What's a good progressive to do? Today on Democracy Now, Dennis Kucinich and Ralph Nader went at it over HCR. All over America progressives heard a serious and pointed discussion of the former's decision to vote on the existing bill. Heads did explode!
I am a self-identified progressive who has long despaired about the lack of spine on the part of Congressional Democrats. All of the reasons for this despair have been well and thoroughly discussed on this site. I have not, however, drank the a-progressive-can-do-no-wrong kool-aid and I listened with intense interest as Kucinich and Nader debated the health care reform bill.
Kucinich vs. Nader transcript and audio file
Though I have never thought of either of them as a serious candidate for the presidency I have admired their willingness to stand up for strong progressive values. I don't begrudge Dennis his change or heart -- who can resist the crack cocaine that is Air Force One -- and found his statement to be a mature assessment of the reality of the situation.
I do begrudge the fact that Nader is right when he says that this bill stinks.