CNN

So?

Follow the money trail.

You are NOT a DEMOCRAT by any means – You couldn't care less about your fellow Americans.

Well the current proposals specifically state they are for legal U.S. citizens, doesn't say anything about abortions or rationing care for old people, so... this worm is just trying to keep the lie going. Amazing that we haven't figured out a way to lock these kind of politicians (of all stripes) up for being so darn close to treason with their duties to the citizenry.

I know they get a lot of dough for re-election from insurance companies, but I promise.. I will give money to his primary opponent and the republican that runs against him, just to see him OUT of office. What a spineless waste.

thank you Mr. Ross.

A public option is not a requirement for health care reform, and the progressive agenda isn't supported by the majority of Americans.

This can be done without legislating ouselves into another calamity that will burden generations with more unmanagable debt.

Oh I am sure everyone in Arkansaw can afford health ins so there is no need for a public plan. Why I am also sure that they have the best education money can buy so no need of any inspirational comments from the President. The only problem that Arkansaw might have is from Meth, not enough beds for drug recovery... Wake up Mike Ross

This group should be call "Blue Rats", not Blue Dogs. This group is no different from conservative Republicans which is what they really are. They feed at the pork barrel and block any positive, progressive legislation which would improve the lot of every day Americans. They waive the flag and declare themselves Christians, but are in reality mean-spirited, corrupt individuals. They are an embarassment to the Democratic party and always seem to come from areas of the country which are representative of racist views and anti-urban bias. In short, they are useless at anything but lining their own pockets with lobbyist money.

So, Rep. Ross, what will you vote for?

The proposed Bills say nothing about funding abortion and illegals are excluded. In fact, people will pay into the program for their coverage. Haven't YOU even read the proposed Bills. Surely, you've had time by now!

President Obama was elected for his commitment to a public option for health care. If you fail to vote for the plan, voters will almost certainly remember than and the fact that you didn't even know what was being proposed! Nor did you offer any viable solution.

What a sorry excuse for a representative!

Republicans can get us to go to war in the wrong country.

Democrats can't even get us healthcare – should we lose our jobs or get denied by private insurance companies.

PATHETIC!

Why is this guy a Democrat? He mine as well be a Republican. There is no bipartisan, do you get it. The President has bent over backwards to work with the Republicans. They are not interested just like you. Just switch parties, please.

Sad that his stance will not get him relected for or against the bill. Blue dogs are going down in those swing state because he is a Dem.
Just aonthe sucker move for the short term that will cost him anyway. It is sad that Dems know how to lose so well. Just Sad.

you held onto the Presidents coat tail now you want to stab him in the back

I am one voter who will remember Ross along with all other congressional leaders who speak out about reasonable health care reform. I am also watching to see which congressional leaders keep their word to their constituents. This includes Marion Barry, Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor from Arkansas. As a voter, it is my responsibility to make sure that my elected officials represent how I feel about all important issues. If they do not represent my feelings, then I should vote for someone else when election time comes!!

Good for him! He is LISTENING to the American people...unlike Pelosi. His voters WILL remember this....favorably.

Ross is a man listening to his constituents; and knows the majority of the people do not want a public option. Reform yes, public option is just another entitlement cookie for the slacker welfare recipients that make up the majority of Obama's support base.....Stand firm Ross, the right thing to do is to vote against any bill that has a public option, or creates any intrusion into the lives of private citizens...we need tort reform, and malpractice insurance reform....not another nanny entitlement that's a freebie for the loathsome nonworking at the expense of the hardworkers of this country.....

He is such a mad mad man, look at his face in the picture. I feel like there is a goat dressed as a sheap in the room

Did he try to explain to his constituents that they could keep their health care they have now. Probably not. People have got to take the blinders off and look and listen to what exactly is included in the health care bill.

I love how the extreme left demonize their own when they won't tow the radical party line. This is a representative doing his JOB... representing the wishes of those who put him in office. You don't see too many conservatives react this way when our members vote against party lines. Snowe and Collins from Maine both vote a moderate agenda regularly... they get a lot of respect from BOTH sides for working across party lines. Then you have idiots like Arlen Specter who switch parties with the political wind... precisely calculated moves designed ONLY for their own survival. But as the saying goes, "when a Republican converts to a Democrat, the average IQ of both sides increases"

I'm SURE I wouldn't agree with much that this Rep stands for on matters of policy, but I respect him for LISTENING to the people.

Ross said in a statement. "I will also oppose any bill that provides federal funding for abortions or illegal immigrants and I will never vote for a bill that rations care for seniors or anyone else."

Wow, this guy is so uninformed. Sad when we have undereducated people in Congress.

Good, strike down the public option...

Want to know what will happen... My mom comes home from vacation and she has a check in the mail from Medicare saying this is for her son who is blind. My brother is autistic, but not blind. She has to then provide 3 years of medical history to proove that he isn't blind. this is after waiting 4 hours in line to just get those directions...

This is the public option, red tape, mistakes, slow process, and rediculus unreasonable regulations.

Now think what will happen with your medical bills, you might be given cancer with out even seeing a doctor, only to waste your time and hopefully you kept the medical records for the past 3 years to proove you don't have cancer..

