Bitter tea
March 20, 2010 2:43 PM   Subscribe

Getting ugly at the tea party protests today.
posted by kgasmart (1443 comments total) 23 users marked this as a favorite
 
How dare Obama heal our healthcare system on a Sunday!?
posted by mccarty.tim at 2:46 PM on March 20, 2010 [8 favorites]


Yes, healthcare for all is just like Hitler. Tell me one way that it's not.
posted by ColdChef at 2:55 PM on March 20, 2010 [13 favorites]


Hey, at lest they're being honest now.
posted by Aversion Therapy at 2:55 PM on March 20, 2010 [5 favorites]


There should be a single serving site - Is There A Tea Party Protest In Washington Today? This would cut down on the number of times I have gone to do touristy things on the National Mall and been surrounded by people wearing NRA hats and Obama-Hitler shits.
posted by kerning at 2:55 PM on March 20, 2010 [9 favorites]


(This is a small point, but: Huffington Post, why exactly was "Ni**er" so offensive that two letters needed to be blanked with asterisks, while "Faggot" wasn't?)
posted by koeselitz at 2:56 PM on March 20, 2010 [35 favorites]


Yes, healthcare for all is just like Hitler. Tell me one way that it's not.

Agreed. They both want to kill my grandmother.
posted by found missing at 2:56 PM on March 20, 2010 [17 favorites]


people wearing NRA hats and Obama-Hitler shits.

You win today's "most gloriously apt Freudian typo" award.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 2:56 PM on March 20, 2010 [18 favorites]


ColdChef: "Yes, healthcare for all is just like Hitler. Tell me one way that it's not."

For all?

... as many as 23 million people could still be without insurance by 2018...
posted by Joe Beese at 2:58 PM on March 20, 2010


"A lot of us have been saying for a long time that much of this, much of this is not about health care at all...

Exactly.
posted by R. Mutt at 2:58 PM on March 20, 2010 [11 favorites]


Agreed. They both want to kill my grandmother.
Zing!
Also: I like how you can rate each photo from "Lame" to "Totally Outrageous".
posted by ColdChef at 2:58 PM on March 20, 2010


Setting aside my disdain for the implied political stance behind it,This sign mostly bothers me for the confused symbology. The top and bottom of the neck-holder parts (?) of the guillotine are labeled as the Senate and the House, which I guess implies that the senate and the house will hold the person's head in place while themselves remaining unharmed.
They could have really cleared it up by adding a picture of the grim reaper labelled "My country 'tis of thee," with a blood-drenched prescription pad in his hand.
posted by Uppity Pigeon #2 at 2:59 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


Tea Party types are starting to remind me of Juggalos.
posted by box at 3:00 PM on March 20, 2010 [75 favorites]


from Wigu's twitter earlier this week: The only thing I have against health care reform is that it may prolong the lives of those who oppose it.
posted by The Whelk at 3:02 PM on March 20, 2010 [31 favorites]


I linked to this before, but I think it appropriate again:

I think maybe part of the reason you're so angry is you keep demanding that you get screwed and then, not surprisingly, you keep getting screwed — A Message for the Teabaggers About Health Insurance Reform

13. I wish I could tell you that this was just a worst-case scenario, that this was only something that might, maybe happen, but that wouldn't be true. Without health care reform, this is what will happen. We know this because this is what is happening now. It has been happening for the past 10 years. In 2008, employers spent on average 25 percent more per employee than they did in 2001, but wages on average did not increase during those years. The price of milk went up. The price of gas went up. But wages did not. All of the money that would have gone to higher wages went to pay the higher and higher and higher cost of health insurance. And unless Congress passes health care reform, that will not change.

Well, it will change in the sense that it will keep getting worse, but it won't get better. Unless the problem gets fixed, the problem won't be fixed. That's kind of what "problem" and "fixed" mean.

14. Sadly for any chance you have of ever seeing a raise again, it looks like Congress may not pass health care reform. It looks like they won't do that because they're scared of angry voters who are demanding that they oppose health care reform, angry voters who demand that Congress not do anything that would keep the cost of health insurance from going up and up and up. Angry voters like you.

15. Do you see the point here? You are angrily, loudly demanding that Congress make sure that you never, ever get another pay raise as long as you live. Because of you and because of your angry demands, you and your family and your kids are going to have to get by with less this year than last year. And next year you're going to have to get by with even less. And if you keep angrily demanding that no one must ever fix this problem, then you're going to have to figure out how to get by on less and less every year for the rest of your life.

posted by netbros at 3:02 PM on March 20, 2010 [97 favorites]


I can't wait for the teabaggers to figure out the Medicare is a single-payer government-run healthcare program.
posted by found missing at 3:04 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]






Homunculus, he's a friend of mine. We go to church together. I was excited to see him get national attention. As it says in your linked video, he has a PhD and 2 Master's degrees, and is a graduate of Cornell and is a nuclear physicist.

Netbros, not that I agree with the Teabaggers, but their argument would be that government is causing the current crisis with over-regulation. Malpractice insurance also contributes in their opinion. For them the solution is less regulation, allowing companies to compete in different states, along with tort reform.

Of course, that would be the argument of the more sane, less idiotic, religious and racist teabaggers. If you can find them.
posted by PigAlien at 3:11 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Great Barney Frank quote from the MSNBC article:

"The only problem I have with this... They all said 'You should quit. You should quit. We're going to defeat you. At some point... I'd like to retire. As long as I think it might make some of those people happy, I can never retire. I may have to work forever as long as they're out there."
posted by Aversion Therapy at 3:12 PM on March 20, 2010 [63 favorites]


So it's like playing Halo 3 on Xbox Live. Only these people are a couple of decades past puberty, and they vote.
posted by hellojed at 3:13 PM on March 20, 2010 [8 favorites]


Tea Party types are starting to remind me of Juggalos.

