debt!

Obama only creates TAXES   July 15th, 2009 10:13 am ET

Obama's SS Troops are hunting down and targeting conservatives from both sides, Obama will reprogram you to think like a liberal.

Sound like anyone from history, HIS NAME WAS HITLER

Henry Miller   July 15th, 2009 10:11 am ET

Yeah, targetting Democrats is always a good idea, especially the tax-and-spend twerps who think the only true purpose of American citizens is to hand over their money to the idiot government. (This is as opposed to the Big Government neo-con twerps who believe the same thing.)

Kurt E Moerck   July 15th, 2009 10:09 am ET

living in Europe, I fly back for serious medical treatment since the waiting list in Europe is so long..

I had to wait 3 weeks for a broken arm operation and they had to rebrake it since there was a wait. Never again!

Take a look at Canda, England...

Socialize medicine is rationed medicine, and expeensive medicine. This program is a joke.

J Farrow   July 15th, 2009 10:07 am ET

Good. it's time for the Obama administration to ramp up the pressure on waivering Democrats for real health care reform. This ad represents the will of the majority of Americans.

Tatianna   July 15th, 2009 10:05 am ET

Where will Obama be in ten years, when the rest of us are struggling with a massive, out-of-control, federalized medical system that doesnt care about individuals and is busy rationing?

Bob   July 15th, 2009 10:04 am ET

I was promised free medical and dental for life when I joined the military. This "free" medical care costs me 1800 a year now. This "free" medical care is only good at military facilities. This "free" medical care cant be used because retirees are at the bottom of the list for care and there arent enough doctors for the active duty. This "free" medical care forces me to go off base to local doctors and pay copays and premiums and get approval from Tricare before I go.

And people want and believe the promises of any politician putting their hands on a government health insurance plan?

the rector   July 15th, 2009 10:04 am ET

I cant imagine why the admin is wasting money on this sort of thing. Their reaction to all the polling done on the subject of bailouts was simply ignored so it is very unlikely that, unless the vast majority want to be obligated to do business with those self same wall st scumbags, obama et al will ignore the response to this effort as well. It is kind of funny though that after bailing out these major banks and insurance conglomerates with our money that we don't get massively reduced health insurance rates from our own companies. Almost seems like the big o is paying back some big donars with yet more of our money and a change in the law that will require us to keep paying them until, no pun intended, we die. I hate to sound pesimistic, but this admin has done exactly the opposite of every thing we were promised on the campaign trail so trust is a streatch right now, see me in three tears and we'll talk.

JP   July 15th, 2009 9:57 am ET

The same Government that runs the postal service, FEMA, Amtrack, etc is going to make health care more efficient. Entitlements are destroying the country financially so we are adding another one. This is crazy.

Ivan   July 15th, 2009 9:56 am ET

Yes! I am ready for Health Care Reform. It makes no sense how conservatives don't want this. They say they don't want to pay for the uninsured,but we are already paying for them. I would rather have my tax money go to a monthly low cheap premium for someone then 800 and 1000 dollar Emergency Rooms Visits. Lets do it smart people. GO OBAMA!!!

Ivan

Al Coulombe   July 15th, 2009 9:56 am ET

This is pure political theatre. 15% of the people need health don't create a monstrosity of a government program for 100% of the people. We are broke and can not afford this type of program today.

The 2009 federal deficit is at an all time high ($1.086 trillion) and growing.

Stop the madness

Mike   July 15th, 2009 9:56 am ET

I see obama is starting to eat his young(fellow democrats). I would expect nothing less from obama, anything to continue his tax and spend.

R in Maine   July 15th, 2009 9:56 am ET

Having a majority at sixty is not worth much unless you are willing to use it. The dems should not hesitate to enforce their will. They know that they will be judged by their results.

deb0155   July 15th, 2009 9:56 am ET

And, hopefully, while the Democrats are shoving their health care reform plan down our throats – people will realize that it will cost us $1 trillion, jobs will be lost, and people who do have health insurance through their employers will be "required" (as specified in CNN's article on the revised health care reform plan this morning) to utilize the government option.

I am over 50 years old and am very worried that when I do get sick – they will push me aside for a "younger model" and I won't get treatment.

I also am very upset that we will be paying for illegal people in this country or as one Democrat put it "residents of this country." Why are we the taxpayers forced into paying for illegal people?

