McDermott votes against Christmas resolution to protest Bush veto

[uppityperson]

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004069327_webmcdermott13m.html

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Jim McDermott says he's no Grinch, even though he voted against Christmas.

The veteran Seattle Democrat voted against a House resolution recognizing the importance of Christmas, but called it a protest against President Bush's veto of a children's health care bill. "While the Republicans are passing a resolution celebrating Christmas, the president was vetoing health care for children. There's a little bit of irony going on around here," McDermott said today.

Earlier this year, McDermott voted in favor of resolutions honoring Ramadan and Diwali. Ramadan is an Islamic holiday, while Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and others.

"There's 10,000 kids in my state that won't have a health care plan" because Bush vetoed a bill Wednesday that would have expanded government-provided health insurance for children, McDermott said. The veto was the second time Bush rejected a bipartisan effort in Congress to dramatically increase funding for the popular program.
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In an interview today, McDermott said he knew he would take some political heat for his actions, but said if it forces a discussion of Bush's veto, "then it was a good protest vote."...

[gateley]

1. Just a note that McDermott (GREAT GUY!) needs $$$ for legal fees -

he's fighting the good fight.

http://www.mcdermottforcongress.com/getthefacts.aspx

[uppityperson]

7. Thanks for posting that.

[Swamp Rat]

2. I DEMAND A MARDI GRAS RESOLUTION!!!

:)

[HCE SuiGeneris]

3. Any other Dem leaders care to participate in a protest? n/t

[Larkspur]

4. Protests take too much energy for our Dem leaders

And they may upset the meadheads on Fox News. </sarcasm>

[Pastiche423]

5. And...

off to the greatest you go!

As has been mentioned above, Rep. McDermott is drowning in debt due to the lawsuit he lost brought by Boner (I refuse to spell it correctly), the minority leader in the House.

If you can, please donate whatever you can to this wonderful and progressive man.

[ConsAreLiars]

6. His courage in exposing Newt Gingrich's absolute corruption

(Newt couldn't even stay within the terms of his plea bargain with Congress) was key to putting a temporary limit on the power of the fascists. But he became a target, and the Supreme Court sided with, guess who. He has not wavered or capitulated. I hope everyone recognizes his contribution, then and today, and considers tossing a few coins his way.

[blondeatlast]

8. Well, yes, but talk about a safe seat. The correct vote would be "present," IMHO. nt

[uppityperson]

11. Why? Serious question. Thanks. nt

[blondeatlast]

14. It simply says "I showed up for the vote and gave the bill the respect it deserved."

This was a bill tailor-made to make anyone who would dare vote "no" (only 9 did) look bad. there were, IIRC, 10 "presents."

[uppityperson]

15. That would say "I am ignoring you"? Makes sense. I'm glad McDermott gave a statement

as to why he voted no.

[MrCoffee]

9. that's my rep!

:woohoo:

[SeattleGirl]

12. Mine too!

:woohoo:

[zorahopkins]

10. Good On Him!

Bravo, bravissimo.

I hope that the people in Washington (state) will not give the brave, brave man a lot of political heat.

I wish there were more people in Washington (DC) like this guy!

[EFerrari]

13. Thanks, Jim.

:kick: