In fact, Grayson - a Democrat who represents a central Florida swing district that includes Orlando - made another floor speech in which he apologized to the dead and their families for not acting sooner on health care reform, and then defended both speeches on CNN's "The Situation Room."
"What I mean is they have got no plan," Grayson told Wolf Blitzer. "It's been 24 hours since I said that. Where is the Republican plan? We're all waiting to see something that will take care of the pre-existing conditions, to take care of the 40 million Americans who have no coverage at all.
"That's what I meant when I said that the Republican plan is don't get sick. And if you do get sick, die quickly."
Republicans pounced on Grayson's late-night speech and demanded an apology.
"That is about the most mean-spirited partisan statement that I've ever heard made on this floor, and I, for one, don't appreciate it," Tennessee Republican Rep. Jimmy Duncan told the Politico.
On Wednesday, Grayson apologized, but it wasn't the apology the Republicans wanted. Citing a Harvard University study released earlier this month that said 44,000 Americans die each year because they have no health insurance, Grayson called on Democrats and Republicans "to do our jobs for the sake of those dying people and their families."
"I apologize to the dead and their families that we haven't voted sooner to end this holocaust in America," he said.
That prompted National Republican Congressional Committee spokesman Ken Spain to issue a stinging rebuke saying that Grayson is "doubling down on his despicable remarks and he is dragging his party with him."
"This is an individual who has established a pathological pattern of unstable behavior," Spain said. "He is derailing the national debate on health care reform and embarrassing his constituents as a result."
But in a spirited discussion on CNN that included Democratic strategist James Carville and Republican strategist Alex Castellanos, Grayson stood his ground. He flatly rejected the suggestion that his remarks were the political equivalent of South Carolina Republican Rep. Joe Wilson's shout of, "You lie," at the president during his nationally televised speech on health care.
"I didn't insult the president in front of 40 million people," he said. " ... When you don't have a plan, what that means is your plan is don't get sick. So what I said is true. What Joe Wilson said, on the other hand, is false."
Castellanos insisted that Republicans agreed with the Democrats on pre-existing conditions and would "stand with him 100 percent" if the president added such Republican-backed proposals as tort reform and allowing citizens to shop across state lines for insurance - a strategy Democrats say will drive insurance companies into the states with the most lax regulations.
"The congressman is at least giving the chance for the Republicans to look responsible. It's not fair to say that the Republicans have no plan. They actually do," said Castellanos, whose campaigns include George W. Bush in 2004, Mitt Romney in 2008 and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and the late Sen. Jesse Helms of North Carolina in the 1990s.
Carville, who was Bill Clinton's lead strategist during his successful run for the presidency in 1992 and worked Hillary Clinton's campaign last year, congratulated Grayson for having "the courage to go up and say what he said."
But Carville backed away from Grayson when the congressman said that Republicans he believes are obstructing health care reform are "foot-dragging, knuckle-dragging Neanderthals."
"I would call (them) regressive as opposed to Neanderthal," Carville said.
Grayson also rejected comparisons between his comments and those of some Republicans, including former Alaska governor and GOP vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin, that the Democratic reform plan called for "death panels" to decide who would get life-saving treatments.
"I said to myself, 'I wish Sarah Palin read the bill.' That's not what this bill says. That's a scare tactic," he said. "What I said is the god's honest truth."
Grayson said he decided to deliver his after-hours speech Tuesday after the Harvard study was released and he realized "we cannot go on any longer in this country where people cannot afford health care, where they coverage they got is good until they need it."
Calling for universal health care, he slammed "whoever it is that's causing the Republicans to fight tooth-and-nail against anything, absolutely anything, to have every vote come down to being 257 to 175 in the House, over and over and over again."
"Those are the people who are really disserving Americans," he said.
– CNN's Alexander Mooney contributed to this report.
From CNN Politics
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Sounds like someone needs to apologize, or get a reprimand from Nancy. Oh Dumbacrats get to use free speech.
Newt, you were always a newt.
Another dumbocrat who not as fast as a 6 pack.
Bravo Grayson! You tell it like it is.
Rocks, yes and not taking any s-. Make Grayson Speaker of The House as he is right on
I was amused at how "offended" Alex Castellanos & Wolf Blitzer were at Grayson's statements..funny how they weren't apalled at the numerous false, and hideous statements the Repugs have made.
I applaud Rep. Grayson for finally telling it like it is!! BRAVO!!!
I saw Grayson on the Wolf Blitzer show tonight. I'm independent not Republican but Grayson was acting like a rude jerk. He sounded immature and unprofessional. At least the guy from South Carolina apologized to the President. Grayson just sounded like a mean jerk. Hope they vote him out in the next election.
Okay, so maybe he's laying it on a little thick with the hyperbole, but his passion is evident–and the facts back him up.
About time the Dems have somebody who's taking the fight to the Republicans, instead of the other way around! ACT–don't react.
The insurance companies are behemoths raking in billions of dollars annually; republicans simply don't want things to change because they are being funded by these corporate pigs. Things need to change, and soon.
Thank you Mr. Grayson, for saying what half this country is already thinking.
Though its just slinging some mud back at the GOP. I like it... thank you for the new guys sticking up to the American people before they too get sucked into the money pit of DC politics.
Rep Grayson is the leader of the Obama Death Panels and is just trying to pass the buck as being innocent. Just like a LIEING DEMOCRATE.