Get a clue – the United States government is not for the American people – they are out for themselves, their families, and friends! Quite frankly – our politicians should all be in front of a firing squad!

EL   July 15th, 2009 9:54 am ET

It's time for health care!!!!!!!!!!!!!

donttreadonme   July 15th, 2009 9:52 am ET

No argument here, health care reform is needed. But Nationalizing it will not make it any better.

Obama there are better plans better ways.

Doug, New Jersey   July 15th, 2009 9:51 am ET

9 months for arthritis treatment in the UK, that's what national health care means to you.

Notice that liberals will not address the real problems with health care in this nation. Frivolous lawsuits from liberals require that doctors pay a 6 figure amount for insurance just to practice medicine. Lots of times libs that are lying will get a sum of money that is 1,000x's more than lib would be capable of making over their entire life. We also need to address these people who are going into emergency rooms for paper cuts, and those who are faking illnesses just to get out of work or to get drugs. Democrats will never address these major contributors to the high cost of care in this country, for these types of immoral activities are common amongst the electorate that votes Democrat. It is not like the republicans where their voter block consists almost entirely of honest, respectful, decent, Americans who truly do make a positive impact on society.

Melissa   July 15th, 2009 9:50 am ET

Finally. Its about time he wooed the Democrats to get his 60 seat majority vote and quit worrying about the Republicans who are meaningless anyway.

Wake-me-when-it's-over   July 15th, 2009 9:47 am ET

With at least 2000 mandates, and 900 penalties, and a starting
estimate of 1.2 TRILLION dollars in cost, tax increases... Obama's
plan is a travesty for every single American. Obama doesn't even
know who the 'un-insured' really are. We have Medicare, Medicaid,
and schip. In Tennessee they have Tenn-Care which is an abomination to those who have it. Do you really want to find yourself
in a pool of the masses, swimming frantically and waiting for the
government to get around to throwing you a life preserver? Do you
like the way the govt runs the Post Office, Social Security, the AG
Bailout, the Stimulas package, and Energy issues? Obama has added over 20 CZARS already, creating a level of government that
is not accountable to anyone but him. The ALTERNATIVE (Republican Plan) is reasonable, REDUCES cost, protects the right to choose, and
provides a means for the un-insured to buy their own health coverage.

Go to any government operated Health Clinic, take a number, take a
look around and get a preview of Obama Care. Then go home, and
disinfect yourself, and contact YOUR Congressmen and tell them
to Just say NO WAY to the Obama's regimes UN-health care plan.

We shall overcome!!!

Dianne   July 15th, 2009 9:47 am ET

Healtcare is a very important issue that takes time and planning to establish a system that works. I feel they are throwing this together to fast without proper time and planning, just like they threw the stimulus package together. This is going to cost a tremendous amount of money that taxes won't cover due to so many people out of work. The government has a issue with funding Social Security and Medicare. How are they going to fund Universal Health Care?

No one famous   July 15th, 2009 9:46 am ET

Gee I wonder if any of the people interviewed for this understand that the program will cost $1.5 TRILLION. And just how are we going to pay for it? Let's see, 1) tax my health care benefits and 2) borrow more money from the Chinese. Great solution! Simply put, we cannot afford this plan.

Willy Brown   July 15th, 2009 9:44 am ET

It's all about keeping them on the plantation

RahmAxleRod SuperTroopers   July 15th, 2009 9:42 am ET

Its time we take old people out the pastor.. sorry ole yeller..

Obama's agenda is unstoppable   July 15th, 2009 9:41 am ET

Obama will see this country through to affordable healthcare for all. He has the majority in both houses and a majority of americans believe in this cause. Obama has done more in 6 months than repubs have done in 8 yrs...

yes... whine and complain with no solutions right wingnuts ...and let the wealthy insurance companies dictate our healthcare options...GOP you have been striped naked...

gt   July 15th, 2009 9:39 am ET

those adds wont play to the voters ... these adds are bogus and the voters know it.... thank god the blue dogs wont follow nancy and the other lemmings off the face of the cliff.....

no thank you   July 15th, 2009 9:33 am ET

It's time...to bankrupt america further

Trade Freedom for Security, Lose Both   July 15th, 2009 9:32 am ET

There seems to be a lot more politically motivated TV ads these days. Seems a bit Big Brother-ish to me.

Hopeful Optimist   July 15th, 2009 9:32 am ET

Indeed, it's time.

