I think it would be helpful if the Democrats could figure out how to be moderate enough to allow more moderates to support them. These favorability ratings in the face of a fascist take over of government reflect how out of touch the Dems are at the other extreme. I keep looking for that party that isn't a sinking ship and don't see one.
As for the millions of Americans fucked by the ACA subsidies being cut, that was the plan put forward from the beginning. They were to last 5 years then phase out. That was never feasible but it was the plan bullied through Congress and part of the crowning achievement. Tough to have to live with it now. But both parties have not made them permanent for all these years so they both suck. As has the ACA structure from the beginning. It was an attempt to force employer insurance to go away and force full government controlled health care. It failed to accomplish that so its just a shitty half baked solution that is essential. Next Congress should just make the subsidies permanent and take the budget heat.
4 weeks ago
I think the "capitulation" was leadership's call. They had done as much damage politically to Trump and the GOP as they could get, and neither Trump nor Johnson were ever going to give up the subsidies. Johnson, in particular, almost automatically loses any tiny shred of credibility he has left if he does.
The Democrats picked people retiring or not having to run next year so minimal damage, leadership still gets to complain, but the pain eases.
I think it was as artfully played as possible. Kudos to Schumer and team.
I think it would be helpful if the Democrats could figure out how to be moderate enough to allow more moderates to support them. These favorability ratings in the face of a fascist take over of government reflect how out of touch the Dems are at the other extreme. I keep looking for that party that isn't a sinking ship and don't see one.
As for the millions of Americans fucked by the ACA subsidies being cut, that was the plan put forward from the beginning. They were to last 5 years then phase out. That was never feasible but it was the plan bullied through Congress and part of the crowning achievement. Tough to have to live with it now. But both parties have not made them permanent for all these years so they both suck. As has the ACA structure from the beginning. It was an attempt to force employer insurance to go away and force full government controlled health care. It failed to accomplish that so its just a shitty half baked solution that is essential. Next Congress should just make the subsidies permanent and take the budget heat.
I think the "capitulation" was leadership's call. They had done as much damage politically to Trump and the GOP as they could get, and neither Trump nor Johnson were ever going to give up the subsidies. Johnson, in particular, almost automatically loses any tiny shred of credibility he has left if he does.
The Democrats picked people retiring or not having to run next year so minimal damage, leadership still gets to complain, but the pain eases.
I think it was as artfully played as possible. Kudos to Schumer and team.