'knuckle-dragging Neanderthals'...
ya, that sounds about right..
It really is about time a Democrat stands up and fights back. The Repubs are a gang, which likes to have it both ways, in that they like to act in all manner of disrespectful behavior, but when someone calls them for it, they transform into the helpless victims. They are Neanderthals. Their free market, let corporations do what they want and will while we look the other way is what got the country in this mess. They admitted that on the one hand and then in the same breath now call for the same free market, non-regulations policy that got us here in the first place. That is as backwards as a Neanderthal; but then again they are worse than a Neanderthal, because even a Neanderthal wasn't so backwards that he or she couldn't learn from pivotal mistakes(i.e. you touch fire and realize that it is hot and you don't touch it again).
If the truth hurts, just say ouch.
It was fine when the rethugs were screaming death panels and killing grandma over the summer. What goes around comes around. Where can I donate to his re-election when his term is up? My HERO!!!
I wish people would stop insulting Neanderthals by comparing them to knuckle-dragging Republicans.
The Neanderthals were much more intelligent and advanced than ANY neo-conservative living in our times.
It is about time some one took on the Republicans...We all see the writing on the wall...drag your feet now and then if you can muster the votes and make it work for your Insurance companies next term bring it back and win the popular vote to say you did it...well I am sorry I lost a relative recently and I know health care sucks and they couldn't give a rats ass in the industry for Health your care. They are robbers of our Premiums and not stewards of our hard earned money . They provide a Crap load of empty promises.....I can tell you HEALTH CARE IS IN CRISIS MODE believe me your policy looks good in writing but they scabs will find a way to make it not covered or some assinin reason to not cover your illness and or make it a pre-exsisting condition...INSURANCRE COMPANIS ARE NOT YOUR FRIENDS..BEWARE your coverage is only that an empty promise!
Its about time I heard a Democrat getting on the Republicans' case as hard as they ride us. I applaud Mr. Grayson and his willingness to slam those who deserve to be the subject of ridicule.
Good for Grayson! Finally, a Dem with the cajones to use the Republican's own tactics against them, but instead of just using one liners to lie, he just hits them with the truth... they have no real plan.
Yeah, and they're ugly and their mama dresses 'em funny, too! Let's be careful not to have a "townhall moment", Mr. Grayson, we want to be above all that. Just stick to the facts, please, and leave the poor, maligned Neanderthals out of this.
The Democrats have called everyone concerned about Obamacare giving pain pills to the old and very sick instead of lifesaving pacemakers and cutting $500 billion from Medicare which won't be so nifty for the old folks either, UNAMERICAN, EVIL MONGERS, RACISTS, POLITICAL TERRORISTS, MOBSTERS, and now apparently Knuckle Dragging Neanderthals! And Nancy Pelosi and the National Press are concerned about the tone from opponents of Obamacare? I haven't seen much about the Republican plan, probably because they don't have the votes to do anything without it, but I doubt it guts Medicare for the elderly with $500 Billion in Cuts!
This is the most honest and truthful statement about the REAL Re-Dumb-Again's retarded ideas ever spoken in public. Congratulations to Grayson for having the guts to say it like it is.
If you are reading this and you don't have health insurance and you AGREE with the Republicans on their Plan to constantly deny YOU health insurance then you are a certified IDIOT. Wake up StOoPiD!
My name is Jesus the Great Physician and I approve this message.
Grayson for President! This is the kind of Democrat we need - not one who wants to work with Republicans, but one who wants to expose them for the ignorant frauds that they are and, ultimately, to exterminate them.
Keep it up dude...........you'll be voted out soon enough! He should explain that the Public option would make getting an appointment to see your doctor months out and surgeries, many will die waiting in line. How about some information on how many people WITH insurance that die from undiagnosed heart disease.
This is a good example of the partisanship in Congress that has completely shut out the Republicans, allowing for zero compromise. This wasn't what Obama promised during the campaign.
Isn't it ironic, now the Dems control all three branches in majority, yet still can't get a bill through? They should point the finger at themselves before trying to find scapegoats. The house of cards is falling and in their desperation, they have to play the racism and conspiracy cards.
Tell it like it is Grayson! The Republicans have nothing to offer, no ideas, no plans except to wish for the failure of the Democratic initiatives. Call them on it. They want to fight Obama every inch of the way. They are as obdurate as blocks of granite, and have as much in the way of innovative and productive thinking as blocks of granite. Keep our country and people foremost in our thoughts as we navigate through these challenging times.
YES!!! A democrat with GUTS!!!
DO NOT back down.
The republicans only plan is to protect the insurance companies!!
Yes, there we go. Alan Grayson, you are a hero.
Wow! So the Republicans are scandalized by inflammatory comments! They have been pouring on comments like that for years while Democrats have been much more restrained. It's fascinating to watch how desperation has driven them to finesse and distort truths for the past year. This was just a taste of their own "medicine". Maybe now we can get back to civility.
How about HR 3400 for starters? Democrats are refusing to acknowledge that Republicans have offered a multitude of bills that either reform specific aspects of healthcare or a more comprehensive overhaul of the system. Talk about lying....the left needs to look in the mirror. Stop covering up the alternatives offered with your own screaming and shouting about Republicans' screaming and shouting.
Grayson looks like a Neanderthal, literally Takes one to know one.
