Obama Budget Is Dismissed by G.O.P. and Attacked by Left

[octoberlib]

WASHINGTON — The House speaker, John A. Boehner, on Friday waved aside reports that President Obama would seek a new budget compromise next week, accusing the president of again demanding tax increases in exchange for “modest entitlement savings.” “If the president believes these modest entitlement savings are needed to help shore up these programs, there’s no reason they should be held hostage for more tax hikes,” Mr. Boehner said. “That’s no way to lead and move the country forward.”

At the same time, liberals quickly vented their anger about Mr. Obama’s plans, saying they would not accept changes to Social Security and Medicare that would threaten the programs and harm beneficiaries.
“Evidently the president either does not understand or does not care how critically important Social Security and Medicare are, not just to seniors but to middle-aged and younger workers for whom these programs are likely to be even more crucial,” said Eric Kingson, co-chair of the Strengthen Social Security Coalition.

The sharp reaction was a preview of what is likely to come on Wednesday when the president formally unveils his budget.
The New York Times reported on Friday that the document would call for a deal similar to the final compromise offer Mr. Obama made to Mr. Boehner last year before talks fell apart — cuts to entitlement programs in exchange for new revenues from tax increases.

“President Obama’s plan to cut Social Security would harm seniors who worked hard all their lives,” said Anna Galland, the executive director of Moveon.org. “Under this plan, a typical 80-year-old woman would lose the equivalent of three months’ worth of food every year. That’s unconscionable.”
Ms. Galland added: “It’s even more outrageous given that Republicans in Congress aren’t even asking for this Social Security cut. This time, the drive to cut Social Security is being led by President Obama and Democrats.

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/06/us/politics/obama-budget-is-dismissed-by-gop-and-attacked-by-left.html?hp&_r=0

[forestpath]

1. He sold us out and they mock him anyway. WHAT a "grand bargain."

[BumRushDaShow]

4. Who actually drafts and passes a budget and appropriation

The President or Congress?

[tridim]

9. +1

[forestpath]

147. Why don't you ask Obama since HE is the one negotiating with congress.

[Carolina]

34. He's been selling

us out from day 1 in office in 2009 as demonstrated by the choices of those he surrounds himself with in the cabinet or as advisors: Summers, Rahm, Dailey, Duncan, Holder, Geithner, Inmelt, Lew...

Then there's the Monsanto deal, his BS "everything is on the table," etc...

Yeah, I voted for him twice and both times as the lesser of TWO evils.

[whathehell]

44. +1 n/t

[Cali_Democrat]

2. It's like Charlie Brown trying to kick the football

Every time Obama thinks he's reaching out in the name of bipartisanship, the GOP pulls the football away and he falls on his face.

Don't reach out to the GOP and don't compromise with them.

It's pointless.

[tridim]

11. It is, but you have Charlie and Lucy reversed.

The GOP is the huge loser on this one.

[backscatter712]

98. I'm thinking that too.

It's a fun way to fuck with the enemy - make them an offer, but only when they're going to refuse it.

Obama comes across as the guy willing to take a few lumps, and make a compromise, while the GOP comes across as the screaming toddlers they are.

[Cha]

129. thanks for getting it, tridem.. Michael Tomasky among others think

the President is Bluffing..

Obama Offers Republicans A Deal on Social Security That He Knows They’ll Never Accept by Jason Easley
http://www.politicususa.com/obama-offers-republicans-deal-social-security.html

I Doubt That Obama Really Expects a Grand Bargain With Republicans by Kevin Drum

http://www.motherjones.com/kevin-drum/2013/04/i-doubt-obama-really-expects-grand-bargain-republicans

Greg Sargent: Liberals who oppose Chained CPI need to start thinking right now about how to answer this question: Which is worse, a Grand Bargain, or continued sequestration? It’s unclear to me that there is any other likely outcome. Either Republicans will decide to weather sequestration or they will agree to some kind of a deal to replace it. So liberals need a good policy answer to that question…..
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/plum-line/wp/2013/04/05/the-morning-plum-why-
obama-wants-a-grand-bargain/

Michael Tomasky: I Think Obama Is Bluffing

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/04/05/i-think-obama-is-bluffing.html

http://theobamadiary.com/

[GoCubsGo]

3. Same sh*t, different day.

I really can't understand why people expected things to be different this time around.

[Bluenorthwest]

5. Such skill this Obama has! He sacrifices his entire reputation to gain nothing.

As bargains go, it ain't very grand.

