Senate, House Reach Compromise on Fla. Woman(House to pass Senate version)

[Pirate Smile]

Senate to reconvene at 5:00 pm.

Senate, House Reach Compromise on Fla. Woman

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Federal lawmakers reached an agreement on Saturday on a compromise bill to prolong the life of Terri Schiavo, a brain-dead Florida woman whose feeding tube has been removed, House Majority Leader Tom DeLay said.

"We are confident that this compromise addresses everyone's concerns," DeLay, a Texas Republican, said at a news conference. "We are confident it will ... restore nutrition and hydration to Miss Schiavo."

Senate leaders earlier had reached a deal to push forward the legislation that would put Schiavo's case into federal court, a Democratic aide said.

The agreement would allow the House of Representatives to reconvene to pass the Senate version of the bill, said Jim Manley, spokesman for Sen. Harry Reid (news, bio, voting record) of Nevada.

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&ncid=578&e=2&u=/nm/20050319/pl_nm/rights_schiavo_dc

Here is a more precise article

Congress OKs Deal to Keep Schiavo on Tube

WASHINGTON - Congress leaders announced agreement Saturday on legislation they said would allow a severely brain-damaged woman to resume being fed while a federal court decides the right-to-die battle between her parents and her husband.

"We think we have found a solution" to the Terri Schiavo case, House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas, said at a Capitol Hills news conference. "All sides agree that this is the best way to proceed."

Final approval was expected Sunday when the House planned to meet in a special session, he said. The Senate planned to pass a resolution Saturday evening that would let House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., call the House into session on Sunday.

-snip-
The compromise was similar to a Senate bill passed Thursday that would let a federal court has jurisdiction in the Schiavo case. House Republicans had favored broader legislation that applied similar cases that questioned the legality of withholding food or medical treatment from people who are incapacitated.

http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&e=1&u=/ap/20050319/ap_on_go_co/brain_damaged_woman_congress&sid=84439559

[pfitz59]

1. Immoral and illegal!

Who the hell do these nonsters think they are! How dare they intervene in affairs beyond the scope of their mandate! Barbarians!

[saigon68]

12. DINOS ALIVE AND WELL

In their shameless possum pose.

Lie DOWN and take IT

[Boneman]

39. This is absolute insanity!!!! There is NO government anymore!!!!!

[pfitz59]

47. U R Right!

Congress is out of control. What we get with weak leaders like Shrub! Dimson struts about preening before hand-picked psychophants while government runs amok! Can the world suffer another 4 years of this?

[Bo]

82. No..it will be to late to fix things after *

sigh

[bartstratton]

96. What about all the starving children

THRREE AND HLAF MILLION KIDS IN THIS COUNTRY ARE HOMELESS! What about feeding them? What about helping them have shelter?

Shiavo is a circus. We don't have the national will to deal with real issues so instead, the Right Wing gets in a flap over this one person. It works because you can put a picture of her on TV. We need to get a picture of a starving homeless kid on TV, then maybe Americans would wake to the problems facing this country.

[Strawman]

201. yep. you're absolutely right

that's how the Republicans maintain the charade that they protect the weak by having a face in the news that they center on. just like the hearings on baseball foster the charade that they stand up to the powerful. they take on celebrities in Hollywood and McGwire and Sosa and they'll make a display of compassion for one poor brain dead woman, but they'll never take on the real power (corporations) and never stand up for the people who are truly powerless and in need.

20,000 people will die of poverty today. living breathing people outside the womb, who are not brain dead and who desperately and consciously want to live. where's Tom Delay's outrage on that?

[whitney]

102. Bush should support Terri and stem cell research, both

Somebody at a press conference should ask Bush if he'll back up his support of Terri with a support of stem cell research

[DeepModem Mom]

2. Who, I'm wondering, are the Democrats who lent support to this...

as I think I heard reference to?

[Pirate Smile]

6. I'm trying to find the specifics. CNN did a breaking news piece and

then went on to something else and nothing is on the web site yet.

They were saying how they will put the feeding tube back in again.

[Casandra]

I heard one name...

Harry Reid again!!! ..and they seem to be inferring the 'majority' of the Dems are supporting this.

[NVMojo]

27. He is a Mormon and don't forget it.

[tritsofme]

14. Without knowing for sure, I would bet this passed on a voice vote

So our weasels didn't have to go on record in this blatent misuse of power.

[LiberalFighter]

67. It pass both Senate and House on voice vote

Don't know if compromise between two was by voice vote

[Coastie for Truth]

3. I would like to see ONE DEM

amend the Frist-DeLay Bill re: "Terry Schiavo" --- to allow for discharge of medical bills in Bankruptcy without peonage.

[skip fox]

21. Nice. Yes, if they're going to interfer, let's see them

really do it.

Items to consider (one or more of these should be in such a bill):

1. The state to pick up all excessive medical bills.
2. Total health care available to all at low expense.
3. Proper "nutrients" for all those under fed (incl. the poor and disadvantaged) whoe diet will lead to a premature death.
4. Shelter for all those in danger of risking health due to inadequate shelter (the poor) or none (the homeless).
5. Free university education for all who are capable (extending their lives by providing sure entry into the middle class).
6. Free health care for all households all adult partners work. (A single mother, for instance, hastens her end by having two jobs to make ends meet, including paying for child care.)
7. Significantly raising minimum wage. (Same as #6 above).
8. Providing professional and intelligent job training for all (including those in prison).
9. Eliminating all wars in which we are not attacked.

ETC.

If none of these are in minds of Congress, then such actions are grandstanding, providing scraps for a single person in the news and ignoring the early deaths of 99% of the needy.

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

4. Good God

This has already been adjudicated multiple times. This is proof that the separation of powers is in serious jeopardy. Leave the courts to their own business.

[DeepModem Mom]

7. This strikes at the heart of separation of powers -- and church and state?

nt

[whitney]

99. she's catholic

Separation of church and state is just another reason why she should be allowed to live. She is Catholic, and the vatican has come down on her side.



hint: Your nt belongs in the subject line or else it's ineffective.

[Zhade]

130. Hint: newbies don't lecture long-time posters.

Another hint: her BODY is all that's alive at this point - unless you believe she has a soul trapped inside and should remain imprisoned in its own personal hell until her body decays.

[Mz Pip]

5. Maybe they should just

move the poor thing to the floor of the House - right next to Tom DeLay's spot. Let him take care of her for awhile and see if she "responds" to him. <sarcasm>

Mz Pip:dem:

[Name removed]

8. Deleted message

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[whitney]

98. facts

Your sarcasm resembles Michael Schiavo and his attorney, Felos. Seriously, why not bring her to the floor of the Congress and let everyone see just who they have been trying to starve to death. She is disabled, not vegetative. And if given the chance, guaranteed she WILL respond. You underestimate the will to live. She has been asked if she is happy to be alive, and she says yes. That's right, you haven't seen it in the few videos they show on tv, but let her come to the Congress, and then you'll see.

This husband should be criminally prosecuted for abuse. First, unlike what the media report, he likely caused her to be in this situation in the first place. Then, in the med malp case, he said he needed money for her aggressive therapy and care. As soon as he got the money, he asked for her to be put to death. Virtually none of the money was spent on Terri. She lies in her room and does not get ANY therapy or entertainment. Do you know how cruel that is? Her husband has systematically abused her. Someone in that situation needs as much interaction and support as possible. He knows this, and makes it worse. He has given the nurses orders to keep her in one room, never to go outdoors, has given them instructions to never change the radio or tv station from a single channel, and has forbidden her parents from seeing her on numerous occasions. The judge won't allow her to try taking food by mouth, (out of fear she'll actually eat and everyone will see what they've done to her all these years) and doesn't require the husband to provide plans for her care year after year, and yet says he's the best guardian for her. Do you understand, it's like keeping a child in a closet for ten years. They are very aware and tortured, and when they get out, they need intense therapy, which her husband has literally prohibited her from receiving.

