CNN

All of these republicans that are saying that this is going to cost too much, raise the debt, raise taxes etc etc. all of that stuff happened when your guy was in– George W Bush. Just because your company offers health care coverage now doesnt mean that they can't change their minds tomorrow. Come on people, we all know that these companies we work for can drop coverage at the drop of a hat. Then What? This is coming from the party that wanted to privatize social security. Glad that plan didnt work.

Well, the only reason for him not to get re-elected it that people would be un-happy with his voting record. Therefore, is Health Care Reform in this manner really what the PEOPLE want?

Finally an elected official with some cajones.

I'd write effusively about how we need more politicians like Mr. Bennet–people with serious decisions to make who are willing and able to ignore the constant hyperbolic crap that passes as 'citizen journalism' and 'new media'.

I'd add my comment just to encourage him and others like him. But, thankfully, he probably doesn't much care what a bunch of commentiers, facebloggers, and twitsters think ... and he shouldn't. Good for him!

I can't believe anyone is supporting his position. It is a slap in the face to the legislative system. I ask those who are in agreement with Senator Bennet's to answer me one question. How would you feel if the situation were reversed? Let's say Senator Bennet was a Republican and he knew that the majority of the people in Colorado were in favor of the health care bill and he decided that he would vote against it because that is what he believes. I challenge anyone who was agreed with Senator Bennet and his "moral stand" to come and say that they would support him if his position were reversed. I think it is safe to say that we won't see anyone doing that.

Thank you Senator Bennett. You truly believe in the Democratic Party and understand the need for National Health Care, unlike Lincoln, Landieu, Lieberman and Nelson. God Bless you and thank you for your courage!

That's what's needed in the Democratic party, BALLS!!!!

Mr. Bennet, you and Mr. Grayson from Florida will be getting my donation to make sure you do not lose your job. It's people with principles like you that we need in Washington.

He probably doesn't have to worry about losing his job. OBlunder will throw him and a great many others under the bus to get what the narcisist in chief what he wants.

I say let's throw a huge retirement party for these criminals and just not invite them. The have already led the good life and don't need another party to go to. I want my country back!!! – How about you. VOTE in 2010 and let's begin the healing as well as stiffle the efforts of this Grovelor-in-Chief we have been saddled with.

Any congressperson that supports healthcare reform with a government option, government panel, a new entitlement program or a new tax is foolish and would be voted out of office.

A congressperson that looks for solutions in the private sector that includes malpractice reform, that requires more copay and more catastrophic coverage is wise and will win reelection.

How can the elected official of a purportedly "representative democracy" (i.e., this person was elected to office to represent his constituents' views) can say that he will vote on any issue in such a way that will cost him his office? Isn't he admitting on Line 1 that he is knowingly choosing to NOT represent the majority of his constituents?! The arrogance of this Democratic party is breathtaking.

If given a chance, I will contribute to his campaign. If we had more Senators like him we would not be getting this piece of crap legislation they are going to tell the American public is health care reform by the time they water it down to satisfy the Republicans in Democrat clothing. It is nice to know there is at least one rational Senator. If we had 60 of them this game would be over and we would really have something.

Now that's the heart and integrity of a hero.

I'm constantly amazed by the number of people that don't understand our democracy. People are not elected to vote however their constituents want them to vote. They are elected to act in their constituents' best interest. These two are not always the same thing. There is a tremendous difference between self-interest and enlightened self-interest. Our representatives are ostensibly much more knowledgable about the issues they are voting on than their constituents. It is our representatives duty to vote their conscience, not take a poll and vote however the poll turns out. Great job senator Bennett.

SO he doesn't really care about representing people, right? Because he was put in office by his electorate, and now his electorate wants him to oppose the bill and he wants to do what he wants to do. So why did he apply for the job? Not to represent the people but his own believes...

Hey...
Standing up for what is right regardless of the consequences.
We need more people like him. Bless you Senator.

Oh and one more thing.....BRAVO!!! My hats off to the Senator from Colorado.

Moderate here. I'm just wondering about something that doesn't make sense to me:

Why is it that Republicans are so fast to condemn everything the government does as incompetent, and yet they insist on invading other countries to enforce -our way- on others.

This raises three points:
1- If the government is incompetent, then the military must be incompetent too.
2- You are running the country, so if it ain't working, then you aren't doing your job.
3- If our country is so dysfunctional, then we have no moral ground upon which to tell other countries what to do.

CommonSenseTexan

Since you have obviously taken the time to read the 2,000 page monstrosity, kindly point out the sections that talk about tort reform.

How is your Kool-Aid?

He is supposed to represent the people of Colorado, he basically is just representing himself. The arrogance of these people is amazing, there is no doubt he will not be re-elected. Politicians seem to forget why they are there, they are not to think for us, they are here to represent us. How about listening to the people?

jkm wrote "Question – If it takes a total of 13 – 14 years to become a Surgeon, then why shouldn't the surgeon be able to make more than 250,000 dollars?"

Better question: why should *anyone* make 250,000 which is much more than a family needs to support themselves and those they care about, in a country where we 1/6 of the people are going hungry?

By the way, it takes 10 years or so to make a professor, but most public universities pay 60,000 to 80,000 dollars. So having a lot of education does not entitle surgeons to outrageous salaries.

Americans: stop being so melodramatic. So many negative comments about this bill. It looks like all of you have read the bill when, of course, you get your information straight from the auricles on Fox and other such information sites. Having socialized medicine is wonderful. It's too bad that this bill dos not go far enough for you to benefit fully from such a system. By the time tthe bill passes it probably will not look at all like the original anyway. So, quite whining.

Michael

Jenno-O is right, she lives in his district. His district is the state. And she's also right about Reagan.

How's the Kool-Aid?

Government healthcare, b/c they run everything else SO well. Great idea.

I don't think Democrats have to worry about ot not being re-elected. It is
the Republicans who should worry,. They are an obstinate bunch of
human beings.....They will not vote on a Health Care Bill so that people can have medical coverage, they will not do this or that!!! Why
are they in office? The people elected them, they can remove them
just as easy. They have golden parachutes, with money,
health care, retirement even if they are not in office, why should they care.
How many of you responder's have Health Insurance? How many
of you care if your friend, relative, or neighbor has health coverage.
It has to start somewhere....give it a chance, changes can be made
along the way.

Senator Bennett is a true American. Standing up for what is right regardless of the consequences. We need more people like him.

To all who of the misconception that the bill does not address tort reform, it does and does so in great detail. CNN has made available for download al 2,074 pages of the proposed bill, perhaps we should read it for ourselves rather than just spouting off talking points from both sides.

I am a Democrat who doesn't favor the public option, but I am in favor of the expansion of Medicaide, and non-profit cooperatives. I also favor government subsidies for the creationf Health Savings Accounts. HSA's would provide funds for routine office visits, and minor emergency care, and ease overcrowding in emergency rooms.

As of now the proceedural vote was to bring the bill to the floor for debate nothing more. It will change substantially by the time it passes, and will include things that both sides want. Not every Republican voter is against the bill, although the media would have you believe otherwise. We must end the bitter devisiveness that is polarizing our political system. If we don't it will only render both parties ineffective.

Dave in NJ - Kiss your good health insurance goodbye and await for the rationing of health care with increased cost as a replacement.

Reap what you sew!

You are displaying courage and intelligence. May you win the 2010 election. Congress needs more people like you... not beholding to corporate interests but the interest of the people. You are no corporate stooge.

I think the Republicans are playing in their best interest way too much. They are the worthless portion of congress right now, not giving any benefical input and asking for Americans to take another tax break.

The American people have been taking taxes breaks and putting ourselves further in debt since the Reagan Era. How is it possible to cut taxes and then go further in debt. That is the Republican plan. For them, it has only spiraled this country down the hole.

To Republicans, do something productive in Senate and stop blocking anything that is fundamentally flawed to you but nessesary for all Americans. I am so tired of politicans caring about the 1% and we Americans being too stupid to realize that is who is feeding us this bs (ie Rupert Murdoch). I aplaud this man for his stand. It is more important to do what is right than let this country truly fall to special interest.

Why can't these people listen to the American taxpayers? We do not want to continue paying for free healthcare for those people who are on welfare. We want our government to get these leeches off the payroll.

That piece of garbage needs to lose his job

The government will never do a thing about the pharmaceutical companies..They are making too much back door money off of them....Why do you think natural medicines aren't allowed to be used!

jeninCO, a senator doesn't have a district. It is a state -wide office. That and your comment about the "great Ronald Reagan" are clear indications you need to do some research.

Way to go boy. We need more demacrats like you who can say what they want to say.

nether party has any thing to be proud of this bill could bring down this country and our sen and cong. still vote on party lines what is the matter with them our sons and husbans are fighting two wars and this is what we get from our gov.

Senator Bennet will deserve to be re-elected and I strongly hope he will for his support to make this bill the law. It is time for America to not-discriminate using access to Health Care amongst groups of its peoples. Wonderful time for a good Senator to follow this goal and make it happen. This new Health Care will rank right up there on a scale with other great positive steps for this nation, perhaps as inportant even as the 1-st Constitutional Ammendant in some ways, because without one's health, speech is somewhat secondary!

Bold words. It is good to have someone in the Senate who votes based on what he feels is right rather than what keeps his job.

If he felt the opposite way I would not be so happy, but I would be just as impressed.

You are truely a breath of fresh air.....Kudos to you Sen. Bennet.

I make 80k a year and have great insurance, and I am glad to have this bill pass and pay for it as well.

GREAT, now we will have another job opening in the future to help with the unemployment problem, Thank you

Let me connect the dots

Reverend Wright: "God D*** America"

Obama to the world "Foregive us our repeated sins"

The worshipper doesn't fall far from the tree

Kool-Aid tastes better in the shade. Don't let the sun shine in, it makes the Kool-Aid bitter.

An appointed Senator putting "Party Before Country"-isn't that what you CNN bloggers are always accusing Republicans of doing?
But this guy is a Democrat-so to you he is actually "voting his conscience" or "doing what's best for America", even though it's against what his constituents want!
And to the poster who stated that Blanche Lincoln favors a public option-she must have changed her mind since 0600 this morning when I heard her say that she would vote AGAINST any bill with a public option.

There are 40 million uninsured. There are 1000 teabaggers.

What was that about a majority?

When are the arrogant senators doing to do what their people want? Losing his job is not enough, they should be put in prison.

He shouldn't have to wait until elections to lose his job, his constituents who he is supposed to represent should vote to recall him immediately.

Those of you saying he stood up for the people have it wrong. The fact that he thinks he may lose his seat tells me he did not do the will of the people who elected him, the people he represents.