[Solindsey]

6. Where does this leave the GOP?

Obama can now say "See, look at these freaks on the right. No matter what I cut, they will reject new revenues."

This move by Obama EXPOSES the GOP. It was never about the deficit. It's ALL about new revenues with Repugs. Now Boner and Co. will have to argue for HARSHER cuts to Medicare and SS and look even more out of touch. Obama can walk away from it, with a nod at his base not wanting these cuts and use the GOP's predictable obstructionist reaction as cover.

This morning, DU was flipping out claiming if this was Obama's intentions all along, to make the GOP look even more stupid and ineffective in their fake "deficit" arguments, then it worked perfectly now that Boner has reacted so typically by rejecting it out right. No more discussion.

[Glitterati]

12. He is NOT entitled

to play any kinds of games with people's lives.

Choosing between paying for a doctor visit instead of food is hard enough already.

He has no right to cause stress to old, sick people like me.

It's NOT kabuki for us - it's life and death.

I just spent 6 days without my meds because I couldn't stretch my social security check through a 5 week month.

Not. Fucking. Funny. Cute. or Smart.

Just. Stop!

[Itchinjim]

13. Yet you can afford an internet connection.

Hmmmm...

[Glitterati]

15. How do you know that?

Seriously. How do you know I'm not at the local Starbucks?

Wow!

[Itchinjim]

68. Yet you can afford Starbucks.

Hmmmm.

[Glitterati]

70. I don't have to buy anything

I can sit outside in the smoking section with my laptop.

And, oh yeah, Starbucks coffee sucks! Ewwwwwwwwwww!

[Dragonfli]

22. He is probably a wealthy leach because he lives indoors and has a phone too

Please stop repeating Fox venom about how if you own a fridge, or a microwave, or do not live in a box you got it easy and shouldn't complain. I know it is one of the most popular Fox memes that has had entire shows devoted to it but -- we don't like that bs here.
Kay?

[Itchinjim]

67. Just making an observation about

the circle jerk of mass hysteria that the hair burners turn DU into every time Obama is going to "cut" SS. It is very tiresome.

[Glitterati]

72. No, an ASSumption

And jumping to conclusions.

W-R-O-N-G conclusions.

[Dragonfli]

85. I don't know you, but I apologize for the RW troll and it's FOX meme that you have it too easy.

[Glitterati]

90. No need

I'm used to many supposed "Democrats" on DU attacking folks who disagree with them.

We're supposed to rah, rah, cheer no matter how badly Obama and the DEMs screw us.

Sorry, can't anymore. I've given up on hope.

[onpatrol98]

126. I'm sorry, too.

That was a low blow. I don't care how you get access to the Internet. It's no one's business. I'm just glad you're here. If we care any about the digital divide in this country, we'd encourage people having access any way they can get it.

You're worried, really, really, worried. Every dollar counts.

When every dollar counts, you're not interested in three dimensional chess, kabuki theater, or tricking republicans. You want politicians who help you. You especially want the politicians you help elect, to help you.

I think about that with jobs. That topic that has absolutely disappeared. It seems to be the one thing democratic and republican politicians can agree on. They'd rather not work to find ways to help the American people find work. Or maybe its the media that's not interested. If it's not a hot topic, they don't cover it. And unemployed Americans and high gas prices are definitely not hot topics at the moment.

I'm thinking everything will be okay Glitterati. I'm hoping it will all work out. I don't think republicans want a deal. They like snatching the football away. For once, maybe it'll work in our favor. Keeping hoping. If and when the economy picks up, maybe they'll stop offering up Social Security, even as a tease.

The funny thing about it is...if they were to actually concentrate on jobs, the economy would pick up, and social security would not be the problem they all claim it is.

[Glitterati]

127. HA! If they would just THINK about jobs

we wouldn't be having this conversation.

But, I do appreciate your kind words.

Thank you.

[Itchinjim]

110. Circle,

meet Jerk.

[Dragonfli]

119. Brilliant! like all of your cunning perceptive observations thus far

Don't you have a bridge you have to get under or something? I think some goats want to cross it.

[Itchinjim]

123. Don't you have a hair fire to put out?

And speaking of goats, are you missing yours? Because I believe I got it. He hee!

