This is going to be a VERY short diary, but I think it is worth noting given the active discussions on Kos lately. Kathleen Sebelius, about 2 minutes ago at a Washington DC conference, just reiterated the "new" public message on the administration's stance on health care reform.
Here is the synopsis: She said, and I quote, "ABSOLUTELY NOTHING HAS CHANGED." She also said that Sunday must have been a slow news day, which it obviously was.
My observations over the past few days are that the hedging comments from Obama and Sebelius were calculated messages to prepare us for a Senate bill that does not contain a public option. But I think Howard Dean is right: in the end, the reconciliation process will bring it back and there isn't a darn thing Republicans can do to stop it.
Now let's use this "controversy" to refocus. I know Organizing for America called me yesterday to phone bank, and I am ready to do it. Are you?
UPDATE: Here is the C-span blurb on the speech:
Public option still is Obama Administration goal
Today
HHS Sec. Kathleen Sebelius was the keynote speaker at a conference honoring senior volunteers who monitor Medicare and Medicaid fraud. During her speech, she announced that the "public option" for health care is still something that the administration wants in any health care legislation.
And the link you've been waiting for:
Sebelius remarks in DC, August 19, 2009
The most relevant statements begin at 21:50 of the video. Check them out for yourself!
UPDATE #2: The main page has now taken up the story! I will direct you there for further discussion. I knew Jed would be on this like lightning!