In a Congress not so far away, …
Well, perhaps not that dramatic. Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-CT) announces his opposition to any health care reform bill with the public option in any shape or form:
“We’re trying to do too much at once,” Lieberman said. “To put this government-created insurance company on top of everything else is just asking for trouble for the taxpayers, for the premium payers and for the national debt. I don’t think we need it now.”
Asked about Lieberman’s threat to filibuster a final vote on the Reid plan, White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said: “I haven’t seen the report from Sen. Lieberman or why he’s saying what he’s saying. I think Democrats and Republicans alike will be held accountable by their constituents who want to see health care reform enacted this year.”
Lieberman said that he’d vote against a public option plan “even with an opt-out because it still creates a whole new government entitlement program for which taxpayers will be on the line.”
Looks like Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) is short of his 60 votes then. The GOP has a rogue Sarah Palin, and the Democrats have a rogue Joe Lieberman.
Great timing, Sen. Lieberman! I like it!
Note to the Republican and Democrat establishments: Be careful about stepping over vice presidential candidates. You never know when you may need their support and influence, especially to the party that has a thin majority.