[Dragonfli]

125. One thing is clear, your hair can't be on fire, It is shoved to far up....

Never mind, you know where and how far up it is shoved, go back to applauding the brilliant and exciting proposed cuts to SS. I hear for every meal an old lady misses a DLC troll gets it's wings, yours are on the way Clarence!

[Dragonfli]

79. You made an observation, a judgement and promoted a Fox classic all in one post, Well Done!

People that don't hate SS or the elderly will raise hell when the elderly and their pensions are offered up as chew toys to the Republicans, I hope more and more raise hell every time he tries to push this Pete Peterson agenda through.

Threatening old people is not a sport that will win Obama friends. It will not win you many friends either outside of third way think tanks and possibly the BOG of worship

[SidDithers]

145. +1...nt

Sid

[Arcanetrance]

102. You do realize libraries have Internet for public use. The poster could live near a college,

Hospital, restaurant, or any other place that offers a free and open Internet connection to piggy back off. You sound like a fox news shrill oh you can't have it to bad crap take that to another site. The poster was making a point about how these threats affect them

[Itchinjim]

105. Thanks for the lecture newbie.

[Arcanetrance]

108. Anytime old timer

[socialist_n_TN]

132. Well I ain't a newbie and.........

I agree with the poster. Whether you're conscious of it or not, you're spreading a PRIME RW, Faux Noise meme. AND making assumptions about a poster besides.

[Itchinjim]

136. And her complaint that she can't afford meds

Last edited Fri Apr 5, 2013, 06:39 PM - Edit history (1)

but can somehow afford internet access, Starbucks, smokes and a laptop is exactly what feds that RW meme. She is doing our side no favors. BTW, she is criticizing Obama and the Dems pretty severely on a Democratic site and when I call her out, I get called a RW troll. Go figure.

[Glitterati]

137. I smoke e-cigs

And if you bothered to pay attention, you'd know I have been very active in that topic.

But, oh no, you're too busy namecalling and accusing anyone who dares to disagree with you.

Yes, that's right wing behavior - conform or get out! Toe the party line, right now!

Sounds just like freeperville - except, of course, they misspell it as "tow" the party line.

[BumRushDaShow]

14. Why are you giving Congress a pass

and fixating on the one man?

The President is not a dictator who creates, debates in hearings, and passes legislation. Congress does this and the President can choose to accept it or reject it

100% of any and every President's Budget is DOA in Congress year after year after year, and then Congress goes about crafting the legislation the way they see fit.

[Glitterati]

18. Because they've done NOTHING yet

It's Obama who is giving away my social security.

But, not to worry, I've posted the links to Nancy Pelosi supporting him in doing so.

http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2012/12/pelosi-im-not-thrilled-with-obamas-fiscal-cliff-proposal----but-its-not-a-benefit-cut.php

Pelosi was responding to a question about Obama’s main concession to House Speaker John Boehner: a measure called Chained CPI that would re-index Social Security payments to a lower level of inflation.

Though Chained CPI would reduce lifetime benefits relative to the current cost of living adjustment formula, Pelosi said she does not consider it a benefit cut.

“No, I don’t,” consider it a benefit cut, she said. “I consider it a strengthening of Social Security.”

[Skidmore]

27. I see. You have no problem with Boehner and McConnell holding their collective breath until

they turn purple. It's the President's fault that they won't budge on iota. I mean he is a de facto king, is he not, with all the powers of an absolute monarch. The Rs are not going to accept any proposal handed to them. All your sanctimonious screaming about the betrayal of the left gives a huge pass to the right. They love you. Keep it up.

[Glitterati]

29. It's HIS fucking proposal

we're discussing.

Barack Obama is the AUTHOR.

No one else has done a thing.

I intend to keep it up. Nothing else has worked.

[BumRushDaShow]

36. Once again - research how a bill becomes a law.

A President being an "author" of something is irrelevant. A "proposal" is irrelevant. The Constitution requires that a President submit a budget document with recommendations for how to fund the various Executive Branch offices, but that document is always DOA once it hits Congress, and the relevant Committees look at it, bring in stakeholders and the requesters, debate what they feel needs to be done and not done, and for how much, and then they come up with a draft that is usually completely different.

Time to watch CSPAN 1 & 2 to see how this process plays out.

[Glitterati]

46. He's playing with my LIFE

and if you don't get that, then Barack Obama deserves your vote.

[Skidmore]

41. Do you understand that they are not going to accept anything, even

stuff they have asked for in the past? They just aren't. Why not bang on their doors and ask for their proposals? They have none. None. But that's okay. Right?