This bill does nothing to individual or privacy rights. If you want to sign an advanced directive, you may. But where there is no advanced directive, and family members disagree, why not let her have her day in federal court before you allow her life to be taken, in an excruciating way. Don't let anyone kid you, starving to death IS painful, and she IS aware. She has never been declared brain dead by doctors on either side. They can't say that because the tests don't support it, so they say well, she has zero chance to recover, as though they know what the future holds in research. I am thrilled there are some democrats that came down on Terri's side.

[OilemFirchen]

103. If "she has been asked if she is happy to be alive, and she says yes"

then why the fuck doesn't she call Nancy Grace and wrap up this funky saga?

[Name removed]

106. Deleted message

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[Name removed]

107. Deleted message

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[Doremus]

108. Facts? Why don't you try getting some?

Your post is filled with so many inaccuracies I cannot begin to list them all.

Why don't you read up on the subject since you're so obviously lacking in any real knowledge of it?

Here's an excellent -objective- starting point:
http://abstractappeal.com/schiavo/infopage.html

[whitney]

113. a blog for facts?

Aren't you a little embarassed sending me to a blog to get the "facts". I get my facts from the medical records that have been made public over the course of the case and from the nurses who have had first hand knowledge. Your sentence "I cannot begin to list them all" is a blanket statement someone uses when they don't actually have anything to list. My statements are accurate. Anyone can say they are wrong, but they haven't taken the time to learn the details.

[Name removed]

120. Deleted message

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[LiberalFighter]

195. Obviously you didn't read that "Blog"

Yes it is a Blog! But, official court records are linked to the site as well as other documents.

[proud2BlibKansan]

202. For heaven's sake

read the court documents. They have been posted repeatedly here on DU. Look at her brain xrays. They have also been posted here repeatedly.

The woman's cerebral cortex is gone. There is no hope of her brain ever recovering. She has water where her brain used to be. She is unable to swallow, much less feed herself.

Her husband has NOT abused her. Step away from the RW sites and read the facts in the court documents.

[LiberalFighter]

193. No No No No.... Let Terri vote in place of DeLay

She would do a much better job of representing his district.


I am so bad!!!

[killbotfactory]

9. This is insane

A disgusting display by shameless politicians. A bunch of sociopaths exploiting the pain of a family for partisan purposes. I can't believe how low these people will sink.

[calimary]

83. Curious, isn't it, that he'd interrupt his precious vacation to do this.

Um - remember when he got a Presidential Daily Brief warning point-blank that Osama bin Laden was determined to strike inside the US - just a month before 9/11? Did he drop everything to go back to Washington to stand ready and on duty in THAT case, too?

Priorities... priorities... And all of them straight up his ass. This from the "head" of the party that prides itself on getting the government off your back. Yeah... SURE.

[bearfan454]

10. Let the woman die in peace

Less govt in our life - BULLSHIT REPUKES !

[countingbluecars]

11. Just when you think things can't get any worse...

They do-again and again and again!

[goclark]

40. Save her yet willingly kill our soldiers

"No big deal" when the coffins come home.
DeLay says life is so precious.
If so, Bring Our Soldiers Home NOW!

I am sick, sick, sick...they have no shame and no honesty.

[powergirl]

13. Why didn't those jerks in Congress pass a law BEFORE now

Why didn't Congress "care" about 10 years ago when this first occurred. What a bunch of opportunists.

[skip fox]

15. I'd not argue a bit with the bill if

it provided for nutrients (and shelter) for everyone with a potential of dying . . . like the homeless.

(I'd like them to pull the plug on me in such a state but would be willing to be "prolonged" if no one in the nation was in danger of starving or dying of exposure because the state would insure proper nutrition &c.)

[shrub chipper]

16. With all the problems that this country is facing,

Congress addressed this issue and Steroid use in Baseball.

They sure do have their hand on the pulse of what's vital to this Country, don't they?

[saigon68]

55. There must be no hungry children to Feed?

These RIGHT WING TALIBORNAGAIN NUT CASES ARE OUT OF CONTOL.

[Lorien]

64. My thoughts exactly

while they deal out DEATH and destruction across the globe, while they condemn all life on earth to an early extinction through global climate change, they stand up for a human vegetable and call themselves PRO LIFE????!!

FUCKING INSANE. :grr: :nuke: :crazy: :crazy: :argh: :grr: :nuke:

[DeepModem Mom]

17. From the article: Frist and Reid agreement

"Reid and Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, a Republican, reached the agreement a day after doctors followed a court order and removed the feeding tube that has kept Schiavo alive for the last 15 years."

[skip fox]

23. Reid in a no-win situation, prob.

But I think the Dems can turn this around by presenting bills to provide first rate health care to every citizen, feed the homeless, raise minimum wage, etc. ALL of which measures would prolong life.

Thus we might expose the Republican sham.

[Warren Stupidity]

26. Not a no win situation at all.

Just stand up and do the right thing for crying out loud! Something like 80% of americans know what that is in this situation. Democrats: Grow a freaking spine! (Ironic in that fundy morans insist that Terri can grow a new brain, it seems that either is equally unlikely.)

I am so ashamed of my country.

[DeepModem Mom]

30. My country... and my party's leadership - - nt

[skip fox]

35. My point is that we should counter-punch with a proposal

to extend such "benefits" to all deserving, not just those who make the news and easily provide such political posturing.

I think we need to be tough but pragmatic.

[Name removed]

84. Deleted message

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[fushuugi]

92. please,

i know this is a passionate issue for us. some want to discuss the political implications, some the moral/ethical implications, and some the legislative implications. this forum can support every view-> now comes the important part-> with out resorting to rude/inappropriate responses .

"I'm glad some democrats finally show some heart and support this lady" - a good statement, now tell me why you believe this so that we can discuss our views. our ideas and thought processes can not progress until we *listen* to each other's observations and think about how we all perceive the same world through our own minds.

[whitney]

101. hello

Please see my first post. Terri has spent the last 15 or so years having people fight for her death, instead of fighting for her rehabilitation. She has been starved of attention, and literally starved on three occassions now. Imagine, if during those 15 years she had been receiving aggressive therapy instead of no therapy. Imagine if people had been fighting for research that could help her, instead of fighting to put her to death. Terri smiles and laughs, and any honest physician will tell you, the brain as a whole must be intact for that to happen. Before you say she's a vegetable and it doesn't happen, let her comply with the subpoena and show you on the floor of Congress. I'm glad some democrats have decided she deserves a chance to live and hopefully she deserves the therapy she's been denied.

[midnight armadillo]

188. WRONG

Terri smiles and laughs, and any honest physician will tell you, the brain as a whole must be intact for that to happen.

Her brain stem is intact, and the brain retains some capacity to respond to stimulation. Her cerebral cortex is history. Without that, there is no higher brain function, no thoughts, no personality, nothing. The lights are on but nobody's home. Any honest physician will tell you THAT, those are the FACTS.

[LiberalFighter]

196. Not true --WHERE are YOU getting your info --Bet from those not qualified

Facts ARE!!

That Michael Schiavo pursued theraphy for his wife to the point of raising money for a stimulator to be implanted in her brain.

May 1990 Terri was taken to a rehabilitation center for AGGRESSIVE therapy

July 1990 Terri is taken home but a few weeks later is taken back to the rehabilitation center

Nov 1990 Terri is taken to California for experimental therapies

July 1991 Terri is transferred to a facility to receive AGGRESSIVE physical therapy and speech therapy



It wasn't until May 1998 (More than 8 years after the incident) that Michael petitions the court to remove the feeding tube.

That is a long time before deciding that Terri was not going to recover. I would had had serious doubts about Michael's motives if he had petition the removal of the feeding tubes immediately after the malpractice case was settled. Likewise, I would had had doubts if he had not pursued treatment and essentially expended ALL of the money awarded in the malpractice case. In addition, the money awarded to Terri was not placed in Michael's bank account or received by him. It was put into a trust fund and the trustee was appointed BY THE COURT to make sure the money was appropriated for proper usage.

