SCHIP Fails (and what does the Virginia GOP have to say?)

By: legacyofmarshall
Published On: 10/18/2007 1:28:14 PM

With 156 "Nay" votes tallied, the motion to pass SCHIP, president's objections notwithstanding, fails.  2 Democrats voted against, 44 Republicans voted in favor.  There was a slight applause when the acting speaker announced the results.  Despicable.

It's sad that Speaker Pelosi couldn't hold this vote off longer, to ensure passage.

[UPDATE BY ROB:  Remember, the "S" in SCHIP stands for "State."  It's a joint federal-state program for children health care.  So, with the Republicans in the Congress voting against expanding funding to Virginia's SCHIP program, what does the Virginia GOP -- including their 2007 candidates -- think about Bush's veto and their party's decision to support his veto?]

Comments



What Did You Expect (Matt H - 10/18/2007 3:00:56 PM)
Our government and elected leaders are afraid to speak up against Bush and the insurance industry. 

I don't understand the justification that some kids may be insured who don't qualify.  It's an excuse and nothing more.  I'd rather err on having kids have extra coverage and not need it, than having one kid not be coveraged.

"Despicable" is a good word.  I wonder how universal coverage will ever be achieved if we can't even cover our own children. 



Slight clarification (tx2vadem - 10/18/2007 5:59:46 PM)
"Our government" might be a bit too broad.  The road block here is simply Republicans.

Also, the industry association for health insurance companies, America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), supports the passage of the SCHIP expansion.  They don't hate SCHIP as states generally rely on private insurers to provide the coverage.  So, this isn't really a hit to their bottom line, and the more people paying for coverage (even through a government program), the better.



Today's GOP: Vetoes and Filibusters (TheGreenMiles - 10/18/2007 3:53:23 PM)
They've lost their majorities in the House and Senate and their president has zero credibility.  Vetoes and filibusters are all the Republican party has left to cling to.


None of us should forget this this election day (Lowell - 10/18/2007 4:37:11 PM)
or next one.  Republican talk of "family values" has been exposed, once and for all, as empty rhetoric.  Get these guys outta here!