[Glitterati]

45. Do you understand this is LIVES he's using

as a bargaining chip?

Some things are too sacred to play with.

[Skidmore]

48. And Rs are not betting on failure?

Crap, yesterday on Hardball, Matthews straight up asked Tom Davis if the Republicans haven't made the calculation that sequestration (which affects LIVES!) isn't preferable to raising taxes. Davis owned it. That party is willing to hang everyone out to dry with or without the President. Personally, I'd prefer to hammer on Dems in Congress, some of whom appear to be only interested in protecting their jobs than doing what is right. Nothing the President says or does means anything without the legislative branch doing its job.

[Glitterati]

50. Beside the point

it's Obama who is doing this. We don't even NEED to discuss Republicans. They. don't. matter.

[Skidmore]

53. God, you're obtuse.

I get it. I get the meme. Not going to help you catapault the RW blame game.

[Glitterati]

55. No, I'm not

I'm just telling the truth.

I'm disgusted.

I've lost all hope.

Barack Obama just gave away the midterm elections.

[timdog44]

51. I understand

what you getting at. It is too sacred to play with. I am a SS recipient. But everything they do has to do with lives. I think BHO knows what he is doing, and I have faith in him. I hate that this has seemed to boil down to a game, but this is how things have been done for years. I suspect this a strategy that is leading up to mid term elections. SS is such a hot button, and those are the things that get attention, along with Medicare and Medicaid.

[Glitterati]

52. He's GIVING AWAY the midterms

Oh my, the ads he just gave the Republicans!

[timdog44]

91. I disagree and hope you are wrong.

But that is the reason for this site.

I think the ads are going to read more about how the Rethugs refuse to negoitiate, even with SS on the table.

[Glitterati]

93. Didn't happen when he gave away Single Payer

what makes you think it will happen THIS time?

Same script, different day.

[timdog44]

114. I don't think he would have gotten a majority of Dems

to vote for single payer. And I think that will happen the way it did in Canada, one province (state) at a time.

I suspect you already can identify me as a dreamer, optimist. Gotta try to hang in there.

[Glitterati]

118. We'll never know, will we?

Since he gave it away without even trying.

Same with upping the amount subject to Social Security. He just gave that away for chained CPI.

Same script, different day.

[BumRushDaShow]

31. He is doing no such thing

Congress decides what will or will not be passed and last time I checked, Nancy Pelosi is not running the House, let alone all of Congress, except maybe in the same world that Clint Eastwood lives in when conversing to empty chairs.

[Glitterati]

32. The HELL he's not

This is HIS proposal.

I guess you missed the WH press conference today, with Carney supporting and encouraging the reporters to make that fact abundantly clear!

[BumRushDaShow]

39. Watch CSPAN to learn how a bill (or budget) becomes a law. n/t

[Glitterati]

54. No need

I know exactly how it happens.

Here's the problem. Barack Obama just gave away the midterms to the Republicans. He doesn't need any help from me.

In his pathetic search for a legacy, he just pissed away the midterm elections.

[BumRushDaShow]

138. Wrong

He may have just won it for Democrats because in order to win these elections in gerrymandered and swing districts, you need the votes of independents, and independents are watching the loons on the right going further and further off the cliff. It's the bullshit from the extreme ends of the political spectrum that turn them off.

[Glitterati]

139. Good luck with that

we saw how well that worked in 2010.

[BumRushDaShow]

143. 2014 will not be like 2010

The environment is like day and night. The astroturf teabaggers, or whatever is left of them, are collapsing and the tactics of the lunatic right have been exposed.

The fact that 2012 was not the same as 2010, should be a clue - particularly with everything thrown at people to suppress their vote. The right wing war on blacks, women, LBGT, & Hispanics have so pissed them off, that 2014 may be closer to 2006 than 2010.

[Glitterati]

144. Yeah, we'll see

I guess Blue Dogs have a special crystal ball, huh?

[BumRushDaShow]

146. Spouting "Blue Dogs" is a non-substantive response

for your hysterical nonsensical straw men.

[whathehell]

49. "I'm not thrilled with Obama's fiscal cliff proposal, but it's not a benefit cut"

Then why is she "not thrilled" by it?

I think this comes under the heading "Don't piss in my ear and tell me it's raining".

[Dragonfli]

24. maaaaybe because it is HIS proposal, not theirs?

