I think there are 4 identifiable positive outcomes from the Baucus process, and the emergence of the worst health care bill evar!
- The wider public saw Republicans acting at their best.
- The process has given cover to Democratic senators to shove health reform through under reconciliation.
- Progressives in Congress (now in both houses) are up in arms.
- The Public Option got huge amounts of coverage, and is growing ever more popular.
Which makes NOW the time to push as hard as we can.
Why:
First, because it's Sepetember 15th. That gives us about 45 days until we get into November, that's bad because people will start to focus inward as we approach Thanksgiving, Black Friday (or if you prefer Buy Nothing Day), The Superbowl, Christmas/Chanukkah/Kwanzaa, New Years, and all the associated drinking days.. er I mean Holidays.
In other words, people will get busy and have better things to do.
Let me rephrase that, we'll have better things to do. It's human nature to go back to family and fellowship -- it's what we fight and work so hard to do, to enjoy a life of peace in comfort with our kin. There's no shame in acknowledging that we're liable to lose focus, but we should plan for it.
Second, because by mid December the Congress Critters are going to need to focus on buisness at home. Primaries, fund raising, and their own families are going to be working against any major activity, under the well-know bullshitism that any action will draw some negative reaction.
Third, momentum is with us.
How:
Calling and Writing to congress critters (find yours here) is always a good idea. I'm a big fan of the weekly emailing e-mails that I write out fresh each week so it's clear I'm not just bouncing something off a web form.
I also try to call my house rep's local office. I'm in a pro-reform district, so I mostly just call and leave a comment to say thanks.
Speaking of which: don't forget to say thanks if you live in a pro reform district, remember, they're getting elbowed by Rahm and Obama to fall into line on health care. If your Congress Critter is standing up for the Public Option, a note of support is important too!
Talk it up. Get out and talk to friends, family, what have you.
Show up at a pro-health-care rally. Get out there for reform.
Better Ideas (I'm tired) comment and I'll add em.
When: NOW!!
Thanks.
Note: I explained where those four positive outcomes came from yesterday, meant to link that down here.