Updated 29 Oct 09
Angry Protesters Confront Democratic Lawmakers at Health Care Town Halls – FoxNews – 5 Aug 09
Newsletter comment: This is not a subject we usually address, but I feel the White House is missing the boat if they attack the American people regarding their concerns and anxiety regarding the proposed healthcare bills. Certainly we deserve to see the finalized bills before they are voted upon by the House and Senate, and allow a period of time for the American people to voice their opinions to their elected representatives.
Certainly we need healthcare reform, but I’m very concerned that another mega bill will be jammed down our throats without careful consideration by the House and Senate and with little time for We the people to consider the ramifications of these bills and how they will impact our present insurance coverage.
Roger Young – co-editor
Related articles:
Mob Rule or Democracy in Action? Health Care Debate Focuses on Opponents Over Substance – FoxNews – 5 Aug 09
The Community-Organizer-In-Chief Silences Free Speech by Andrea Tantaros – 6 Aug 09
White House Blog in question: Facts Are Stubborn Things – White House – 4 Aug 09
“…There is a lot of disinformation about health insurance reform out there, spanning from control of personal finances to end of life care. These rumors often travel just below the surface via chain emails or through casual conversation. Since we can’t keep track of all of them here at the White House, we’re asking for your help. If you get an email or see something on the web about health insurance reform that seems fishy, send it to flag@whitehouse.gov…”
‘Un-American’ attacks can’t derail health care debate By Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer – USAToday – 10 Aug 09
Newsletter comment: Speaker Pelosi continues her attacks on Americans who are opposed to the proposed plans, despite the fact nobody really knows what will be in the final bill(s).
I believe that open and civil debate is good, and that we should be respectful of all who have questions/positions at these public meetings. I believe Speaker Pelosi’s ongoing comments will only incite more civil unrest. Hardly worthy comments from the Speaker of the House! – Roger Young – co-editor
Health Insurance Reform Reality Check – White House – Posted 10 Aug 09
‘Town Halls’ a Chance for the President, Not the Public, to Vent – FoxNews – 14 Aug 09
White House Makes Security Changes to Web Site Following Complaints Over E-Mails – FoxNews – 17 Aug 09
The Death Book for Veterans – Ex-soldiers don’t need to be told they’re a burden to society by Jim Towey – WSJ – 18 Aug 09
PDF file: Proposed House Health Care Bill – U.S. House of Representatives – 29 Oct 09
Copy of fax to President Obama
202-456-2461
Aug 5, 2009
Mr. President:
I feel the White House is missing the boat if they attack the American people regarding their concerns and anxiety regarding the proposed health care bills. Certainly we deserve to see the finalized bills before they are voted upon by the House and Senate, and allow a period of time for the American people to voice their opinions to their elected representatives.
Certainly we need health care reform, but I’m very concerned that another mega bill will be jammed down our throats without careful consideration by the House and Senate and with little time for “We the People” to consider the ramifications of these bills and how they will impact our present insurance coverage.
And I am NOT part of any organized or paid organization that simply does not want any health care reform as Gibbs implied any American with concerns about these bills was! That is a SHAMEFUL position by the White House Press Secretary!!!
Roger Young
[Address/phone]
There is a real danger here in my opinion. If the White House dismisses all those who have real concerns about this legislation as being pawns for some right-wing extremist organization, they could incite widespread unrest in our country. Or is that the plan?
Why can’t we have a civil discussion about such an important subject which will impact all of us without getting into politics, name calling and finger pointing?
It is time for both parties to grow up and start earning our respect with thoughtful, open and well-debated legislation!
Neither party will listen to the American people and that is what is causing so much frustration in my opinion!
Fax to Senators Cantwell, Murray, and Congressman Jim McDermott – 7 Aug 2009
Senators Cantwell, Murray and Congressman McDermott:
It is imperative that both levels of Congress allow discussions with concerned citizens regarding the health care reform bills. Much of the problem is “We the People” do not understand how these various bills will impact our current health care insurance.
The Democrats dismissing the anxiety and concerns voiced at townhall meetings is dispicable. And the White House encouraging citizens to monitor conversations, emails and websites for opinions opposite of their position is unconstitutional in my opinion and an afront to the American people.
There is NOTHING to be gained by attacking the American people. Cool heads must prevail and the finalized plans should be publicly posted and open to comment by the American people PRIOR to a final vote by the Senate & House.
I encourage you and your leadership to be open with all Americans and NOT continue the demonization we’re seeing today by the DNC and White House staff, including Press Sec. Gibbs.
Roger Young – Vietnam veteran
[mailing address]