If you are hired as a spokesperson for a company, you say and do what they tell you, your personal beliefs and opinions are just that... "yours" and you better keep them to yourself or you're going to need to find a new job. If you don't like the views you are asked to represent, you should resign immediately.

Those of you slamming McConnell and Kentucky.... I live in KY and I have health insurance. It costs me $102 a month, and the government doesn't pay any part of it. Now prove to me I won't have to pay more under this new plan.

Obama told us this was coming.

He won.

This bill is a shock to everyone?

Theres a reason taxpayers don't want this.We have already seen how incompetent government plans are costing us ungodly amounts of money; You have already gotten yourselves rich thru Bank of America and i am sure ALL of you crooks in Washington will financially gain from this as well...You all should be removed from office ...and be made to pay back all the illgotten gains that you have made while in office...

Im not sure how right-wingers can claim to be the majority of americans. After all, if that were the case, wouldn't the congress have a republican majority? Seems more likely that they are simply the loud minority. Saying that a senator is supposed to vote based on a complaining minority is silly. The majority of americans are under-educated and it is the job of the elected official to know more than the constituents about the issues in the bills. If you think he should vote based on the whims of some crying people who know less than he does about the bill, you really need your head checked.

The majority of americans overwhelmingly want healthcare reform, nearly 9 out of 10. However, those people disagree on whether or not the current bills are the best choices available. That still means they want reform. Something needs to be done and at least we are finally getting some people in office with the heart to fight for what is right and not cower to the lobbyists and fascist party of the right.

I hope they are able to get this done soon so we can move on to getting out of these ridiculous wars and putting money back into this country instead of spending it fighting other ones.

for once, a legislator with some guts – i am a native coloradan and this makes me more proud than ever! he doesnt need to fear for his job. those who say that the majority of people dont support healthcare reform – including the public option and respect for reproductive rights – are full of the usual right wingnut spin. u go, senator bennett!

I wish more senators thought like this then maybe we would get decent people running this country. It is an embarrassment to have Senator from Kentucky with unhappy and unhealthy people and both oppose the public option. It could be they are happy with the money that private insurance companies have given them.

Since he said every piece of evidence tells him that he will lose his job if he supports the bill, that tells me that his constituents do not want him to vote for the bill. His job, his ONLY job, is to represent his constituents and he is blatantly stating that he will not do so. That goes against our system of government plain and simple.

If he refuses to represent the will of his constituents because he personally doesn't agree with them, then he deserves to lose his job.

Good for him. For those saying "How can he vote against his constituents", I say if he lost his seat (and we don't know he would), it wouldn't be by a large margin. Most American's want a public option and they are split over this bill. They are split because most Americans are also stupid, listen to the fear and BS from the republican party and vote against their economic and social interests. It's hard to educate people when the media isn't doing it's job (i.e. reporting the facts), many politicians are full of crap (both dems and republicans) and many liberals hate the bill as it doesn't go far enough (aka single payer).

Anybody who didn't read the 2,000 plus health bill should be voted out.

If socialization means that 30 million un-insured and all those who are getting rejected by insurance companies get insurance,, then I have no problem with even Government taking over the health sector. Heck with it...We are the only country in the world who dont have it and thats only because we have even 'enterprised' the basic need,, health. I mean c'mon,, none of these republican sentaors realize that? We dont need health insurance for these 30 million people? what options are they presenting other than 'nothing'?

On the original bulletin.... I congratulate the senator for his courage. Americal people are not dumb,, for one vote to cover health insurance doesnt make voters turn away from you,,, As much as media is saying, I dont believe that American voters are just hung up on factor when voting for their senators..

you know all thies conservitive nay-sayers wernt saying to much 3 years ago when they had both houses and the presidency.Not when they was pooring all our money to thier rich friend who then turned around and drop america to the brink of sefl destruction.Where was you then you sooo called conserivite proponents,teabaggers and rush?where was you when the republicans where loading down every bill in booth houses with earmarks for their so called pet projects.Where was your outrage when then president Bush reduced taxes and the richest Americans during time of two wars(the only president in the history of out great country to do so)Where was the arrogent attitude you had then.You have become the party of no to helping this country.You have become sooo full of youselfs that you Foget what you did with the good times(you know when you took a surpluse and ran up a huge deficet)How can you even sit back and complain when it was your partys fualt that we are in the mess and it has to be fixed now rather then later?So please stop all your whinning and complaining becuase you are as much as fualt for this mess this country is as the Dems are for helping you all make it.Both parties have ruined this country by their greed and giving it all away to the rich and comunist counties.So please don't tout that American flag and self righensess any more we are sick and tired of you blamming everyone but yourseflts.Time have come for a third party for the people and one thats not in the corperate interests pockets as are both parties Dems and Rupubs alike.

I admire a person that is willing to stand for what he/she knows is right and not fold because a group of "don't want nothing" yell. I admire someone who lets everyone know that he/she is not holding own to this elected position to earn more money as well as being able to retire with a hugh retirement package.

I hope the people of Colorado truly understand the courage of Senator Bennet. In the history of the United States, we have occasionally been in this situation where calmer heads are needed to cut through the BS and give the American people what they need. Affordable health care should be a given in our country, instead we find ourselves being compared to third world countries because of how we treat our elderly and poor. I for one am tired of listening to the right wing talk about Christian values while they support companies and policies that are the farthest thing from Christian you can get. Hypocracy...you bet!

A perfect example of why we need TERM LIMITS – If all these Representatives and Senators were less concerned about keeping their seats, and more concerned about doing the right thing, then th lobbyists would yield far less power and control over them, and us.

TERM LIMITS TERM LIMITS TERM LIMITS

You will have the opportunity to join many of your unemployed democrat colleagues next year. What you have failed to learn is that this is a representative republic. The will of the people should trump your undemocratic agenda of the socialization of 1/6th of the US economy.

Huh??? The health care that congress gets at our expense is not what congress wants us to have. How many of them have lined up and proclaimed they will be happy to be covered under their own creation? It also appears that not all will be covered under this plan after all. Odd after all their noise about everyone must be covered .

@Bev November 22nd, 2009 11:17 am ET
Republicans will benefit from the 2010 and 2012 elections-–as they will take the seats of the Democrats who are booted from office!!!
***YOU LIE***All American do not listen to Beck and Sean and we are not Tea Baggers or should I say Street Preachers*** We want the same Insurance that Congress has paid by Tax Payers ****

WE the People thanks and supports you Senator Bennet!!!

Bravo!
Stay the course and support this useless and wasteful bill. Remain true to your convictions; that no matter how bad this idea is, you will see it through to the end.
Politicians are useless.

This has nothing to do with what Bennet "thinks" is the best thing to do. He is being forced by the powers that be, to vote for this debacle.

All the Liberals here think they are getting something for nothing. WHO is going to pay for this bill? Thats' right, it is going to be your children and theirs. I never hear the left addressing this question.

And JOE, LOL, calls Conservatives "teabaggers" and invokes the name of Jesus in the same paragraph!

jkm wrote "No TORT reform because everyone knows the trial lawyers are the biggest contributors to the Democratic campaign funds."

If that is true, then lawyers will remain unconstrained in filing baseless lawsuits against medical providers, and the cost of medical malpractice insurance will continue to skyrocket. That is not sustainable.

I guess I don't understand his logic. If he believes that by voting for this bill he could lose his seat, doesn't it stand to reason that he would lose his seat because his constituents don't want this legislation? Maybe someone needs to remind him that he is there to represent the people of Colorado, not the Democratic party.

Republicans embrace the mantra: "It's either my way or the highway."

Republicans behave the same as unruly teenagers that don't know what's good for them.

In the 1960s there were many who stood steadfastly against Civil Rights legislation, and there were those who voted for meaningful legislation and lost their jobs for it, and it was ultimately for the good of the country.

If the people in Colorado wanted their voices heard in congress they should move to impeach this idiot right now. This senator has no integrity and should be removed from office no matter what is on the agenda. It’s by the people for the people, not by the senators for the senators.

To Linda:

Both parties are in bed with special interests and big businesses. Some may share the same partners while others have different ones.

So please don't come in here and act like the Repubs are goody two shoes and do no wrong. and the same goes for Dems in here.

Both sides stink. The only decision to make it whose stink offends you the least.

Good for you Senator. Some bravery and decency amongst the rhetorical garbage. You will be re-elected. The majority of Americans want healthcare reform despite what the propagandists say.

No TORT reform because everyone knows the trial lawyers are the biggest contributors to the Democratic campaign funds.

Question – If it takes a total of 13 – 14 years to become a Surgeon, then why shouldn't the surgeon be able to make more than 250,000 dollars? Why is it OK for Angelia Jolie to make 15 million per movie? Maybe we should taxing 50% of all movie profits above 250,000 dollars to pay for this dumb bill!

Works both ways. I recall having 2 wars shoved down our throats, too, without much debate. Don't forget the costs we are incurring in war, both financially and in human toll. And, where were all those fiscally conservative lawmakers when GWB ran an open checkbook during his term? Back then, you could hear a pin drop with their lack of response. Now, it's all about the huge debt our grandchildren are going to incur.

I wish more lawmakers were less concerned about re-election than about making what they feel is the best decision for their constituents and country.

Let's hope he does lose his seat. The 2 greatest flaws with this monstrous bill are, firstly, that it does'nt touch the astronomical awards to lawyers from health-related suits, resulting in astronomical insurance costs for doctors which must be returned to the consumer (i.e. no tort reform. Are there any lawyers in the Congress or Administration by any chance?). Secondly, it takes our health care out of the hands of ourselves, and our doctors, and puts it into the hands of DMV-like bureaucrats. It is another trojan horse bill that will allow the continuing growth of government and diminishment of the private sector.

We have 10.2% unemployment and the President can’t find enough qualified candidate for the open US Agency slots . . . anyone care to guess what Department Bennet ends up heading?

I have a question for all you Republicans flooding this thread with your vitriolic comments: Remember when Bush was in office & you gleefully proclaimed anyone who disagreed with the President to be an un-American scumbag who needed to leave the country if they didn't like the current state of affairs? It is awfully tempting to use that same kindergarten-level logic on you guys right now.

Let's kill two birds with one stone. Vote down the proposed healthcare reform, and then let the people of Colorado vote one more Democrat out of office.

Its not about losing his seat.
Well it is, because he knows that if this is passed that many lives will be lost because of it.
He knows that the taxes are going to sky rocket.

He is fully aware that as long as he is out of office when this whole things happens he can not be held responsible for the destruction of America.

