As reported on Open Left, the Congressional Progressive Caucus has tallied at least 210 firm votes in support of a robust public option, just a handful shy of the 218 needed for passage. And in an effort to whip up the votes in anticipation of a caucus meeting tonight, the House leadership has produced a target list of the undecideds.
Surprisingly, two Washington Democrats have found themselves on the undecided list, Rep. Brian Baird (WA-03) and Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02). Surprising, because polls consistently show a public option enjoying strong support in Washington state and nationwide.
So, assuming Baird and Larsen really are having trouble making up their minds, they sure could use some help from their constituents. Call the Congressional Switchboard at 1-866-220-0044, and ask to speak to your representative, then urge them to support a robust public option if they want your robust support next November.
Baird is Undecided?? No he’s not. He’s Pelosi’s lapdog.
Political posturing.
He’ll vote Yes.
Larsen—not quite so sure.
This and Porkulous and Bailouts and Obama’s weakness are key issues for 2010 elections.
Baird & Larsen could both be vulnerable based on past votes alone…this will make them more vulnerable.
@1 My only objection to the public option is that you might benefit from it. I’d like to see your private health insurance premiums keep rising until you choke.
@2 Oops I forgot you’re on gummint socialist health care (Medicare) so you can afford to say “screw everyone else.”
I think the opt out option would be the best thing right now as states that don’t want the public option can opt out. But we need to give people a CHOICE and that is why I like the public option.
It would be interesting to hear Mitch McConnell attempt to explain to his constituents why they should not have the public option when other states do.
Baird is Undecided?? No he’s not. He’s Pelosi’s lapdog.
As one of Baird’s constituents, I have to wonder if you’re giving him way too much credit. Guess we’ll see.. I did write him about this, but, really, lost me -years- ago when he supported that stupid flag-desecration amendment.
1 Cyn
Yes, that public option is so unpopular that only 57% of Amercans support it. Surely it will be electoral poison!
Washington Post/ABC Poll??
The one ranked #14 in accuracy in 2008.
Rasmussen is #1 BECAUSE THEY LOOK AT LIKELY VOTERS…not illegals and other non-voters.
Has Mr. Klynical ever called anything correctly?
Maybe one or two minor things: may the majority streak continue!
@9…LMAO…thats funny – coming from a John Edwards and Darcy Burner supporter…
go get a job loser….better yet, just starting looking for one you lazy fuck.
You can only talk to the Congressman in your district, is that correct?
Hey Cynical,
You want to talk about weak… I just lived through the weakest 5 years of a 8 yr BUSHED economy. You (reps)had 8 years of “pass this bill / legislation or I’ll stick it to you” politics. Now let someone who ACTUALLY has a “plan” AND the support of AMERICA do something… even if it cost us billions in 2010 – it’ll be cheaper than any single Bush “month” last year as we paid Iraqs bills in cash and our soldiers blood.
Signed, fed up with the party of NO (common-sense)
8 CYN
Hmmm. if you want to talk about accuracy of Media/news, then lets talk about FOX… oh I’m sorry did I group them with “real” news/media journalists… When it comes to accuracy very accurate – accurately owned, paid, and puppeted by the far right-wing wackos. I occasionally will watch it – just for the comedy. But my neck gets too sore.. as i end up shaking my head – asking myself does anyone that is not on drugs believe this stuff.
Baird won’t take mail or, probably, calls from anyone other than constituents. I am one and he does not reply to questions – ever. He sends a generic email that says he’s soooo overworked he can’t answer all emails. So I ask him “What about putting it clearly on your website,i.e., your stance on public option? ” He has not answered that either. He is a do nothing representative and needs to be replace.