Brian Buchholz   July 15th, 2009 9:27 am ET

It is time. I support the proposed reforms, and would even prefer national single payer.

Roland   July 15th, 2009 9:25 am ET

This is what as american need to have, The issue with health care should not only be for the few,but for all american citizen.If other country can provide health care for her citizens,why america the riches country in the world can not provide hearth care for all american.

Ralph   July 15th, 2009 9:25 am ET

Obama has the best propaganda machine since the Third Reich *,

* Hitler’s regime (for those many Obama supporters that did not stay in school).

I do not have room here to discuss the many other similarities.

mary   July 15th, 2009 9:20 am ET

It's time for healthcare reform, but certainly NOT a plan run by the government and this administration. They couldn't even keep Medicare/Medicaid above water. Haven't we learned that anything the government touches turns to sludge? They are all about themselves. They would NEVER be on this health plan, but they want us to suffer under it. Our nation is 1 trillion dollars in debt and this plan will cost the taxpayer another 1.5 trillion and where is this money going to come from? The unemployment rate is already in the double digits and rising. Vote all of them out and start from scratch in 2010!!

volkan   July 15th, 2009 9:19 am ET

i from turkey our hospitals for free health care i dont undustand why a lot of money in this country

Kelby In Houston, TX   July 15th, 2009 9:18 am ET

As much as I love my blue dog elected officials, we can not allow them to stand in the way of universal healthcare. These conserv-a-dems in The Senate have been tainted by lobbyists. Their campaign coffers are lined with their cash and their votes against The American People show where their loyalties lie...and it's not with us.

This is the same group of people who voted to bail out the banks and to bail out the auto industry, but refused to bail out the american home owner. This is the same group of people who refused to help people who are drowning in debt and subsequently bringing down the economy all because of their relationship with lobbyists. If these people derail or hender our attempt to gain Universal Healthcare....the Obama supporters will come after them and replace them with someone who is ready to help push this agenda forward. We are still here

Dave   July 15th, 2009 9:16 am ET

Socialism is here!!!!!!!!

Mike Jones   July 15th, 2009 9:15 am ET

If this does not work. You can always have the campaign funds pulled and Have Queen Pelosi pull them from their key positions in the House,.... (Chairmanships, etc......). If all else fails. Pull the stimulus funds from their congressional districts and threaten them by having Obama support other Democratic candidates in their districts.. There are a lot of things Obama and Pelosi can do them. You can even sick the Media on them.....

Jerry   July 15th, 2009 9:15 am ET

November 2010, we WILL work to clean out all in Congress who vote to ram Obamacare anc "cap & Trade" down our throats.

Jeff in Atlanta   July 15th, 2009 9:12 am ET

man 1: I need treatment or I will die
government: I don't think you need treatment. We know what's best.
Man 1 dies
government: whoops, but he had health care under our plan.

man 1: I think my doctor is wrong. I want a second opinion
government: you don't need one. We know what's best for you.
Man 1 dies
government: whoops! but at least he had health care

politician who can think for himself: I am not sure government getting involved with healthcare is such a good idea. just look at what we did to the banking industry
obama: destroy him!

(obama supporters once again blindly follow)

Jaz in Chitown   July 15th, 2009 9:09 am ET

Don't you people realize that this legistlation will FINE you if you decline a health coverage package? They want to tell you what you should do. I know many of you think it is a good idea but, when will it stop. Isn't this a choice that should be left to the individual. Maybe it's a good idea to have health insurance, maybe it's a waste of money – that is not the big picture. The big picture is that the government wants more control of your lives. Sure, health insurance could be improved but, if health insurance is a right, shouldn't we have the right to decline it?
Besides, look at these horrible messages their sending us. What is with using these fear tatics to get people to vote one way without examining alternatives. It would be better for everyone if health care was more affordable, but it will be worse for everyone if we jump on the first idea that comes along. Call your representative and senator and tell them that we the people don't want them controlling our lives.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   July 15th, 2009 9:08 am ET

These are just some of the reasons why there need to be a way to subscribe to an insurance plan that goes with you no matter who your employer is. I would hope that there could be a way to have a plan that is partial employer and partial something else that sticks with the individual. I just don't know how to make it work as of now.

Cari Solo   July 15th, 2009 9:04 am ET

I agree the DNC needs to put pressure on fellow democrats before we the people vote them out for doing nothing and being cowards.