The man is right on. All this wanting a public apology. Do they think we are so stupid to fall for this. How much crap have they said and when the shoe is on the other foot they whine. No Ideas from the party of NO just a bunch of cry babies.Obstruction is all they are good for.
when you get a Democrat that has the guts to act and verbalize like a right wing Republican and it actually BOTHERS the Republicans...he's done his job very well.
I watched that tonight and his display could be classed as neanderthal. For any elected representative of the people to say what he did is reprehensible, But then I can assume that most democrats will rush here to post how truthful he is and that republicans can't stand to hear the truth. Seems now we will discover whether democrats can accept behavior like this or will excuse it because he is a democrat all the while bemoaning how low the level of discourse is becoming.
I salute Alan Grayson for standing against the insanity of the Republicants.
The politics of constant inertia in health care reform shows how oblivious the right is, just like they were from 2000 – 2008.
Grayson is exactly right!
Thank you Congressman Alan Grayson.
What Grayson said is correct. The Republicans have been blocking anything which might fix all the problems they and Bush led us into .They don't give darn about this country. It seems to me they are trying to finish it off and our preseident to protect their rich backers. They are not worried about where we might end up with all the hate mongering; it makes no diffence which direction you look.
Post but please don't use my email address. I would fear for the safety of and my famiy and me.
I think I'm in love.
Now...all he needs to do is run up and deliver a merciless clothes-line to Baucus and he will have my money.
After months of Republicans saying this health care reform will "kill grandma" and go on and on about "death panels" they have absolutely no place to complain about one democrat voicing his opinion – shame on them and their ten minute memories! Grayson is absolutely right when he apologized – all of congress, and Washington for that matter, should be apologizing to the American people for letting this mess of a for-profit health insurance fiasco continue.
And (generalizations aside), your point is? the extreme right is exactly that, except they don't know who or what Neanderthals were
Keep talking moron... they may put you on the same pedestal as harry and Pelosi.
First off Congressman, since when is it my responsibility to supply my neighbor by force with health care insurance.
Secondly, you and your friends continue to say things like death panels are not in the bill... trust us.
It is specifically that we no longer trust you because
- we now see you as people who can not take the time to read and understand the legislation and request better clarity in it's writing.
No there is nothing in the house bill called a death panel, but there is nothing that states how and what procedures will be covered.
Finally the Republicans are brought to the test. Way to go Rep. Grayson! You nailed them. Why should they bother to fight for Health Insurance for all of Americans when they have the best coverage possible and their pockets are lined with Insurance Company donations.
Keep it up! You are a true champion of struggling Americans who deserve Health Insurance. We need a Public Option. That is Real Reform!
In the spirt of Congressman Grayson's soaring rhetoric...
Democrats want Americans to die slowly and painfully, taking over -the-counter aspirin as the wait months to get in to see one of the physicians who is actually still practicing.
Grayson is right, all the GOP care about is making their pockets fatter at the hands of poor people. I hope they enjoy their checks from the insurance crooks.
I love this guy!!!! I am a proud Democrat from Florida! Go Congressmen Grayson!
Democrats are the party of hate speech!!!!
OK.... I like this guy!! anyone that can talk over that blow hard Alex Castronevez is awsome!!
Oh let's just go back to third grade why don't we. GROW UP!!!
It feels good to have a Democrat stand up for Americans who have no insurance and have no voice. If Republicans had a real health reform plan they could have enacted it when they were so powerful under Bush. Instead they chose tax cuts and war. It just shows their current actions are merely to slow Democrats down to yield nothing, or the most corporate favorable plan possible.
After all the town halls, FOX TV and radio screamers, Wilson, and the anti-Obama talking points they disseminate daily, it seems to me the Republicans can dish it out, but they can't take it–they cry like a little girl when their feelings are hurt. Classic bully behavior.
Need more Democrats like Grayson–anger and outrage are not just for Republicans to monopolize.
Sounds like someone is in desparate need of some campaign contributions. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Sit down, Newbie. You're no Joe Wilson.
No plan would be better than what the democrats have in mind because their plan is to have a COMPLETE government takeover; mandatory health insurance would be unprecedented and just the beginning of serious and far reaching dismantling of individual rights.
How can citizens criticize polotical parties when they both act so uncivilized? Politicians...including our pres...want it their way and will say or do whatever necessary then act like spoiled children when they do not succeed. It is time for Congress to grow up and learn manners.
Grayson is an obamanation. He must resign and resign NOW.
Grayson is a HERO and all REPUBLICANS are a ZERO.
They have no WAY . . .
He told the TRUTH . . .
The unisured risk a short LIFE! Amen.
My name is the Great Physician and I approve Grayson's message.
About time! A Democrat with balls....love it.
I wish all of our congresspeople had this level of candor. The focus should be put on how many people are dying and who is really being affected, not on political concerns and name calling of facism (lol) and socialism.
Next he can call out the weak-minded & cowardly "conservative" Democrats helping out the Republicans and insurance companies.
About time a democrat told the republicans what they are. We have rush, drudge, malken, the republican members of congress and the republican infomerical channel Fox News calling the democrats Nazis, socialists and everything else imagable and yet the dufus try to pretend they are outraged at the fact that a democrat finally, finally, finally gave it back to them and they mess their pants.
Since this is so discriptive of the type of post that is never put up, at least I got to tell it like it is..
A Democrat with a Spine!!!!!!
where do I send my money!!!!
Seriously. A Real Congressman.
100.00 bucks to your campaign Sir,
We are with you, Many many working Americans are with you.