Michael became a professional respiratory therapist. Michael was diligent that Terri received the proper care to the point of annoying the nursing staff involved in Terri's care.

[Name removed]

112. Deleted message

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[whitney]

117. democrats can support Terri

I'm not a freeper, I just haven't posted a lot, because I was actually doing something productive during the election like phone banking and canvassing. How productive, I don't know, since Kerry and Edwards didn't back up their promise that every vote would be counted. What I don't get, is if they don't correct electronic voting now, how will we ever win. And what exactly were all those 15,000 attorneys doing before the election, shouldn't they have known ahead of time that minority precincts didn't have enough voting machines? At any rate, yes it is possible to be a democrat and support Terri Schiavo, that's why I'm so thrilled some in Congress are doing just that! But since I'm not welcome, bye bye.

[OilemFirchen]

118. Yup, freaker.

Drops a load in the middle of the floor, then ups and leaves the party she crashed.

'Sokay, hon. The cops were on their way, anyhoo.

[OldLeftieLawyer]

119. I sense a lack of dedication to DU

Somehow, I don't think Whitney liked us.

[OilemFirchen]

126. I dunno...

I thought her "Eagles Up" undies were kinda cute. Guess we weren't supposed to see 'em.

[OldLeftieLawyer]

127. They were undies?

I thought it was a tattoo.

Whew.

Thanks.

[sonicx]

18. hey republicans, how about some health care for EVERY CITIZEN!

[MidwestTransplant]

19. Apparently she received a large award because she is the way she is

because of medical malpractice. I wonder how Delay feels about that.

[TahitiNut]

20. Unconstitutional (since 1803)

This is, beyond a doubt, an unconstitutional overstepping of federal authority. The courts should throw this out summarily.

[geomon666]

22. Hasn't this case already been decided by a Federal judge?

Maybe I'm insane or something.

[democrat in Tallahassee]

24. i thought it had been argued and decided ad nauseum

[Orangepeel]

32. i believe federal courts refused to hear it. n/t

[northzax]

45. the 'power hungry' federal courts

decided it was none of the fed's business. that it was a statemetter. And the state courts have ruled that her Husband (It's MRS. Schiave, not Miss. Schiavo is her MARRIED name) has the right to make medical decisions on her behalf.

[LiberalFighter]

197. 2nd District Court refused to hear it...

because it had gone thru the State Courts.

[Leilani]

25. Ironic part

The majority of people in all polls are against govt interference in this issue.

If the Dems cave, what good does it do them?

The Fundie nuts are already Repubs...

What a disgrace!!!!

[heyphillip]

28. Terry Schiavo case

What this proves with the interferance of congress in this case is there is one party that has to much power in government. there is NO checks and balance in the government. the republican party controls all branches of government including the Supreme Court. so they can basicly make any laws the way they see it.

[Name removed]

43. Deleted message

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[saigon68]

48. ADIOS

Vaya con Dios

[daleo]

29. This shell of this woman will never be allowed to die.

She will now be kept in this "Schroedinger's Cat" like state until she dies from some massive infection brought on by bed sores, or pneumonia brought on by lack of activity. Then everyone will be able to "move on". The best that can be said, is that without higher brain function there is no real sentient being to experience suffering.

I don't think it will have any substantive effect on any other cases, though, as Republicans won't really want Medicare to be taking the costs for thousands of patients in this state. She just happened to be photogenic, and thus became a peculiar symbolic rallying point for people who cannot accept death, even thought their Saviour says they shouldn't fear it.

[saigon68]

51. They'll Put her in a Side Show--

And CHARGE THE FAITHFUL to watch her get a "DIAPER CHANGE".

May they'll let her stand in for Puxatony Phil on Feb 2


LOL

[daleo]

63. Or perhaps they will run her for Senate.

The way Caligula appointed his horse. "Groundhog Day" (the movie) is an apt comparison for the turn things have taken.

[saigon68]

70. Alas daleo you may be right

Nothing these scumbags do seems to surprise me any more.

Especially about "SERVING" a Brain dead vegetable a subpoena !!

LOL

[Name removed]

90. Deleted message

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[whitney]

85. name calling

Your attitude is why people like this don't recover. If you knew her true status and the fact that she is aware of everything, but trapped in her body, not just a shell, wouldn't you try desperately to help her out, with therapy and research, instead of calling her names? Maybe this case will help the democrats do what they've been trying to do for years and appeal to the "religious right" by showing they care.

[FourStarDemocrat]

89. your post would be nice if you had facts

She is not a person with consciousness trppaed in her body. She's brain dead with no cerebral cortes. Her brain is filled with fluid and is all but liquified. The repugs in congress are playing this thing up for some votes from the religious 'wrong', who Democrats need not bother swaying to their side because these people are fanatical nuts. The American people overwhelmingly, by 87% say that they too would not choose not to be kept alive if they were in a situation such as hers. The congress is in dangerous territory, intervening and pulling a takeover of a state-decided case. This is nothing but a fallacy.

[whitney]

91. propaganda

Propaganda. There has been no test showing her brain dead or having fluid for brain. And it's cerebral cortex.

[OldLeftieLawyer]

128. Propaganda - what a big word for you!

And you spelled it correctly. That's impressive.

Now, go look at Mrs. Schiavo's MRI, and return to give us the benefit of your expertise.

Oh, wait. You can't.

You're gone.

Damn, I miss the little pixie already.................

[FourStarDemocrat]

187. There's been no test?

What? Did you just arrive on this planet? And pointing out spelling typos doesn't make you sound any brighter. Come back with the facts next time.

[daleo]

129. This isn't name calling

It is just an accurate description of her condition. She isn't the same person she was - she is a shell of her former self, as the higher brain functions that make us human have atrophied from organic damage, and they can't be recovered. If you prefer a dualistic interpretation, the soul has left the machine.

She won't recover - she has had 15 years to do so already, and if it was going to happen it would have happened already. There simply will not be a miracle. Maintaining her body while her brain is already gone, is a travesty of 'help'.

I don't know about you, but many of us here have gone through situations like this. There comes a time when you have to let nature, or God through nature, take its course.

I don't necessarily see this as a left-right issue, but right wingers are using this shell of a poor woman for their own purposes. They will demonize anyone who has a mature attitude towards the truth of the situation. But, we will almost all see this situation up close eventually, and the truth will come clear then. There are no miracles in these situations, as much as we would like there to be.

If the feeding tube is restored, she will almost undoubtedly die at some later date from infection brought on by her condition. It may well seem more horrible than withdrawal of the feeding tube when that happens, but the type of Christians that are opposing the husband now, will then call it God's will. Such is life.

[LynnTheDem]

31. So why don't we just close down the US courts permanently. Let Congress

decide cases from now on. Obviously the courts' decisions mean f*ck-all anyways, so why waste taxpayer money on court salaries???

[geomon666]

33. It's great isn't it?

Nice to know the invasion is going so well. Comforting to know all of the problems in this country have been solved and we can now spend our time arguing about a person's right to die or a state's right to keep a person living in a horrid vegetative state for over a decade.

Basically what I'm saying is........Isn't this the best country in the world? :eyes:

[LynnTheDem]

36. yep and think of the $$$$$$$ we'll save not having to pay for judges and

court reporters and court buildings and all the trappings! And reporters won't have to waste their time covering the law courts. They can just continue arguing all sides of a vegetable's right to life!

WONDERFUL!

:eyes:

[Teaser]

34. Let the bill pass.

It only serves to paint Delay as a loony. Even if some Dem's sign on, it's clear to one and all who is the driving force.

As for Schiavo, it's doubtful this bill will alter her current circumstances materially. It's a meaningless bill.

[More Than A Feeling]

41. Yeah, never interrupt your opponent when they are making a mistake

If Dems stand aside, let it through without contest, then it can't be used against us #1 and #2 this isn't winning the GOP any support with anyone who doesn't already think Bush versus God, who wins? is a trick question, because Bush is God.