They are taking from the upper and middle class to give to the lower class. Where are the middle class perks from the Govt? Where is the middle class government housing? Where is the middle class assistance checks? They dont get it. But we give everything to the lower class. Well that is minus the mammograms and pap smears when they are younger than 50.

How is voting for something his constituents don't want considered to be "standing up for the American people". These people we elect are supposed to be our representatives, representing our positions to the country. Voting against the will of the people he represents is the height of arrogance.

I live in Michael Bennet's district and will be doing everything in my power to make sure he does not get re-elected. When you don’t do your job, you should be fired. What is the point of having elections anyway, if you are going to completely disregard the will of the people? Every poll shows this current bill is not what the people want!

I’m so sick of these politicians thinking they are smarter than we are and doing whatever they want. This is the core problem with our country right now.

All of you people who think this current bill is a great idea need to look at the bigger picture here…take off your blinders. While this country does indeed need healthcare reform, kind of like we thought we needed change, just what kind of reform is the question we should be asking. Most people in this country are a little surprised at the kind of change we’re getting with this Obama administration and aren’t too thrilled with it.

What is currently being proposed is not so much about healthcare reform as it is about taking over our liberties and it breaks my heart that so many are either too lazy or too naïve to see it. Try tort reform and portability. That would be real reform. The government does not need to take over the system. They will only make things worse, as history clearly proves.

As the great Ronald Reagan once said, “Government is not the solution to the problem. Government IS the problem!”

When did it become the "right thing to do" to ignore what you know are the wishes of your constituents in favor of what you believe is right (or what is lucrative, we never know about bribes)?
L in Denver:
Don't get too beside yourself with anticipation; the final program in the U.S. will very little resemble the Australian program. Our program will be tailored to make certain that the insurance companies don't lose their multi-billion dollar incomes. That would truly not be the American way!
The U. S. has completely screwed up health care for the elderly. Wait until you see what they do when they have to take care of everyone !!

This bill is insane.

#1 – We do NOT want the federal government running my healthcare, telling me how and what coverage I must have, determining what procedures I am allowing to have. Those decions are between me and my doctor and not detmined by politicans.

#2 – Medicare is just about bankrupt, Medicaid IS bankrupt, Social Security will be bankrupt for my kids, and the Post Office has been bankrupt for years. Does anyone honestly think that the Federal government can run healthcare better? COME ON

#3 – It cost too damm much and the worst possible time. Pelsoi – Reid are pulling a shell game to make this look less coslty in the next 10 years, but its all a fake. This is absolutely a "break-the-bank" bill.

#4 – $500 billion out of Medicare!!! Are you kidding? WHERE? $47 billion in "potential" fraud .. ok. So where is the other $450 billion? In cuts, thats where. Thank you AARP for standing up for the people who pay your salary.

#5 Tax's, Tax's Tax's. Thank you to all you who voted of Obama and never took the time to understand the guy and what he stood for, and now regret it. Now the counrty is paying for your blind stupidity. Redistribution of wealth, Socliaism, government control in every bit of our lives. You know .... the liberal loved knocking Bush on "trampling our civil liberties". Well, this President and Congress is doing more to take away the freedoms and liberties that made this country great, than ANY President before him.

I admire his sticking to his principles, imagine that from any politician!!!

Good. Its about time. The Democrats are starting to realize that, if they band together, they can get whatever done that needs to be done. I hope it continues. Screw the Republicans.

Wow finally a senator with the guts to do the right thing. I can't believe he hasn't been bought off by the insurance companys and big pharma. Now if only we could get some republicans not owned by the health care industry.

Again, I'll ask the question: For those of you who have actually read the bill or at least seen its main points (and there must be a great many of you, since we see so much support for this bill) – IS THERE TORT REFORM IN THIS BILL???

I'll vote for this ridiculous health care bill when everyone whom receives a Welfare check gets a job (of some sort)!

Every poll I've have seen so far..except at a certain "news" station that I won't even bother to name, shows that Americans DO want reform of healthcare and want Congress to pass a bill doing so. The only ones against this are the Republicans that are in the insurance compaines back pocket, their uninformed or under informed tea bag people, and of course the insurance company themselves. The GOP will still keep using their fear tactics to soup up their base, but their BIGGEST fear is that if this is passed and it works, then like the Christmas goose the GOP is cooked.

Sure sign that it's A Great Bill when the DEMS have to PAY OFF Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) $300,000,000 in order to get her vote.

Way to go Reid. Your term is up next year as well, I hope the people of Nevada retire you as well.

"So, for this "honorable" senator it doesn't matter what his electorate want him to do. It only matters what he and his party thinks is right. Talk about a perfect example of fascism!"

He was elected, and if he goes against the electorate, he gets unelected.

Yep, that's facism alright. Must be you went to school in the south...which would still be under Jim Crow laws if politicians didn't sometimes decide to do what's right rather than what the public wants.

So this guy will vote to impose socialised medicine on the country even though a majority of his constituents don't want it.

What astonishing, unbelievable, arrogance!

He knows what good for us, even if we're to dumb to figure it out for ourselves.

I find it interesting that King (leans right as does wife Bash) is asking if the guy would lose his job over voting his conscience. It is interesting because you don't see King asking a Republican that. It is interesting because King makes a Congressional seat to be nothing more than a simple "job."

CNN was to move center. King needs to go back to the magic map or lose his job.

The American People want and need this reform!

I guess this guy wants to make political suicide. Great, one less Democrat to worry about in Congress after 2010. By all means senator, ignore your constituents. We will relish in your defeat. There are many other pressing issues in the future that your vote will surely not be a part. Good riddance!

@buckwheat – Where have you been for the last ten years? Democrats' power came in 2006 with the excesses of the Republican administration.

He probably will lose and should if his vote doesn't represent the people he allegedly represents.

Haren, as a proud member of opposition to this bill, I'd love nothing more than to stop receiving the "benefits" of Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, etc.

However, what I'm really after is not having to pay for this nonsense.

So, for this "honorable" senator it doesn't matter what his electorate want him to do. It only matters what he and his party thinks is right. Talk about a perfect example of fascism!

To live is a right, just ask conservatives when talking about abortion. They should understand more than anyone that even if you are in the minority on a debate that saves lives you are still doing the right thing. I look at government run health care as a good temporary fix to help those who are dying NOW but I also hope their is a nice lengthy debate about what to do about the system in the future. How to perfect and even replace it with an even better system. I just want Republicans to think about who is dying today, not 4 years from now.

While getting the "change" they wanted is supposedly great, the bankrupting of the United States of America has now been assurred!

Thank you, all of you "DEMO-RATS"!

I will never understand why people are so afraid of a national program of health insurance. If anything, the plan isn't radical enough. The pharmaceutical-medical bloc in this country has put us all in the position of needing the federal government to intervene on our behalf. Think about it: Publicly traded drug companies have an obligation to their shareholders to make a profit...a big profit. Too many medical complexes have evolved into nothing more than Big Business. We, the taxpaying citizens, bear the brunt. Why are "conservatives" so afraid of national medical programs that have succeeded in Canada and in Europe for decades? When I have to choose between paying the rent and buying groceries and seeing my doctor I really have no choice – and in a modern democratic society that lack of choice is just plain wrong. If the GOP had a plan, we'd be hearing about it. All we hear is angry opposition but nothing more substantial. Hats off to Sen. Bennet for standing on principal.

This doesn't mean he doesn't care about his constituents, it means that as a freshman who never needed campaign money, he isn't in the pocket of wealthy corporations like insurance companies, so he is free to vote for what he sees is right for Coloradans. Sounds like a great reason to promote term limits and publicly funded campaigns.

The thing IS do you vote according to you party? OR do you vote the way the voters would like you to vote. It proves our elected leaders , don't listen to those who voted them in, they vote with the party, Is it time to get away from the party system and into something else..

I love all the people on this site lauding this guy for saying he'd vote with disregard to the outcome of the next election. Consider, dear fools, that if he's voted out of office, that would probably represent that the majority of his constituents do not want this bill. Thus, the act would be highly un-democratic.

Unlike those of you who encourage this kind of behavior, I find it repugnant and reprehensible.

I am not one to write comments or be all that active in politics normally but I can not believe that Congress is even considering adding this tax and spend bill. If you can't show real savings (not the smoke and mirror so called savings found in this bill) I will work for those who will not saddle us with this bankruptcy creating bill. I have never seen the mood of this country so mad at the grass roots as I have seen this past six months. Congress watch out, we will not forget your recklessness. Reform not destroy our health care now!

@Bev November 22nd, 2009 11:17 am ET
Republicans will benefit from the 2010 and 2012 elections-–as they will take the seats of the Democrats who are booted from office!!!
***YOU LIE***All American do not listen to Beck and Sean and we are not Tea Baggers or should I say Street Preachers*** We want the same Insurance that Congress has paid by Tax Payers ****

WE the People thanks and supports you Senator Bennet!!!

At least he's not afraid of doing what he thinks is right.Give him a ribbon for having guts.That more than can be said about the rest of the chickens.Joe Liberman is not a democrat, he's a independent closet republican.REMEMBER PEOPLE WHEN THE REPUBLICANS WHERE IN POWER THEY WALKED LOCK STEP WITH EVERY THING GEORGE BUSH WANTED. TAKE NOTES DO THE SAME OR ITS GOOD BYE!

Democrats power came with the giveaways of the sixties that created the perpetual welfare that is now the norm and expected.

man all these people saying that he is going against his constituents make me giggle a bit. unless you ARE one of his constituents you have no idea, you silly people. as I am one of his constituents, I am proud that he is being so bold on his stance as are most in my area. he was wishy washy when first appointed but has taken a firm position and so long as he keeps going in this direction, dude will have my vote. and honestly, he doesn't have to answer to anybody at the moment because he wasn't elected. I am proud to have him representing me both as a delegate and as a trustee.

Senator... Anything I can do to ASSIST you in losing your job, I'd be happy to do!!!!

To the writer KIM of Nov. 22.

You label all Republican's as heartless war criminals. That's about as much nonsense as my proclaiming ALL people named KIM as being as narrow minded as you seem to be by virtue of your very own posted words.

I am a Republican. I give of my time, money and energy to my church, my community and to those who have less than I have been blessed with. I detest war. I am not heartless. But I will say that people such as yourself seem to have something wrong with them when they lump everyone together just because they have different views.

Open your mind and heart Kim and find some way to get out the anger and hate that seems to be festering within you. America needs better than that kind of thinking.

