CNN

I'm happy Reid has the guts to take the risk. We need more options because the current system is definitely BROKEN!

Harry Reid is a moron, on the way out. He'll be sitting in the UnEmployment line in 13 months.

The part about the states being able to opt out of the Public Option option does not sit well with me. Correct me if I'm wrong, but all I can see down the road are the insurance 'lobbyists' lobbying at the state level versus the federal to keep the Public Option out of the states. If the Healthcare Reform is passed in this manner there will be little if any recourse for an ammendment, or for the citizens of the various states that may cave-in to the pressure of the $$$$ from the insurance companies.

A public option doesn't reduce the cost of healthcare (pay 10 years for 5 years of healthcare, move over $250B from the bill to a different bill to 'pay off' doctors taking Medicare...) and it won't cover 2/3 of the people currently uninsured. Fix Medicare first and then maybe we'll trust you with 18% of the economy.

Obama, Reid and Pelosi are in such a hurry to fulfill a campaign promise that they don't care who it hurts or how bad it is for the economy/USA.

Reform healthcare one problem at a time, starting with TORT reform, electronic medical records, allowing insurance companies to cross state borders...

So, exactly what will allow a state, like say Illinois, which has two Democratic Senators, a Democratic Governor, and a large minority metropolitan population which propelled Obama to the White House, to opt out. If you research the county by county results from the '08 election, most of Illinois counties did not want this kind of change to America. But we are hamstrung by Chicago. So when are the middle-class, non-minority, not inner city dwelling Americans going to get their relief. Answer, never. This is a take-over – just call it for what it is. Obama was exposed for the socialist he is several times on the '08 campaign. Nobody in the media would bother with this information. So here we are. Have a nice day.

Thanks Harry. Once again it's up to the House, the representatives of The People, to give this thing the teeth it needs to actually work. Next stop, Conference!

I never doubted it.

I am in favor of the public option. I am so discusted with the insurance companies and their scare tactics to the American public and especially senior citizens.
Please, please America, do not believe the Insurance Companies. They aren't getting much from lobbying, so they are spending massive amounts of money to break down the fragile American public.

flip a coin ,,,,thats real leadership..... pitful ....

BRAVO!!! Now let's see what the party of NO (GOP) spends on the crazy tea parties along with the bloodsucking insurance companies.

Newt Gingrinch on CSPAN was laughable. Newt: "The Democrats were not elected; the Republicans were fired.' Really Newt? Then why is it that only 20% or less confess to being Republicans? Maybe same theory of family values of your GOP = Sanford, Ensign, Vitter, Craig, and YOU too Newt!

Will the option apply to states that begin with a "U"?

The majority of Americans want the public option. To our elected officials - do not fail us on this!

Well, so much for passing health care "reform"–Reid has "reformed" it past the tolerance of most Americans. Sensible people know the country can't afford to waste a trillion bucks turning health care into yet another expensive entitlement for the so-called "poor" at the expense of those who actually work for a living.

About time!!!! What the Democrats need to do is to let these recalcitrant Blue Dogs know that if they expect to get support from the Democratic Party in the next elections, they had better line up with the Party, or they are left to fend for themselves. Let's see how successful they would be trying to win an election as a Republican or as an Independent.... and if they do, more power to them.

Thank YOU Sen Reid!!!!

AND use reconciliation if you have to Senator. Keep pointing out that George HW Bush and the Republicans did the same thing in passing legislation they wanted. Thanks for growing a pair. Now all Dems need to do the same and stop running scared. The people of the U.S. WANT and DESERVE a public option.

This is a start. The question is: what kind of shape will this public option take? There are a lot of questions as to what will and won't be in this plan. I hope more details come out.

ABOUT TIME. 62% of Americans want the public option,

Political Suicide. Harry Reid will NEVER get re-elected next year.

Another giant leap for mankind: very well done Mr. Reid, now let's get this bill fully passed so that we may ensure adequate healthcare for our nation's citizens. Everyone that is up in arms about this bill needs to seriously humble themselves and realize that without the preservation of our most precious assets- especially children, but all Americans as a whole- we will not have the intelligence to compete in this global world and protect our great nation. Quit being foolish you guys. This bill is a must and has been long overdue. Throwing money at wars, nuclear powers, world powers, etc.will only go so far. We've been an industrialized nation for far too long not to have realized this. Our people are our best natural resources and it's about time Congress realized this.

They need to have a public option period. States should not be dictating who should have this option. The Public option should be in the exchange that is being talk about and the individual and or employer should be able to pick it if they want it.

Other wise every republican Gov. or Republican control state will op out leaving those wanting the option in those states without the option.

what is this all about. Just make it an option and if you need to, go to the 51 vote option. Then let the voters take care of the "'blue dogs" and any Republican who votes against this.

Too much compromise will get us nothing of real value. We should be getting single payer non-profit universal health care now.

Our health should not be for profit.

Good boy Reid....now show us you've got a pair and don't back down....it's time for the GOPers, neocons and the rest of the fear mongers to get their comeuppance.

More power to the majority leader. This is something most Americans have been waiting for (see the latest ABC/Washington Post poll), and it's high time Reid flex his muscles.

Policy analysts on both sides of the aisle have said a "trigger option" - reverting to a public option if the bill's other provisions fail - will be an unworkable and ineffective solution.

President Obama seems to believe the value of keeping Sen. Snowe on board outweighs the benefits of a bill with an opt-out public option. It does not. Republicans will laugh at any Administration claims that the bill is "bipartisan" on the basis that a single moderate Republican voted for it.

But being remembered for watering down the bill so that one political opponent could support it will be an embarrassing legacy for the administration and will do much less to help hard-working yet struggling Americans.

Passing an opt-out option, which allows the plan to prove its efficacy to the most conservative states, will provide real support to those who need - and deserve - it most. Kudos to Sen. Reid.

Ride on Reid, you are listening to the American people who voted you into power and who would be willing to do it again, long as you are listerning. Good job, we are all watching and waiting to see any Dem who would vote against it.

Quick, somebody call the press! the Senate Majority Leader found his spine!

Oh wait, I am reading the press.. Way to go CNN!

WHAT !! Medicare for all Americans !!

I am all for Single Payer Insurance; however I do NOT want the state to dictate if I can even have a choice. That should be an individual decision no matter what state I live in!!!!!! That is outragious...

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid,

If you do this and We The People are objecting. Enjoy yourself now while you are in the majority. Term Limits are on the way. So get ready!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Instead of trying to fix Medicare. Stop the waste! Oh know you want to take away what is it $400 Billion or $500 Billions away from Seniors who have EARNED their coverage. Right! DO you think we all have Alzheimer's? No cuts in our benefits? Sure! I like my coverage and my husband as a Police Officer worked hard for it. Of course its people like us ,Police Officer, Fireman, Unions that have the so call Cadillac Health Policies. So we have to feel bad and give it up for those who don't have Health Care? Give us a break. Give up your Health Care and all the other entitlements you all enjoy in Washington.
There are and have been plenty of ways to help the poor and those who have NO Health Care without overhauling everything at once. Be aware of the peoples Wrath with this Rush to OBAMACARE.