[Coastie for Truth]

37. DeLay is a heretical blasphemer---

I. "I am The Lord your God, Who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me." (Exodus 20:2-3)

II. "You shall not make for yourself a graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them or serve them; for I The Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate Me, but showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love Me and keep My Commandments." (Exodus 20:4-6)

III. "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain” (Exodus 20:7 )

His conduct shows that he most definitely places other gods before the Lord, he bows down to Money and Power, and his constant references to in a frankly political context is taking the name of the LORD our God in vain.

To cut Medicaid, to impose Bankruptcy peonage on those with crushing medical bills, and to block universal health coverage for all Americans is SIN.

Being a good person of faith is about your duties to the weak, to the poor, to the strange, to the sick --- not about gay bashing or imposing your views on choice.

The man is a sinner --

[gademocrat7]

53. Amen

He is the worst kind of sinner. Those sins will bring him down and soon.

[dannynyc]

38. The Wall Street Journal (subscription only) has a poll -

76% of the respondents think Congress was WRONG to intervene . . .

Even those paying for a WSJ subscription think this is stupid!

If this legislation does anything, I hope the Fla judge jumps in and nulifies it before a feeding tube is reinserted - or, the poor woman dies before the bill is signed.

[Mr.Green93]

42. Wish they cared this much

about the thousands of ANWR Caribou that have been sentenced to die from pollution and disruption of their calving grounds.

[rodeodance]

44. so will they go Federal judge shopping??

[Mr.Green93]

46. if we allow them

to keep packing the courts. They won't need to shop.

[bluedog]

54. okay then.they can overdire the courts

and do what religious right want.....then we should have never given up the fight in 2000 in Fl for GORE>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>then they said the SS word was sealed in gold.........whats the difference NOW?? TELL ME

[saigon68]

49. Wish "Used Scumbag" delay worried about hungry children

or the disabled vets-- both groups which he voted against any benefits for.

ALSO THIS CRUD HAS A TERRIBLE DYE JOB IN HIS HAIR

[Massachusetts]

50. OUR OWNERSHIP OF OUR GOVERNMENT IS FADING AWAY!

SO WHAT DO WE DO?

[geomon666]

60. Hmmm

Actually I think it's uh......wait..............yeah it's pretty much gone. Save your pennies so you can convert them into Canadian dollars. Won't get much for em but hey, I'm sure the Canadian YMCA is a lot better than ours.

[Erika]

52. Big Brother Government is here

They rule us, not serve us. I've called all my D.C. reps to say how disgusted I am with them for this stunt. They don't care.

[Bariztr]

56. I am OUTRAGED!

I cannot begin to put the words in this post that begin to describe how I feel about this news. This is an abuse on that poor woman and on us by our government. No longer have the people any voice once these fools are elected. We have lost it all. There is no opposition, there are no limits, just blind adoration of power.

We are all Ahab, going madly after that great white whale:

"Towards thee I roll, thou all-destroying but unconquering whale; to the last I grapple with thee; from hell's heart I stab at thee; for hate's sake I spit my last breath at thee-"

[whitney]

86. who is the abuser

She's been abused by her husband for more than a decade when he refuses to allow her therapy, insists she listen to one radio station, and won't allolw her to go outside. He may also be why she is in the situation in the first place, if you knew the facts of the case. Maybe now she will stop being abused, and receive the therapy she has been forbidden for all these years.

[Doremus]

110. Vicious, vile gossip -- You need to quit spreading lies

These are the words of Terri's Guardian Ad Litem, an objective, involved party, unlike the vicious gossip-hounds you're quoting:

"<snip> Wolfson's report states that in the four years after her collapse, Michael "had insistently held to the premise that Theresa could recover and the evidence is incontrovertible that he gave his heart and soul to her treatment and care . . . In late autumn of 1990, following months of therapy and testing and formal diagnoses of persistent vegetative state with no evidence of improvement, Michael took Theresa to California, where she received an experimental thalamic stimulator implant in her brain. Michael remained in California caring for Theresa during a period of several months."

Says Wolfson now: "Michael was adoring of her. One nursing home complained he was hostile and abusive of the staff in championing her care. She was immaculately kept. In 13 years, she never had one bedsore."

More here:
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/columnists/orl-locmiket25022505feb25.story

You need to quit spreading lies and educate yourself.

[whitney]

121. 1990 wanted to live, 1992 after med malp award, wanted to die?

Keyword is 1990! After the med malp award in 1992, he suddenly remembered she wanted to die, before that, she wanted aggressive therapy and experimental treatments. You all are very illinformed, but I can't keep correcting you all night, and if it's not welcomed, it'll go in one ear and out the other.

[Doremus]

122. And how long have you known Terri?

You dismiss and discredit someone who not only knows Terri, but was appointed by the court to be her guardian.

Surely you do so based on your own first-hand information.

So let's hear it.

[LiberalFighter]

198. It was 8 years when she collasped and 6 years AFTER the award

YOU are the one that is misinformed!!

Why is that??

[Danmack]

57. I just read that this case has been heard by 19 different judges...

over the last 10 years.

19 DIFFERENT FOOKIN JUDGES, but I guess all 19 must be full of shit to the American Talibornagains.

Lets say it again.

19 DIFFERENT JUDGES have ruled on this and because the talibornagains don't fookin like the outcome they are going to get thier talibornagain representatives to get the federal government into it.

The supreme court is going to slap all of them back to the stoneage.

If you want to see how seriously mental this fukrs are, go gander at the different threads at freeperland. Shit they just banned one of their long time posters cause he told they were all full of shit.

Just like they have threatened their congress critters to do something or fukem at the next election.

If anyone tells you this is about Terry S, say ya right you stupid fuk.

God, how much more of this RW crap can the country endure????
:argh:

[LiberalFighter]

68. All or most judges PROBABLY appointed by gov jeb bush

[whitney]

88. judges

The judges have refused to allow her to try taking food by mouth, have refused to allow the parents to take pictures of her to show the public, (because then we'll find out they are starving a disabled, not vegetative person) and have allowed the husband to avoid filing plans for her care each year. When there is not written directive, and family members disagree, why not allow the federal courts to hear the case. You are putting someone to death, after all.

[OldLeftieLawyer]

94. You're missing one vital element

Her next-of-kin, the person who speaks for her when she cannot, has repeatedly been affirmed by all court, State and Federal, in his fight to do what he knew his wife wanted.

"Why not allow the federal courts to hear the case?"

THEY HAVE. And they've said state courts have jurisdiction.

She's dead. She's been dead for15 years, and life support has simply sustained her corpse.

[Name removed]

104. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[OldLeftieLawyer]

111. Interesting

Where did you get the idea that's what Mr. Schiavo told the "med malp" (I love your aborted language) jury that piece of imaginary nonsense?

Oh, so it's namecalling, eh?

Back under your rock, toots. The bright lights are making the drool around your hairy lips dry up.

[whitney]

124. court transcripts available

Interesting that a lawyer would call court transcripts "imaginary nonsense". It's easier for you to call her names than educate yourself.

[OldLeftieLawyer]

125. Of course they're available

What does that have to do with your absurd claim?

Calling Mrs. Schiavo a corpse isn't namecalling - it's an accurate description of a tragic figure who's being kicked around like a soccer ball.

[Name removed]

115. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[CoffeeCat]

58. "Congress Agrees on Shiavo Bill" (CNN) --6:34 PM, 3/19

Questions: Will this Congressional move be squashed by a judge--similar to what happened on Friday? Could this move by Congress actually result in her feeding tube being reinserted?

http://www.cnn.com/2005/LAW/03/19/schiavo.brain-damaged/index.html

Saturday, March 19, 2005 Posted: 6:34 PM EST (2334 GMT)

Quotes from article:
The legislation -- which must be voted on by the House and the Senate -- would allow Schiavo's parents, who have been waging their legal battles in state court, to take their case to the federal court system.

There is no language ordering that the tube be reinserted, because Congress has no authority to do that.