Thank you Sen. Bennett, in the long run you'll be a winner as well as the rest of Americans who won't have to face the republican party of no, who are the "death panels"

Let us look at the history, people who are writing in this tickers to oppose to health care bill are all enjoying good thing passed by only democrats like social security,medicare unemployment insurance,civil right, voting right,creation of SEC, financial regulation etc.
What is the party of No's input in all this bills is big ZERO.
THEY ARE ON WRONG SIDE AGAIN.
Those who oppose this bill should give up all above help which they are getting from Govt.

seek and ye shall receive.

Well good for him.....

I get so mad at McConnell standing there saying it isn't what the American people want....NOOOOOOOOOO, that isn't true Mr. McConnell, it is the Republicans who don't want it....who do you think you are fooling....

Being a leader means realizing that your followers don't always know what is best for themselves. Just because the people you represent are ignorant and scream "socialism! no health care reform!" doesn't mean you should do exactly what they say. A lot of Americans are, to be quite honest, little more than mouth breathers. As a result, the people who represent us need to act a bit like the parents of a toddler–guiding us to enlightenment even if we're kicking and screaming the entire way.

So yes, he's voting for health care reform. It's the right thing to do even if some of his constituents disagree.

For you Republican bashers, I cannot wait to see how this country is doing two three year from now. The Government owns the auto industry, healthcare and you. Yay for Bolshevik.

Government run health care is a good temporary fix. More people are dying every day we have this debate. Shouldn't something be passed temporarily so that these people can get help until we find a better solution? These things take time and if the Democrats think this is a perfect bill they are mistaken but I applaud their efforts and I hope this gets passed and used until a more lengthy debate can be done to perfect the system. I am a true fence sitter. I just want to see people not suffer because they cannot afford their meds.

Ready to lose your job? Good, because we're ready to fire you.

KIM: The problem is you think this is about saving lives....and you probably think Global warming is about the weather. Neither is true. Both are about a progressive movement taking away liberty / free choice and imposing an elitist governing body. Please understand when you think conservatives are heartless, you are missing the point. We care so much for people that we want liberty and freedom to reign not progressivism.

Right wingnuts are the darlings of dementia November 22nd, 2009 11:36 am ET

Bennet knows that the health insurance industry will spend millions to make sure he is not elected. We are all going to see increased health insurance premiums to pay for their anti reform media blitz.
-------------

Are you dumber than a bag of hammers? If this guy doesn't get elected, it will be because he explicitly stated that he is prepared to not represent his constituency.

And let's say, for the sake of argument, the health care industry does throw big time money into media ads in an attempt to keep him from being elected. To keep it simple, let's say they spend a whopping $300M (of course that is way more than they'd ever spend). This amounts to a passed on cost of $1 per American that we'll pay via our health care premiums. However, and oh so coincidentally, the $300M would be the exact same amount the Harry Reid gave to the Louisiana senator to secure her vote for this health care reform. One has actually happened, yet is probably okay in your book, while the other is an outlandish hypothetical which you surely think is a reasonable argument.

People – wake up – this isn't a Lib, Dem or Repub thing – it's an American thing.

People are slowly getting the message – that politicans work for the people, unfortunately, like this Administration or not – they're all working for the betterment of themselves, not us. DO NOT VOTE IN ANY ENCUMBENT – NOT ONE! NOT AT YOUR STATE LEVEL, NOT AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL, DO NOT RE-VOTE ANY ENCUMBENT BACK IN OFFICE! Let someone else give the job a try, most in office today, all across the U.S. have failed miserably.

Taxing us is not an answer to every state's financial woes. Taxing us should not be the answer for something the federal government wants that MOST Americans did not want (stimulus, bailing out auto industry, and now health care, etc.). It's not happened yet – but we will all start paying for these follies very soon.

We should all be revolting together over higher taxes, worthless politicians and this soicalization agenda!

The problem with the healthcare debate is that there is far too much equivocation. All Americans want healthcare reform; but when reform includes the government's creeping control over the system without addressing important issues that could improve coverage in common sense ways, then that is the type of reform I do not support. Even more so, it is what most Americans do not want; therefore, Senator Bennet could lose his seat for supporting legislation the people do not want. On a side note, a democratic republic we are; but always ignorant, we are not.
Also, it is not the government's job to care for its citizens, only to protect their rights. It is when government becomes a nanny that those precious rights are lost.

Thanks to this Senator for standing up for the American people!

Of course he doesn't care if he loses his job, he's set for life. He will get healthcare for free for the rest of his life thanks to the taxpayers.

Obama will be elected again if ACCORN is still in business.

"If you get to the final point and you are a critical vote for health care reform and every piece of evidence tells you if you support the bill you will lose your job, would you cast the vote and lose your job?” CNN’s John King asked Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado on Sunday’s State of the Union.

“Yes,” Bennet bluntly and simply replied."

As I recall, that's how we lost the space shuttle Challenger. We elect representatives to make the tough calls for us, yes. But really to PUT THE BRAKE ON POPULAR IDEAS, to think twice before jumping off the cliff, to control passion, not get out in front of it and charge blindly.

This moron wasn't even elected; He was APPOINTED as a shill for the Democrat Party. It's no skin off his nose if he loses the seat; they'll just appoint him to some other post as a reward for being a Good Dog.

You voted for change, now you have it.Welcome to a Third world government and soon to be country.

Now that's what I've been waiting to hear for a long, long time. Bravery and committment are in short supply in politics especially if being so might cost the candidate their job. I'll gladly contribute to your re-election funds Senator. And I live in Kentucky!

I'm a Canadian watching your debate on this issue with great interest and respect for such a huge decision for your country. As I notice the back and forth opposing views and the hope for a split among Democrats I realize something. The Democrats are at least debating amongst themselves the best way to move forward and how to represent the interests of their constituents. Where is the honest input into a process that has to reach a positive conclusion anyway? I don't understand why there is no effort by the other party to at least frame the debate as opposed to dividing the country. I understand that for all Americans this a huge discussion and that there are solid arguments and real concerns on both sides. I just think instead of dividing a country much of the world looks up to, get in there with the Democrats and fight for your constituents interests and get this done at the same time.

they work for the people, not the gov. hope he loses his job and his to get food stamps. we need a strong leader, not a wimp dem. I'm not a republican by the way.

He doesnt need to worry. When he gets voted out, the crony arm of the administration has already guarenteed him a new appointment somewhere else. Mark my words. This man does not have integrity; he was bought off.

Senator Benett has principles. Much more than my Senator McConnell who will do anything to block a health bill or any other bill that Obama may offer. In order to pay for some of these future investments in country we need to bring our troops home now from Iraq and Afghanistan, stop supporting Israel, cut the DOD budget significantly. A third of this money goes to special non-bid contractors who are making a killing while our brave young men and women are being killed. It is a national disgrace that we have so little invested in our human resources infrastructure and physical infrastructures. Shame on Obama, congress and both Republicans and Democrats who have produced a watered down health care bill.

We will take this guy in North Carolina any time!
Thank you for having principles and guts!!

I'm so proud of my newbie Colorado senator! Thank you, Senator Bennett for making the public statement that all public servants should make! Please keep saying it louder an louder so that those old, embedded senators trapped in their self interests hear you. You are setting a good example. It's about what the people need, not about the next election. The public has already expressed its opinion. The majority of people polled want insurance for all and a public option that makes private options more responsive, accountable and competitive in the market. Fat cats be gone! Up with the people who need health insurance and need to be able to afford it. That's what government is all about in the rest of the developed world.

Good, because if you pass this, you will hopefully be on your way.

Too bad Democrats are so in bed with their special interest/big donors. You can't even keep your promises made only months ago. You sold out the people, using our tax dollars to make private deals with the Insurance, Big Pharma, Hospitals and the like, guaranteeing no price negotiations (moronic) , guaranteeing increases, all on our back, so we can pay for a your volunteers and you get the money.

This bill does not represent any reform. And that IS what we were supposed to get. '

No competition, no lower prices, all just to give subsidies to low income who can cook the books and mandate we all buy at prices already guaranteed to increase. Only in idiot would think this was good.

You may not be aware, but more people are paying attention.

It's not majority rule...it's minority rights. Thank you senator

I am not mad at all democrats. But, I am furious at the tactics used by this regime (late night behind the table closed door voting, bribery now called "horse trading", not allowing the other party to read the bill).

These are Ghetto tactics brought to the forefront in Washington from the backstreets of Chicago! I can't believe America stands for this!

Not representing your constituency.

-Qualification #1 for being a Democratic Congressman.

“If you get to the final point and you are a critical vote for health care reform and every piece of evidence tells you if you support the bill you will lose your job, would you cast the vote and lose your job?” CNN’s John King asked Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado on Sunday’s State of the Union.

“Yes,” Bennet bluntly and simply replied.

"every piece of evidence" can only mean voters are calling you to tell you not to vote for it. If you were to vote for it in spite of voters telling you they would vote you out of office, you are NOT serving those who elected you.

Disgusting.

Let's see...the majority of Americans oppose health care reform as it is now being presented....yet the Democrats are attempting to ramrod it through....hmmm....yea....that makes a lot of sense. But of course they are musch smarter than, and know far more than the silly American voter does. What arrogance. By the way Kim – when will the Democrats start working to save the unborn? Perhaps those aren't lives worth saving because they are such an inconvenience.

You vote for a person's platform. This man whom was elected to office, ran on this exact platform. Republicans hate how the Republic is set up. This is a true profile in courage, knowing very well that one's political job is endangered by voting for what is best for the majority of American's is a page out of the playbook of Congressman Sam Houston, one of the greatest of profiles in courage of all times.

Common arrogance amongst elected or in this case appointed officials. They fail to recognize or understand that they represent the people, not their own selfish ideological agenda. I'll be the first one to throw him out of office next year.

I will be happy to help you do that senator!!

If your doing what you were elected to do, represent those that elected you, imagine how happy you could have been be a servant and representative of the people and doing a GOOD job for those you represent. NOBODY elected you to office because they wanted to hand over their way of life and prosperity to what you THOUGHT YOU should do.

Get could pictures and see the sights while your there, I hope you enjoyed your vacation is the not sure a arrogant pompous idiot will find humble Ohio a place to return to.

Sounds like he is not representing what the people of his district want if he is afraid of losing next term. Voting for the party, not the people. And quarterback, I worked in healthcare for a long time too and never had a problem. With your bad attitude, I can see why you think it's broken.

I would like to encourage Sen. McConnell to visit the people in the coal country of Kentucky. It appears he forgot about them, by putting his insignificant political party before real people.

1. If universal health care was so awesome, then tell me why the Canadians who can afford to cross over to the US to get their health care come here in droves!