Expat American   July 15th, 2009 9:00 am ET

Republicans will criticize President Obama for his tactics, yet they are the same ones who rallied behind McCain when he accused the President of never questioning members of his own party.

Is Obama being a maverick? Lord Forbid, Is there room for three mavericks in Washington? Well, two mavericks in Washington and one in Alaska?

Get it done! American citizens shouldn't be out of pocket $20,000.00+ if they are unfortunate enough to break their collarbone!

Are we not in the richest nation in the history of the world?

BLM   July 15th, 2009 9:00 am ET

Yes, its time for true, realistic reform on parts of health care. Not the garbage, overpriced, rationing being offered by the Dems and their lackies.

Obama is a Mistake   July 15th, 2009 9:00 am ET

"Gimme another government benefit, and make somebody else pay for it"

skyhawkdriver   July 15th, 2009 8:56 am ET

I find it shocking that this country was founded as a republic where the elected officials were to serve those who elected them..somewhere along the line those who are elected have become royalty and live off the servants..not one single member of congress will ever have to participate in this so called reformed health care plan..all this plan is designed to do is provide health care for the millions of illegal immigrants and life long welfare recepients..and who is going to pay for it??..the people of this country who work for a living and pay their bills..that is who..we have already had chrysler and government motors and aig stuffed down our throats..not to mention the latest scheme of cap and trade on the horizon..and now this so called healthcare reform boondoggle..where does it end??..and where will the money come from..increasing taxes on the wealthy?..just how many so called wealthy people are there??..not enough..which means the majority of this will get dumped on what is left of the middle class..it is time to clean house in washington..get rid of what is fast becoming a new generation of royalty and ruling class..and I have just one question..what exactly is the difference between barack obama and bernie madoff??..I'll be darned if I can tell.

Sam Sixpack   July 15th, 2009 8:55 am ET

When the kids turn 18, their working poor mother won't be able to help them go to community college – she'll have to give her every last penny to fat, greedy insurance execs.

When she gets breast cancer, those same fat, greedy insurance execs will say her treatment isn't "medically necissary."

If she refuses to keep paying for nothing until the day she dies, the IRS will grind her up and spit her out.

This is pure evil.

Carl   July 15th, 2009 8:52 am ET

In 1939 Germany, this was known as propaganda. In 1950 Soviet Union, this was known as propaganda. Today, it's known as "organizing".

I think it's funny how fast people are scraping their Obama/Biden bumper stickers off their cars to avoid being recognized...

Farva Falana   July 15th, 2009 8:52 am ET

Just save your money and don't run your ad here in Florida. We don't want/need your "urgently necessary" health control.

Dave   July 15th, 2009 8:50 am ET

It's time for cons to get out of the way. They ruined everything for 8 years – now they think anyone should listen to they? Please!

Shawn - GA   July 15th, 2009 8:49 am ET

Why no details still? This is what is keeping people from supporting this push. We can not just say "yea sounds great let us do that" without details.

Will there be rationing? Will there be loooong processes to get things approved? Will only generics be covered? Will we all be paying for something that most will choose not to use because it is lacking? These are just a few among hundreds of other questions.

Please give us details and information.

Jamey   July 15th, 2009 8:41 am ET

You cannot keep the keep the current level of service without increasing the supply of people with the medical industry, obama's plan will only stretch the current infrastructure and staff within the medical industry. A real solution would be to offer 2-4 year degree in nursing/medical completely paid for by the government, as long as that professional agreed to work in a government medical facility for at least 10 years. In addition the government should also increase the shrinking supply of doctors per capita and set a limit on insurance liability as well as provide an alternative insurance to those in the medical field.

Please post real solutions, not backward political bias.

Sam Sixpack   July 15th, 2009 8:40 am ET

This is nothing more than a huge new tax on the working poor.

Sure the government will help if you can't "afford" it.

Guess what? That's how it works now. As long as you've got a job, you can "afford" it.

The only difference will be the requirement for poor people to live 10 to a household so they can give their meager salary to rich insurance execs. Of course, working poor people who refuse to live under a bridge will get a bill from the IRS – even if they don't use any healthcare services.