Deann Sarcone

Thank you Harry. Well done!

At last – help may be within reach for our most vulnerable citizens. Reid places the ball nicely in the center of the GOP court. Let them have it both ways – Please the tea-partiers and step aside for progress. It's likely that most consumers of the public option will be in states with a republican majority. More than 70% of residents in Mississippi and Louisiana are below the poverty line. If they get a public option they won't have to "volunteer" for the military to get healthcare for their families.

Senator Reid understands America needs health care reform and with the good Senator's knowledge and expertise in the will of the people, he will help pass the necessary legislation to get that done.

Patriotic Americans need health care reform.

God Bless America.

Go get em Reid. If conserv dems want to blame their "no" vote on their constituents, call their bluff. The ball will be in their court. Dems can show that they tried to get public option included. But if other dems deny their states then they should lose their jobs. And if their constituents do not want the public option then opt out. But if my state wants it, we should not be denied. Let republicans deny their people.

About time.

Reid should call republican bluff of filibuster and go ahead with Public option included in the bill. Let the country know who is against providing competition to Private insurance companies. Majority of Americans prefer Public Option. I do not believe Republicans will risk marginalizing the party further by opposing Public option. Currently only 20% americans call themselves Republicans.

They just don't get it. How many times does the American public have to spell this out?

Folks on both sides of the isle want congress to 'slow down' (if that's possible given their usual glacial pace) and pony-up the accurate numbers on this program so we can see just why we are taking what's left of this economy and middle class resources and giving it away again.

Come on...seriously.

I don't understand why there would be an "opt out" option for states....In those states where the minority is not the majority, they will be discriminated against due to where they live....in a mostly white state..
To avoid this scenario, and not to discriminate againts those who live in these predominately " white" states, there should be a public option, with no "state bailout" option involved.
what about those who need insurance in the opt out states?>...do they not count in America?....why should they suffer becuase some in America do not want to see some people receive proper medical care no matter what the cost... Let's get Healthcare for all Americans passed, without the "racism" option attached.

Reid has gone off the edge. A healthcare reform bill should have already been passed, if it weren't for liberal instance on this government run healthcare insurance company. There is no reason to spend money on another failed government program when the infrastructure exists today. Sure, there are things that need to be controlled and fixed, but his plan only wants to destroy and spend. I'm sick of the Democrat mantra of spend spend spend!

Govenment Owned Business = Bureaucracy = Bankruptcy

IT IS VERY SCARY THING.

Its about time for someone to do the right thing for America. We need to pass healthcare reform with the public option. Its for sure the Repubs will not do anything to help working Americans. They will not be happy until we have no middle class, just the rich and the poor. They simply cater to the rich and use media dollars to provide a false front to get the poor/middle class and the religious right's vote to promote their self centered cause.

This is a great victory for the American people who have endured so much at the wicked hands of the inhumane health insurance companies. This is, HOPEFULLY, the begining of the end of their greedy practices against the American People.

Thank God Almighty.

Who does Nancy Pelosi think she is to force her will on the American people? This action is not Government by and for the people. It is people building a bigger, costlier government. People, we need to vote these idiots out of office and return legislation to people who understand that congress represent the people, not themselves.

Anyone who thinks this isn't about Reid trying to jumpstart his flailing numbers in Nevada polls is a moron or a kool-aid drinker. Or both.

When in doubt, go maverick. Worked well for McCain, right? Right.

YIPPIE!!!
me like-E.
What else is in it though.

Reid's "public option" is a JOKE!

What do they mean the states can "opt out?"

We will have a mass movement of the uninsured from those states that "opt out" to those states (like Oregon) who don't "opt out."

It is unfortunate that politicians don't have the balls to do the right thing!

The majority of Americans want the PUBLIC OPTION!

There is no betwix or between!

this public option will ruin us healthcare. It should be defeated.

hey harry, and the rest of ya. enjoy the remainder of your terms, see ya!!!!

Reid should be sweeping up garbage on the Vegas strip. Idiot.

When Senator Reid and the rest of our fine legislators have the confidence in what they are proposing and sign up for the same plan they are cramming down our throats, then maybe I will listen.

I'm not oposed to health care, but let's do it right. It seems that there are several models of health care around the world, and the models they (Ried and cronies) want to follow is Canada and the U.K. (without a doubt the worst models in existence). What's wrong with the models from Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.

I challenge Reid and the rest of the legistlators to sign up for the same programs they want us to accept. I have no respect for or trust in people who are not willing put their lives where their mouths are. Clearly we can vote them out of office, but we will have to live with the disaster they have left behind. I am not willing to have the future of my family be dictated by these egomaniacs.

How about a national referendum??? Why not let the people decide and vote. This is too important an issue and being pushed way too fast without all of the facts being made public.

Health reform in this country should be a no brainer. I came to the US 30 years ago from England.It is a scandal that mentally ill people are living on the streets and there is a very good chance that you will lose everthing as you age and become ill.In a country such as America with all it`s wealth this should never happen. At the very least there should me a government catasrophic insurance for the American people. No one should end up on the streets because they are ill.I am now 67 years old and it scares me getting old in America.

It's about time Reid

Leave it to my Party to mess-up good intentions with a bloted government bureaucratic socialist money pit that will become another intrusion into our personal lives, personal income, and another program that the middle class will pay for, can't qualify for, and/or if forced to participate, would diminish what the middle class has in any great form, as a "luxury".

Allowing states to opt out of the public option doesn't sound too public too me. Why not allow individuals to opt out?

Great news and the sooner it passes the better for the American people. Any Democrat who opposes the opt out public option shouldn't be calling themselves a Democrat and should join the party of no. Get ready to shout down the whackos on the right and let's get this done for the people and by the people!

Yes, inspite of the lies and deceipt on FLOUX News, the majority of this Country heartly supports a Public Health Option. We want better health care at lower costs – we DESERVE it, just like members of Congress. I mean, why WOULDN'T someone support this? Oh yea, they want the President to fail. That's just disgusting.

Smoke and mirrors people. The State opt out is politics in full swing allowing the Washington elite to be able to say DON'T BLAME ME at a later date

Gee what a surprise to all of us. The dumbest majority leader the Senate has ever had backs the dumbest idea, the biggest liar in the country has. Reid is gone, gone, and good riddance as well as many more who vote for this tax theft.

Why should the states be allowed to opt out? This is not about the states or the legislators (since many vote their own opinion rather than the opinion of the people they represent), it's about the people! Let the individual opt out of the public option if that is their preference.

Senator Reid has gained my respect. You need courage to do what is in the interest of the people. Most politicans' sole objective is to stay in office any means necessary. Short of a single payer system, the public option is the next best option to secure cost controls. Otherwise the insurance companies will continue their masquerade of building their golden empires. Unfortunately, the Red states (which are largely southern states) will suffer as their Republican counterparts will too often opt out. They don't want anything associated with Obama to prevail. You can only have empathy for such fools. Regrettably, too many commoners and seniors can't discern what is in their best interest.