2. Since Massachusetts instituted their 100% health care, the state is now broke and is already rationing care with increasing premiums. Wow, that sounds terrific!

3. California and all the democratic dorks are now reaping what they have sewn for the last 30 years of ridiculous bill passing and spending. Your state is BROKE!

Support our troops and citizens,healthcare saves lives war dosent and we spend untold amounts for that .Enough hypocracy if you are pro-life, healthcare saves lives.

who is arrogant senator McConnell and his republican colleague to block even health care debate or Democrats and this president who is trying to REBUILD this country in health care,energy, financial regulation, education etc.
What they did in last 8 years, why they did not tackle this issue if they had better idea for health care?
Answer is they never wanted to reform health care and hurt their financier insurance co.

I love these worms saying that because polls showing more constituents are against something than support it, you should vote that way. If this were the case, we only need a machine and not a person with his own thought process.

A senator has a responsibility to his/her constituents AND to the nation. He uses his best thinking to arrive at a reasoned conclusion.

You will NEVER see a Republican senator or other politician think for themselves.

Rats they are.

Senator Bennet knows that he is going to lose the election next year and is simply making all the points he can with the DNC. If he plays his cards right, he may even get an appointment from the Obama Administration out of this... Wake Up Colorado, this was never about representing you..

When President Obama was running, he said no mandates, this bill has mandates. It cuts medicare, and taxes those of us who have health care. It taxes healthcare procedures and healthcare items such as wheelchairs. This bill will be paid for by backdoor taxes on the middle class, the unions know this so they don't support it.

We need to reform parts of healthcare, pre existing conditions, tort reform, waste and fraud, we need competition across state lines, and yes, we need a program to insure those without insurance.

This complete take over where we punish women with limits on abortion rights, where we buy votes of one Senator for 100 million dollars for her state, where we lie to the American people over and over again, is not what the majority of Americans want. I have already told my Senators, no limits on women's healthcare, no new taxes, and no bribes to specific senators, tell your senators what you don't like. Stop it before it's to late.

Does anyone else find it the least bit suspicious that the insurance companies actually endorse the health care bill? Just food for thought.

Ron – why should they have the same health care as us? They're elected officials, and as such they shouldn't be burdened like us, right?

I just hate this argument that members of Congress should be forced to have the same health care as us. It just doesn't make any sense – it would be like asking someone who works for Ford to drive a Ford vehicle, or someone who works at Microsoft to use a Windows computer, or a chef to eat the food he prepares. Those are all just completely unreasonable expectations. Wouldn't it be the same as asking members of Congress to follow the national speed limit when they drive, to annually pay their taxes, etc.? They aren't required to do this stuff, are they? Of course not.

Oh, wait a second, they are required to follow the laws they pass, so it actually DOES make COMPLETE sense to have the Congress hamstrung to the fiasco they're forcing down our throats. Good call Ron.

What happened to our representative form of government? He is ready to vote for what the DNC has been bought and paid for by with the realization that his voters will kick him out!!!! What is wrong with the left? Do they really hate voters that much? They really don't care about Americans or our opinions forget voting them out in some socialist countries the end of office is a little more permanent.

What a worthless man. Going against the people he represents. Pathetic! I hope he's tossed along with the rest of those socialist politicians that are trying to cram Obamacare down the throats of Americans, Americans that want jobs, not Obamacare.

Hypothetical question: Guessing that when this reform succeeds, he will be returned to office.

Representing your people didn't seem to matter to the conservatives when they ran a carpet-bagger candidate in NYS-23! The man couldn't even vote in that district ... and didn't know squat about "the people" he wanted to represent. When it comes to real principals – and the people who have them ... the GOP just attack and complain ... none of their elected are allowed to think for themselves... much less vote other than told to.

Thank you Senator! Saving people's life is always worth losing a job. Unless you are a heartless, evil, selfish, war criminal Republican.

Now if the other 99 would go, we would be in good shape.

When the government, in this case a particular senator, willing refuses to represent the will of the people, they have set themselves above the people as rulers and tyrants.

The Senate and Congress are agressively trying to overturn the will of the people as stated in the 10th Ammendment. They are trying to strip the states and people of their rights and in doing so they will set themselves above the people.

The unbelievable is now possible.

I am a Coloradoan and he represents me. Can't please everyone and everyone is not a republican.

The purpose of having elected officials, is for the elected official to REPRESENT the constituents. If the constituents don't wont reform, he is obligated to abide by with those wishes. I know that some of the people on this board are saying that it is noble that he stands up for himself. Unfortunatley, in his current position, he doesn't represent himself, he represents those that voted him into office.

If elected officials can simply do whatever they want, whenever they want, why even hold elections?

Haren: You actually believe this or any other senator has actually taken the time to read the whole bill? Do you know how many pages it is and how long that would take? Do you realize they change and add to it all the time. Fat chance anyone has actually read the bill in it's entirety.

Cuba provides 100% of their citizens healthcare, but I'd bet we Americans would not like their standards compared to ours. C'mon, let's all be like Cuba and the former communist nations and provide everything you need - all at the Government's choosing. NOT!

Thank you Senator Bennet!! You still have my vote. Screw the repubs!!

has anyone seen a republican alternative no they only use hate and division!

The Democrats in congress and the administration are not going to lose their jobs because they passed health care reform. They are going to lose their jobs because they passed the wrong bill at the wrong time. This is a rediculous expensive bill that does not reduce the cost of health care so it does not solve the greatest problem with health care in America.

Oh, and by the way we still have an economy on life support and unemployment above 10%. This bill does not add jobs and it does not help the economy. It's a bad idea at the worst time.

In short, this Democrat is stating that he considers himself noble for using his position to inflict his own personal wants that run contrary to the demands of his constituents.

There's nothing noble or honorable about being a self-centered socialist jerk. And baby, that's all this guy really is.

When votes are taken, each congressman and senator should be required to announce before voting the amount of money he has received from insurance companies.

Steve in Charleston: You do remember that Senators are or at least were supposed to represent their STATE at the Federal level. So if this particular senator is doing something other than what the people of his state want done then he is not doing the job of senator as outlined in the Constitution.

Thank the Lord there is a righteous one among them. Don't be sewed by the political system any more than you have all ready, Sir.
Any way none of the elected leaders except the Supreme Court Justices should stay" Until death do them part!" It's time for Senator Robert Byrd to go home after the Heath Care Law is signed.

CASE closed. Bennett just said it. Democrats will lose the election in 2010 and 2012!

I am a registered voter in Colorado and you WILL have my vote. Thank you for supporting this necessary legislation. I have lived overseas and experienced basic healthcare for all citizens, don't believe the naysayers. There are no exhaustive waits (no more than I have found in my local emergency room), no complicated forms, just equal and fair basic coverage for all. If you want to pay for additional cover that is your option, a lot of people take it, but you do not have to do so. The doctors in Australia who stitched me up in emergency, examined me in the local dr. office, and performed xrays were all competent and professional. At the end of each visit the only concern was my health and follow up not my credit rating or payment schedule. Stop for one moment and imagine this change, here in America. I am beside myself with anticipation.

Bennet knows that the health insurance industry will spend millions to make sure he is not elected. We are all going to see increased health insurance premiums to pay for their anti reform media blitz.

Seriously? What this says is he doesn't care what his constituents think, he's voting with his party... That's not what he was elected for.

putting people of the country first the republicans dont want to spend money on health care they need that cash for there next war either iran or in south america

Thank you!

This is a bad idea. It is socialist and tax burdem. So, hopefully goodbye and good riddens.

As I read through these comments, I see a major shift away from this whole Obama – Pelsoi – Reid liberal politics and back to the moderate-conservative that a majority of Amercins are. This bill is the most INSANE piece of legislation to be proposed ever, and will ruin this country economicaly for at least a generation. Thank you to all those who blindly push for this in taxing my children and grandchildren in the name of socialism.

But the point I am finally glad to see is the PEOPLE standing up for the "will of the people". These idiots in Congress were eletced to "serve the wishes of the people", not to instill their own politcial beliefs or blindly follow their party, against the wishes of the people they represent. Power, greed, arragance, self-serviing politians.

Integrity and courage, how refreshing. Bless you!

Mr. Bennet wont be losing his job cause the silent majority actually supports health reform. The minority think that they are the majority only because they are louder, rowdier and dont know what they are talking about.

"When a freshman Democrat places the ethical and moral prevailing issue of the ages before themselves, it gives all Americans Hope!"

So you're saying that when a representative of the people premeditatively goes against the wishes of those he represents, Americans become more hopeful? When a representative of the people does the opposite of what the people he represents want, he is dictating to them, not representing them. If the collective hope of America is to derive from dictatorial behavior, then we are all screwed. But, I guess a large number of Americans are fine with such behavior because it saves them the hassle of having to think for themselves.

Good job! Hey McConnell, how many of your Kentucky hillbillies have health insurance? Very few, i'm sure. I hope they run your butt right out of KY. You sir are a loser.

Senator Bennett, thank you for standing up for what you believe in, and for standing for your constituents' health and long-life. As of right now, you have my vote (and likely my husband's vote) in next year's elections.

John King , the tool of the GOP, why don`t you ask the same question to the republicans who are voting against the Health care reform?
For Democrats , take note of this republican tactics as you move forward with the health care debate.

The Strategy Going Forward

Posted by Erick Erickson (Profile)

Sunday, November 22nd at 9:36AM EST
14 Comments

Sixty Senators voted to proceed to debate health care. There will be another shot at stopping it through filibuster.

Mary Landrieu, after getting $300 million in the bill for Louisiana, voted for it.

Blanche Lincoln of Arkansas not only voted for it, but now favors a public option.

Voters will remember.

Along the way, there seems to be divisions shaping up within the Democratic Party. Amendments will be offered to try to patch up differences.

Republicans should exploit this. Drag out consideration of the bill as those divisions grow, then offer amendments to exploit the divisions.

As I have said before, if Republicans work to improve the legislation, they presuppose its passage. Instead, the GOP should plan for the destruction of the bill by offering amendments designed to divide and fracture the Democrat coalition.
Category: Health care

Now this is a true example of one man realizing his duty to the People. He's not yelling and screaming and blaming the other side. He realizes the seriousness and importance of this historic moment and puts the needs of the People first instead of voting in a way that makes him politically comfortable for the next election. He is an example of what is Good-and rare-in poltics these days. HealthCare Must be passed Now. It is a crime that so very many Americans are without Health Insurance. I commend you Sen. Bennet. Your constituents are lucky to have you as their voice in Congress.

public is misguided by fox news and insurance co.
I am sure Senator has read the bill and he will be the better judge to vote accordingly.
Thanks senator for taking right step.