If the congress does not pass a health reform bill the demos will be out in the cold in 2010 that includes the Blue Dogs

can you buy me prescription medication that i cannot afford because i have no insurance and i work forty hrs a week for a major company that cannot afford insurance for every employee. any possibility this moron could read this blog.

The Blue Dog Democrats are Rethugs, Democratic Pretenders
3 Blue Dogs Democrats
+3 Republicans =6 Republicans... the Party of No !!!!!
We want Health Care Reform with Public Option Now !!!

The paid shill for the insurance industry comes out on record opposing the American (public) Option.

Big surprise!!

A republican in blue dog disguise.
How dare he! Coming from one of the poorest states in the Union.
"Common sense" says that he should be representing the people who need his help and the majority who voted for him. Not the insurance and pharma lobbies.

Take a hike Mike!

A wolf (Republican) in Sheep's (Democratic) clothing. How much are you getting from the insurance industry may I ask?

that's the sound of this slime-ball stabbing you in the back. I wonder which of his contributors will benefit from his positions?

JERK! How are you proposing to lower insurance costs in your version of this reform bill?
Why call yourselves Blue Dogs? You're nothing but Red Puppies!

"Leaders" like Ross have zero credibility. They state they are "for health care reform" but continue to support the corporate appraoch to health care. The current appraoch to health care is clearly undemocratic in that it denies health care to a large sha eof our population. Health care is a right not something just a privlidged few can have. Why would we wish to entrust the health of our poulation to faceless corporate panels any more then faceless government ones. Clearly the public option creates true competition and support for those who have been at the mercy of this corproate shell game. His statement regarding illegal immigrants and abortion funding is fear mongoring and he knows it. it has little or nothing to do with the public option debate. Mr. Ros is sadly representative of the last eight years when fear and pandering ot those who already have was the only way to do the "people's business". Mr. Ross should, for the good of this nation and his contituents, resign for not upholding this nation's constitution and supporting a continuation of the people's right to good health.

"I will never vote for a bill that rations care for seniors or anyone else."

Does that include bills that allow insurance companies to continue rationing and denying care?

Or are you just telling everyone what you think they want to hear and really have no idea what you're talking about?

These Blue Dogs should be ashamed of themselves for trying to block what would be not only a necessary solution to serious problems, but what would also be among the most popular programs in United States history.

Wonder what is motivating them?

This guy doesn't seem to have read the bill. Maybe he should go to factcheck.org to see that the bill does not fund abortion, cover illegal immigrants, or harm seniors.

Why didn't this loser run as a republican. You want world peace but as long as you don't pay for it, right?!!!!

I think the Democratic Party needs to spend a little more time vetting candidates before letting them run on the Democratic ticket – make sure they understand the platform and are really Dems – not closet Republicans.

That's a smart man, even if he is a Democrat!

They need to impeach the entire congress. Their constituents oppose any change in health care. That is because they already have health care and don't give care about the 47 million Americans who don't. Public option or not, we need universal health care and we need to pay for it. We can spend a trillion dollars destroying Iraq and Afganastan, but not a trillion to ensure Americans lead healthy lives.

And next election cycle the people of Arkansas will vote against you sir!! Taliban in Democrat clothing....

I understand Denny Hoyer just said he would support a bill without the public option. But Nancy Pelosi says no bill will come out of the House without a public option. The number 1 and number 2 Dem leaders in the House are not in agreement. Looks like it will be a tough row for Obama to get any bill out of the House. Will take more that just a speech, will take real leadership just to get his own party to come together. Good luck blaming this on the Republicans.

I like Mike!

He just cited all those things that have been debunked so why would you call him a Democrat. He is just another lying Republican calling himself a Democrat.

There are politicians and there are leaders. It's obvious which in which category this guy falls. I'm always surprised by politicians from poor states that won't vote to help out the less fortunate.

Winner! At least somebody in that sorry party has enough common sense to know public option will not work in any way, shape, or form. I too hope voters remeber him at next election. 1 less bleeding heart!

Ross is simply reflecting the views of the people that elected him! This is something the whole Congress should do! Once apon a time, the Congress acted as public servants. Now most act like they are royalty. If Ross's vote reflect the majority of his district, the people WILL remember and he WILL be back!

People who draw lines in the sand have no understanding of the complexity of real life problems and the need to meet higher objectives. They are only interested in their personal objectives and those types of people should not be politicians. Politicians are supposed to be representing the people not there own opinions.

And that goes for all politicians regardless of party!

Ross... please just come clean and call yourself a Republican already.

It would be interesting to do a neutral poll in Congressman Ross's district to see just how many people favor a public option. Sounds like he would simply change his mind if a majority of his constituents favored the public option. Overall, I find it pretty weak that we have Congressman that are not going into this with an open mind (wasn't Ross urging people to slow down and consider the proposals in question?). The reality is that America will eventually be forced into a single payer system or an extremely regulated system (where the government tells insurance companies how much money they can make (like the electricity market)). Delays will only increase the cost for future generations. Yet our elected officials continue to deny the facts in front of them (fail to actually lead).

Finally, somebody who listened to his CONSTITUENTS!!!!!

It as about time.

In July, Ross urged congressional leaders to slow down the pace of health care negotiations and said reform "needs to be done in a deliberate, bipartisan and common sense way."

OMG!- the country has been waiting for 40 years for healthcare reform. Surely that is long enough.