I like this guy! He articulate exactly how I feel. Way to go Congressman.
Alan Grayson is telling the truth. The Republican president Bush was the only president in history to give the wealthiest only tax cuts. Obama is willing to give up his tax cuts, money that could go to help the troops get better equipment and protection while fighting for America. Money that could go to American children without any health care. The Republicans only talk the talk when it comes to Christianity. But they get loud, crude and juvenile at town hall meetings. Since when is vandalism, and carrying guns to meetings and inciting murder Christianty? Obama has had a 400% increase in death threats. The Republicans are disgustingly irresponsible. Thats why they sent over 4000 American troops to their deaths in Iraq, on a lie, without even adequate protective gear and equipment and decreased their benefits at the same time. "Beware of the wolf in lambs clothing"
good for grayson i wish all the democrats had the courage you have!
balls
of
steel
Carville...Belago....Grayson.....are a bunch of hypocrites......what about all the hysterical screaming about Joe and "You Lie".....and Pelosi trying to squeeze out a tear about the vile rhetoic in the 70's....Grayson is crazy and you guys all know it.
You don't suppose the Joe Wilson incident and the resulting avalanche of campaign contributions had something to do with this outburst do you?
Monkey see, monkey do.
Alan Grayson is telling the truth. The Republican president Bush was the only president in history to give the wealthiest only tax cuts. Obama is willing to give up his tax cuts, money that could go to help the troops get better equipment and protection while fighting for America. Money that could go to American children without any health care. The Republicans only talk the talk when it comes to Christianity. But they get loud, crude and juvenile at town hall meetings. Since when is vandalism, and carrying guns to meetings and inciting murder Christianty? Obama has had a 400% increase in death threats. The Republicans are disgustingly irresponsible. Thats why they sent over 4000 American troops to their deaths in Iraq, on a lie, without even adequate protective gear and equipment and decreased their benefits at the same time. "Beware of the wolf in lambs clothing"
Bravo!!!!
Don't apologize, fight fire with fire.
With the republicans part of the government process in the US.Who needs enemies.
Finally! A democrat with the fortitude to call them likes he sees them. I laugh at the republican response of whining victimhood. For the sake of the country, I hope the republicans stop the lies, obstruction, and toadying up to the insurance industry so we can prevent more avoidable deaths.
lol now that was well said. I'll vote for that guy.
Finally, someone who is not afraid to tell it like it really is.
As Rachel Maddow said, Grayson's remarks were "an average Tuesday in the House of Representatives," an unfortunate style put into practice by the GOP, oh say, Palin, Bachman, etc.
Grayson has it wrong to call the Republicans "Neanderthals", when it's obvious that they most closely relate to Piltdown Man; all hot air and phoniness..
The fact that there is an abundance of GOP antics against which to compare Grayson's speech speaks volumes about their deplorable behavior.
I love Congressman Grayson!
The Neanderthal comment is a bit much, but he's right. Where is the Republican plan? I just hear, "keep everything the same. Let those poor people without insurance just continue to suffer."
I think it's time the Right gets a taste of their own medicine. Dishonest Republican politicians, divisive pundits and faux cable news channels have been working hard against everything the current President is trying to accomplish mainly for political gain. Their lies and deceptions are provoking unwarranted anger that is growing more dangerous daily.
Grayson speaks the truth, and anyone with 1/2 a brain knows this for a fact. Kudos Mr. Grayson.
The Democrats do realize when they fail to pass health care reform and get destroyed in the 2010 and 2012, it will be because voters can plainly see it is the Democrats who are obstructing the passage of a reform bill. Senate Democrats just voted out the public option and the liberal Democrats are still insisting on it and Obama is still voting present. In the meantime Republicans are powerless to stop Democrats from passing whatever they want and are unable to pass their own bill. And so the Democrats send this clown out in front of all of America and stage a campaign stunt that has nothing to do with anything preventing the Democrats from passing a reform bill. Who was that supposed to impress? Was this supposed to convince liberal Democrats to vote for a bill without a public option or was it supposed to get Blue Dogs to vote for a bill with it? Top notch stuff Dems., really impressive.
Grayson...PREACH!!!!
RIGHT ON!! Congressman Grayson has hit the nail on the head and has said what has NEEDED to be said! Keep telling the truth, sir. The RePIGlicans care nothing about the American people-they only care about their power and their wallets. This group of pigs are the WORST America has to offer-no compassion, only greed and lies. Thank you again, Congressman Grayson!
Did Congressman Tom Price vote for H.Res. 744 objecting to Representative Wilson decorum?
Let the idiot file the bill and take it up on vote; let's see the hypocrites square this.
There are only seven republicans (who voted for HR744) who have the ethical credentials to make the case.
BTW, I apologize to the dead also.
Wonder what he thinks of the US Constitution. What a joke of a congressman.
God forbid, someone disagrees with the constitution being thrown in the toilet by Obama.
Awesome ! This guy speaks the TRUTH!
I am tired of the behavior of the far right loonies and it is about time someone told them the truth.
Most of us have waited PATIENTLY for the GOP and the loons to see the light and change themselves. But unfortunately they continue to live in darkness. It is time for them to look in the mirror and see what they have become
I think I'm in love
Go Alan Go!
I am so donating to this guy's campaign.