It seems that a lot of people on this board seem to misunderstand the difference between a "Democracy" and a "Republic." In the case of a Republic (which is what we have) we elect (or appoint) officials who use their knowledge, expertise, and best judgement to make decisions they believe will benefit BOTH their district and the nation as a whole. Sen. Bennet has no obligation to blindly follow what his constituents think they want based upon some scare-tactic television ads paid for by corporations with a vested interest in the outcome, in fact to do so would be to completely abbrogate his duties.

And I agree with Ed in Santa Fe - you would never see a Republican take such a couragous stand, although I suspect we will now see some GOPers get on the "I'll risk my job over this" bandwagon. Of course, it will only be Senators/Representatives from solidly red districts that have no chance of being kicked out - after all, the GOP only makes promises it never has to worry about keeping.

The scenario posed is "you would lose your seat with a yes vote" meaning his constituents don't support health care reform. But he still would vote yes. So Gov't knows best? That's the whole problem in this country....and it's on both sides of the aisle. Health care is another entitlement program.....and people will complain about this one too when it's all said and done. It's never enough. As Margaret Thatcher once said, "The problem with socialism is you eventually run out of other people's money".

This guy just got my vote! We need more politicians like Senator Bennet and Representative Alan Grayson (Florida).

At last, a member of congress who is willing to put the well being of US citizens ahead of his/her career. Now that's refreshing!

A man that thinks achieving the job is more important than self preservation.

Hey GOP that is what loving your country is all about.

Personally, regardless of party, a representative should do just that represent his/her constituency and not party line. People don't vote to elect people who vote party line........ or do they?

The only way we the people are ever going to get a fair shake and meaningful Health Care is to force all the 535 to drop their special, just for them, Golden Health Care plan and join in the one they put together for The People, after all aren't they supposed to be JUST LIKE US? Oops I've let the cat out of the bag they are not like us they're special, so deserving of special privileges are they!

If they don't vote the way you think they should vote against them in the next election that is the only choice you have so just watch them check their voting record on line and vote your conscience take our country back from these self created special privileged 535 yahoos.

What an arrogant, patronizing jerk!

One question: Is tort reform included in the health care "reform" bill. If not, then it is dead on arrival, since worthless trial lawyers (ie-most of our career politicians) will continue to be able to level baseless lawsuits on medical providers with no skin off their nose, and malpractice insurance will continue to skyrocket.

So basically he is saying it is more important to represent his party than the people from his state. And these clowns wonder why the Amercian people are tired of them!

Michael Bennet is an honorable man to sacrifice his job for what is best for the country. He knows in a swing state that the teabaggers and big corporations will tear him apart for doing what is right. Jesus sacrificied himself too for his people.

Now John King should ask same type of question to republican.
When they will represent average US citizen instead of insurance agency?
They will vote to help poor people in their district or they will side with rich people?

when americans realize that there are NO politicians . . in either party. . . . that care what YOU as americans think you will sleep a lot better at night. . . . . . .

Sometimes leadership is doing what you believe is right even if you can't convince everyone to go along with you at the time. It is ultimately Senator Bennet's responsibility to justify his actions to the people, not just stick it in their face. If Senator Bennet's constituents ultimately disagree with how he has represented them, then they have the right to remove him from office. However, the constant fear and hate-mongering that surrounds the health care debate has made any sort of rational discussion nearly impossible.

"No where in your rambling incoherent response did you come close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. We are all dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points and may God have mercy on your soul."

This quote (from the movie Billy Madison) pretty much sums up every argument I've heard from those in favor of universal health care.

Have these idiots even READ the new bill? I sincerely doubt it! That is why I am totally against it! I will never allow you democrats to stuff crap down America's throat just because you think your majority in the Senate is a "mandate". It is not, and trust me in 2010 you will see a loss of multiple democratic positions due to your "great healt care saga".

It is literally unthinkable for a Republican Lawmaker to risk losing a future election on a single issue.

Its entirely refreshing the business as usual as portrayed by the Republican Party for the past 8 years is coming to a end.

When a freshman Democrat places the ethical and moral prevailing issue of the ages before themselves, it gives all Americans Hope!

Colorado Democrat Sen. Michael Bennet, thank you for helping to restore the tarred and tarnished image of US Senators.

The Democratic Party, YES WE CAN!

Sen. Bennett, THANK YOU! I wish Senator Mazx Baucus believed the same way unfortunately, he takes too much money from insurance companies to vote for Public Option.

Going forward under public option, doesn't mean that there will be a huge influx of people running to the hospital because they now have coverage. The 32 % of American that don't care abou their health, probably 1/2 of them already have health insurance, so what will that change? The other half doesn't care enough to get off the couch and know what the doctors will say.

Public option will open the doors for those that do care about their health, that are willing to call and make a doctor's appt!

I tired of people proclaiming their Christian values in one breath and in the next trying to deny ANY man, woman, or child health coverage. REAL CHRISTIAN values!

Why should you be any different than anyone else? It's about time a few of you lose your jobs. All of you would be great. Term limits! Vote 'em in. Vote 'em out. One term, that's it, regardless of party.

Good for you Senator,

Ironically that is exactly the kind of leadership on this issue that will get him re-elected. Have a spine Dems the worst thing you could lose is your job meanwhile if you do your job a lot more Americans will find and keep theirs.

Hey tea partiers,

If it is about the money where were you when George W thought it would be a great idea to spend 12 million dollars an hour occupying a country that never attacked us?

I get why the health insurance companies are against Obamacare. After all wouldn't Federal Express or UPS do better if they could get rid of the Post Office and they could charge whatever they wanted to send a package.

I get why the GOP leadership is against it considering how long they were out of power after they failed to stop Social Security or Medicare. But what I can't believe that any regular person would be against this.

So who is paying you guys. The GOP leadership the insurance companies or both?

Patriots??? Thomas Jefferson is rolling over in his grave at the likes of you.

We have a representative form of government. So,why in the world would this idiot vote against the will of his constituency?

There have been several posts that seem to indicate that if one is not in favor of the democrats plan for healthcare that one is 1) a Republican and 2) doesn't want healthcare reform.

These are both incorrect. While that may be true for some people by and large the majority of people want healthcare reform. We all realize the system isn't perfect. News-flash, it never will be. But lets put that aside. There are many things that can be done to reform the system that do not require such drastic change and turnover of such a large portion of our economy. Also many of those who disagree with the Democrats are not Republicans, but rather independents or Libertarians.

We need to get away from these Lib/Con Dem/Repub mentality. It is leading us all down a bad road. We must remember we are all Americans and we have a representative REPUBLIC.

this is what it means to be a true democrat--thank you.

Congratulations to the senator for standing up for the American people. All public representatives should be thinking and doing the same.

I wonder how many more Senators would support the legislation if they were to have to leave office due to term limits. I don't support term limits, but this fact raises the question of how many senators are voting for their convictions and how many are going to vote to save their hides!

Bravo!

Isn't he supposed to represent the people? If he feels the majority is agsainst this and it may cost him his job, then the reason he will loose his job is because he didn't do his job!

That is what he's supposed to do!! And you know what? His constituents elected him the first time – now, they SHOULD elect him the second time... If they don't, then NO LOVE LOST!!

If ALL democrats – who got in office because of other democrats – think like Bennett, we WILL NOT have problems in 2010 and 2012!! Case and Point!

He is very sensible. He understands why people should not reject public services like: food regulations, transportation, police, emergency and why reject health care reform for all!

You can try to paint yourself as some kind of hero, taking the high road, but we are on to you and this tactic.

If you know something is extremely unpopular with your constituents, and you are supposed to be a REPRESENTATIVE and SERVANT of your constituents, and you vote the opposite of what your constituents want simply to be a "team player" within your party, YOU DESERVE TO BE VOTED OUT OF OFFICE and WILL BE VOTED OUT OF OFFICE. All our best to you back in the real world when we throw you out of office for being Nancy Pelosi's boot boy. Maybe someday you'll grow a spine.

Good luck with all of that.

This senator is speaking from his gut and for his constituens; knowing that the the time has come to pass healthcare reform for ALL AMERICANS!!!!...NOT based on some political calculation like the republiklans are fond of doing by being obstructionist and saying "NO" at every turn when they are called upon to do the work the American people elected them to do!

BTW, John King is still carrying water for republiklans with his nonsensical line of questioning!!!!

You wingnuts have to get away from "Extreme Media."

You threaten anyone who supports the President; you threaten anyone who takes a stand to help the 45 million being uninsured, you call anyone who tries to help people a socialist, nazi, communist, or a fascist; you covet the cover of "Newsweek," you are against killing the unborn, but love war and killing doctors who advocate 'planned parenthood.' You are against taxes for the rich, because Rush, Glenn, Bill, and Sean would have to pay more. You support a foreign billionaire's attempts to destroy the president.

And all this is done in the name of Christianity?

Matt,
I seriously doubt that you voted for president Obama looking at your statement that you posted. At least admit the truth before you spew your spit. I thought that the republican party were supposed to stand for Christian principles like, oh, I don't know, like,"THOUGH SHALL NOT LIE." Have a good life sir, and good riddance to your party. I really hate to say that, but the republican party has just proved themselves a party of devils and cowards. If you are too cowardly to even debate the issue that you feel like should be "changed", then you are truely a spineless coward. I got a question for you, WWJD, he would support a non-profit healthcare system. Remember, he healed them for free, and he rejected NO ONE. The church has become a place of self worshipers, not worshipers of God. That is why God owns me, and never the church. Have a good life sir.

So much for representitive government!

I would like for all of the democrats who do end up voting for this bill to lose their seats. That way,we can get some "intelligent" thinkers in there who will reverse this ridiculous health care debacle. America, we do not need to follow the downslide of Obama and his henchmen! Obama desires to destroy the U.S. and make our standard of living to the level of the third world countries (to make himself feel better). Let us not go quietly into the night!

You are saying you are in the Senate for some other reason than to represent your constituents.

Global Zero makes a point about costs already increasing. Just wait until this legislation passes and EVERYONE will be REQUIRED to have health insurance, with absolutely nothing to control the increases in premiums that insurance companies will charge. Think you dodge this? No way. There are penalties for not having insurance. Low costs in the first couple of years, but increasing year over year. There is/was even talk of jailing people who didn't buy insurance.

Both sides of the political spectrum are wrong when they say Senators should vote according to how their constituents want them to vote. A Senator's role,and it's why they get six years, is to represent POLICY, under the assumption that they have more time to read the details than the average person, who is busy with other matters. House members are more beholden to their constituency because they're limited to 2 year terms and smaller districts. That said, those who are against health care reform are typically just Rushbots who take all their talking points from talk radio.

