My theory about the "No Public Option" headline...

We all know the MSM loves a conflict. Even when one doesn't exist, they'll work to create it.

(:tinfoilhat: TFH on now)

According to many polls, "the people" are supportive of reform and a public option. But where are they? The story of the protesters is getting old now. What they need is to awaken all the supporters and get them out to confront the protesters.

If the anti-reform crew buys the headline, they'll be patting each other on the back thinking their plan worked, then WHAM!, supporters are upset and come out to confront them.

Instant conflict.

I personally think these headlines are a call to the supporters to get out there and do something about this debate because 1) it's not even a debate and 2) it's getting boring for the MSM to cover.

(Ok, you can take your hats off now...as long as you promise to get out there!)

which was a replay of her appearance earlier in the morning, and she was correctly quoted by Reuters.

or did she say something else?

that's the point. They interpreted it in a different way and went with a (to use a phrase) "shock and awe" headline designed to spur reaction. They want a reaction from the people who support a public option (at least that's what the voices in my head say, heh heh).

smart person!

:hi:

According to this analysis of Senate HELP bill, it is managed care:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x8590887#8590897

That's what she said.

Here's the transcript

http://thepage.time.com/transcript-sebelius-on-state-of-the-union/

Show me that quote

But nobody is in the pool...

No way in HELL she would have said public option "wasn't an essential part of the plan" and these silly cooperatives would be an acceptable alternative - if she didn't have approval from the White House to say that.

You simply can't blame the messenger. I watched it and about fell out of my chair. I was stunned. Still am. What an incredible opportunity we have had on issue after issue and our president - hell bent on seeking approval from everyone - has failed to provide essential leadership. No issue in modern times could possibly be more important than health care reform; I have seen a president, who I had the greatest hopes for, show nothing but a kind of leadership that acts more like a mediator than a strong and decisive leader with a mandate from the people.

Disappointment doesn't even come CLOSE to how I feel about issue after issue after issue - including this most important piece of legislation.

LBJ must be rolling in his grave to see such wimpy "leadership."

and they're falling for it, hook line, and sinker.

This signals to me that the White House is ready to push the debate forward - by preparing to concede the public option in order to leverage support for a specific set of reforms (I know, some will claim there is no "reform" without the public option).