Hey CNN report Reids whole bill not just one part.
What about the fines???
Employers with more than 50 workers wouldn't be required to provide health insurance, but they would face fines of up to $750 per employee if even part of their work force received a government subsidy to buy health insurance, this person said. A bill passed by the Senate Finance Committee had a lower fine of up to $400 per employee.

Still does nothing about Tort Reform???

There you go for all you independent thinkers out there.......you know what to do. Any politician who votes for these health care bills....vote em out!

Thank you Mr. Reid for putting the American people first.

It looks like they will pass a bill for the sake of passing it. They will agree to every body terms and pass and declare victory. I does not make sense that there is public option but states can opt out so some states will have no public option.

Main idea was to provide health care for every american. Expand Medicaid to people who cannot afford it. If you can afford then buy health insurance. Nothing more nothing less. Simple.

JUST SAY NO TO OBAMA DISASTER CARE. Public Option will bankrupt health care.

Thank you!

The noise and fear over the summer was courtesy of the nutty minority. The majority want choices – otherwise known as OPTIONS.

Thank you for including the public OPTION.

The public option will help cover those who can't find health coverage elsewhere.

We all have a pre-existing condition: it's called being mortal.

This is not what I support and will vote against any congressperson or senator who votes in favor of this. Why is your opinion the only correct one and anyone who disagrees becomes the party of no, not knowledgable, foolish, angry mob etc.. If there is a problem with health because some of the systems does not work for all so it need to be completely crushed. Then all governement funtions that do not cover all CTIZEN's needs, maybe all democates or republicans need to removed from congress because it is not working smoothly.
I will support you in this healthcare change.

Thank you Harry Reid. States should not be allowed to opt out, however unless certain criteria are met. These states should give residents access to insurance outside of the state or there will be no competition. We can't leave this up to our insurance departments, who are corrupted by the industry. Look at what happened in CA with Chuck Quackenbush. He gave the insurance industry a pass on unpaid claims from the Northridge earthquake much to the horror of those who lost their homes. As it turned out, Chuck got paid off by the insurance industry to do this. How can we be assured that the health insurance industry won't try more of their dirty tricks to get around the public option?

I hope more dems & republicans follow suit.

At times I’m led to believe that both parties try their best to score points against the other for their own good as opposed to the good of their constituents/country. It’s such a shame!!

Whatever the outcome, it needs the support of the American people in a vote. Otherwise, it is just a government acting in a tyrannical way...taxation without representation...Its a shame the few have so much power over the many. A little over 200 years and we are back to an opressive government! Sad...

So, Harry Reid found his spine after all?

i guess one must compromise. better opt -out public option than no p.o. at all.

This is all we need is more government control. Doesn't our constitution protect against this. States have the ability to opt out. This is their way of trying to make it look prettier. You have to have a dumb butt Governor that will not opt out because Granholm is just as pathetic as the socialist pushing for this.

Without a public option, there is no reform an it is dangerous to say otherwize, however most can not handle the truth.
Time to get the debate out tof the personel and into the relationship, we have to each other, as nobody lives forever, thank god.

Only the "pundits and talking heads" think it is a risky move so that they would continue to talk blah blah on the issue.

They and their families enjoy "Medicare and Medicaid" run by the government but they have the nerves to whine and complain about a public option. Go Reid and smack them in their heads!!!

All for a public option that states may opt out of, but will the people of each state get to vote on it? Or do we have to just accept what a one-party legislature decides?

And, YES, Fox News is NOT a news outlet. It's a propaganda machine!!! Brainwashing is their specialty. It does equate to Rupert Murdock's Inquirer mentality.

hurray! I think it is a step in the right direction!!!!

For senator Ried, that's the only and best way to survive the next election. However, he is putting president Obama on the spot should he fail to put enough votes together.

Good for Reid!
I live in Texas and unfortunately I am sure for the majority of the southern states the public option will not become reality.

Love the opt-out clause....that's a mighty poison pill to swallow if you are going to opt your state out of health care benefits. Better hope the insurance companies in your state want to voluntarily reduce rates. Good luck with that!

Nice move Senator Reid! Now lets see how many "RED" state Senators will NOT back this proposal AND if it passes, how many RED State Governors will opt out! I DO predict the Pubs will have a heyday with this and opposed it all day long cause they don't want to have to make a decision on their own front door step! Time for the true colors of each State to show!

Its only after months of trying to kill the presidents health care efforts are the Rep.party trying to come up with something to show there own at the mid-term elections that too are part of the process and would like to offer something to the American people. Harry Reid is offering something becasue he knows that know the nation is looking at Rep. party and asking and what have you done get health care reform done. We can't afford to have the insurance companies to rule us anymore. We must have choose the insurance companies must fight amoung themsalves to provide the American people the best and the most afforable health insurance for all American.

David Hernandez

While Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid's announcement that he intends to move forward a health care bill including a public insurance option allowing states to opt out might be a step in the right direction, it concerns me that I retired for life in a state that just might opt out–Arizona. As I don't want to become a victim of state politics, short of moving from here, I become a victim. I am, therefore, in favor of such a bill becoming nation-wide.
–DeeDee in Tucson

Good! Time to lead Dems. Forget about the party of no!

Now that the Senate has correctly determined that they should offer the States the right to opt out of the fiscal stupidity which they constantly impart on us, can we please extend this same courtesy to all the other programs as equally fiscally irresponsible as the public option?

I think this is done as a means of leverage for further negotiations on some type of public option because I doubt he has 60 votes, even, for this proposal.

Thank you Sen. Reid. You've done the right thing. I'm not 100% thrilled but i can live with this compromise.

And civilization as we know it begins to crumble, but at least it will be fun to watch the politcos self-destruct before our very eyes.

Yet another step down that slippery slope. Once you get started, there's no turning back. Any ever hear the tail of the camel's nose in the tent? That's the public option that leaves states the option to opt out of the public option. Yeah, that sounds like a great plan.

I think after the scare tactics Americans started to really get the facts and understood that the outreageous claims were unfounded.
This could be a great example of how a democracy needs to work. Ideas are tossed around, people learn about the facts and make informed decision.. What is needed now is for ideologies to be put aside in favor of what is right.

Kudos to Harry Reid. Zack in Brevard, NC

Thats great that they are going to include the public option. But states can opt out? What good is that? That just makes the federal goverment look good because they can say the offered the public option but if your state backs out they will blame it on the state. What is one suppose to do if their state backs out? Move to another state to get health insurance. I think all states should be requred to keep the public option. I meen what if all the states back out? Did they ever think of that?

The opt-out is simply a gimmick to sell this plan with the public option. The democrates have been trying to push this on the American people from the beginning. This is a deception. This is not an option, it is a move toward socialized healthcare. What is the cost if half the states opt-out? You still have to set up an infrastructure that costs billions to service the other 50%. To do that, everyone will be forced to pay taxes to subsidize the cost of the plan in other states? The truth is, no state will opt out, and the progressives who champ[ion government control over our individual freedom will take away another piece of our ability to choose, and slowly destroy the republic that made America the greatest nation in the world.