I hope this guy gets targeted by the Dems in his next primary

This is why I never give to a party, just the candidate. Well, you and Senator Nelson of Florida will be out of a job next election.

These senators do not care about us.!!

WOOOO HOOOO!!! Now if only he would have opposed health care reform based upon the fact that its unconstitutional... Then we would be on to something.. but I cant complain its always positive when someone opposes socialism!!

I wonder if he has received any insurance lobbying money lately?
I wish CNN would throw in facts like that and be stronger journalist.

Big surprise! All the folks who's saying no to what President Obama's agenda think they have something to gain by not agreeing to help him.

By voting against a bill with out the Public Option he is voting to maintain the status quo – this means he would be voting for rationing.

Good for Ross – we don't need to be paying for illegla immigrants , abortions, or that rations care for seniors or anyone else. What is wrong with the citizens of the United States. Why do you want the government to run your life and take care of you.

Wonder how much he's received from the insurance companie?
They should rename them the COWARD DOGS! Fits much better.
They can't govern there way out of a wet paper bag. How can the minority dictate to the majority? Democrats just can't wait to lose power, huh.

Americans must make sure this republican, (err) blue dog democrat never be elected again !!! Where were they when the last administration turned a surplus into a deficit ? We should be asking ourselves how much of the insurance companies contributions is influencing his vote !!!

Anybody who opposes the public option is a complete tool of the insurance companies, and effectively corrupt. The guy should represent his constituents - instead he's supporting massive corporate welfare without the kind of controls that will reduce costs and improve health care. And in case he hasn't noticed, the insurance companies already ration care.

He's from Arkansas, what do you expect????

He should call him self Republican. He pretends to be democrat, wears democrat coat but his mind is so republican. He is certainly out of touch, Im yound democrat, and will never ever vote man like him. Another Big loser.

They will remember him at the next election for standing up for what is right...not walking in lockstep with his misguided party leadership.

Well Mr. Ross, then this is likely your last term in office. Voters are now paying attention to which lawmakers are bought and paid for.

Yes, Rep. Mike Ross, you are indeed a loser. The only way to curb costs is to fund a public option. Competition will drive prices down and therefore provide coverage for all. In this country, access to healthcare should be a right and not a privilige. You are on the wrong side of history congressman.

No, it needs to be done the RIGHT way, which means including the public option. And it needs to be done now, not later.

He is a Democrat in name only. Screw him ... let the bus run over him and his Republican colleagues who are all opposed to any attempt vy this administration to attack the problems with healcare.

Who is surprised at the fact that a "Blue Dog" democrate would side with the Republican argument. Liberals of the world and congress UNITE...no health care reform is possible unless this happens and soon.

Wow. The triumph of ideology over reason. What a guy.

Thank God there is a Democrat with guts and integrity!!

Blue Dogs? We need a new name for these people. How about REPUBLICANS. VOTE THEM OUT!!!!

I'm positive the money he receives for his "NO" would be much greater than what he receives for "YES". Poor people don't have a lot of money to give to politicians.

I'll have my say at the polls.

no public option= no re-election.

After listening to his constituents... is it the average working constituents or the constituents working at insurance companies?

vote this guy OUT........we do not need blue dogs anyway, as far as those two from LA and NC.......think about ......

Oh yes, be afraid, be VERY afraid of so-called conservatives (read: radicals) who just might oppose you in the next election!
Good grief. With all the MIS-information and distortions being thrown about by the once-proud-and-mature GOP to see a Dem cave in for fear of losing the next election is so weak!

Welcome to Germany, 1937 style!

The current brand of Republican Party is so far removed from it roots that it is shameful! Can anyone find a REAL Republican these days? Or, are we saddled with immature, emotional radicals who spew hate at anything that does not fit their agenda? Please find me a Republican I can support once again!!!

RSH

Finally a Dem. with guts and a brain!

Hmmm.....This coming from the man who has received more than $1,000,000.00 from Health Insurance Companies.

He might as well convert to the rethugs, I sure hope they remember him come the next election cycle , why is it that some wnat to stand in the way of progress ?

"... I will never vote for a bill that rations care for seniors or anyone else."

I can't beleive this knucklhead would even mention this in his speech.

Its fine that he said "I will also oppose any bill that provides federal funding for abortions or illegal immigrants..." as that is what he believes.

But this "ration'" thing is a total fabrication, something made up to scare people, especially the seniors in the U.S. the WHOLE POINT of the health care bill is to be able to include people not exclude them .

If there are those that disagree with it, fine. Speak your mind as you should. We need to hear people's opinions and feelings

But making up nonsense and using scare tactics for purely political reasons just continues to polarize this nation, cripples our ability to work together and prevents us from accomplishing many things.

Congratulations Representative Ross. You have the courage to support American values of self-determination and the courage to stand up against the liberal statist offensive against basic American civil rights.

Arkansas Rep. Mike Ross is a poser; he has been conspiring with the conservative side since 2000. There is either a red or blue side, not green, purple, or yellow; Ross has been more red then any other color. Arkansas residents should be aware!! I can see his monetary donations from big insurance companies stop payment on campaign finance is this reform passes; definitely not a good sign for constituents, more like selfishness!