"We should investigate every avenue before we take the life of a living human being," said House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, a Texas Republican. "This is giving the Schindlers the opportunity to get into federal court and have a federal judge look at this, based on the merits of the case."

[whistle]

59. Could we get Congress to agree on also stopping the killing....

...Iraqis and Americans in the Iraq war until the American people have been heard on our views to stop the Bush War in federal court? That should be a democratic amendment to DeLay's bill. Every human life is precious!

[LiberalFighter]

69. Judge should subpoena Congress

Ask members of Congress:
Who has power to make decisions if they are incapacitated?
Who has power to make decisions if their spouse is incapacitated?
Who has power to make decisions if their married parents are incapacitated?
Who has power to make decisions if their married children are incapacitated?

[geomon666]

61. Why are you all outraged?

Seriously why are you all outraged? Oh wait.....wait, you actually thought that bill would be defeated? By whom? You can't answer that because there is no answer. We have no representation in this country anymore. Believe it.

[OldLeftieLawyer]

95. You're right

My outrage isn't about Terri Schiavo - that has all gone so nuts as to be beyond belief.

But, meanwhile, look at what's going on in the world, in our own country, and how silenced the media has been, how intimidated they've become, and how otherwise good and decent Americans aren't outraged about the killing in Iraq, the coffins arriving home in the middle of the night, but they're wet and bothered about a vegetative woman in Florida.

We have no representation. We're being manipulated and controlled, and, ultimately, condemned by a bunch of venal, power-mad, soulless fucks in Washington.

We are so far beyond screwed.

[msanthrope]

62. Wait a minute??? When exactly is Congress reconvening? n/t

[phish420]

65. This is absolutely disgusting...

..and an outrage. They willnot get away with throwing it into federal courts with a conservative judge of DeLays choosing. This is unbelieveable.

[rukkyg]

66. How can they make a law

that affects one person in one situation? What's stopping them from making a law that says "If Bob Smith wakes up before 9 AM he will be sentenced to life in prison."

[FourStarDemocrat]

87. The whole thing is sick.. these Repugs r taking us back into the dark ages

1984 has arrived. National Guard Reserves sent into Iraq without body armor, 1,500 soldiers killed, 100,000 Iraqi civilians dead, and these hypocrits profess "respect for human life".

[deadparrot]

71. Oooh, goody. Congress decides when I die.

Score one for me.

[Mr_Spock]

72. Congress announces deal in Schiavo case

http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2005/03/19/congress_announces_deal_in_schiavo_case/

By Siobhan McDonough, Associated Press Writer | March 19, 2005

WASHINGTON -- Congressional leaders hoped a deal reached Saturday would clear the way for a brain-damaged woman to resume being fed while a federal court reviews the right-to-die battle between her parents and her husband.

ADVERTISEMENT

President Bush changed his schedule to return to Washington from his Texas ranch on Sunday to be on hand to sign the legislation.

"Everyone recognizes that time is important here," White House press secretary Scott McClellan said in announcing the president's plans Saturday evening in Texas. "This is about defending life."

[DearAbby]

73. This is disgusting...they are playing this woman's plight like a off tune

piano...disgusting people!

[deadparrot]

74. The hypocracy kills me.

I want to scream and throw things repeatedly.

Fuck them for using this family to "defend life."

How about those 1500+ DEAD American soldiers? Or the tens of thousands of dead Iraqis? Or all those being killed on death row, including the underaged and the mentally handicapped? How about the millions of people, both around the world and in America, who can't go to the doctor or hospital when they're sick or injured? How about the millions who don't have enough money to buy food, clothes, and shelter, and who go to bed cold and hungry? How about the millions of children who can't go to a half-decent school, and who miss out on the opportunity to go to college and make life better for themselves? Or those who are killed every year because of the "right to carry" concealed weapons?

To the Bush administration, I say only this: FUCK YOU, YOU GODDAMN HYPOCRITES.

[concord]

75. OMG!!

Is this for real?? I'm so angry, I can't even think right now ... but if I could, it'd have something to do with there only being one branch of gov't now.

holy shit.

[NJmaverick]

76. Too bad the repukes don't have the same concern

for the people they kill by gutting the pollution laws.

[Junkdrawer]

77. Gotta throw the Fundies a bone from time-to-time....

It's real important that they:

-> think this admin actually gives a shit about them

-> think that we liberals would storm the gates if it weren't for old Dubya

[johncoby2]

78. Who the fuck cares? Its not any of their business.

[Judi Lynn]

79. Bush interrupts vacation to return to Washington for Schiavo-inspired bill

Bush interrupts vacation to return to Washington for Schiavo-inspired bill.
March 19, 2005 9:10 PM

CRAWFORD, Texas
President Bush is cutting short a stay at his Crawford, Texas, ranch to return to Washington tomorrow.

The White House says Bush wants to be in place to sign the emergency legislation Congress is expected to pass that would shift the case of a brain-damaged Florida woman to federal courts.

Spokesman Scott McClellan says, "Everyone recognizes that time is important here."

After Terri Schiavo's feeding tube was removed Friday, congressional leaders have been working on a deal that would allow federal courts to decide the 41-year-old woman's fate and restore the feeding tube that was keeping her alive.
(snip/...)

http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/nnews/news1.shtml

[Inland]

80. Wow. Going back to work on a Monday. What a trooper.

Guess it took some really stupid, political legistlation to finally get Bush to put in a full week.

What a dick.

[jefferson_dem]

81. Fuck-face chimp-monster rides in on his raggedy mule ...

to try to obstruct a dying woman's last wish to pass in peace. What a prick!

http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=544&u=/ap/20050320/ap_on_go_pr_wh/brain_damaged_woman_bush&printer=1

[wellst0nev0ter]

131. If We Had Even A SEMBLANCE Of A Liberal Media

This would be all over the noooze

Governor George W. Bush Signs Law Allowing Doctors To End Life Support Over Objection Of Surrogates

Under chapter 166 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, if an attending physician disagrees with a surrogate over a life-and-death treatment decision, there must be an ethics committee consultation (with notice to the surrogate and an opportunity to participate). In a futility case such as Sun Hudson's, in which the treatment team is seeking to stop treatment deemed to be nonbeneficial, if the ethics committee agrees with the team, the hospital will be authorized to discontinue the disputed treatment (after a 10-day delay, during which the hospital must help try to find a facility that will accept a transfer of the patient). These provisions, which were added to Texas law in 1999, originally applied only to adult patients; in 2003; they were made applicable to disputes over treatment decisions for or on behalf of minors. (I hasten to add that one of the co-drafters in both 1999 and 2003 was the National Right to Life Committee. Witnesses who testified in support of the bill in 1999 included representatives of National Right to Life, Texas Right to Life, and the Hemlock Society. Our bill passed both houses, unanimously, both years, and the 1999 law was signed by then Governor George W. Bush.)



Which has led to this:

Hospital ends life support of baby
1st U.S. case of its kind is against mom's wish, in accordance with law

10:37 PM CST on Tuesday, March 15, 2005

By BRUCE NICHOLS / The Dallas Morning News

HOUSTON – In what medical ethicists say is a first in the United States, a hospital acting under state law, with the concurrence of a judge, disconnected a critically ill baby from life support Tuesday over his mother's objections.

The baby, Sun Hudson, who'd been on a mechanical ventilator since his birth Sept. 25, died quickly afterward, his mother said.

"I held him ... I talked to him. I told him I love him," said the child's mother, Wanda Hudson. Then doctors took the mechanical breathing tube out, the child took a couple of breaths, struggled briefly in her arms and it was over, Ms. Hudson said.

MORE. . . (login: [e-mail] password: 123456)

[Azathoth]

93. So their solution is to intrude the federal government into a state matter

How conservative of them...

I guess the religious social agenda trumps everything, including bedrock conservative principles. It's only a matter of time before the GOP renames themselves the National Evangelical Party.

[Halliburton]

97. This is a family matter...

These monsters are making bills to intervene into someone's personal life and make decisions for them because of their 'moral values.' Bunch of psycho headcases. This is worse than the Puritans in the 1600's.