Thanks a lot Mr. Reid! I live in South Carolina...who want to let me know how likely it is that I will get any help with health care?!? Maybe if I hike? Or how about if I yell out rudely? Then I can get the type of coverage you and my representatives get!

Agaain this's great! I am glad that Barack is pushing this dicision to the states. This will allow Barack and the rest of us dems to come out looking good. We won't have to make that unpopular decission by pushing it onto the states to do it; plus it allows Barack to take credit for pushing this important reform through to the finish line. Thank goodness we have Barack. His vision and leadership is a breath of fresh air which out country needs so badly.

This is simply step one of a complete government takeover of health care. Our Federal government has grown out of control. Our Senators have ceased to represent us. I consider myself an average American, working hard to provide for my family, pursuing the American dream, and had hopes that this President would bring about a positive change in this country. Now, I realize that his only goal is a big, powerful government that can force its will on the people. Our government, since Obama has taken office, has taken over the banks, the auto industry, and now they want health care. I would support any viable third party, or any anti-incumbent movement. It is time our government works for us again.

A Public Option that states can OPT OUT doesn't make sense. I live in Texas and i know for sure that our govenor Rick Perry will Opt Out. Even if Texas has the must uninsured Americans. I have a pre-existing condition and can't pay the $1000.00 a month for the insurance that is offered. This will leave alot of people out who truly need insurance now.

Public option! What! Remember when the banking industry lost so much money when credit unions came in to existence? Yeah, me either.

Sometimes dumb people need to be saved from themselves..go Harry.

Harry the Wimp strikes again! The opt out version of "Medicare-for-all" i s a virtual guarantee that the poorest of the poor, the rural poor will once again be left out of the healthcare picture. They will continue to populate the clinics and emergency rooms of America at a much higher cost to you and me than necessary.
When are the Democrats going to get a Senate leader with some courage?

I like the public option; I don't like that states have the choice to opt out...this should be left up to each individual resident within a state...state politicians and/or elections can be manipulated...it should be an individual's choice. Also, why are they tying healthcare to employment...employers should not be involved with individuals' healthcare...

We didn't vote for democrats to do anything else. Opposition to Health Care reform came from liberals who demanded a public option. As the bill moved to the right, it lost support from us. Watch the pool numbers go up now. BTW, Who cares about polls? the only poll that counts happened in November last year. That is called DEMOCRACY

Once again, the folks in CONgress refuse to listen to the majority of Americans who continue to say NO, NO, NO to any public option and any type of ObamaCare! We DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT want it and we DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT, want to be FORCED to pay for it! We WILL remember your indignity to our voices when we vote in 2010 and 2012!~

It is wrong to have an opt-out clause. It will deny people the opportunity to join the public option if their governor decides he/she wants to opt out for political reasons. Even a public referendum in each state is a mistake, since the majority should not have the right to prevent people from joining.

Why would any state choose to "opt out" of a public option plan? That would be economic development suicide, since most potential employers would likely disregard a state without the full spectrum of health coverages available. Also, states without a public option would be singularly unattractive to potential new residents.

Thank God

This whole thing has spun so far out of control it amazes me. If we don't have some sort of strong public option half this country is going to be bankrupt in a few years.

I am excited to see the public option included, just not the opt out part. We need all states to be ilike so if you move you wont' be faced with the same issues we are reforming now!

Great idea.... and the states that want it pay for it. No Federal support!

I want a public option in California!

I am an intelligent person, but I cannot figure this out. If you want the public option, then put it in the bill, If you do not want it then leave it out. This feels like asking out the sister of the girl you like since you can't get the stones to ask out the girl you really want to date. Sure it gets you closer to the one you really want, but the likelihood of it happening is no more real than when you started. This is why people are frustrated with Washington.

We cannot afford this and the added cost to business will only increase unemployment. Thanks for lengthening and deepening the recession. Just what we need: Welfare with full benefits.

Awesome! I didn't think the Dem's had it in them to deliver what we demanded, health reform and without the public option, there was no reform. I support providing an opportunity for Americans who couldn't otherwise afford health insurance for them and there families, to do so. Thank you!

I am not sure why it is taking so long to introduce the inevitable.

I wonder what Reid and Dodd will do in their second career after they are NOT re-elected.
Stiffer fines on business is going help the economy and really going to help fix healthcare.
This healthcare has never been about healthcare it's about TAX and CONTROL. What a joke our GOV has become. They can't even give money away for old cars without going broke. Yea I want them running my healthcare.

Why is no one investigating Dodd for his part in the housing collapse.

Thank God for REID , PElOSI & Pres. Obama

GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!!

So who is going to pay for this mess?
If the current bill WITHOUT a public option is at $860+ billion, who is going to pay for this new bureaucracy that will be poorly managed and bleed money like a stucj pig?

Oh that's right... all of us that work are going to pay for it so all the bums who don't work can get a free rid.

No thank you. I'll take care of myself.
No more nanny state government projects please.

Allowing states to opt out, huh? How much you wanna bet every single red state does that?

We should really be looking for a plan that will unanimously benefit every state in the country, not one that creates a larger political divide than is already present.

It's about time the Democrats have decided to get a backbone. I could not understand how the Democrats clearly had a landslide victory in the last election and allowed the Republican's to knock them off their game. I hope this they get their act together and begin putting this country back on the right track. The Democrats need to tell the Republicans we allowed you eight years to forward your agenda and look where it got us. Let us advance our agenda and in eight years let see where we are.

Spineless Democrats. I want Alan Grayson. Public OPTION or your seat is gone come election time.

Thank You Sen. Reid!!!

So Florida will not be participating, right?

i believe that you will be voted out of office next year.........

As an insurance agent who sees people all the time who want insurance for their families but cannot afford it, I am proud of the leadership the Democrats have shown. Its way past time for universal health insurance and only a public option will get the health insurance companies in line.

I guess I just don't get it. I really don't understand why we wou;d want or allow states to opt out and not have a method to insure that resides of the state had a means to pay for their health care costs. I also don't understand the argument that claims that that would lead to socialized medicine. Is any ne passing out wisdom, I could use some if it's free.

Good for you Senator Reid! Let those people that don't want affordable coverage say-so at the polls when they kick-out the elected officials that decided to "opt-out" of the option!!

Now, I can't wait for 2012!

It should be up to the person to opt out of a public health care option. Having grown up with a life long health condition, I would welcome to have the option of a state or government based option along side private insurance options. But I do not want to live in a state that chooses not to offer it, when the next state over does offer it. Let me choose and not the state.

Now we're talking, it's time to get this thing done. Historic change as promised-help is on the way!

Now all the insurance companies have to do is buy off certain state leaders to get their way. Good job Mr Reid. You're still giving them more power than us.

Failure. Complete and total Failure.