There must be several hundred thousands of people in Arkansas that do not have medic al care and the loser has it and it is paid for by those who do not have it – am I stupid or is something just not right about his picture. I was born in Arkansas and am now very proud that I do not live there. I well remember the state motto "land of opportunity" this losely defined means that – them that has it will keep it and those that don't are not going to get it. He (Ross) can call himself a Blue Dog I would prefer to leave my favorite color out and just refer to him as a DOG.

I agree, and frankly, I DON'T WANT MAY HEALTH CARE REFORMED!! I am perfectly satisfied with my coverage and right now can afford it. What needs to be reformed is coverage that is offered through COBRA–I have had to be on that 3 times and it is outrageous! And that is something that the government has their hands in...need I say more.

Based on the way he phrased the statement, it is clear he is more interested in reelection than good governance. Even suggesting abortion and illegal aliens means he is talking to the nuts cases out there that actually believe there is language in the bill that would support such nonsence.

Congressman, it been nice knowing you. But with tactics such as yours, you will most certainly be challenged from both the Democratic party and the Republican. Good luck raising money to win BOTH or get a spine!

He should lose his next election. How much money did he get from the insurance companies?

How is he a loser? He is representing his state and their thoughts. People need to understand that Healthcare reform is a long term event, not something that should be thrown together in 8 months!

Glad to see that Healthcare is the most pressing issue facing the United States...forget the fact that Stimulus package is failing and hte economy is still facing south...lets raise taxes some more...maybe a cash for clunkers this time with home appliances.

I mean I like paying for other people to get a break...oh wait, no I don't.

Ross has admitted he hasn't even read the proposal, enough said.

Mike Ross is a strong leader to go against the tide, and vote for his constituency.

IDIOT! We "ration" healthcare now, we pay everyday for illegal immigrants....come watch the local ER of a public hospital in any major US city, and you will see the waiting rooms FULL of illegal immigrants. I can insure my "partner" but not my son who is age 24 but does not get insurance at his job, how is that for american values? GET OUT OF THE WAY NOW,

Says alot for Arkansas....

I guess he is fine with private health care rationing care all day long. There is nothing in any bill that supports abortion or illegal immigrant coverage. This guy needs to stop pretending he is a Democrat.

Ross puts everything on the back burner, unless, it lines his pockets. Vote this nitwit out of office!!

Clinton knows very well what the republicans will do, they dont care about the average citizen whithout healthcare coverage, the last eight years proved that. Americans are fed-up with republicans agenda,which is to only draw a wider divide between the haves and the have nots. Why do we tolerate this obvious injustice in this country. Everyone is entitled to the American Dream.

This man makes the most sense of any democrat I have ever heard. Rep Ross, you and the Blu Dogs really should switch to the republican party where we are all conservatives just like you.

they will remember ross and he will win by a landslide,,,,,

Ross knows which side his bread is buttered.....the insurance industry contributed heavily to his campaign fund.

I am tired of this Blue chicken Republican like
Where is the Goverenment take over he is talking about
sore loser vote him out

Does Mr. Ross have any other suggestions as to what to do to get more people covered with health care insurance? Is there a way that change his mind? If you don't like the solution, don't be like the Republicans that complain only. Provide another option or solution so that people don't have to get their only health care from the most expensive place - the ER! That costs us all.

Ross has great health insurance for himself and his family. He's in 'no hurry" to pass any healthcare reform. What a greedy moron. He needs to be voted out!!!

If Ross votes against the public option, then he should give up his excellent, government run health care insurance that he is entitled to as a member of congress. I can't stand the hypocrisy of these elected officials who say the best health care in the world is only in the private sector but would never ever give up their government run health care. If government health is so bad for the rest of us, then why do you have it?

You can't be democrat and republican at the same time. This is a violation of the principle of excluded middle. You better be a republican because your idealogy is just as republican and you sound more like one. Or else next election will decide your fate. I don't know how you think you can win election in republican district without democrat. And I can't see republican voting for you either in this political atmosphere.

rporte

Ross has to keep his campaign funds coming in.....he owes the insurance industry millions. Enough said.

these blue dogs are republicans hiding under democratic cloak.

This guy, like most republicans are a useless waste of space, unless you are a corporation looking to buy your way in.

I pray they do too and I believed they will.

Wouldn't ya know....Arkansas.

Congressman Ross: You are a man of character and conviction. A statesman who is for the American people and not your party.

Good for him. At least one of them has the fortitude to go against the party line.

This moron and every other Dem who is trying to stop any healthcare bill from passing needs to be thrown out of our party and become a Republican!

Rep. Ross should be commended for actually representing his constituents and not caving to pressure.

Mr. Ross, I hesitate to criticize a fellow Democrat. Let me state that America has at least three "social programs" (as I'll call them) that are MANDATORY, UNIVERSAL (in most states), and augmented by a "PUBLIC option" or facility (i.e. a MIXED solution):

1) K-12 education (mandatory for all, can be met through public or private schools or home-schooling); 2) workers' compensation (mandatory for nearly all, can be insured through private or state-sponsored insurers or self-insured); 3) automobile insurance (mandatory in most states, can be insured through private or state-sponsored assigned risk pools or facilities).