It's nice to see how elected officials or appointed cronies represent their constituents. I have no problem if this bill passes both the House and the Senate, provided they EXPLAINED everything in that bill to us. What ever happened to our official coming down from their arrogant perch in Washington, explain the bill to their state (or district) and show why this would be better for us in the long haul?

Am I asking too much here?

"John King never ask such blunt questions to Republican. I wonder why?"

=====================

Because all polls are saying that the MAJORITY in the country do NOT support this health care disaster being forced down our throats by the Democrats--ESPECIALLY the public option!!!

Therefore, it is going to be the Democrats who are going to be in trouble during the 2010 and 2012 elections--because they voted for this Bill and shoved it down the throats of the MAJORITY, even when they said that they did NOT want it.

Republicans will benefit from the 2010 and 2012 elections-–as they will take the seats of the Democrats who are booted from office!!!

I am already a proud Democrat....but Senators like this make me even prouder! God bless you because you put caring over politics! This to me shows you have "values"!

In Japan, you can get an MRI for $100, and an overnight stay in a hospital for $10. Doctors, pharma and insurance execs aren't all multimillionaires. You know who has a problem with it? Probably doctors and industry execs here in the USA.

You people need to do some serious homework. Right now, America has the healthcare it deserves based on voter apathy, misinformation, and campaign finance laws.

Mr.senator:

You must be very proud of yourself...you have similar qualities to a suicide bomber....destruction of a country worth taking for the price of your life or career...

the people do not want Obamacare and therefore they don't want you...ADIOS!!!

And, he will be accommodated. Here in Virginia, we went Red in a big way by electing Bob. As a democrat, I am enjoying Sarah Palin's book immensely. On page 378, she speaks about the liberal media with the quote, What a bunch of buffoons. The tide has turned, and it is so good.

Good for you, Senator Bennett!

I am sure the folks in Colorado who have NO insurance, who worry daily how they will get their kids treated if they get sick, and who become despondent about this worry (like I did as a single mother) will appreciate your efforts on their behalf.

And that is why you are there.

Even if you lose in 2010, you will be able to sleep at night knowing you did your best.

How much were you paid for your vote Bennett? On election day in 2010, I plan to have a bumper sticker that says .."my vote is for sale to the highest bidder," let's see if I get arrested.

All of you who are saying that the majority of people in this country are opposed to health care reform need to stop getting ALL of your information from Fox News.

The reason that Bennet suspects that he might lose his job over his vote is because he was already vulnerable as an appointee who wasn't the first choice of most democrats and indepents in Colorado, and now the health insurance industry and the GOP propaganda machine will spend MILLIONS to try to defeat by doing and saying ANYTHING, without any regard for facts of truth.

It's not because he is representing the will of the majority of his constituents. He IS doing that.

He is my senator and I approve of the job he is doing.

ummm..yes...because I know better than the people. (the democratic mantra).

I sure hope he gets his wish, any politician that puts himself above his constituents deserves to be fired.

Your job is to represent us Coloradans and do the best for Colorado. If you know you are "going to lose your job" because we don't want this bill... why do it? Are you more concerned about the democratic party than the state you are actually supposed to represent? You just solidified the fact that I am going to vote for who ever is running against you. At least they may actually do their job and represent Colorado!

where were all these people talking about losing their country and betraying it 2 years ago when they were losing their savings due to gas prices, two wars, out of control banks, and a do nothing congress. Now congress is working (on weekends to no less) they a whining about congress. The truth is as a republican I must sit back and look on my side of the ledger to see what my party has done for this country and I must say the only thing its done for me is give me more money (because I happen to be in that 3 percent) Obama says is rich. However, As I travel abroad and take some time to refresh my US history knowledge I realize my past views on this issue may not be on the right side of american history if I do not support some effort to fix healthcare. So though I don't like it all we have to move forward our people are sick and dieing and getting financial ruin for a basic need. No founding father would stand to see America continue on this road.

You have to be careful of people who are thrown in to fill a space. Harry Truman was chosen to run on Roosevelts ticket because he was a nobody but was responsible for the largest noise ever made in anger when he had the guts to end World War 2 with that A-Bomb. We need someone now that can make decisions instead of travel plans at out expense.

If he is going to lose his seat by voting for health care... then obviously the people in his district do not want it. This means he is not reflecting the will of his people, which is his entire purpose for being elected in the first place! Why would you not do what you are there for!? Represent your people! Not Your Interest!

Sounds like someone doesn't understand the concept of representative government.

Sic semper tyrannis

Me thinks someone forgot who his bosses actually are. We've gotten to the point, actually we've been here for quite awhile, that the government thinks they are the boss of the people rather than the other way around.

The constitution was set up to limit the federal government and somewhere along the line we as a country strayed far away from that ideal.

Wow sometime I wonder if Bill MAHER'S comment that "most Americans are simply stupid. Bush went into Iraq FOR NOTHINGGGGGGGG and the deficit hit the roof and someone that is overlooked. People blame Obama for the enconomy which is the dumbest thing that I have ever heard of for someone being in Office for ten months. If that was even truth hell I would even ask him to be impeached from office. Socilized medicine (HEALTH CARE) wow again dum dum dum medicaid is a GOVERNMENT run program. Most of all as a African American man I'm rather insulted that the republican party think that I myself would be even fool why they even have MICHEAL STEELE as chairman of the party. Hmmm what are the odds of the first black elected President of the UNITED STATES then the first elected chairman of the Republican party to be black also. GIVE ME A DAM BREAK OF I MYSELF DIDNT FALL FROM A TURNIP TRUCK!!!! STEELE IS A FOOL IF HIS DISPLAY OF THE 1980 HIP TALK INSULTING HIS OWN PEOPLE WITH WORK. STEELE YOUR A IDIOT AND DEBATING YOU ON ISSUES WOULD BE A JOKE HELL I'LL CRUSH YOU ON THE ISSUES.

"Just another traitor"

No, he is someone with amazingly high moral standards to do what is right. In the civil rights movement, it was political suicide in my home state of Mississippi to stand up for equal rights and go AGAINST the wishes of the most vocal of the people (note, not the MOST people, just the most vocal). Having affordable health care is a civil rights and a human rights issue. It is about giving the people what every other industrialized nation has done years ago. This representative was elected to do THIS job and pass THIS bill. Hurray for Senator Bennet!!!!!!

buckwheat, i hope you lose your insurance and need medical help...that way you see what its like to be hardworking, have no insurance, and go into insane debt

Good, you and rest of the socialist morons called democrats.

The GOP is the party of big welfare, big entitlement, and big handouts as long as they go to their business interest,fraternal friends and other brothers and buddies. They have lost their way and should be ashame to call themselves Americans! The Demos are not far behind.

We need more leaders like this-a very high standard of integrity.

Maybe the President can pass a bill everyone agrees on if the President would just lie to us all about what is in it. Republicans don't mind being lied to and don't mind paying billions for a war, even when they are lied to to get their support for it. Maybe they have never seen a person, who has worked hard and paid taxes their entire life, be denied life saving cancer treatment (by the insurance company they pay premiums to) and die. Those who want a free ride already get it by going to their nearest emergency room, or the use Medicare/Medicaid.

This guy is the perfect example of what has happened in our government.

He was voted in by the people of his state....to represent THEM! Not himself, not a political agenda, not even his own pride and ego.

Our representatives jobs are to represent US! If they can't do that...if they refuse to do that....then they should find another career.

Yes, first of all you should not have been in the senate because you are not elected by the people. Anyway your days are numbered. Go away. You may get a job in Chicago. Look out.

He will not lose his seat. The people want health care reform and all the options public and otherwise. The "No" Republicans cannot let Obama pass health care reform because it's success will guarantee the Republicans are out for a long time to come.
John King let McConnell get away with saying that Americans don't want the health care reform bill passed which is so much hogwash and King knows it. This is the kind of journalism that led to the Iraq war. King has no backbone because he didn't challenge him on that issue not even a rebuttle.

The idiots posting on this site are amazing.

I worked in primary healthcare for 25 years and quit because the system is so broke.

It must be reformed. You have no idea what you are talking about.

Just because you can type, doesn't mean your opinion is worth crap.

This Congressman, like the rest of the Democrats, are pushing an agenda without listening to the majority. They are also NOT using transparency, as promised. I cahave lost count on the number of promises Obama and the Democrats have broken. Healthcare needs to be reformed but not at the expense of the taxpayer. The costs on this are just estimated and we all know the governement is anything but efficient. This is just part of the "change" you can believe is...WHAT A JOKE!!!!! I expect a full apology from any one that voted this liar into office..

I am glad he say that because it makes him stronger politician and honest. If the people decide to vote him out, that is fine because they are sending the wrong message to the American People. I will not stand for any Corporations that are friend with Republicans because they care about PROFITS. They will use you to get the vote and they will change their BS story ! I promise you that !

This ARROGANT Sen Bennet is saying that he is NOT listening to the Citizens in his state that voted him into office. Rather HE is ARROGANT and a BLIND FOLLOWER that feels he knows better than the US Citizens in his state. VOTE him out of office and VOTE Obama ACORN Head out in 2012 !

Based on recent polls--Gallup, Rasmussen, Real Clear Politics-–the Independents do NOT support this Bill by 60%!!!!

Based on recent polls--(same as above)-–the Independents said that they will vote for the Republicans by 52%-30%.

Based on recent polls-(same as above)--Obama's approval/support is now below 50%!!!

Senator Bennet-–and many other Dems-–better be okay with losing their seats in 2010 and 2012---as that is EXACTLy what is going to happen!!

Independents will be voting with the Republicans in 2010-–to vote out as many Democrats as possible!!!

The main stream media will have puzzled/shocked looks on their faces-–when they realize that even their manipulation/cover of the news--could not even save the Dems!!!

I can't wait for 2010!!!

Good for him!

Thank you Senator Bennet, and don't worry , you will have a job for a long time.

I'm a Coloradan.

Michael Bennet was proving to be a very successful superintendant of the Denver Public Schools system when he was chosen by our governor to replace Ken Salazar.

Many people, including myself, were not happy with the selection of Bennet. Most democratic and independent Coloradans wanted the seat to go to Andrew Romanoff, our former state Speaker of the House, who is very intelligent, dedicated, and has a broad range of experience. He is also the author of a fiscally conservative referendum that was passed by voters in 2006.