[socialist_n_TN]

133. Because this is the PRESIDENT'S budget were talking about now,...

NOT a Congressional one. This budget proposal is supposed to show the President's priorities and Congress can accept it or reject it.

[Solindsey]

17. What Obama is doing is PROTECTING your lives from the wolves on the Right.

Obama is dealing with a group of people in Congress that are so dumb and ass-backwards. Dealing with them requires some sophistication they're too stupid to grasp. What Boner did today proves that. But that didn't stop a typical wing of the Dem party freaking out at a drop of a hat!

Cause stress? Most of these old people voted for Republicans who want to take that food and medicine out of their mouths. You do realize that? Now the GOP will have to argue for even harsher cuts to SS and Medicare. It will not be pretty. But Obama is already out in the clear with Boner's rejection today and his party's obvious revulsion at the proposed cuts. Obama can walk away leaving the GOP in an impossible situation.

Strategy can get ugly.

I'm sorry you're going through such hard times, but you're getting mad at the wrong people.

Obama is the one thing standing between you getting your SS check or a damn coupon every month if these Repubs were in power. This is what he has to deal with. It's scary but lets be calm and see how this pony show plays out.

[Glitterati]

19. Joined by Nancy Pelosi

http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2012/12/pelosi-im-not-thrilled-with-obamas-fiscal-cliff-proposal----but-its-not-a-benefit-cut.php

Pelosi was responding to a question about Obama’s main concession to House Speaker John Boehner: a measure called Chained CPI that would re-index Social Security payments to a lower level of inflation.

Though Chained CPI would reduce lifetime benefits relative to the current cost of living adjustment formula, Pelosi said she does not consider it a benefit cut.

“No, I don’t,” consider it a benefit cut, she said. “I consider it a strengthening of Social Security.”

[Dragonfli]

25. Protecting us by threatening seniors? becoming known as the party that wants to cut SS

Is a moronic strategy.

[Solindsey]

43. Boner JUST said he wants MORE cuts to SS and rejected Obama's proposal.

Did you MISS that? How the hell is Dem party going to look like the party of SS Cuts? Seriously. WTF?

Obama doesn't have to do anything now that he has the upper hand in negotiations and the GOP now look even more ridiculous. Deficit reduction? Bullshit. No new revenues--that is ALL that ever matter. Protect the Rich is the true face of the GOP. Obama has been trying to argue this point for years but up until now, he can finally come off as someone "serious" on Deficit reduction for merely proposing cuts the GOP will never allow BECAUSE Obama tagged on those new revenues. They swallowed the poison pill and rolled out Boner's rejection. Thus taking away the GOP's strongest point (one of the ONLY areas Romney consistently dominated in the Polls) and making it his own--and Obama doesn't even have to follow through now that Boner reacted EXACTLY like anyone with a functioning brain cell would have predicted.

It's not some freakishly genius chess playing some here are so hooked on saying. It's common sense politicking with a bunch of Fools on the Right willing to step right into that pile of shit this morning.

[L0oniX]

62. Holy fucking bizzaro world. n/t

[Carolina]

35. So sorry to learn of what you've been

through but so glad you make the point in living reality that this is no fucking game

[Glitterati]

38. Thank you

I've simply lost hope.

[stevenleser]

28. You and I would hope that would be the case, but it doesnt look like it will.

The left grassroots, me included, are too mad at Obama at what he did to concentrate on the Republicans, and the Republican grassroots are too biased against Obama to care about his gesture.

[dawg]

7. At least the voters will know ...

that we don't actually *stand* for anything. We have attempted to compromise so many times, we *are* compromised.

[truebrit71]

10. ^^^This^^^

[Carolina]

40. well put, dawg

Obama's continual attempts to compromise with people who loathe him is just stupid and shows he has no mettle and no character.

He has indeed compromised to the point that he is compromised!

[n2doc]

8. "led by President Obama and Democrats"

See how the MSM spins this? The Democratic party is hardly 'leading' the effort to cut SS. Obama and a few third way DINOS are. I'll bet if a vote were held his budget would not get more than 10 votes in either chamber. The Party doesn't want this. The Party base don't want it either.

[tridim]

21. The media? The worst spin I've seen by far is right here on DU.

This whole thing was over within a few hours due to Boner's idiocy. SS and Medicare are not cut, the GOP looks like idiots and Obama is poised to win back both houses in 2014.

[kelliekat44]

16. With the help of the media, the haters on both sides are getting what they dream about...

a massive attack on the President.