He is right when he says that America handed the majority to the democrats. Numbers don't lie and to think otherwise is ignorant. Opposition to a public plan is greedy, self serving and inhumane. When people loose, they refuse to admit that their choice isn't the right one, even after a land slide election.
Bravo to Congressman Grayson! At last, a Democrat that uses his intelligence and wit to respond to the GOP. America needs national healthcare and the time is now. We (U.S.) pride ourselves as the beacon of light in the world, yet we can't take care of the health of our own people? We need our elected representatives to speak out with passion.
Really a hero. Cares more about others than his reelection. Stnd your ground Congressman Alan Grayson. you are my hero today.
we stand by you grayson, republican plan is...do not get sick and if you do, die quickly.
This guy is good!....and spot on!
Go Grayson!!
Plain speaking of the truth. I wish more Democrats had the cajones to follow Cong. Grayson's lead, or at least wise up and realized that the Republicans have no interest in bi-partisanship. Republicans seem to only care about "getting" the POTUS and to hell with America and Americans. I and other VOTERS are watching both parties very closely and will remember come election time who valued power and money over their service to America and the American people.
This guy is fantastic. I watched him on Maddow tonight and he really IS a breath of fresh air that the Dems need.
When a Democrat acts like a republican all of a sudden it's a bad thing. What a bunch of whining babies.
Yes, the Republican Party of today is made up of "foot-dragging, knuckle-dragging Neanderthals." They have had since Reagan to do something other than reward their rich owners, including healthcare for all American Citizens – they have failed.
Their leaders, Rush, Bill'O, Beck and the entire FOX staff want this country to go back to the dark ages. Enough.
If the Blue Dogs and other ultra conservative senators go with these "knuckle-draggers" kick them out of the Democratic Party. We kicked the racist out years ago, these guys and gals can now go, or vote to get afordable, public options healthcare to the least of our citizens.
Go Grayson!
Sadly, since the last election the Republicans have gleefully tapped into their constituents' worst natures and have actively (and subtly) encouraged outrageous outbursts at town hall meetings, rhetoric that rivaled the McCarthy era in vitriol, veiled threats of violence (guns at town hall meetings)...not to mention defamation of President of the USA on the floor of Congress.
While, at the same time, their more "moderate" leaders have claimed they support health care reform while, like Cheshire Cats (Snowe, Collins, etc.), smugly smiled at the TV news cameras knowing that they would never support any reform whatsoever.
Grayson is finally calling their bluffs. BRAVO!
Go Grayson!
Mr. Grayson, speaks for me who has been denied (3) three different times by three different Insurance companies within (5) months from 2005 thru 2006. I thank Mr. Grayson for speaking out for citizens who are w/o medical help that are in drastic need. When these uncaring Republicans & some Democrats finally agree to have Public Option approved, hopefully this country have not lost another 44,000 plus American citizens while " dragging their foot & knuckles ".
So that's what it felt like for Republicans having Wilson have his tourret moment. I feel refreshed and empowered to have Grayson call them knuckle-dragging Neanderthals. Probably unnecessary, but booooy does it feel good. I guess now we're even and Republicans should expect a very sincere non-apology very soon
GOP will rather have a plan for the insurance industry than for American people
Wow, it's only taken Obama and the extreme left Democrats about 8 months to convince the 'common sense' democrats to vacate the party. As a registered Democrat I don't want our sons and daughters at War, but what I do WANT is our CIA taking our every terrorist they find. Also I don't care if YOU have an abortion........but NOT a chance it's going to be on my tax payer dollar!! In 2010, we're voting you left Democrats out of office, better to have a balance in Congress then the left Democrats attacking the CIA (remember who's protecting you??) and using my tax payer money for abortions! If you want to pay for abortions, put a box on the tax returns so any left democrat can contribute an extra $100 toward someone's abortion!!
rep. grayson is absolutely right. where is the republican plan? absolutely NONE! health care reform without public option is no reform. democrats need to pass this reform with or without the republicans. they come to the table with no plan of their own and say no to everything. LEAVE THIS PUGS OUT OF ANY MEANINGFUL REFORM!!
Representative Grayson is my new favorite person. It's about time that someone in the Democratic Caucus showed a little fire.
If the Republicans don't like it, let them show us the plan that Congressman Grayson says that they haven't got!
Finally, a Democrat that has had enough and is willing to tell it like it is!
Wolf, how about more reporting and less scolding and instigating.
It's about time somebody stood up in the Democratic party for the people. I agree that you don't fire with fire but when your in a fire fight, you sure as heck dont throw water balloons. MAN UP DEMS, thats what we elected you for.
Congressman Alan Grayson has shown the Democrats the clear path to victory. I hope they were listening and that they ignore the Republicans who want to simply defeat the President. They care about nothing but their own pocketbooks filled with insurance money cash.
Congressman Alan Grayson has clearly shown the Democrats the path to victory over the party of NO. The Republicans only want to defeat the President and care nothing about the people. These terrible people are simply the slaves to the insurance industry which is stuffing their pockets.