Health care in the past was left up to the individual or employer, and not for all people. We know know our economy and social fabric would be strengthened if all Americans had health insurance and lived healthier lives. I see no reason whey this goal cannot be accomplished through a mixture of public and private insurance that focuses on cost-effective delivery of health care.

I guess it is time for the voters in Arkansas who are suffering with their insurance plans, or lack there of, get after Mr. Ross. They can do it if only they would wake up.

Sounds like more concern about getting re-elected than doing what's best for our people.

Also sounds like a (R)emocrat.

What these so called "Blue Dog" democrats fail to realize is if the Dems go down because they could not pass health care reform, ALL dems go down and being a blue dog won't help your butt one little bit. If Dems sucessfully pass health care reform then all Dems WIN! This is a no brainer.

Bad thing about it is they don't know why. They are more worried about getting elected than moving this country forward. Will somebody ask small business or any business how would lifting of healthcare from them would help their bottom line? We need to compete with Canada and other countries if we don't it's not going to matter if we have health care all the companies will be overseas anyway where they will be able to compete.

No 'public option' is just one more way Republicans prove that they do not have any love for the less fortunate. If you are not rich or a fanatical figure spewing lies and half truths to boaster support, getting them votes, they have no interest in you or hearing your views.
Prior to President Obama's school speech today. Republican's hailed it as proof of his socialist agenda. Any Republican that speaks against that speech should stand up and explain why they feel kids should drop out of school.
I expect Republicans will be biting their tongues, or say something like this, "We don't want kids to drop out of school," That is only half true. They don't care about drop-outs, except for the fact they increase the need for a 'public option.' Oops, drop-outs might not even be able to afford it, specially if it is a mandatory insurance plan.

Mr. Bluedog, Doin't try to be smart A.......... You are going to be the next one out in the next election if you do not support ths important legislation. It would be better if you keep your mouth shut. Mr. President if you have to go without these Idiots go for it.....

At least they got the "dog" part right.

Peace

We will not forget you. Why should democrats spend their time to go vote for another republican. Let the republican front runner crush him if other democrats fail to do so.

Arkansas, a regular hotbed of well off, insured Americans, right?

The public option would be just fine, but the fact is the public option isn't critical. Once you 1) stop dropping people if they get sick, and 2) require insurers to issue policies to people with pre-existing conditions, it's game over. Massive consolidation of the private insurance industry will occur until the government breaks up the monopoly and regulates it like a public option.

Just passing the non-controversial parts that everyone agrees with will drive us to universal single payer system within a decade. Just get 1 and 2 above and its done.

All Blue dogs must go, they are only Republicans in disguise.

As a small business owner I hope Blue Dogs and Republicans realize that they are screwing every business owner unless they vote on a public option. Insurance is way too expensive for employers and employees and there's only one way to bring those premiums down. They should have adresssed the deficit when their greedy friends were getting the money and they need to stop endorsing the insurance companies' hefty profits. Enough already.

Ross's desire for a bipartisan approach to healthcare reform is admirable, but also a fantasy. The only thing the Republicans are 'deliberate' about is their determination to prevent 47 million Americans from having a realistic opportunity to acquire health insurance.

I'm sure money influenced his decision, not the people of his hometown.

America, thank goodness is an opinionated nation, but the country is more divided than ever. What is really at the core of all the negativity concerning the president? At first, I thought , ok with the people speaking out against health care, then came the school speech and the idea of parents not wanting the President to speak to the kids! There is no logical explanation to this stupidity. I am from one of those school districts where the speech was not aired. There was a 67% voter turnout for McCain and Palin. It will not matter to these folks if the President is right, they just do not want him as President and never will, period.

Way to go Mike! You can't bite the hand that feeds you. That $1,000,000 you have received from insurance companies. Of course the Public Option is out!

When are our southern leaders gonna get on board with the rest of America? The White House was won without winning the South, the first time that's happened in decades. Us southerners need to realize that our central government is not all bad. They still do lookout for the little guy sometimes.

Oh WELL!!! Now maybe he'll become a RED DOG!!! LOL

A "PIT BULL" – the kind that LOCK JAWS around your neck!!! The SARAH PALIN kind!!! roflmao

That's an original statement. I can tell you put a lot thought into what you said.

"Blue Dog" Democrats are Republicans in Democrat clothing. They need to either change their affiliation or rethink their voting records.

Good to see a politician listening to his constituents and not voting strictly along party lines.

He will probably get re-elected, but it will be very interesting to see just how the quality of helathcare will plummet in his district if the president fails to get some kind of reform done. Maybe he should be thinking abotu that, rather than racking up his congressional pension.

FOrget about the spinless bluedog(s)....go with what you have Pres. Obama!!

Hopefully this guy will end up like many of the Republicans who are obstructing this important, necessary reform. When it passes and is successful they can take no credit at all for it just like they can't take any credit for the fact that the stimulus plan has helped the country rebound from the recession and possible depression. It will come back to bite them.

Great for them it's about time the real DEM. in washington spoke up. Not like Obama's socialist party who seem to think that they are DEM.

So he has taken a firm (if not courageous) stand against 3 non-existant 'health measures' and 1 crucial one that could make a positive difference.

Big Insurance sure got heir money's worth with this character. Do you think he bothered to educate his constituents? Isn't Arkansas only served by a single private insurance company? I wonder what their educational ranking is?