[99Forever]

23. Take your pick in Apologists Bingo:

[IMG][/IMG]

[Dragonfli]

26. The media proposed cuts to SS? I thought it was Obama

[aandegoons]

124. both sides of what

President and gop?

Cut or cut more?

[stevenleser]

20. This was a serious mistake by President Obama and the administration.

Hopefully he has learned his lesson.

[One of the 99]

33. On the contrary, it was a genius political move.

The President gets to look reasonable and compromising while the republicans in the House look like extremists. Now the Dems can use this against them in 2014 midterms.

[NCTraveler]

47. So the dems are going to take to the podium....

and say "we tried to cut SS, it just wasn't enough for them".

[tridim]

56. No, they'll say they tried to compromise as the people wanted.

And as proven time and time again, the modern GOP is not interested in doing what the people want. They already have approval numbers in the teens.

It's soooooo freaking simple. Do you understand yet?

[NCTraveler]

58. They tried to compromise what?

Don't you think they will have to say.

"It's soooooo freaking simple. Do you understand yet?"

You are not here in good faith. That is clear.

[tridim]

60. The public wants generic compromise by a huge margin.

The GOP wants NO compromise and they keep proving it over and over and over again.

They're fooked.

[NCTraveler]

66. Seniors, who vote in large numbers, do not want social security....

to be cut in a compromise.

[tridim]

69. Are you aware that most seniors vote Republican?

The Republicans want to destroy SS and privatize it. That is a fact.

Obama just saved it by being politically smart.

[Glitterati]

75. Not ALL

and we seniors who voted for Obama are having our lives jacked around today.

Thanks!

[tridim]

78. Obama just saved SS and Medicare.

If that's how you define "jacked", then so be it.

[Glitterati]

80. Suuuuuurrrrre, he did

Just wait. He'll give it away just like he did Single Payer. Same script, different day.

[NCTraveler]

87. Seniors went for Romney 56 - 44.

And you are willing to write them off. I am glad there are dems with clearer minds.

[tridim]

89. No, we need them all to vote for the party that supports SS and Medicare.

[Dragonfli]

96. The party threatening to CUT SS and Medicare will not be seen as "supporting it"

So just who are they to vote for? Some third party I am unaware of?

[Glitterati]

92. Yes, they are

Clearly. Obama wrote them off today.

[NCTraveler]

95. As a non-senior I will not write any of you off.

What just happened sucks. People here telling you that you are part of a chess game sucks. They are truly cold at heart. The proposal should have included eliminating the cap and lowering retirement. I can't believe so many (so called) dems are happy that the people now understand Obama feels cutting social security is necessary.

You have friends out here. It might not feel like it today, but you do.

[JHB]

86. I'll understand it after it happens. When he makes an issue of their absolute obstruction.

And not just a mention in one speech that everyone forgets about within two days, but a sustained drumbeat calling attention to their Soviet-grade lockstep to block anything.

I will understand that it is a tactic to push back on them once I see some actual pushing.

[Glitterati]

94. Won't happen

He followed the same script with Single Payer.

All he did was demoralize DEMs.

[JHB]

97. I see that, you see that, but others always think the same movie...

...will have a different ending this time.

[Glitterati]

104. Sadly, you're right.

But, one day they'll be here screaming when it's THEIR life that's being fucked with.

[onpatrol98]

134. You make a good point...

I don't personally believe the President has lost the midterms. But, you make a good point when you talk about how big of a problem this is for some people as opposed to others.

If you're depending on Social Security for your daily life, you don't sit and watch the news as a casual viewer tallying points made by one side versus the other. Politics is an intellectual sport for some. For others, it's life and death. A compromise here and there, but later you're bankrupt because of your insurance, your social security gets cut, or you don't have a job.

If you have a nice job, nice house, nice insurance, and you're healthy...you can sit back and enjoy the modern media show that's more junk food, than informative. When you life truly depends on the next bill they pass or don't pass, it becomes more than a passing freak show. The same is true when they talk about abortion, marriage rights, gun control, and now social security.

Many in this country are too old, sick, or tired of games and make believe. We want people to sit down and get it done. There are those that like the food fight, though. I don't. I would rather our politicians talk to each other and come up with good legislation. No back room deals, do it out in the open, so we can see what they're up to.

[Glitterati]

57. Bwahahahahahahahahahahahaha!

Oh my, what a joke.