[Mr_Spock]

100. I'm gonna just ignore this issue going forward

It's sad, but it is just one family and this happens every single day. I even have sympathy for the parents - if they wanna believe in miracles, then let them. She's gone anyway, so whether the body is flowing liquids or not is really irrelevant. He should just have a service for her and sign the living corpse over to the parents to spend thier money on pumping fluids through it if they want.

[Occulus]

123. Ok, while I sympathize,

this Congressional action.... this creates precedent. We ALL ought to be frightened and extremely concerned about this case, if for no other reason than that aspect and that aspect alone.

Suppose there's a case, somewhere down the line, where a legally married gay couple from, say, California or Vermont, adopts a child and later goes on a trip down through some Southern states to New Orleans. Let's make it semi-plausible and say they're going there for Mardi Gras, as it's a tradition in both their families and they want to continue it for their son or daugter.

While on the way there, they get pulled over by some homophobic Bubba of a cop for "speeding" or "swerving" who is quietly outraged at the fact that two men are married and have a child (he saw their pride sticker). Because of his homophobia, he's active in supporting laws that, in his state's case, allows the state to not recognize gay adoptions (single or married) that occur outside the state in question.

I don't know if such laws are already on the books; it certainly would not surprise me a bit if they were. But just suppose.

The homophobic Bubba cop then steps in and takes the child into custody "for his/her own protection" and turns the kid over to that state's DCF. National headlines? You bet. National debate? Raging furiously.

By even making a ruling re Schiavo, Congress is establishing that it believes it has the power to act on an issue that only directly affects one individual. In the extant case, this would be Terry Schiavo, but how are we to presume that Congress would refuse to step in on the case I outlined above? After all, gay marriage and, in some other quarters, gay adoptions, are pet causes of theirs, and not in a good way. Were my case to actually happen, they would eat it up.

The actions of Congress, because of this whole TS mess, establish a precedent for them being able to do something similar in the future. Our right to self-determination has gone down the drain if we allow our- repeat, our- Congress to intervene in this issue at all, either in one direction or the other.

Our Congress cannot be allowed to decide things for individuals specifically, and there's an end to it.

[usregimechange]

105. +I wonder what else this law has done? Patriot act style?

[OldLeftieLawyer]

116. Halliburton?

There's probably an amendment already added to it that somehow provided a large cash bonus to Halliburton for every day of every month that has an "R" in it.

[Princess Turandot]

109. According to the NY Times

"The House will meet on Sunday to try to pass the new measure with the unanimous agreement of both parties. If an objection is raised - and at least three Democratic congressmen from Florida indicated Saturday night that they would object - the House will then wait until immediately after midnight to try again. Should a roll call vote be demanded, members would have to be summoned back.

But if the House is able to act immediately, the Senate is prepared to follow suit under special streamlined procedures that would not require most senators to return."

(http://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/20/politics/20debate.html?hp&ex=1111381200&en=f96bb0c3a744b9d2&ei=5094&partner=homepage)

Hopefully, more than 3 Democrats will speak out against this lunacy.

Should this pass, wouldn't this go to the same Federal Court that declined to get involved in the case already, I think because it was deemed a state matter? I also assume that the lawyer for Mr. Schiavo will file suit asking the law to be declared unconstitutional.

Edited to add link.

[OldLeftieLawyer]

114. Gee, will they get a quorum?

Congress has adjourned. I don't know if they'll get enough members back to get a quorum, but, in fact, I'm not following this bullshit too closely.

If such a law were passed, and, as I just read, Fuckface is flying back from his "ranch" in Texas to be able to sign the bill, then Mr. Schiavo's lawyer will file suit to have it declared unconstitutional. He'll have to do that in Federal court.

But, the more compelling issue is how the fucks who are doing this are going to try to get that goddamned feeding tube reinstalled while the litigation goes forth. I envision a replay - albeit more quickly - of the last time the tube was removed.

If I believed in an afterlife, I would wish the worst Hell imaginable on DeLay and these soulless bastards, as well as Mrs. Schiavo's parents and their manipulative, unChristian, polically motivated whore rightwingnuts.

[Rainscents]

132. These neo-cons will stop at nothing... BASTERS!!!

This is INSANE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[thecrow]

133. Congress Announces Deal in Schiavo Case

<snip>
Congressional leaders announced a compromise between Senate and House Republicans that would allow the brain-damaged woman's case to be reviewed by federal courts that could restore her feeding tube. Opposition waned after House leaders agreed to give up broader legislation and accept a narrowly crafted bill that applied only to Schiavo's case.

The Senate convened briefly Saturday evening to give formal permission for the House to meet Sunday, when it otherwise would be adjourned for the Easter recess.

The plan is for the House to act on the two-page bill Sunday or just after midnight Monday morning. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist said the Senate then would act on the House legislation, assuming it passes the House as envisioned, and rush the bill to the president for signature into law.

"We should investigate every avenue before we take the life of a living human being," said House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas. "That's the very least we can do for her."

<snip>

http://apnews.excite.com/article/20050320/D88UGAOG0.html

[Lindacooks]

134. "We should investigate every avenue before we take the life of a living

human being."

Oh really, mr. scumbag. Tell that to the 100,000 dead in Iraq.

Not to mention the American people you are denying food, shelter, and medical care through your cruel, unChristian, and corrupt policies.

[Wapsie B]

136. Tell that to those on Death Row.

[Solly Mack]

138. exactly what I was thinking

[Wapsie B]

145. I wonder if DNA testing is required in all death sentences now?

[Kool Kitty]

150. My sentiments exactly.

[mike_c]

141. what a fucking hypocritical pig....

Gee, we have a feeling that maybe Saddam Hussein might have had a wet dream about WMDs back in 1995 or so-- WE'D BETTER BOMB THE SHIT OF IRAQ!!!

We know that Terri Schiavo is has no higher brain function, and we know that dead neurons don't grow back, especially not whole brain regions, we know she's been in a persistant vegetative state for 15 years, we know that her husband has successfully overcome all challenges to his right to speak for her-- SO WE'D BETTER INVESTIGATE EVERY ANGLE BEFORE WE STOP FORCING HER TO LIVE ON AGAINST HER EXPRESSED WISHES.

(bangs head against desk)

[boilerbabe]

157. I agree, but does it necessarily have to be UN Christian?

[whitney]

135. stem cells too?

It's a relief democrats are supporting Terri. Now it's too bad Bush won't back up his support of Terri with a support of stem cell research.

[Sandpiper]

137. This sounds suspiciously like a Bill of Attainder

A legislative act narrowly tailored to the specific case of one particular person.

[antonialee839]

144. Which is also suspiciously

the way that sorry excuse for a human being became president.

[jmowreader]

158. It is a bill of attainder

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

139. I thought bills of attainder were unconstitutional.

Read the Constitution lately, Bug Man?

[shraby]

140. By the time the general public

finds out it's unconstitutional (if it ever does), it won't matter because Schaivo will have fallen out of the news because Michael Jackson will be the main story.

[johncoby2]

142. WTFC? It isnt any of their damn business!!! eom

[Heyo]

143. I am SO sick of this story..

... both for the regular reason that it's just *too much* when a story gets this much coverage...

But also, because of the clueless morons saying the most ignorant things, and using all this fiery rhetoric about "starving" someone to death, that SOUNDS great but is SO uninformed. Normally sane people have completely LOST their minds over this.

I don't even care what they do with the damn feeding tube. She will have never known the difference.

It just disgusts me the way people have been acting over this. It's pitiful and sad and pathetic.

Whether it's radio or TV, the split second I hear the story mention I change the station faster than a cessium atom could decay.

It's just her parents' sad delucion being played out for all to see.

I wish I could grab them by their shirt collar and say "Have you looked at the CT scan you moron?!?"

:hurts:

Heyo

[Windy]

146. are they going to try and save every one that enters hospice care?