Smart call.

It's very easy for people who don't have to worry about health care (and in fact have the best coverage in the country) to deny it to those who don't have it.

Dem taking lessons from Repubs ! Not voting for things that are not in any legislation. What a guy !

Nice to see that stupid isn't just confined to just the GOP.

So this guy wants his constituents to pay more for less efficient healthcare? With Democrats like him, who needs Republicans?

The dems may control the house and the senate but there are still the Blue Dogs who understand the error of this bill and the majority of the US citizens speaking out against it. God help this country if you all get your way just because you want it and not understand the economic ramifications. Sort of like the people my tax dollars are bailing out...living off of credit cards because they wanted the new car, big house and flat screen tv's, etc. Now more than ever, you should all understand the term fiscal responsibility!

I wish President Obama would quit being so nice and just take the BLUE DOGS out behind the shed and give the BLUE DOGS BLACK EYES and let them know the DNC will find and support another Democrat to oppose them in the midterm election.

If Ross will renounce his publicly funded health insurance and his access to places like Bethesda...

And what is it exactly that makes this "gentleman" a Democrat again?

Make this his last term in congress.

this man is not a "Blue Dog Democrat", he is a Republican with a "D" after his name.. He is protecting his job pure and simple..to hell with American people who don't have insurance.. And oh by the way you fool ,care is already rationed it is called "insurance profits"

Silly Dems. Obama says no bills unless it does not add to the budget or you find money to use already in the budget. Now the only group to do so is scrutinized by there own party.

Public option, what a joke. Our government pays for the health costs of 28% of the population, and pays 46% of the national health care costs to do it. Can you explain to me how the government can compete with the private sector when it costs them twice as much?

I am no democrat, but these bluedogs make more sense than anyone out there.

why does this guy call himself a democrat?

A cursory glance at opensecrets shows that he is pretty deep in the pockets of the medical pig. Don't we elect these people to do right by the American people, not just the people footing their campaigns?

Vote them out of there and take away their benefits. Scumbags all of them..

Why is this republican claiming he is a democrat. Oh yeah. If people knew he was a republican he wouldn't have been elected. Please, democrats, get rid of this cancer in your party.

I agree. Rep Ross has relinquished any semblance of leadership, and has kowtowed to lobbyists and misinformation.

Blue Doigs are really blind hogs trying to sniff out a sweet spot to hide thier bigoted views. The states they come from are all still trying to come to grips with the fact that a BLACK MAN could be president. Now just like the REPUBLICANs they attempt to make any effort on the part of Obama fail. This is not really hurting Obama. He will still get his retirement pay. What is being hurt are the people of Amreica. They are being lied to. The health Insurance reform is needed to provide hard working Amreicans affordable health care. Anyone that voets against the reform should be forced to give up their special health plan and try living like a normal person.

Why doesn't Ross think the American people deserve the same quality health insurance that he has as a congressman?

Arkansas voters: PLEASE elect Ross's republican contender in your district next year. You'll be getting the same pro health industry ideology without this pretender's phoney "D".........

Are the Health Care polls shown on T.V. taken electronically? What about those individuals who can’t afford internet? Those are the folks who probably aren’t satisfied with their Health Care. Think about it! These polls are taken by individuals who are able to afford internet, so my guess will be they have fairly good health care as well. Those individuals who can’t afford internet to take these polls most likely can’t afford health care either. With that being said, all these polls taken are bogus to me. WE NEED REFORM!

this dog doesn't hunt

he has nothing to add, who cares what he says, he obviously is not interested in solutions

GOP has members they call RINO.

And Democrats also have folks called DINO.

It's time to round up the Democrats willing to include the health option and take a vote.

Question
What to do with blue dogs?
Answer.
Vote them out next election.

No Government Option....No Government Pension for him.

Wait how long....till we have 100 million with no insurance....please.

A blue dog is just a polictian that is not willing to make the hard decision and is just looking out for themself. 2008 was the start of the change. 2010 will be to get those Blue Dogs out too.

Change is coming...the train is just starting to pick up some speed.

As far as the Tea Parties are concerned.....your party will be over too!

OK, a fiscally conservative Democrat. Finally, one I can somewhat respect.

republican diguised as a democrate

Democrats stop fighting with each other. Work together.

And for gods sakes, give us a public option instead of just being Republicans light. Be Democrats. We voted in the Democrats, not the Republicans by a different name.

I wonder how much campaign money this guy gets from insurance companies to continue to support their profit margins. My (large) group health insurance coverage increased 45% over the last 5 years - we need the public option to keep these insurance companies honest and get my medical care (and yours too) back in the hands of doctors rather than some insurance clerk with NO medical background at all.

Blue Dogs are LISTENING to their constituents – which is why they are turning against Obama-Pelosi-Reid's "government option".

Obama has repeatedly shown HORRIBLE judgement (cambridge cops acting "stupidly", hiring self-avowed communist Van Jones, etc)- yet liberals implicit trust this goof to take-over healthcare??

I want to see the doctors from the tv show the doctors to be informed by both sides of this public option and then I'd love to hear what they say

Spread the word on him for later include the rest of the dogs so when election comes around they will be voted out .
We don't / won't have a short memory on these loosers .