He just LOST the midterm elections for the DEMs. He gave them away.

[tridim]

61. Keep dreaming G.

at you.

[Glitterati]

64. You'll see

Been there, watched this. It's just a matter of time now.

Progressive voters will stay home and Blue Dogs can't carry the election by themselves.

Barack Obama just told every liberal and progressive to kiss off.

Don't believe me? See 2010 after he caved just like this on Obamacare. DEMs are now demoralized and they'll just stay home.

Because Obama gave away the farm.

[tridim]

71. What did he give away again? SS got cut? Medicare? What?

Obamacare, or the ACA as non-hacks call it, is a popular law that isn't even fully implimented yet. It's a net winner.

Try reality G.

[Glitterati]

73. No it's not

And, I know only too well that it's not fully implemented yet. Do a search on my posts about how BADLY I need Obamacare which isn't available to me.

But, thanks for the "hack" namecalling. I'll be sure to tell my sister, who is a medical student and just emailed me about being prepared to sign up for Obamacare this fall, that's she's a "hack" in your opinion.

[tridim]

83. We all need the ACA badly.

I'm glad it passed.

Sorry that you're not.

[Glitterati]

84. Yeah, I'm sorry

I almost died this winter.

Sorry that doesn't matter to you.

[tridim]

88. Whatever.

Ignore.

[notadmblnd]

99. If you are a Senior on SS then you have Medicare

Could you please explain how/why you need "Obamacare"?

[Glitterati]

100. Survivor benefits

for my deceased husband.

I don't qualify for Medicare for 5 more years; until I'm 65.

[notadmblnd]

109. You don't get survivor benefits unless you have minor children

I know, I got them after my husband died until my son was 16 which is when SS cuts off the surviving spouse. My son received them until he was 18 and graduated from HS. Our health insurance was and still is provided by his employer. I will receive his employee benefits (medical insurance and his pension) until I am eligible for Medicare if I remain unmarried. Because of "Obamacare" my son will have insurance until he becomes 26.

So if you are receiving survivor benefits, then you are aware that you can take a part time job to make up the cost of the meds you can't afford? You are allowed to make up to 12k annually without any reduction of SS benefits. If you are disabled and receiving SS benefits, you already qualify for medicaid and your meds should not be an issue.

Something is not jiving with your story here.

[Glitterati]

116. PROOF

You probably know people who are receiving Social Security survivors benefits because they're a widow or widower. At present, there are about 5 million widows and widowers receiving monthly Social Security benefits based on their deceased spouse's earnings record. And, for many of those survivors, particularly aged women, those benefits are keeping them out of poverty.

Your widow or widower can receive:

reduced benefits as early as age 60 or full benefits at full retirement age or older.

benefits as early as age 50 if he or she is disabled AND their disability started before or within seven years of your death.
http://www.socialsecurity.gov/survivorplan/onyourown2.htm

[notadmblnd]

122. I didn't say you couldn't get partial benefits if you are 60

So where did I lie?

I also have to say that it is your choice. Just like it was my choice to finish raising our son after he passed. I also went back to work after my benefits ended. I'm not much younger than you.

[notadmblnd]

120. No, I did not lie.

You are being disingenuous with your story. I was in my mid 30's when I had my child. He is now grown. If you were having babies in your mid 40's then no wonder you are sick!

Let me guess, it's blood pressure meds you take? I suggest you get a job to help with your financial situation and quit bitching about Obama. Your blood pressure will thank you or it.

[Glitterati]

121. You are a liar

and have no idea what you are talking about.

And, no it's not blood pressure meds. But you can take your suggestions where the sun doesn't shine.

*Plonk*

[notadmblnd]

135. Calm down.

Absolutely nothing changed in regards to your benefits today and nothing probably will before you (god forbid) give yourself a stroke.

Calling me a "fucking liar" because I said you're story doesn't jive, isn't going to change my mind.

Have a good evening

[notadmblnd]

141. I have a suspicion that there is not enough time in the day

Bless your little heart.

[demwing]

74. If it was theater, the Pres needs a new act

He shouldn't game with our safety net. It isn't a fucking prop on his stage. Also, who is he trying to convince? Is there anyone who might be convinced that the GOP are insane, that hasn't already reached that conclusion?

[Glitterati]

76. Same script he used when he gave away Single Payer.

Getting old.

[yourout]

131. I hope that is scarcasm....after this you might see the lowest Dem turnout for a midterm in a.....

generation.