This stinks. Now people in our state will have no public option. We live in Texas and Texas is solidly Republican. I have written to both my Representative and Senator asking that they support a public option to create competition for the health insurance industry. I have gotten email back from both with a statement following the Republican Party line. My husband and I will not be able to afford insurance until Medicare kicks in, another 10-14 years down the road. In the meantime, we risk bankruptcy if anything serious should happen to either one of us. I'm very disappointed with these results.

Are you kidding me? And optional public option option? So basically what Reid is saying, is that even with a "super majority" this country has to take from behind from the other party? How does letting the midwest opt out of fixing the problem, help fix the problem? Mr. Senator, we want a public option, AND we want private insurance to be sold across state lines.

It's about time! Finally the democrats are listening to the people. They have control, it's about time they use this opportunity to do some good for the people of this country. This country is in dire need of a win for the working class citizens of America.

Good job Mr. Reid!

So what else is new? He is a socialists and thinks we should be requesting the governments permission to continue breathing.

excellent news; the public option makes this reform not refuse.

Has anyone asked Congress or the Senate how much the public option is going to cost an average family of 4 at 30, 40 or 50 years old? It seems the public demending a public option almost act as if it will be free. If it will cost $1,000 per month with co-pays and deductables, how are we better off over what we have now? Just fix pre-existing conditions and policies across state lines among other costly practices and we will have reform. Would someone ask this question? Do they even have an idea of the cost to each of us?

All I can say is.... THANK GOD.

Without the public option, Health Care reform won't work.

Good for Reid, Pelosi and everyone else fighting for the average American!

Finally. No compromise on a Public Option, this is the reason all members of congress with a "D" behind their name are in office!! (And that includes YOU too Mr. Obama)

YES! If there's an opt-out for states, the republicans should have nothing to complain about.

PLEEEEEZE MR. REID, DON'T INSULT OUR INTELLIGENCE ANY MORE. "OPTING OUT' will be like telling the GODFATHER you've decided to persue a different career.

No public option!! Let's vote these clowns out of office!

Reid just does not get it. We DON'T want his stupid excuses for health care. The man is out of touch and clearly needs to be removed from office

I just hope this doesn't mean those of us who live in conservative states (Idaho) but who want the public option won't be left out of luck.

This is a very democratic bill. Various states can decide on the best course of action for their citizens.

Hooray for Socialism!

while the public option is a moral necessity and obligation, allowing states to opt out will inevitably cause more pain.
People will be forced to live in the same state for the rest of their lives or pick a new state based on their eligibility.
It may cause people to move to a state with the public option putting more stress on that state.
It seems the opt out clause is nothing but a political move to appease people.
Health care is not a compromise it's a necessity.

No surprise there Reid was always going to put in a public option even though he has no way to pay for it.

Finally! Here is a way to get the public option out there with 60 Senate votes. Want states rights? You got 'em! Let Governors refuse this at their own risk. Remember Jindal, Sanford, et al delivering big checks and taking the credit for stimulus money after making a "principled stand" against government spending? What "principle" will they stand on when they refuse a public option for their citizens? This is gonna be fun to watch.

Finally, a congressman with guts!

No way this will pass!

Go sink your ship Democrats. 2010 you will fail and by 2012 you will be non existant.

Hey Bro,

Looks like he is going to try it after all. If it eventually passes and becomes law, do you think Sanford would opt out for the good state of SC?

Bravo! Right now I'm going thru some Health Issues with my son and I have a "good plan" compared to a lot of folks I know, and their still milking me out of copay after copay. I could just imagine with people having Aetna and other Insurers are going thru. We need a public option if only to whittle down these parasites to size. They complain, about not having enough money but boy do they find the funds to advertise! We need Healthcare Reform NOW!

Great move!!! Republicans are always screaming "Let the states decide for themselves." Well, now they can. I anticipate ultra-conservative right-wing Governors saying no and there being mass protests from the smarter and affected voters forcing them to reconsider.

Yay Socialism!

Shove that public option down our throats? Clearly the majority of Americans do not want that. Guess the conservatives can look forward to another revolution like 1994.

while the public option is a moral necessity and obligatio, allowing states to opt out will inevitably cause more pain.
People will be forced to live in the same state for the rest of their lives or pick a new state based on their eligibility.
It may cause people to move to a state with the public option putting more stress on that state.
It seems the opt out clause is nothing but a political move to appease people.
Health case is not a compromise it's a necessity.

Reid is showing great courage here. Give the people what they want. If it passes, watch most every state hop on. States that don't will look backwards and lacking in compassion.

I am for the public option but it is better to have no public option than this travesty. Anyone with a brain can see this is going to be the worst possible idea.

Please hurry HC reform ... I am a father of 4, I pay a lot for my medical insurance. Last month Without notification from my medical insurance increased my co-pay from $20 to $35 per visit. The co-pay will change next year. I don't know for hoy much.

The option of the state to drop out will not provide for an effective plan that our current dictator demands. Heck, I will need this free HC soon, given all the donuts I eat...

Figure they can't listen to the people

What a joke! Are Democrats trying to kill themselves?

While Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's announcement that he intends to move forward with a health bill including a public insurance option allowing states to opt out might be a step in the right direction, it concerns me that I'm living in a state that may opt out–Arizona. This is a state I chose to retire in for the rest of my life. Short of moving, I may become a victim of politics that won't work in my favor. Let's make this bill nation-wide and not allow state opt-outs. Let's write it so that it can benefit the majority of Americans across our country.
DeeDee in Tucson

Sooooo, The Dems in the Senate are so afraid they won't get re-elected if they include a public option that they are pushing the responsibility, and also the blame, off on State Governors to implement this stupidity......I still maintain that I will vote against any current politician that votes for a public option of any kind....

If the opt-out is not set out at least 2-3 years, Americans living in states with grandstanding Repug majorities will have no option.

A public option will do three wonderful things for Americans: First of all, it will provide a viable option for people who earn too much for Medicare/Medicaid, but don't earn enough to purchase individual insurance. Secondly, It will also be a great option for those who cannot afford insurance offered by their employer or who are in small business. Thirdly, an affordable public option will provide the much-needed competition in the health insurance industry to bring prices down across the board. Critics complain that a public option takes away choice for the average American. The truth is that the inability to pay due to job loss or ludicrous premiums (such as the price of COBRA) is already stealing options from many hard-working, tax-paying, law abiding citizens.

A bold move from the unpopular senator. This may be his legacy after all. More democrats should follow his steps while they have the majority in both House and Senate. No more time for bipartisan game.

As soon as they fix Medicare and Medicaid I will be in favor of a public option. Why should we allow Washington DC another health insurance program to run when they cannot run the two they currently control in a cost effective basis?

Smoke and mirrors, all these folks are on the take we need to march on Washington and fire all of them and see how they struggle finding health insurance and paying outrageous premiums to the point you cannot even afford to use the dam insurance. A public option that states can opt out of ? Who's that intended to help? Who will opt in ? The states have elected officials that dont listen to their constituents just like the national ones dont so opting in will be a political mistake as well as opting out depending on which state u are in so again how will that help? Smoke and mirrors !!! WE ALL NEED TO WAKE UP

This is the best way to keep Ins. Firm honest.