What a wuss. Time to vote him out of the party next election. Take his public health care away now and see if he changes his mind

He just spouted off Republican talking points. Wow, how sad. He knows none of that is true.

It would figure that Arkansas would be in the middle of this uppity bunch.. The message is that the south still thinks it can dictate to the rest of the us is really wearing thin. It appears that the 1865 conclusion of the War for Southern Independence didn't solve a thing. Maybe we need a redo once and for all.

Wait – he listed to the concerns of his constituents? What a pansy.

Ross thinks he has a lot of common sense, after talking to his
" followers and supporters " in his constituencies. He wants to " slow down " and proceed cautiously in reforming healthcare.

We have been doing that for many years in the past, and this has worsened both the wisdom and wealth of the people, stolen away, by the avaricious health insurance copmpanies. Public action is particularly loathed by this pugnacious character, who, we are sure, has a very good insurance for himself.

We have trouble in understanding his audacious arguments for senior healthcare " rationing ". Somebody ought to overpower this creature or instill information into what he calls his " thick skull ".

It's time to let The South go. They're an anchor to the rest of us.

Your true colors are out? You would not be missed. I watched one of your town hall meetings. A resident of your district asked why you are against a public option when your district is one of the poorest in Arkansas?

You are now showing your true colors. You are more interested in seeking the interests of big health insurance companies than your poor constituents. The House leaders should just ignore you since you really do not believe in more health insurance coverage for your poor constituents. Obama and the spineless Democratic leaders in Congress and the Senate should wake up and move the peoples agenda forward.

Bye bye, Ross, switch over to the republican party because you sound more like a republican!!!

If the "Blue Dogs" won't support the Pres., come 2010, maybe some more supportive Dems. can be found. If the B.D.s won't support him, why have them there??

shame on....we need public option in health care...

Sir thank you
Could you work with the other party and keep the government out of
our health care? (for those that have private we do not want health care like medicare, VA ) There are other ways to address the health care issue. You could look at the other bills (HR3400) and amendments.
While you are back could you please look into the Treasury dept and
President asking for the ceiling debt to be raised? Congress has
already raised the ceiling this year. Before anyone blast me I understand what will happen if the ceiling is not raised, but that does not mean we just raise and address later. Quit kicking the can down the road.
We as a nation have to get or spending under control!
Why is CNN not covering this?

And your seat will be a Republican seat next year and we will have healthcare reform and you will have plenty of time on your hands to work on that slimy haircut. Everybody wins.

Good choice and I'll bet the voters will remember him at the next election and will elect him.

to slow down this come from someone who will have life time health care. The pace of goverment is dead slow or slower than dead.

I can't belive how stupid that people become in numbers you congressman and senitor had better get your greed under control. we the people are tired of hearing about your big personal spending and indulgences for your selves and your financial backers and friends we deserve a good health care program.I'm sure you have one I think we should study your personal bugets for cuts corpret jets free stays on my buck 35 percent pay increces across the board who the heck are you and why are you better than me who has worked hard for the last fourty years flabergasted in florida
has anyone but me that this ooposition is a scare tactic to keep the statas qoe

Please vote with the Repubes, so you can be voted out. You
do not care what people need or do you care!

Check out his biggest sponsors...this guy is nothing but a BOUGHT piece of trash. When he runs in 2010, vote his worthless and health care paid butt out and vote in a REAL democrat who wants to help america along with his constituents!

Does Congressman Ross have any ideas to offer on how to reign in health care spending or is he just going to join the Republicans in caving in to the insurance companies, drug companies and misinformed, ignorant constituents?

The healthcare debate has made it abundantly clear why the craven political animal known as the Blue Dog ought to be put on the endangered species list. Time to primary these idiots.

"Ross urged congressional leaders to slow down the pace of health care negotiations "

Yeah, slow down. We been working on this for more than 40 years... THAT IS WAY TOO FAST! At this rate we will finish it by the end of this year. Doesn't anyone know we need another 40 years to really get it right!?!? /sarcasm off

This is only 1 house Democrat out of 200+ house Dems who will be voting for the bill. It's not likely his opposition will have any impact on the final result.

The voters will remember him next year.. you can be sure of that.
I wish I could move to Arkansas just to vote for him myself.

I will send him a tremendous 'Thank You' note and I encourage all American Patriots, Democrats, Republicans and Independents to
send him an email to let him know how much WE THE PEOPLE appreciate those in office who are not forcing this horrendous legistlation upon us.

Lets Push back in 2010! Thank you Mike Ross for being one of the good guys!

Does anyone have a plan to replace employer provided healthcare? Sometime within the next five years, employer provided health care will be a thing of the past. Everyday, more and more employers are pushing healthcare costs to their employees or abandoning providing healthcare altogether. This is not just small businesses, but Fortune 1000 businesses also.

Mike Ross and other "Blue Dogs" have an agenda contraty to
the well being of millons of Americans. They are pawns of
the negative right wing and are owned by the insurance
companies.

so now we know who sends him money for his campaign. The insurance companies. That it plain and simple.

Most liberals who make comments here will say that he will loose in the next election. I can not see that happening when his voters tell him to vote no on this bill. It would seem that if he votes no, he will win the next election by a large majority.

this guy needs to stop watching fox news

It's time to stop the petty bickering among Democrats and for them to line up behind the President.