People that are terminally ill and in hospice also have their feeding tubes and IVs pulled every day.... This is not a unique case at all. Its a perfect example of how the spin machine can work and this time, the rethugs are exploiting a private family matter to satisfy the "religious right" base. Its appalling!

[Kool Kitty]

151. I was thinking about this, too.

This seems to be a local story that became the basis for a huge distraction whenever the little emperor and his minions need it. Don't get me wrong, I'm not making light of a family's tragedy. This is a tragic story. But I think it too personal to have become the huge story that it has nationwide, to the exclusion of everything else.

And W is clearing his schedule for this. Too bad he couldn't get his ass out of the chair this quickly on September 11, 2001, when there were a hell of a lot more lives at stake.

[traco]

152. Most if not all of the others

have either a living will or their family (all of them) agree that it is time to let their loved one go.

[LiberalFighter]

199. Could we create a living will for gw*dipshit and his cronies?? nt

[AtLiberty]

147. We should take the offensive and spin this crap...

...into an argument about health care reform for people who can feel physical pain 24/7.

If the Republicans wish to discuss compassion, let's talk compassion. Compassion for the sick with no access to medical care. Compassion for people who cannot pay their medical bills and lose everything they own. Compassion for returning soldiers who are denied or receive substandard VA care. Compassion for the homeless...

Oooo -- this could get good!

[sandnsea]

149. Yes we really should

If Terri Schiavo has the right to every available means of health care, then so does everybody else.

[Erika]

155. Agreed. Terri's medical bill is paid 100% by taxpayers

We don't owe the same to veterans and the needy?

[underthedome]

156. This is shit. What a fucking waste

How much god damn money, time, and resources are being used on this? Bush is flying back to sign some shit in person? Is there a fucking WAR going on???????
What in gods name is going on in this country!?

[tokenlib]

148. An insult to intelligence

Political opportunism at its worse. The GOP has no shame. What about the homeless veterans or unemployed freezing their asses off tonight right along with their functioning brains. These people make me sick!!

[countmyvote4real]

153. Holy cow. This is utter bullshit. (Ha, ha. Funny. Not,)

My first response is that the “rapture right” are trying to fulfill their own mythological prophesies with this hypocritical stance. They have no qualms about sacrificing young and vibrant soldiers to conquer foreign oil fields, but they are suddenly aroused by the tragic plight of a vegetable that would never survive their current medicare and bankruptcy policies. She would have passed away long ago if not for the court rulings over the years.

My second response is sick and off the cuff. But maybe Terry always dreamed of being a political football. Who in our government could deny her that choice? Well at least if it’s an opportunity to attack the standing judicial branch (that has reviewed this case for over a decade), their God or conscience suddenly seems to tell them to do something about.

Oh come on. This is just a field goal for these hypocrites. If they cared anything about her situation, they would not have voted for the new bankruptcy law. They would not be campaigning for tort reforms that would not allow awards to sustain the life of someone like this.

If this is a true bi-partisan effort, then I am prepared to pull the plug for the sake of humanity in the next election. I can only hope that my vote will be counted accurately. That’s a larger issue, that MSM seems to avoid.

I'm trying to say that I hate these people that don't have any real conviction about the sanctity of life. The only life that they seem to care about is their own. The sooner their constituents figure that out, the better for them and the rest of us.

[Trillo]

154. A "Deal?" How much MONEY will change hands as a result? nt

[Gunnyfw]

159. Perhaps now...

...these Republican blow-hards will shut their cake-holes and cease lecturing the public about states rights, limited government, personal responsibility and the sacred nature of the family structure.

[hollowdweller]

189. Wonder if they could display her in the rotunda, or have her at a news

conference so the people can really see what a BS issue this is. Although I think the lady should be allowed to die, I can see how people can have difft. opinions on this. However the way congress has shamefully injected themselves into this for purely political reasons is really disgusting.

[TalkingDog]

160. Bush Changing Schedule to Return to Washington...(Schiavo)

http://northlouisiana.cox.net/cci/newsnational/national?_mode=view&_state=maximized&view=article&id=D88UDCJ00

CRAWFORD, Texas -- President Bush is changing his schedule to return to the White House on Sunday to be in place to sign emergency legislation that would shift the case of a brain-damaged Florida woman to federal courts, the White House said Saturday.

"Everyone recognizes that time is important here," White House press secretary Scott McClellan said. "This is about defending life."

snip>

McClellan said that Bush had not talked with any members of Congress Saturday about the case, but was kept apprised by his staff. He dismissed any suggestion that there were any political considerations at work, either in the quick and aggressive congressional action or the president's hurried return to the White House.


Vultures

[Up2Late]

161. "This is about defending life" What BS

Someone should ask him why he's not as concerned about defending the Life of the Iraqi's he's Killed this year.

Or why he STILL hasn't attended 1 Funeral of a U.S. Service Person.:mad: :nuke:

[whitney]

163. Bush should back it up and support stem cell research

It's too bad he doesn't back up his defense of Terri's life with a defense of stem cell research.

[radfringe]

183. defending life when convenient

Bush Hypocrisy -- why am I NOT surprised:

Spiro Nikolouzos
http://atrios.blogspot.com/2005_03_13_atrios_archive.html#111128227932624623

George Bush signed the law which allows the hospitals to make this decision:

A patient's inability to pay for medical care combined with a prognosis that renders further care futile are two reasons a hospital might suggest cutting off life support, the chief medical officer at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital said Monday.

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Bush Veto:
http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mpl/metropolitan/3079622

Judge Tony Lindsay expressed "most sincere sadness and apologies," but said the law required Nikolouzos show a reasonable expectation of finding an alternative facility before Lindsay could order the hospital to continue treatment it did not feel was advisable.

It's the same law under which another judge denied Wanda Hudson's request to force Texas Children's Hospital to maintain Sun Hudson on life support.

The law was passed in 1999 and amended two years ago. Acting as a negotiator for Houston-based Texas Right to Life, Burke Balch flew in from Washington "20 to 25 times" to sit at a table with represent- atives of the Texas Hospital Association and other parties to negotiate the law and its amendment.

Balch is director of National Right to Life's Robert Powell Center for Medical Ethics.

Right to Life was at the table partly because <b>then-Gov. George W. Bush had vetoed a similar bill two years earlier at the request of some members of the religious right, </b>according to its sponsor, then-Sen. Mike Moncrief, now mayor of Fort Worth.

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Bush Hypocrisy on Terri Schiavo Ignored by FOX, the "Real Journalism" Network
http://www.newshounds.us/2005/03/20/bush_hypocrisy_on_terri_schiavo_ignored_by_fox_the_real_journalism_network.php

While FOX News reporters fall over each other trying to prove their concern for the life of Terri Schiavo, nobody is reporting about the cases in Texas where life support is being removed by hospitals over the objection of family members. <b>The law allowing that to happen was signed in 1999 by then-governor George W. Bush.</b>

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Life-Support Stopped for 6-Month-Old in Houston
March 16, 2005
http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/healthlawprof_blog/2005/03/lifesupport_sto.html

Under chapter 166 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, if an attending physician disagrees with a surrogate over a life-and-death treatment decision, there must be an ethics committee consultation (with notice to the surrogate and an opportunity to participate). In a futility case such as Sun Hudson's, in which the treatment team is seeking to stop treatment deemed to be nonbeneficial, if the ethics committee agrees with the team, the hospital will be authorized to discontinue the disputed treatment (after a 10-day delay, during which the hospital must help try to find a facility that will accept a transfer of the patient). These provisions, which were added to Texas law in 1999, originally applied only to adult patients; in 2003; they were made applicable to disputes over treatment decisions for or on behalf of minors. (I hasten to add that one of the co-drafters in both 1999 and 2003 was the National Right to Life Committee. Witnesses who testified in support of the bill in 1999 included representatives of National Right to Life, Texas Right to Life, and the Hemlock Society. Our bill passed both houses, unanimously, both years, and the 1999 law was signed by then Governor George W. Bush.)