Summary: Harry Reid to Olympia Snowe: "Shut up, no one likes you"

We must have a public option.how do we trust the Insurance companies! Wall street has demonstrated how we should NOT trust them,case and point co-operate excecutive bonus pays.Its about time Americans get back some thing fair and will compete with private companies. The quater billion on lobby money shows how determined they can be.

Yippee! He grew some!

Fantastic!!! We need that – private insurance companies just do understand how fed up we are with them!

I come from the great state of Nevada. It is to bad the Senator does listen to the Voter"s in Nevada. When You point out something out to Harry; he twists it around instead of paying attention to us. Sorry next time you run for Senate. I will be active seeing that others do not vote for you. We do not what the government to spend anymore MONEY.

Finally some more good news. Many of us voted Pres. Obama into office on the strength of his promise to help the 40M+ persons without Insurance, The first bit of good news was reduction in obscene CEO compensation. Now, let's move on to the SEC, Medicare/Medicaid fraud, and public education.

Great, As It Should Be!

About time.

Bye Bye Harry!

Boy! what a set of cojones!, despite the public opposition of a more expending and government expansion and a medical public option, and instead of concentrating to fix the uninsured, no Obama and they want screw everybody else, him and his corrupted cronies keep pushing what America doesn't want. I guess immediate removal of them in power becomes to be eminent. Our representatives don't not represent America they are just representing themselves I guess impeachment or legal options are very limited, but we need to try it! if we want America to be free of government intrusion and limiting freedom of choice.

I'm glad Senator Reid has the courage to stand up and do the right thing. Way to go, Harry!

Nothing new here for the Senate Moron!

hooray ... let's not let our country be hijacked by the lunatic right-wing

Here's a vote for Rule by Grown-ups!

This is good. I favor the public option and most of the people I speak to want it as well. We the people need for politicians to stop their in-fighting and pocket-filling from lobbyist and support THE PEOPLE.

If my state opts out, do we still have to pay the Federal taxes to support everyone else. Nevermind, I know the answer to that.

Do these folks think we are all fools or just most of us? Someone is trying to save their seat for the next election....a Public Option with an Opt out for states makes absolutely no sense. Why bother with the additional costs to our deficit, just stay with the status quo, as usual. Reform the system and quit the squabbling already...

What person in the state makes the decision? Sounds like we are having early elections at the sate level

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid:

I salute you! If you can succeed, and I certainly hope this does, the most notable historic landmark in medical care legistlation since 1965 will have been achieved. When history knocks the brave do not flinch.

The battle to include a public option, however it might be achieved, is a battle worth fighting.

Thank you!!

If our elected officials want a public option insurance and it is needed. Our elected officials in Washington, D.C. should only be offered the public option since this is what they want.

The public option provides an otherwise unmatched balance against the possibly profit-motivated insurance decisions by private for-profit companies. If it threatens existing companies by offering lower premiums, isn't that then exactly what those in the general public who oppose the public option always want? Also, there is little guarantee that a public option will be run less efficiently than a private one.
The ability of states to opt out, although unwise in my opinion, is probably needed to make this bill palatable to those with less of a social conscience.

And they call this news?

Let's face the facts if he did not put it in then Obama and nancy pelosi would want his head.

Yes all good little liberals must be in lock step or they will get a beat down from the rest of the thugs in charge.

OPT OUT, Washington State!! Health care reform doesn't not need government run healthcare! Everything the government touches turns to stone.

It is about time our Govt start representing the public interest who voted them into the office and not the interest of the lobyist. in a great country like ours, bless with wealth. i believe health care coverage should not be monopolized by private entities. govt should be allowed to compete with them. just like FED EXP and USPS. GOOD move Harry reid

Good Job Congress/Senate!!!!

It's time to move fast on health care bill, US can not afford to lose on this one as more jobs may come back from India to here as the company may be willing to hire proessionals as permanent employees there by improving economy, Countries like India Developing countries have much more facilities and options for health care for 1 billion people almost, A Super rich nation like US can not have health insurance to all of the citizens is shame and pitiful, If the way US continues it will lost its Super rich nation privlege already develeopled countries economy expanding at min 7% per annum, Countries like US has tepid growth recently and still has lot of obstacles to cross.

Go ahead with the plan, we want a public option or else these Insurance companies will rob you. I am no more a republican...

Go for it!

Hooray!!!
I have excellent health care coverage when working for major corporations, but when I started my own business in 1993 I had to change carriers every couple years due to doubling rates along with doubling deductions. Luckily I made it to 65 and Medicare before finding out that I had congenital heart disorder. Medicare and Supplemental cover all but $135. Now it is time that every American that does not have corporate coverage can get insurance they can trust in, not the predator coverage forced on individuals from the anti-trust protected insurance industry.

It is about time this country offers a public options. Health care has been discussed for decades and most countries have had this option for genernations. We call ourselves Christians and against abortions and high on morals. However, we would rather a common Chrisitan rot and die on the street than give them healthcare. Many of those immigrants (only a small amount who are not legally) in this country are fellow Christians. Yet many of us in this country are self serving and only care about the almighty dollar and use situations to ones advandage to make the suffering of others ok to live with. Big business is never honest with the rest of society they are only in it for themselves. I am a fellow Christian and belive all people should be treated in a human way without being judge for thier bank account or where they have come from. America is a country of immigrants!!

People read and reseach – If a public option does not exist in the future many more will be without healthcare. Our society already has death trails that are ran by healthcare insurance companies!!!!

Should we expect anything less from this slimey,pathetic, little weasel, Reid? Totally disregarding the American people's opposition to a Public Option. His re-election is seriously in doubt so he doesn't care one iota about his constituants, only the liberal left wing and their unquenchable thirst for more spending and socialistic agenda! Pitiful!!!!

Good, let the GOP explain higher costs and preventable deaths to their constituents.

Go Reid. That's the best thing to do.

is there a full story?

Good. At least the PO is there in some form. Let's see how Repub Senators and Repub governors will argue against this, since states will decide whether or not they'll participate. After all, don't the Repubs champion "State's Rights", hmmm...?

I'm glad to see that Congress finally remembers who elected them, and whom they represent.

Finnaly, we got the Senate that is making decisions for us the people.

States will opt out alright, opt out of paying their taxes!

My guess is that the states that opt out will have to pay a hefty tax. WOW

I am not the sharpest tool in the shed, but if our DMV's suck, what will the healthcare be like?

Where's the story?

Reid is an idiot. What polls is he looking at that show everyone wants a public option, just another washington moron

Finally !!! Of course the Conservatives will scream and holler, rant and rave, complain and cry, just like any other spoiled Beck. It would be good if they would participate in this event but goodness isn't one of their better qualities right now. This country needs their participation but not at the price they are asking. Compromise isn't a weakness it is a sign of strength and a desire to serve the people. Their lack of real participation will be an historical event they will long regret. The Grand Old Party has, sadly, missed the ,boat.

