For some reason, the GAO didn’t directly make reference to the most effective alternatives that would do an even better job than the individual mandate at decreasing the number of uninsured–single payer or a basic public plan that would enroll the uninsured by default.

I’ve already said that I think allowing states to “opt-out” of a public option is an immoral and unnecessary political compromise, an attempt to let Democrats off the very hook that so many have worked so hard to get them on.  But I cannot say it as well as Rikyrah does.

Unity ’09 just sent this around to its members groups, giving them talking points about the Baucus bill:

The Washington Post says that the White House — and the health care industry stakeholders that the Post tried to entice into their Pay2Play salons — are happy with the response to the bill.

Our network of state blogs have been critical to our effort to get progressive members of the House to stand strong and fight for a public option.

If you’re a progressive state blog, we want your help. Please join us in the fight for a public option.

So, Democratic members of Congress? Think this one is going down the memory hole? Think again!

Members of Congress, got a tip you’d like to share on a fellow member who has publicly referred to you in less than flattering terms? Former (or present) staffers looking to unburden your conscience? You can leave information on our tip line:

It was somewhat disconcerting when Donna Edwards would not confirm to the Hill this week Edwards, who signed the letter, that she would vote against any bill through conference that did not have a public plan.

The House Dems have 77% of the country behind them. Conrad and Bayh have WellPoint and Blue Cross behind them, and messy financial ties to boot. Will they join with the Republicans to filibuster a Democratic health care bill? Because as Kagro X says, that is very much what they are saying they will do.

We started this whip count effort on June 23 because it became clear that in the course of making their deals with stakeholders, the Baucus Caucus (who were negotiating on behalf of the White House, with the participation of the White House) had very likely already dealt the public plan away. 

This one won’t go down the memory hole.  Thanks to everyone who put an exclamation point at the end of that sentiment with their contribution.