Political suicide is what Obama just did.

[L0oniX]

65. "mistake"? or revelation? n/t

[octoberlib]

77. It's not quite over yet. Toure' just said on MSNBC that

Obama is meeting with 12 Republicans next Wednesday to try to hammer out a budget deal.

[jmowreader]

30. Looks like the GOP is at it again

If you ask any of those numbskulls on the extreme right they'll tell you the same thing: if we eliminate Obamacare and cut taxes the budget will come into balance in 10 years.

There are a few problems with that, key among them being the simple fact that He Who Shall Not Be Named (you know, the guy who spends his time now painting pictures of his feet) started his administration with a balanced budget. Because Republicans can't deal with a balanced budget, the goal should be to get the budget to around $100 billion deficit - a nice small deficit we can easily deal with, that at the same time keeps repukes from going into spend the surplus frenzy.

Now to the point here: there is absolutely no way in hell we are going to get where they want to go by cutting $50 million programs. The deficit is $900 billion.

Think like this:

Revenues. Balance. Spending

The goal is to get the three to come together, right? It's a lot easier to do if you move both at once...but the thing that will make the one on the right move fastest is the defense cuts Republicans refuse, and the only thing the republicans want to do to revenues is reduce them further.

So we have a Democratic party that tries to come up with a bunch of half measures that maybe the republican party will accept, and a republican party that won't accept less than everything it wants. Three guesses as to why we're fucked.

[peace13]

37. Pretty clear that the president knows that the right will dismiss all offers...

why does it take so long for people here to understand this. At least twice a month we have to have this hysteria! Really, we should be smarter than that!

[Solindsey]

82. These hissy fits happen that often?

I usually avoid coming here for that reason. Got a big smackering of it today and it's just sad. I always trying to think the other side are the crazy reactionary ones, too short-sighted to appreciate the details and not over exaggerate like fanatics. Both sides stuck in the gutters, throwing piles of shit, and thinking they're always right and everything has to be their way.

America really is in decline and there doesn't seem to be a saving grace on either side big enough to matter.

[peace13]

103. Not one word about how pissed they are that the Repthugs dismiss all...

options without consideration. They hold all of us hostage but...Obama tried to give our rights away. Those rights went down the toilet with the final flush in 2000. I don't know what to say.

[notadmblnd]

101. Honestly, I think it is because the hysterical people are posers

[Union Scribe]

107. Oh bull.

The posers are the ones who are so invested in a single man that they will literally pardon anything he does and put their backs out of alignment to justify it.

Fewer and fewer of us are falling for it.

[Union Scribe]

106. So he's looking like a villain for nothing. Awesome strategy.

[peace13]

148. Only looking like a villan to 20 percent

The re thugs would love the idea, the rest of the Dems know that Obama is caught in hell with five old white guys holding the country hostage. He tried to impress the crazies that he would cut entitlements for them. Long and the short of it...he's the bad guy either way!

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

42. "Attacked by Left" Deservedly so. 3rd Way triangulation is a loser.

[L0oniX]

59. "Attacked by Left" No. Main stream Dems. Fucking NYT reframe shit. n/t

[Liberalynn]

111. I know freaking Rethugs in my family who don't even support Chained CPI

I also take exception to the reporters' wording that it is being proposed by Pres Obama and the Democrats. Not all Democratic law makers are proposing this or even planning on supporting it.

They shouldn't be throwing the whole party under the proverbial bus.

[upaloopa]

81. A man who walks in the middle of the road

gets hit by trucks going both ways

[Peregrine Took]

112. Something very odd about him and the way he thinks.

Not only does the concept of loyalty mean nothing to him but he has a need to win over people who don't like him. The latter involves stepping all over his friends to win over the enemies.
His life is a series of "Sister Soljah" moments.

[JoePhilly]

115. And so ends another episode of Hair-on-Fire Undeground.

Tune again tomorrow when we'll have 10 new threads all quoting the same hair-on-fire sources.

Until then ...

Stay angry!!!!

[Phlem]

128. He's a

moderate republican folks. He's been selling us out since day 1.

FFS Stop kidding yourselves.

-p

[leveymg]

130. SS "reform" has been on his agenda since the beginning. Goes back to '97 and the Clintonites, who

almost did the same thing.

On economics, he's a Chicago School conservative neoliberal. That's a big part of the reason the Party Big Money and Wall Street approved of him and mostly backed him.