Go, Harry. Good for you. Thank you for listening.

This is a smoke screen for the public option. Simple as that. No state is going to deny the right of it's employers to seek a lower health care plan by opting out. that would be political suicide. Also, Harry has exempted his state ffrom any additional cost for 10 years.

Great! Let's just get the job done!

Looks like we lost the "By the people, For the people" option. The majority of americans DO NOT WANT THE PUBLIC OPTION! The democrats are crapping on the constitution again and we all lose!

It is about time we made some progress, and this isn't even that much . We need to go even FURTHER with a national health care system. We are all suffering without one. Insurance companies need to go. They have an inherent confict of interest in making sure you get the health care you need. Your health comes at the cost of THIER profits! With national health care all that is taken care of. Will it be the best solution, no. Will it be 1000% better than what we have YES! Right now your insurance company decides what level of care you get, what doctor you can see, even what your doctor gets paid for your care. Capitalism has no place in health care, your health is not an "industry"! It is your right!

The Dumbo's is at it again, working ever angle he can to take away our rights! Today we give you the option and tomorrow we ram it down your throat and the hardworking. got a job American pays for it

WOULD SOMEBODY IN NEVADA PLEASE START A RECALL FOR THIS IDIOT

Finally we are making progress! Every American needs health insurance regardless of the financial cost. If we can support the drilling in Anwar then we can support health insurance. If we can support the bailout of big business then we can afford health insurance. If we can support all the different subsidies in this country then we can afford health insurance. Let the pundits stand where they may but at least everyone can have access to a doctor. By the way, I am an Independent.

Allowing states to opt out? That's ridiculous! If anything made any sense it would be to open up state lines and allow insurance purchases nationally for competition. All this does is placate the politician's desire for a public option. It doesn't mean that there will be a public option. Why enact a law if it can be ignored?

It makes about as much sense as having a "half vegetarian cheeseburger"!

I am for the public option. I wish it was mandatory that each state take it.

When a state opts out – are the citizens exempt from the taxes that will follow for generations to come. Why can't citizens just opt out of laws like the Senate & House do – I'd prefer their health care policy anyhow.

forget the "public option" and legislate or create new laws regulating the insurance industry to provide coverage for all at fair costs or on a sliding scale

While this is probably inevitable, why do the Democrats always think they have to kowtow to the far right-wing of the Republican party, even when it's crystal clear that they are lying about the public option? Frankly, the Democrats ought to just go do this by reconciliation, and let the right wing sound machine blather on until they talk themselves to death. We in the public want a public OPTION, no matter what the fat cats in the health insurance industry try to tell Congress!

We're talking about 800+ billion dollars. Where does the congress propose that the people will get the money to pay for the debt . We don't want this legislation in its present form . Listen to the Republicans. Don't do a complete makeover of the health insurance. I'm happy with my plan and don't want to be beholden to a group of bureaucratic panels that will tell us what is best based on relevant thinking at the moment. We know that that kind of thinking was responsible for hormone therapy in the last twenty years. And we know what that lead to. More Cancer amongst women. This is all about Government Control. We want less government, not more!!

Steve Savitt

The real issue is not if a public option is good or bad for a country like the USA, its the fact the American people have become a victim of large lobbying groups in Washington and most of those politicians deciding on health care reform came to office by contributions from these same firms. If only the fore fathers could have seen this coming. But thats P-O-L-I-T-I-C-S for ya.... it happens in all democracies.....

Mr. Reid,
This is not meaningful reform. It is unthinkable for the leaders of the most develop country in the world to continue to deny coverage to all citizens. Belly up to the problem and do the moral thing.

ok so why does no one in the white house listen to the American people. who do they really think pays there bills and why do they think that they have all of the answers... I guess since they have been doming down America for year they must truly think that we are all stupid... get a clue you idiots in the white house, we are all smarter then you think and 90% of the people can't be wrong all of the time to support the 10% that wants to live on our backs... IDIOTS

Good........now lets get on with it.

Thank you, Senator. The majority in our country support a public option to increase competition and extend affordable coverage to more Americans. Keep up the great work!

Yes! Finally, a Democrat leader with some spine!

I hope this is a sign of things to come. The public option is the one area of helath care reform that should actually help the common folk in this country. With that said the biggest single change that needs to happen with our countries health care is not a program but the attitude and midset of the profiteers involed. I hate that someone looks at me and my family as dollar signs instead of people that need care.

What in the world makes anyone think that this will have any chance of working when Medicare and Medicade have failed!?!?

Wonderful!. The country needs Health Reform. It is time to have a public option with an apportunity to opt out, if needed. At last Health care reform will help lower costs down,there will be more competition,and we will have better prices for everyone. Good job.

Will residents of States who opt out still have to pay for the plan in any way?

Way to go Mr. Reid

What happens if a state opts out and the other states spend too much on health care. Will the federal taxes for that state go up with the rest? Will there be two sets of federal taxes rates? I would guess that there wouldn't be, therefore it is not possible to really opt out and not pay for other states. We will all have to pay for this public option together.

Regardless of what the majority want...WOW. You are so gone in 2010. Democrats are going to lose in a massive landslide....YOU'RE WRECKING THE ECONOMY and depreciating the dollar to a point where our grandkids grandkids might be able to pay off this massive debt. You'll pay in 2010 and 2012. Never again...Never...

I just hope that states that opt out will be allowed to opt back in once they see that the public option helps control premiums and doesn't drive the private insurers out of business. It will also be interesting to see what backlash is created among the voters in states that opt out when they see their premiums rise while premiums in other states go down.

Terrible news–More important guys–create jobs and get rid of debt.

And when I say create jobs–I do not mean goverment run jobs.

More and more debt we are in deep doo doo

Of course he does.........

Bravo Senator Reid! I think that is a great compromise.

This is a huge error in judgment from the Senate Majority Leader. Independents understand the need for healthcare overhaul, but the public option is not necessary and will make this bill far too expensive. The proponents of this bill want to spend almost a TRILLION dollars to insure several million Americans. This is absurd!

I think we need the public option, Go For It

Tom

To many local politicians are in bed with insurance companies thats why this wold not work.

better than nothing, not much better though!

Finally!!!!!! The policymakers are listening to the American Citizens. Keep up the momentum and get this Bill passed!!!!!

Um...Thanks, I guess. But I live in a state that will most certainly "opt out" so I will still have nothing? No option? I guess this great feature might cause some population redistribution across the country.

States have power all of a sudden?! Kinda reminds me of early america with Jefferson and Jackson! HA! Too bad it is nothing like that!

Yes, a public option for the public to have the right to choose.

Follow the excellent current public option as comparison in the USPS, which drives and generates a competitive market place with both UPS and FedEx, a fine example of a public option.

go figure they help people who can't afford heath insurance

Thank God!! The dems grew some! It's about time

Very disappointed that there's an opt-out option. Most states will and it'll be nothing but an empty promise.