THIS IS JUST A WASTE OF TIME! These repuglicans all summer long have said Obama had death panels, was killing grandma or killing seniors, this went on for weeks before a few repuglicans came forward and said they did not agree with those conclusions without offering an apology! Well, now they want an apology from Grayson for saying repuglican want Americans to either stay sick or die quickly! It doesn't matter anyway, how much time, how many amendments changes, or how many republicans contribute to this healthcare bill! THEY STILL WILL NOT NOT VOTE FOR THE HEALTHCRE BILL EVEN WITH ACCEPTANCE OF THEIR AMENDMENTS! So, democrats should just do what is right for Americans, insure the uninsured, pre-existent conditions, and not add to the deficit! THEY ARE DOING THE SAME THING THEY DID WITH THE STIMULUS PACKAGE! THEY AMENDED CHANGES, ADDED THEIR BILLS, WHILE LAMBASTING THE EFFORT AND DID NOT GIVE ONE VOTE! DEMOCRATS PLEASE DO RECONCILIATION AND IMPLEMENT THE PUBLIC OPTION!
I like this guy! He's right. The extremists have taken over the Republican party and that's why I decided to go Independent. I am tired of the GOP being highjacked by Religious nuts called Christians who grow more hateful by the day!
Thank God for real men like Grayson! Florida is lucky to have him!
Said it before and I'll say it again, "AMEN" Congressman Grayson
Dude, Marry Me.
One Democrat with cajones. It's a nice thing to see after all the flacid diatribes from Limbaugh and the Republicans. The country needs more Dems with cajones.
I agree with Mr. Carville in that it's about time a member of Congress called on Washington to do the right thing. Ever since the Harvard study came out with the 44,000 figure of people dying each year because of no insurance, I've been waiting for someone in DC to wake up! More people are losing insurance every day, so that figure of 44,000 is only going to go up. So, GOP, how many people have to die before you work with the Democrats on a plan?
As for Palin, she's almost correct about "death panels". It's not been in any proposal, but it already exists with each and every Insurance Company who denies access to health insurance to Americans!
After all of the lies and fearmongering put forth by the Republican Party they have the gall to demand an apology??!!?? That is too funny.
Grayson is saying this to cover up the fact that he made a statement that he wanted to let special needs to let nature take its course and not let them have medical care and bascilly let them die, he is trying to divert what he said, he needs to get impeached, I have one of those special needs children, I think he should go to jail for saying that, but what does he do, he makes this statement to divert the truth
Grayson is telling thte TRUTH and most other people in his party wish they had his cojones!! I wish they did too! Grayson called it right-the gop apparently isn't the only party with people unafraid to speak the way they feel.(A certain yeller during a Presidential Address comes to mind) We NEED Congress to act- both parties. I thank Congressman Grayson for his NERVE and his telling the TRUTH! It's a lead some of the other Dems need to follow!
PARTY OF NO- they've been "called-out" BIG TIME!
They can't take the truth can they?
So when will he apologize for the upcoming runaway inflation and the looting of any possible wealth of future generations?
About time somebody told the truth. This rotten system, which the GOP (and some sold-out Democrats) wants to preserve for their benefactors, killed another 120 people today.
The GOP = murderous sociopaths.
And epic hypocrites.
Not to mention pathological liars.
Dont get mad republicans, he is telling the truth what he saying is millions of Americans die each year and the republicans keep saying NO to everything the Democrats bring forth without a resolution of their own. Every delay on healthcare is costing to someones life so Yes! i agree with him Not oniy Republicans need to cough up a healthcare resolution but Democrats as well.
I love Grayson. He's real. He's fresh. If we had a full board of Dems like him the President would have a much better time. We voted him into office on the promise of change to the way Washington is run. We need more Graysons to actually get this done!
There they go again with that evolution talk. Now the neo-con's will be up in arms again. It must really hurt to raise you arms in the air when you have scraped up knuckles.
It used to be that people were embarresed at their ignorance and did everthing possible to create better lives for their childern.
At what point did ignorance become some sort of new fashion?
I am glad there is one Dem in DC that wil stand up and tell these boneheads the thruth.
Rep Grayson is the most fantastic thing that has happened in months!! Why weren't you guys supporting him???? What are you thinking???
The Grayson guy has it right!! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!
I could cry with gratitude that someone finally is calling out the reality!!
I agree...I'm glad a congressman is finally standing up for what's right and putting politics aside, which, ironically is the best political move.
OK, forget which party you think helps you (neither will). How do ridiculous comments like this further any process? Outlandish remarks like this create anger, and stop debate!! Quit advocating poltical parties...they are there for power and money. Less Government NOW!
Right on Grayson. That's what the Democratic party needs. More leaders with the guts to call a spade a spade. Republicans are a collective of angry, belligerent, extremists, They inbreed on their own bitter rhetoric, so their Republican personality never changes.
WOW.. THIS GUY IS AWESOME!!!!!!!
"Stop blocking the plan or at least come up with something of their own" And then I love how Castellanos got PUT IN CHECK!
THIS GUY JUST LAID THE SMACK DOWN!
This INTERVIEW just single handedly nullified ANYTHING these Republicans, Fox, the RightWing Radio Shows, or these ignorant posters can even attempt to come up with.
You can try to call him crazy, bring up lies about Obama, bring up Wilson, or Sarah Palin's Death Panel, or any other hate filled venom Hannity or Rush or Beck spew, and it all falls flat.
Check, and MATE!
I think Mr. Grayson didn't have to that far in his comments but he is right that Republicans don't want to reform health care. If they really did why didn't they when they were in power? That is all I ask. Thank you and have a great day.