This is pure evil.

mother and sister of a soldier   July 15th, 2009 8:40 am ET

Big government leading the sheep their way and making them believe this is the only way through the media. Are they giving us the facts of the plan, NO so why would anyone support anything they know so little about. Cost another trillion dollars they say. This is a poor estimate and where is this money coming from....higher taxes. Stop rushing thru Obama's agenda and approach it with facts and discussion to reach the best possible solution. In the meantime, those who elect not to take job offered insurance, shame on you. For those who do not have insurance, look into our system. The tax payers will still cover your medical needs. You just need to learn how and stop the pity party. For the 20% of this country who pay income taxes, look out. This is coming out of ourpockets and the generations to come. How can the government rush into this agenda when we can't run Medicare?

Tom   July 15th, 2009 8:38 am ET

Why not find a way to trim costs of existing health care? The nation cannot afford yet another expensive government program. Leave the "reform" alone, the system is currently working, even for some of us who don't have a job, and cannot get unemployment (yet are uncounted in your % of people out of work) benefits.

UNHAPPY DEM   July 15th, 2009 8:35 am ET

This post dedicated to Chai and sniffit. Have been a registered democrat for 32 years, not a far left liberal but a democrat. However after my party elected obama I am seriously thinking of changin to independent status. So Gotcha yourself.

southerncousin   July 15th, 2009 8:35 am ET

Vote to take more from those who work or I won't have ACORN and moveon.org steal votes during your next election is the message dear leader is really sending.

SHIRLEY SDL   July 15th, 2009 8:33 am ET

I don't expect the repubs to do this or anything to help the people who need it, but I certainly will be extremely upset if the democratic congress people do not get it done. We, the majority, told them in November 2008 what we wanted them to do about helping the middle class in this country. Healthcare reform and the economy were at the top of our voting priorities, and if they don't remember that, we do.

Keith in Austin   July 15th, 2009 8:28 am ET

The campaign continues. The vast majority of Americans so not want the Government's involvement in healthcare yet Obama continues to push it down our throats. Question: I wander who is paying for the tv ads. Probably we taxpayers, like everything else on the Democrats wish list! Wake up America!

Neilz   July 15th, 2009 8:23 am ET

Obama wants to insure the profitability of healthcare before the 2010 campaigns begin. Politicians on both sides of the aisle are relying on the millions of dollars in funds that for-profit healthcare providers and multinational insurance companies provide. Contributions from the electorate and small businesses are drying up in the wake of Obama's "trickle-down wait for it" recovery plan. So the call goes out to people who still have phones and TV's, and who still have jobs and health insurance to force "reform" at any cost. Forget the future, forget the poor, (they don't need healthcare anyway), and forget the promises made during the campaign.
And remember, the military is hiring. They have built in healthcare, with service to the door, so to speak.

GI Joe   July 15th, 2009 8:19 am ET

I have to say it's nice to see an admin. at least trying to get something done.

The last admin. seemed content to just sit there and pour more and more money into an illegal war, no-bid contracts, etc., - and read "My Pet Goat".

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA   July 15th, 2009 8:18 am ET

Break out the big guns Mr. President. I like how the ad doesn't mention the senators by name, but it gives you the number to call Congress. Sweet!

annie s   July 15th, 2009 8:18 am ET

Based on this transcript, these ads don't go far enough to explain why health care reform with a public option is imperative. The Republicans have been successful in diminishing support of the President's policies by using fear and distorted facts – we MUST answer them forcefully and clearly.

Mike   July 15th, 2009 8:14 am ET

Any elected official whom I vote for does not get my vote or my families vote if they vote for anymore obamby spending.

JohnoBono   July 15th, 2009 8:13 am ET

I notice he didn't even bother to buy ads for Texas, a lost cause not even worth spending a penny on. I can't fault him. I probably would have done the same. I would just remind him that Texas has growing Democratic numbers that will become a majority, maybe sooner than later. And, if anybody needs affordable healthcare more than we do, I really pity that other state.

K, Wilder   July 15th, 2009 8:12 am ET

Nice to see a 2012 campaign strategy already in place

RI Moderate   July 15th, 2009 8:12 am ET

Actually governing is much different than running a campaign. When you're running for office you can give great speeches with no great general concepts and no details. You can use a few unfortunates as examples to further your (uber liberal) ambitions.

Governing is much harder. You actually have to show details and pay for your promises. You can only go to the well so often with the Robin Hood line of 'tax the rich and give it to the poor'. Believe it or not, most people generate wealth through hard work and good choices. When a nation repeatedly punishes those who work hard and make good choices and rewards those who don't work hard and make poor choices, what do you think the eventual outcome will be?

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