The middle class in America will not get a fair shake with republican proposals and Democrats need to unite behind the President for change that is so desperately needed. The current direction is just plain wrong and without a reversal of this profit above all else approach is changed America will disintegrate into a Third World Nation.

Mr. Ross is swimming against the tide. He'll be looking for employment next fall.

May God have mercy on the blue dog democrats and on the 9 trillion national debt.

ANYONE that votes against the health insurance reform should be forced to give up their helath care plan and lern what it is like for REAL AMERICANS to try to get good health care

Spineless, un-American Dixicrat.

All he cares about is re-election in a state made up of moonshine drinkin', cross-burnin' NASCAR lovin' inbreds, not what's good for ALL Americans, including the destitute in his own state!

Even the Ar-kansas democrates are backward clowns. No hope for these hill-billies.
Nothing "blue" about this bozo, and he doen't deserve any refernce to a creature so loyal as a man's best friend ~ the dog. He is being disloyal to the citizens of the US in favor of corporate greed.

Blue Dog Democrat. I guess that's catchier than: "Republican who, for purposes of political expediency, calls himself a Democrat."

Hey, lets not get upset about this, obviously this guy is looking for a second career or maybe he will change parties to continue this career. What I do know is that he isn't going to have a fun primary season when its time for re-election. Joining the Republican roadblock might be good on principle, but in an arena that often lacks principles (politics), this might end his career as a Democratic Representative.

Blue Dogs= No spine! Vote the DINO's out and Primary them! Contribute $/time to their primary challengers!

This is news?

The paid shill for the insurance industry comes out on record opposing the American (public) Option.

Big surprise!

Well, I think they should take away Ross's Government health care package. Make him get private insurance. Then I hope his brain is starved for oxygen after he chokes on his own stupidity. Then I hope his private insurance denies him coverage because stupidity is a pre-existing condition. Then I hope the democratic leadership take away all of his committee appointments for being a total idiot.

When it comes down to the roll call, this democrat will be one of many to vote with the republicans. Just say NO!

Okay, so what's the big deal about a "public option?" There is NO downside. So what if the billionaire insurance executives don't make as much money. I'm not concerned about them! I'm concerned about the people of this country that are NOT billionaires. YOU SHOULD BE TOO!

Rep. Ross has no problem choosing from the many "options" afforded to him as part of Congress' health care plan but denounces an option for the rest of America. You hypocrite.

Just a republican in sheeps clothing he has shown his true colors, how much did he get from greedy insurance companies...

Yeah....hes a loser for doing what his constituents want. How unamerican! The real losers are we, the American people, who have had our government hijacked by statists, community organizers, and communists.

Arkansas Rep. Mike Ross, a leading member of the Blue Dog Coalition, is a Democrat In Name Only (D.I.N.O.). DINO's should be divested of their Democratic "cloak" and exposed as moderate Republicans. They should never been allowed to ride Obama's coat-tails in 2008!

Obama – Biden 2012

This dog is man's best friend!

Please use your influence to talk some sense into the remaining representatives in the blue dog coalition. America needs more like you, Sir!

Another member of Congress that's been bought out by the Big Insurance Companies!! Another form of legal corruption!!!

Funny how they're elected by the people, but they're bought and paid for by Big Business. It's obvious this guy represents the Big Insurance Companies!!

I hope the people of Arkansas remembers this when this guy's up for re-election and sends him to the unemployment line.

Behold your insurance premiums at work.

Blue Dog, Or Yellow Rat, Either way, the only way that we can drive down healt insurance and get coverage for everyone is if we have a Goverment ran option. The insurance companies are pouring tons on money into trying to stop healtcare reform.
yes the voters will remember........

And we will vote against him and his insurance company friends.

What a surprise. Noooot! The guy is from a bubba state of the first magnitude. The ignorance down there is inbred and they are proud of it. There are still enough Dems to push this through and I hope they do just that.
Bi-partisanship? How many times do you reach out to pet a mangy cur dog and get bit before you give up and move on?

Money Talks and the the uninsured die. How much money are the insurance companies paying you Mr. Ross? He said he talked to his constituents but really it was the insurance companies.

I agree. I hope all remember the people voting to hold the country back.

Thank you for choosing country over party. Its a shame there arent more politicians who follow that rule.

It is unfortunate that Arkansas Rep Mike Ross even IS a member of the Blue Dog Coalition. It is unfortunate that this Democratic member of Congress is letting religion stand in the way of clear thinking that could benefit the rest of us. I am speaking of the "abortion" comment.

Who ever said anything about rationing health care to seniors? I am a senior on Medicare and I am not worried about Medicare.

I want a bill with a public option for the many women and kids who can't get health insurance right NOW. I know some of them. They need medical care NOW and can't get it.

Thank you, Rep. Ross.

Regurgitating all the republican lies about this bill. Since your pushing the Republican agenda, you might as well become on.

***********************************************************************

"If House leadership presents a final bill that contains a government-run public option, I will oppose it," Ross said in a statement. "I will also oppose any bill that provides federal funding for abortions or illegal immigrants and I will never vote for a bill that rations care for seniors or anyone else." [sic]

Guess Bruce has a nice job lined up with an insurance giant after he goes down.

Loser. I hope the voters remember him at the next election.