This is a short diary to express my deep disappointment with my representative, Bill Pascrell.
I realize that he is not the only House democrat feeling the need to compromise on health care legislation, but he is the one chosen by ThinkProgress to index current sentiment on the matter.
The exact quote was, in regards to the public option as a "fallback," unfortunately,
This is a way to get a bill.
If there is some more smoke and mirrors political calculus going on by way of setting sights on reconciliation, ok fine. But hasn't the time come to put all cards on the table?
I appreciate the apparent burgeoning boldness among Congressional progressives regarding the potential for real lines in the sand on this, but I really do not think we are there yet. Obama gave another stirring speech yesterday, and we're all of course "fired up, ready to go."
I made my calls, I've signed the petitions, and I know the value of this grassroots level support. Obama would not be where he is without it. But there comes a goddam time when the people we elected to serve at the federal level STAND UP AND DO THEIR JOBS. With almost 80% of the public supporting the PUBLIC OPTION, where is the political risk?
So Congressman Pascrell, if you're reading this: STAND FIRM. You signed the letter with the House Progressives. You support the public option. NOW GO THE SIMPLE EXTRA MILE AND SUPPORT ONLY A PUBLIC OPTION THAT IS AVAILABLE TO EVERYONE ON DAY ONE.