Although I would still have preferred Romanoff as our senator (and he is running for the democratic nomination for the seat), I now find myself grudgingly approving of the job Michael Bennet is doing of representing his constituents.

For as long as I can remember politicians have been doing nothing but talking about health care reform.

Now for the first time...they're actually DOING something.

Do I believe that what they will come up will be perfect? No.

But this is not a case of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it.".

Our health care system IS broken and NEEDS fixing so any discussion of solutions is better than doing nothing.

We've had years....GENERATIONS...of doing nothing.

I applaud Sen. Bennet for having the courage and integrity to make tough choices that may not be popular now but may ultimately proove to be the best thing in the long run.

He is following in the footsteps of other great Coloradans, like the late Gov. Ralph Carr (a republican) who was the only major politician in this country to take a stand against interring Americans of Japanese ancestry during WWII. His stand cost him his political ambitions, but history now regards him to be wiser and fairer and than anyone of his time.

I have heard of the audacity of arrogance but this is unbelievable. This Senator should resign and work for the party, as he is so out of touch with the rest of the world. America does not need “True Believers”. America needs Representatives that represent the people who gave them the responsibility to speak and vote for them not the “Party”, “Executive”, “Judicial branch”, or “Lobbyist”.

I love how the Republicans who post here constantly state that the majority of Americans DON'T want a public option when so many of the polls say otherwise. Turn off Glenn Beck and turn on your brains you morons.

The dope trade could not survive in the inner cities without the influx of federal welfare checks. This health care plan is to pay for gunshot and knife wounds incurred while carrying out business. These people are not going to buy health insurance and any laws passed will not apply to them because they are unidentifiable except on police blotters and in time prison roll calls. Prisons supply them with all the health care they need. Check your hospital emergency rooms and see who make up the costly needs and never pay. This country has run its course.

Do you wingnuts actually think that Scarah will be elected in 2012? Hell, she can't even run a successful book tour. Just hop on her "Bus to Nowhere" Tour, like lemmings of the "Extreme Media."

Over 34% of the US Citizens DON'T CARE Enough about their own health care to Exercise, EAT LESS, NOT SMOKE and Eat Healthy. The Problem is ALL the lazy and deadbeats that WANT FREE SERVICES from the hard working taxpayers BUT ARE NOT WILLING TO even EAT LESS for Better Healthcare. OBESITY is the leading cause of High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and Heart Attacks, yet Individuals are Unwilling to control their own eating.
And 20% of US Citizens still SMOKE, the #1 Controllable cause of death. Quit Blaming others for your POOR Healthcare, and Quit requiring others to pay for your LACK OF SELF CONTROL.

I will spend all of your money on this cr@ppy healthcare plan! And then retire with a LIFETIME quality healthcare and retirement plan that you will not have access to.

YOU were elected to represent your constituents, not to be a party shill. You should be ashamed of yourself, Senator.

Good!!!!!!!!!!! Let him leave NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

You hoorayers need to think about what you're congratulating. Whether or not you agree with health care reform, this man has just stated that he would willingly betray his constituents for the "good of the party".

Not exactly my idea of a politican with backbone. Real leaders "lead", they don't follow the party flag.

Good Riddance!

Ah, yes; I have just been reminded that the noble Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado and his fellow members of Congress as well as the president have their own, separate health-care plans that explicitly will NOT be consolidated under Obamacare.
I don't suppose anyone would care to speculate as to why?

He votes for this healthcare reform and could care less that 70% of Americans do not want this. I hope he does lose his seat and is replaced by someone that puts the American people first.

We need to reduce the cost of healthcare. We need to find the laws that are stopping it and that is the way to create healtchare fo rmillions of people.

Let's change the rules of FDA. Let's allow new innovative drugs and eqiupments to be used. There is so many red tapes that there is no innovations for faster and easier and efficient ways to produce care.

If you knew that a machine could scan a heart for 2k versus a machine that does the same thing for 1billion? Which one will you buy to lower cost?

Right now, the 1billion machine has the upper hand so healtchare cost is not going to come down.

Let's focus on ways to make it cheaper and give our healtchare system more innovations..

You can't praise this guy for voting AGAINST his constituents and then praise Cao for voting WITH them. Its hypocritical. Lets just be honest and say what we mean... hurray for our side! Lets not start calling people great americans just because they agree with us and then call other people bad things just cuz they dont. Thats just silly.

Putting his political future second to working for the best interests of the American People is why we need more senators like Bennet.

The republicans will not stand up for the American People, because they get campaign contributions and bribes from the health insurance industry.

Vote for the party, not the people you are supposed to represent. Just another crook!

Why, a true HERO in the political field. REFRESHING. SHOCKING. LOVELY...

Kudos to you! It's rare to hear such a succinct response, when many politicians will try to eloquently dodge these types of questions imposed on them.

I'll try to be as brief as Senator Bennet was - THANK YOU!

Can anyone explain how the minority in this country is jamming this health care junk down the throat of the majority? All of you air heads expect to get health care for everyone at no cost to yourself on the backs of the working people ! There ain't no free lunches! Socialism is a poor substitute for freedom!

Phillip says it well. These people are supposed to be representing the people yet they ignore them. The tax protests fell on deaf ears. Now this. Politicians like this clown will destroy this country, and they don't care. Sadly, a lot of the sheep in this country don't care, either.

Democrat Sen. Michael Bennet a man with some gratefruits. President Obama I hope your watching this guy your party should be leading just like this. The greater good always is better then the good of ones self.

As it should be!

So; let me get this straight:
Michael Bennet of Colorado says he'd vote for a bill even if it meant losing his job. Sounds noble, except for the fact that "losing his job" would mean that his constituency DID NOT WANT the bill, and therefore he is consciously choosing to IGNORE the people who hired him.
May I ask when did Congress transform itself into the Imperial Roman Senate?

Them Dems will do anything to get free health care just for the votes.They don't care a rats rear end about your health.It is about votes and power.Now the ones who are paying the bills should quit working and sit on their rear ends apply for public housing put a neck brace collar around their neck, apply for disability and say to hell with the problems of the country. Keep Dem checks coming. Even your President is living in public housing now. Left a million dollar mansion for politics.

What a patriot! Voting for more government power and control over our lives! Wow. Brave too! I mean every other time in the history of the nation that the government got involved in ANYTHING...it's been a financial disaster!

Only spending 900 billion dollars too!

Wow what a Maverick!

Of course he will say that, the Democratic Party is the Party of welfare, entitlement, and relentless taxation.

I hope all of you who support this nonsense enjoy paying the taxes to support it. Like Social Security, it will lose solvency and will either collapse or have to be propped up by taxing those who actually work to death. It's gong to be more financially sound to be a bum and live off welfare.

Obamacare will be characterized by fraud, overpayment, double charging, inefficiency, etc, just like Social Security and Medicare already are.

To those of you who whine that you can't afford health insurance...have you turned off your cable, high speed internet, and blackberry phones? Have you given up alcohol and tobacco? Passed up buying the latest flatscreen tv or video console? Waited for clearance sales to buy clothing?

Have you set up a Medical Savings Account? Taking advantage of any cafeteria plan your employer offers?

I think not!

First of all Bennet wasn't elected. He was appointed, please read the article don't just scan the headlines. I have personally wrote to Mr. Bennet and he ignores the majority of Coloradans against health care reform. He will loose his job.

Polling across the BOARD is against this bill and that includes LIBERALS and Democrats by a 4 to 3 margin, Republicans and Conservatives and Independents it is MUCH higher than that.

But even the Liberals and Democrats that are CITIZENS, REAL people who this is going to effect EVERYDAY KNOW THAT THIS BILL IS GARBAGE unlike the Liberals and Democrats in CONGRESS who this WON'T EFFECT AT ALL.

Your taxes will go up, your premiums will go up and Medicare will be reduced, you want to know who is getting their insurance PROTECTED all of a sudden, the unions.

ALL FACTS and all proven by the CBO and many non-partisan groups.

We need reform, but not THIS REFORM, they want to pass anything to say they did, but this will ruin us and people a lot smarter than us on these matters and non-partisan are telling you that.

Pass this garbage and yes genius, you will be looking for a real job, real soon, like Obambi in 2012.

John King never ask such blunt questions to Republican. I wonder why? But way to go senator! Yesterday made me so proud of the Democrats in congress. Finally, these Democrats has shown some guts. It is good to have some confidence in the system again and why we vote to give the Dems congress.

And there is the problem. If he loses an election, that means that the majority do not like what you are doing. If you lose because of this vote, that means the majority do not like your vote. THAT MEANS you are NOT representing your constituents...you are representing you PARTY.

Until we get back to representatives representing their CONSTITUENTS, we will continue to devolve into the "us vs them" overpolitization of America.

Here is the problem with our politicians, They do not listen to
the voice of the people!!! He will lose his seat!!

Integrity and Courage! Doing what is good for the American people and not for your own benefit. Republican politicians should feel shame for being obstructionists.

I'd like to see one GOP answer the same way... it would never happen since GOP is all about PARTY, not COUNTRY.

This guy has class.

If anyone thinks that this party cares for what the majority wants, think again. This is complete arrogance and drinking the socialistic cool-aid. I am embarrassed that I voted for this President.

How encouraging to see brevity, honesty and bravery in a politician!

I wish all politicians would vote for what the people want, which is Healthcare with a public option. I applaud the congressman. I think what those that oppose show a cowardice. It seems as though in the House bill....congress would be forced to join the insurance pool that the rest of us have a choice of.

I don't know about anyone else. I have insurance. My oldest son was forced off at 21. My insurance went up $100.00 a month, not down. My husband has a job without benefits. I was going to add him to my policy at work. I found out my premiums will be going up by $422.00 a month at the first of the year. That is with my 2 remaining children and without adding my husband. WE have got to find a way to keep this from happening. I will soon need a second job just to pay for my families insurance.

By the way, my choice is food on the table or health insurance. I have lost 10 pounds this past month. I cannot go below 100.

Fading away in Florida.

The audacity of an appointed politcal hack to ignore his stockholders is fundamentally what is wrong with our system today. They are only beholden to the Party not the people or country. His job is to represent his constituents and he obviously doesnt understand the fundamentals of the constitution so he should be tossed in the next election

Great man. People like him should be elected more often.

Good for him. At least somebody stands for what he believes in!

Just another traitor who thinks he is better than all the people who elected him.just like every other dem i have met. he basicly has said he will vote against those he is supposed to represent. just another dem who knows it all. well i hope he does loose his seat reguardless of the h/c outcome

Colorado thanks and supports you Senator Bennet!

You and Representative Cao make me feel better about politicians.

Bravo!