( chapter 166 of the Texas Health and Safety Code http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/statutes/docs/HS/content/htm/hs.002.00.000166.00.htm )

[devinsgram]

186. He gives new meaning to the word hypocrite.

[katinmn]

162. Wow, he IS desperate, isn't he?

His ship is sinking and he's holding on to the fundies for dear life.

They're the only thing saving him now.

This was a foolish move, IMO.

He's such a dumb fuck.

[truthisfreedom]

164. yawn. this is so expected. it's just not the real reason he's changing

his schedule. he needs this excuse to give up on his uniquely ineffective bullshit town hall sessions with planted audiences that are simply reminding Americans of how desperate he is. watch, and mark my words... he'll issue a new terror alert and find a reason to stay in washington and try to work on his numbers.

[CountAllVotes]

167. you got that right!

* has bombed on his 60 city tour only to be greeted by protestors and those in the town hall meetings are all * shills.

More along ... nothing to see/hear anymore with this broken record on Social Security.

* wants our SS money for his ugly war and it doesn't look like *'s shyte is gonna fly does it.

One defeat for now anyway. I'll take it anyway I can get it. Defeat is sweet when dealing with the BFEE.

P.S. * could give a shit about the brain dead woman!

:kick:

[cliss]

177. Heh you're right.

Why do I love it when Bush fails. Not just fails in a small way, but in a BIG WAY. The BIGGER the BETTER.

Sometimes I have to stop myself. Sweetie Pie, what's happened to you? You cheer about his failures. If Bush has a bad day, you have a great one.

You pray for this man to fail in a big, colossal, stupendous way. You even wish for ------......-----.

Is this what it's come to?

Yes, because he's no ordinary man.

[Toucano]

165. Didn't they just pass legislation recently

restricting access to federal courts?

Talk about your flip-flops!

[opiate69]

166. But...

the Aug 6th PDB wasn't important enough to get his retarded ass off the ranch and back to work. Fucking asshole...

[bpilgrim]

168. BRILLIANT marketing by the reTHUGs

one death is a tragedy over a hundred thousand only a statistic - stalin

anyone though could use this distraction as an excellent opportunity to do compare and contrast questions to all the reTHUGs grandstanding, pretending they care.

this could be held up as a remarkable contrast between the attention one political pawn gets compared to our wounded and homeless vets or the mercury and our CHILDREN or heavy toll Iraqi civilians are paying after mission accomplished, etc.

all our leaders should let the courts handles this and step out of the way cept to point to the gross pandering the reTHUGs are do'n.

people

[proud patriot]

176. Jaw droppingly so

:wow:

[thebaghwan]

169. Let me see if I have this right; * is returning to DC to sign a bill for

one person but he could not attend the services for one serviceperson killed in Iraq.

[1monster]

170. Now I realize that the neocons don't give a flying leap off a shallow curb

about the Constitution,and especially about the Bill of Rights, but how in the world can this be possible under the Constitution?

Amendment X
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.

How can Congress and Bush legally transfer this case, which is not deliniated in the Constitution as a right of the Federal government, to the Federal Courts from the State Courts where this case originated?

Has anyone ever heard of such a thing being done before in this country?

[mike_c]

171. no political considerations....

Bwahahahaha (wipes beer from monitor).

[Straight Shooter]

172. Cannibals. Worse than cannibals. Feasting on the dying, not yet dead.

:nuke:

[Azathoth]

173. They're gonna ride the lifeless body of Terri Schiavo as long as they can

Anything to score a few political points with the fundies.

[xultar]

174. He wouldn't do it for the Tsunami. Hundreds of Thousands of people

died including Americans.

But he'll do it for thIS??


WTF

[Anakin Skywalker]

181. Anything to Make the Mofo Look

righteous to his rightwing fundies.

[xultar]

184. Straight up! You got that right. n/t

[6000eliot]

175. Good

Now that the dick head is involved, they're sure to fuck the whole thing up.

[rooboy]

178. Probably thought he could organize a Social Security debate with her.

He'd still lose.

[Zhade]

179. Yeah, time sure is of the essence, 15 FUCKING YEARS LATER!

What a MORON. He's probably missing his cerbral cortex, just like poor Terri.

I hope this madness ends soon.

[applegrove]

180. Wow - what decisiveness. Too bad he wasn't like that on 9/11. n/t

[diamond14]

182. bush* and his minions are making real fools of themselves...

all these reTHUGlicans fundie antics are incredibly goulish and ghastly.....


at any time in America, there are thousands of families, watching their loved ones dying....and engaged in equally soul-wrenching decisions....and they are likely all HORRIFIED that terry schiavo has been turned into a political item for posturing and puffing...


I'm glad the Democrats are keeping out of this....it's too toxic for any savy politician, and the reTHUGlicans are just going to choke on this madness....maybe they'll actually force the dead Terry Schiavo into a Congressional appearance....wouldn't that be bizarre? and we already have medical doctor bill frist making a MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS by viewing a home made 1991 video....medical people all over America are HORRIFIED....next, there'll be THOUSANDS of life-supported mostly dead people wheeled into Congress, with their families begging and crying for help, on the floor of the U.S. Congress....it'll be one big nightmare for bush*...

[LiberalFighter]

200. Question: Does Frist have the qualifications to make that judgement?

He was heart surgeon and it was his only area of practice.

Did he practice medicine that involved PVS? If any of his patients went into a coma or became PVS was he the physician that tested to determine the status?

[0007]

185. In reality junior has about as much feeling for human life as

he does for the frogs he blew up with firecrackers.

[emad]

190. White House contender in ‘quackery’ row over dying woman

March 20, 2005

Sunday Times
Tony Allen-Mills in Washington



ONE of the Republican party’s leading contenders for the White House in 2008 was accused of “grotesque quackery” yesterday after intervening in an increasingly acrimonious medical debate over the condition of Terri Schiavo, a severely brain-damaged Florida woman at the centre of a life-or-death legal battle.

Senator Bill Frist, a Tennessee Republican who was a leading heart surgeon before he turned to politics, added a new twist to the bitterly fought case when he offered a controversial medical opinion based on his reviews of family videotapes of Schiavo lying comatose in bed.

Frist took to the Senate floor to dispute findings by Florida doctors that their 41-year-old patient was in a “persistent vegetative state”.

After seven years of legal wrangling over whether Schiavo should be kept alive artificially, the Florida judge in charge of the case ruled last week that her feeding tubes could be removed.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/newspaper/0,,176-1533567,00.html

[Jo March]

191. Wow. Frist is a quack

Cat killer.

[alcuno]

192. We need to find out how to buy those quacking things for duck hunting.

I love the idea of quacking at him wherever he goes.

[wolfgirl]

194. We should all get

toy squeaky ducks and gather at Frist's office and play him a little tune...the jerk!

[truthpusher]

203. Schiavo Kin Wants Feeding Tube Reinserted (Parents:"prepare for Sunday")

http://apnews.myway.com/article/20050320/D88UQ9FO0.html

Schiavo Kin Wants Feeding Tube Reinserted
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Mar 20, 11:28 AM (ET)
By MITCH STACY
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PINELLAS PARK, Fla. (AP) - Hanging their hopes on a last-minute compromise in Congress, Terri Schiavo's parents notified her hospice to prepare to have her feeding tube reinserted on Sunday, her third day without food or water.

Congressional leaders from both parties hoped an agreement reached on a bill would allow the tube to be restored while federal courts review her case. The House and Senate were expected to take up the legislation by Sunday or early Monday. If passed, President Bush planned to sign it.

"Everyone recognizes that time is important here. This is about defending life," White House press secretary Scott McClellan said in Texas, where the president planned an early return to Washington to be able to sign the bill as soon as possible.

The development was the latest in a contentious right-to-die battle between Schiavo's parents, Bob and Mary Schindler, and her husband, Michael Schiavo, over whether she should be permitted to die or kept alive by the feeding tube.

http://apnews.myway.com/article/20050320/D88UQ9FO0.html

[Moderator]

204. locking

Latest update here:
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