Instead of dealing with the Deathers and their absurd claims with reason and logic, which is clearly wasted on them, why don't we employ mockery and derision? We should forward the meme that if you buy the whole death panel crap, etc, then you are gullible, a dupe, sucker, fool, and pawn of the insurance industry. A little shame and embarrassment goes a long way. It would be especially effective because it's true! I know that Olbermann and Maddow have employed some of this already, but I think this needs to be the primary thrust of the Democratic response.
So when some wingnut makes the claim that the public option will create death panels, will increase health care cost, will deprive seniors of health care, is socialist, or whatever other crap they're throwing out at the moment, the reply should be something like ...
- You're a gullible fool who has been duped by the health care industry.
- You mean you actually fell for that? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
- I think I have some swampland in Florida I'd like you sell you!
- You just fall for whatever Fox news tell you, don't you?
- Do you believe every piece of chain mail you get?
Then follow up with the suggestion that they actually do some research on the topic, and not just buy into whatever piece of propoganda is thrown their way.
Nobody likes to be scammed, so everybody will become afraid to repeat their ridiculous talking points. A little humor and scorn will also take the wind out of their sails. Everybody remembers Reagan saying "there he goes again" but does anybody remember what Carter actually said? It took the wind out of Carter's sails and everybody forgot what he said!
Bottem Line: make sure everybody, and not just us, can see them for the fools they are.