Rep. Grayson is right! This isn't about reforming health care for the Republicans, it is about seeing how they can obstruct any sort of real reform of the Health Care System to try and protect their friends in the insurance industry. They want Health Care Reform to FAIL! When the Baucus bill was passed it still did not receive any support form Republicans, even without a public option. Republicans want our Health Care to fail, they want the President to fail, and they want the country to fail to make themselves look good. That way they can play "blame it on the Liberal" while Rome burns. That is what they always do. They mess things up in Washington, and a Progressive comes in to clean up after their corporate nepotism and corruption, then they blame him when everything doesn't get done in one year.
ALAN GRAYSON HAS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR!
I am not afraid of being called names in fact career pollitician is far worse than any handed down to the average taxpayer at this point.
Americans need to rally together to counter the "teaparties"... Give Republicans a dose of their own kind of rhetoric. Rally to support the president, and show those Republicans that they cannot lie and intimidate people their way to the top any more.
Dragging down his party? The do nothing conservatives who still think they should be in power are dragging down their party. All the uproar is from the far right. Their inability to go against GW until his ratings hit rock bottom have cost them. All they care about is regaining power. They don't care about the average American. Thank you and have a great day.
You people (and I say that with the greatest amount of disdain I can muster) are absolutely disgusting!! I am talking about politicians. If you can't keep it civil, go home, and get someone in there who will do what they are supposed to do. Obviously, there is no one on the Hill who has even a modicum of a brain. I am totally disgusted by the attitude of everyone in the House and Senate. EVERYONE!!! They don't care about the people who are your employers (THAT MEANS THE LITTLE PEOPLE THAT THEY DON"T LISTEN TO). It is time to clean house, and start a Common Sense party. No one who makes over $50,000 should be allowed to run for ANY office. Oh yes, and the government should pay for the elections. Evidently, when money comes in one pocket, the brains leak out the bottom of the pants. GO HOME!!
can we please be civil and not trash neanderthals
I am so proud of him. God bless u sir for fighting for the poor. I am a physical therapist working in maryland and I am so mad how the insurance treat the sick, poor and middle class people. We have to take care sick and poor people. f
Go Grayson! We need a lot more Democrats to call these creeps on this game. They've been ranting and raving all summer, actually for 30-40 years if you want to be honest. Look what they did to Bill Clinton. Look at what they've been saying about President Obama. Grayson got it right. Calling them knuckle-dragging Neanderthals is an insult the other upstanding "Christian" "Family Values" Neanderthals who comprise their base.
Democrats need to stand up for Grayson. This is a fight we're in, not a white glove tea party at the club.
Absolutely true!! I agree with Grayson 100 percent! Mike Webb Austin Tx.
While his statements may or may not have been in poor taste, he did not violate the rules of decorum, thus any remarks bringing up Rep. Wilson are a false comparison. He has no obligation to apologize and there are no grounds for censure.
I am outraged! I demand that Congressman Grayson apologize immediately and fully to neanderthals for insulting them by comparing them to Republicans.
What? Apologizing to the "Death Panel", "Pull the plug on Grandma", "Let's all waste taxpayer dollars and grandstand at the bed of Terri Schiavo and insert government (GOP government) will on her situation" GOP? That is cracked. One party is vulgar and seemingly trying to instigate violent riots (GOP), and the other party is lying down wimpering about bi-partisanship (DEMS) and Americans are paying dearly for these worthless parties indecisions about HEALTH CARE.
It is about time we have a Dem with a backbone. Calls it like everyone sees it. And not afraid of the trueth.
Good for him. He is from a rare breed.
Words just fail me here. What is this, sandbox 101?
Bravo Mr. Grayson that is exactly the correct description and better one than the party of NO for the republicans and their party. Knuckle dragging Neaanderthals! GThey are also tell lies about health care reform, spout hate and prejudice against this president and betray their country by wanting to destroy anything that comes their way. They are noit a valid respresentation of the american people they have the lunatic Glen Bedk and ole Russ Limbaugh.They all love fear mongering statements that are all false and they cause people to hate our president. I will blkame them all if anything happens to our president because they are causing a lot of hate and fear. They nhave no idea that everyone thinks they are all nuts who who in the world would ever vogte for these numb skulls in this party of HATE! I woouldn't they are worse than terrorist because they condone haye against the governemnt and the people.
This is so hilarious, and haven't laughed like am doing now in quite awhile. Neanderthals is about right for the Republicans, and if they don't fess up to the needs of the country in the health care reform, they might be also be going the way of the Neaderthals.
Its time to motivate the poorest Americans back into the voting booth.
The Democratic battle plan for the next election should simply be to tell the people the truth. Republicans would rather send more money to their friends in the insurance industry than offer basic medical care to 45 million Americans, many of whom are disabled or too old to work.
If the Dems can stick to this message, they could easily have 80% of the seats in both houses.
Adios Repubs !!
Someone needed to say it. Its hard to believe that in our great country, the love of money and power has lower us to allow people to die because of lack of health care. While the world watches our shameful behavior!
Thank you congressman Grayson.... you really showed us in the situation room where CNN stands in this health care debate. I know of at least six situations where Republicans threw bombs at Democrats and no one said anything.... now you speak up and they are in a fizzy.
Thank you again, because your other Democratic friends are bending over backward to be liked by the Conservatives. It ain't going to happen.
Mitch McConnell said it today . "The only bill we want is a dead bill."
Alan Grayson it seems is one of a very few who have integrity in the US House.