Senator Reid to Nevada Voters: "I've heard you and I just don't care".

I would hate to be the state that opted out of an option that would help working families. Let's see how far the gop talking clowns will go..

WE WANT A PUN=BLIC OPTION.........................................AND I'M NO LIBERAL. I'M A INDEPENDENT CHRISTIAN CONSERVATIVE

Well, it's about time.

Finally – they are going to let the people have a choice in the health care debat instead of treating us like wallpaper and not listening. Sorry – I agree we do need some type of reform – but not to the tune of billions/trillions of dollars. Sorry my kids can't count that hi – not sure I even can. If this passes – maybe each state legislature will listen to their constituents and take care of business where members of the current administration can't.

Someone should sit Reid down to watch last nights 60 minute segmet on Medicar fraud. Reid and Pelosi are jokes and have no business in the positions their in.

It's about time!

Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi need to go. You would think they are the only two in Washington.

It is encouraging to see a senator finally pushing healthcare reform that reflects the majority opinion in this country, rather than the pressures of private interests. I doubt that I'd even participate in the public option (doubt that I'd need to) however, it seems to me that a GOOD American wants healthcare available to every citizen, regardless of socio-economic status. Furthermore, when capitalism becomes anarchic (as it has with insurance) a public competitor with a vested interest in its consumers above profit can only serve as a correction, I believe.

Giving states option to opt out won't help people in states like Texas where a governer like Perry would be sure to refuse it.

We need a public option. Hate to say this but Sarah Palin was sort of right in saying that Health Care reform is about job creation. Although the government would be the employer, there is nothing wrong with cloning a system like the one in Canada and the UK, where there are more jobs and lower taxes. The kicker is allowing states to opt out. This option will most likely hurt this bill.

Great, now the Dems need to stop being spineless and move forward with the plan. If the Dems don't get health care reform passed with some form of public option, they don't deserve to be in power and if the so called "blue dog democrats" think for one minute if they side with the republicans it will benefit them in the long run, they are sadly mistaken and I hope all of them lose their seat to a republican if they are willing to side with them, plain and simple!

How much longer must we put up with guy??Hopefully only until next election.

Only the people of Nevada can rectify this latest travesty. We get the government we deserve, if they keep electing this clown we will continue to have a circus in Congress.

Its about time. Let the other side try to stop health care reform. They will pay next year durning the mid term elections.

hmmmmm, hope it works...

When Reid puts forth a health care bill that most Americans don't want, he should be prepared for a fight both now and at his time of re-election. He obviously represents something other than the American people.

I believe that health insurance reform should include a public option. Giving Americans the choice of a public plan will ensure that every American- including those in rural or underserved areas-has access to affordable health insurance. It will also keep private insurance companies honest by bringing real competition to the healthcare market. Additionally, the public plan will make the private health insurance market more competitive-which results in Americans having more choices for affordable health insurance coverage.

Elections have consequences, as they should. If you don't like it, convince a majority of the people and next time you can win the election and do something different.

Reid just deflated a few GOP balloons all at once. All of which were nonsense.

Now we go FORWARD to fixing this country's health insurance/health care crisis. Thank you Majority Leader Reid, thank you President Obama.

And hey Olympia Snowe, is that the sound of reality passing you bye? It's not too late to hop on. Bring Collins too.

It's about time.... and for every 10 dollars spent 1 penny ought to go toward fighting Medicare and insurance fraud.

There is nothing worse than Medicare fraud.

Why that pisses me off as much as the pay that CEO’s are getting for running healthcare, or them denying Healthcare to those who need it most.

Get ready for Chicago style politics on a national basis. So much for transparent political process. The hope and change thing isn't sounding so good now that reality is emerging.

Thank you Mr Reid.

Hallelujah! Now those of use who ARE NOT CEOs can afford health care!!! Now all they have to do is institute a salary cap and increase minimum wage and America will once again be able to hold it's head up again, instead of cowering like a 3rd world country!

There is no point in trying to get a bi-partisan bill. The Republicans have decided that only if they get everything they want they are not going to support the bill. When they speak about getting it right they mean doing nothing.

Any bets that South Carolina will be the first State to opt-out followed quickly by Utah?

The democrats better have this correct or they will pay the price come next election.

I applaud you Senator Reid!!

I'm certain my state will opt out (Alabama), though I guess it's better than nothing.

Let the people decide what coverage they want, not the government.
This is blackmail and violates our human independence.

Yeah !~! Finally politician listen to the people who put them there and not to the lobbyists who try to finance their opponents...

sad, sad day for America. One day, we will all look back on this with supreme regret...

One step closer

Oh dear, it sounds like Harry just found his backbone.

Too many "non-citizens" / free loaders for this health care plan to benefit real Americans.

what is the deal with allowing states to opt out? Who does that help?
WE NEED MEDICARE FOR EVERYBODY!!

This is what I've been waiting for. If there is to be true health care reform, there must be a public option.

First good thing I've heard out of Reid's mouth in a long time.

Senator Reid and Nancy Pelosi really think they own this government. It will be nice seeing them lose their re-elections

What's the point of the option if the states are going to be able to opt out of it?

Of course, if these people wanted to do the right thing, they'd kill the bill and let the states decide EVERYTHING for themselves.

Thank you Harry.

so that will dramatically change the demographics in America. everyone will flock to the states that have the public option, and will eventually force the other states to adopt the public option as well... they will hurt financially and will have to adopt it. good strategy.

If my state opts out, where does that leave me????

This is the start of fascism in this country.

EXCELLENT! Thank you Harry, now you and Pelosi make sure this crosses the finish line fully standing and in motion. YES WE CAN!

"Allowing states to opt out"....What does this mean? What about health care for all Americans? I live in Arkansas. This places opts out of everything. Will I be condemned to having no heath care in a state that offers zero options for people without it now? This stinks.
Little Rock, AR

what a disaster.

It seems Harry has at least some regard for the Constitution. We now know he has at least read the 10th Amendment. Now if only we could get him to read Article 1 so he understands what powers he does and doesn't have.

that's better than no public option

This is what the people are yawning for. Kudos to Reid and the Dems.

Way to go Dumb-o-CRAPS! Take what could have been a good thing and turn it into your socialistic love child.

Well, one of the DEM PARTY's leading "DONKEYS" (aka JA) has another plan that doesn't make sense. Federal Tax Dollars spent on a half baked plan like this one.

Before you clowns come up with a PUBLIC PLAN, why don't you open the free markets and get rid of the state barriers that prevent competition in the states??????

Social Security ==> Almost Bankrupt, borrowing against future revenues
Medicare ==> Struggling financially / Doctors starting to reject patients
Deficit ==> Quadrupled under Obozo and DUMocRAT led congress

REVOLT => Don't pay any new taxes or fees.

OK so we as a country are BROKE and a lot of people think that this will make it better. Well you will get what you want and when the bill come due on our kids I hope that you can look them in the eye and say "Well we thought is was going to be great"

Our country has to stop this spending without reason.