After watching the clip I am certain that Grayson is the single least qualified person to ever serve in the House of Representives. He never once addressed the fact that his own party is bitterly split over the pubic option to the point that a bill can't be passed. He blamed only Republicans, but at the end he indicated he wanted universal health care, must mean he supports the public option becasue there is no bill for universal health care. So where was the call for the Blue Dogs to support the public option, just blamed the Republicans. Total moron.
Finally, a Democrat with the cohones to stand up to those bullying, buffonish thuggish Repugnants. Smack them around a lil bit and show them you're a bigger man than they are. Then they all start crying like embarrassed school yard bullies. He called their stupid bluff and made them feel even more petty.
Hurray for this freshman congressman!!!! He's right...the Republicans have fought every significant advance in public policy for the last 100 years. They fought Social Security, Medicare, Civil Rights, Gay Rights, Women's Rights, Voting Rights, consumer rights.......if it progresses our society they have voted to stop it. Republicans represent the have's versus the have nots....and all of the health care plans they have pushed are predicated on one having the money to buy Health Care Insurance in the first place.
As a Neanderthal-American, I find Mr. Grayson's remarks insulting and inappropriate if not racist.
Thank God someone in the person of Alan Grayson finally has the guts to be forthright about the truth.
The insurance companies are lobbying to prevent the passage of a comprehensive health care bill which would reduce the number of uninsured americans and most importantly help those with pre-existing conditions to get the health care they need.
No human in their right mind would intentionally want to fall sick or would wish to have the power to come into the world with some congenital medical conditions.
So, why should it be difficult for republicans and some democrats to show compassion to the poor and needy if not because they reckon such to be a social nuissance who must "die quickly" if they ever fall sick?
Congressman Grayson speaks for me! We need more stand up guys like him in Congress. I love what he said about Republicans. He speaks the truth. Republicans can't take the truth. We need universal health care like ALL other industrialized nations. Republicans are Neanderthals and I pray they will be extinct in a short time, because they do NOTHING for the average citizen and we are sick and tired of it. It's either them or us and there's a lot more of us.
"Pathological...unstable...derailing the national debate..." my goodness me, Repbublicans just get all fluttery and flushed when someone barks back, don't they now? All hyperventilating and sweaty, just like old Tailgunner Joe when he was called out back in the 50s. Well, at least they're consistent.
What Alex Castellanos failed to notice-distracted, no doubt, by the sound of his own voice piping away in community theatre level phony outrage-was that Rep. Grayson's remark about Neanderthals fully supports the Republican anti-evolution position, i.e. they haven't evolved (nor have their policy positions), but are just as they were 130,000 years ago.
Now that we've found a point we can all agree on, perhaps we can move forward from there.
You know it seems funny to me, how many liberals have best selling books out there. On the conservative side you have Levin, Palin, Beck and Oreilly. It seems funny the liberals think they outnumber the rest of us and that the majority of the people want public option healthcare when its just not true. The majority is againist ya and its gonna be a landslide next year. Well I guess you all have Michael Moore with his big movie againist capitalism. He is such an idiot! He has made all his money from the free market that he is againist. If it wasn't for that he wouldn't have a pot to piss in. I am so sick an tired of people wanting something for free! If you really need it that's fine, I have no problem helping. If not get off your lazy butt and go to work. The sooner we change the govenment the better off we will be. Obama is gonna make Jimmy look like a Great leader when he is finished! I can't wait for next year, polls don't lie and things are gonna change!
Two thumbs up for Grayson!
Please do not compare him to Wilson, Grayson is using the proper political platform to debate healthcare, whereas Wilson basically interupted a presidential speech.
Grayson is speaking plain language and did the right thing by calling out GOP agenda...no apologies necessary.
If you're not moving forward then you're definitely not standing still...
Congressman Alan Grayson , THANK YOU !
National Republican Congressional Committee " LOST IN SPACE "!
James Carville get your Mojo Workin , rest of CNN panel, Castellanos ,Blitzer and the other two need to walk the street before siting at the round table !
CNN, you need some younger people that are not so Jaded and out of touch !
Looks like the Dems took off the gloves!!!
"When you don't have a plan, what that means is your plan is don't get sick. So what I said is true." – Grayson
H.R. 3218
Read it, son. It's been there for quite awhile. Who knows, with your dragging knuckles you may actually stumble upon the other Republican plans that your party leaders threw on the floor when they were introduced.
Truth sucks don't it?
I love this guy, grayson. Thats the spirit every politician in the senate should have. Speak and most importantly act the truth and by God almighty it shall set you free.its obvious now that the republicans in the senate are in the back pockets of lobbyists. Grayson,keep fighting for the masses and you will be remembered for centuries as the freshman congress man that stood for the rights of the masses.
It is division among Democrats that obstructs health-care reform.
Republicans are not "Neanderthals," Mr. Grayson, and they are not "regressive" either, Mr. Carville. Republicans are conservative regarding the type of economic system to be used in this country, favoring a retention of capitalism, which made America great, to the degree of socialism intended, by Obama, to "spread the wealth around."
If one wants to be Free, he may fail. It is pathetic when failure occurs, but when success occurs in a Free society, it is glorious.
Republicans want to retain the possibility of glory.
40,000 americans die every yr because of lack of health insurance. ridiclous!!! and the GOPers are there makinh hell of noise. i cannot but say the republicans are enemy of humanity.
I am kinda glad he said that. I think he is a child but maybe he will get them to come up with some more small gov ideas.
Good for Grayson. Giving Republicans a taste of their own medicine but with 100 percent accuracy.