Hey now. That's just mean and unfair. To Juggalos.
posted by joe lisboa at 3:13 PM on March 20, 2010 [29 favorites]


I recently saw some wackos in front of Macy's in San Francisco wearing the Obama as Hitler signs, happily passing out nonsense to all the tourists. I walked by them 7 times that day and kept telling myself I was not going to get baited into their bullshit, I was not...

And then finally I marched right over to one of the women and asked her if she really thought it was a fair analogy. She smiled hugely and said "I ABSOLUTELY do" with a huge amount of pride. I was so furious I deeply wanted to do something violent to the lot of them. Instead I just said "Shame on you. I feel sorry for you--you are clearly batshit insane."

Then I walked away, still fuming. I really shouldn't have let myself get baited by that crap but I couldn't help it. I really see these tea party nuts as complete morons who are losing all sense of power and perspective. The more marginalized they get, the weirder they become.

Further proof: the man standing with her who then started shouting at me was in desperate need of a nose hair trimmer. I'm just saying.
posted by ohyouknow at 3:14 PM on March 20, 2010 [18 favorites]


There are basic rules of etiquette for a tea party. First eat the scones or muffins, then sandwiches, and lastly, the sweets. Take small bites. Do not dine with gloves on.

People who show up to a tea party with gloves on are simply uncivilized.
posted by twoleftfeet at 3:18 PM on March 20, 2010 [5 favorites]


MAD HATTER FOR PRESIDENT!!
posted by pyramid termite at 3:22 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


All their noise, over a black president.
posted by Blazecock Pileon at 3:24 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]


Well of course it's getting ugly. These people are jackasses.
posted by mcstayinskool at 3:28 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


Tea Party types are starting to remind me of Juggalos.


Frankly, Juggalos have a more coherent message.
posted by TheWhiteSkull at 3:29 PM on March 20, 2010 [36 favorites]


Tea Party types are starting to remind me of Juggalos.

Don't be ridiculous, dude. I have way more respect for Juggalos.
posted by elizardbits at 3:29 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]



(This is a small point, but: Huffington Post, why exactly was "Ni**er" so offensive that two letters needed to be blanked with asterisks, while "Faggot" wasn't?)


I had the exact same thought...it seems like an across the board editorial inconsistency. Sometimes by do Fa**ot, sometimes they do Nigger. I think it just depends on the author.

On the one hand it seems stupid not to treat them the same, but even as somebody who would be much more sensibly called Faggot than Nigger, I see the latter as just flat out more offensive. When somebody uses the former, it just kind of makes them seem stupid and backward. But when somebody uses the latter, it makes them seem crazy and dangerous.

But I do think that when you're doing reporting about somebody yelling these words, it's kind of stupid to act like changing 'g' to '*' is going to make a difference to anybody, unless you do it for one and not the other, in which case it will piss some folks off.
posted by HotPants at 3:37 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


Frankly, Juggalos have a more coherent message.

I don't know, I think "Obama is a n****r, kill all n****rs, kill all f****ts" is pretty clear.
posted by Pope Guilty at 3:37 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


♪ stoo-pid ♫
posted by fleetmouse at 3:41 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


Meanwhile, in Canada... I said to a friend the other day, "I try to avoid the phrase 'only in America', but where else would you see public protests against health care? We couldn't think of anywhere, honestly.
I have been cynical about the US government, American culture, and, sadly, the human race in general for too many years than I care to remember. But even I am truly shocked at the stupidity of these Tea Party people and the pride with which they display it in public.
posted by crazylegs at 3:43 PM on March 20, 2010 [27 favorites]


To be fair, teabaggers aren't against healthcare, just healthcare for poor people. And, possibly, sick people.
posted by found missing at 3:45 PM on March 20, 2010 [30 favorites]


netbros, I'm printing that out and keeping it in my bag so that the next time I see those freaks I'll just hand it to them. Thanks for the link.
posted by ohyouknow at 3:51 PM on March 20, 2010


And to think the newest chapter of this madness is being opened by Ginni Thomas, Clarence Thomas' wife
posted by ExitPursuedByBear at 3:52 PM on March 20, 2010


As an aside, I take such doings as further indication of how shabby our entire educational system has become. Meanwhile, while protest for or against health care taking place, another very big anti-war demonstration close to the White House.
posted by Postroad at 3:52 PM on March 20, 2010


Yes, healthcare for all is just like Hitler. Tell me one way that it's not.

Ironically, Germany's health care reform bill was the Health Insurance bill of 1883, passed by Otto von Bismarck fifty years before Hitler came to power.
posted by Ironmouth at 4:00 PM on March 20, 2010 [13 favorites]


Watch this mini-documentary made by two college students who interviewed tea-baggers last week: The Tea Party & The Circus - Final Healthcare Reform Protest.

Stay classy, folks.
posted by ericb at 4:00 PM on March 20, 2010 [17 favorites]




Why is it that these assholes remind me so much of the zealots in Monty Python and the Holy Grail who whack themselves in the head as they walk along chanting?
posted by Guy_Inamonkeysuit at 4:02 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


Some tea-baggers are threatening gun violence, if health care reform isn't stopped.
posted by ericb at 4:02 PM on March 20, 2010


Oh great the LaRouche d-bags came to the protest. It's not a party until someone poor pathetic lonely college student is handing out pamphlets bad mouthing the British.

Seriously how the fuck is LaRouche not dead yet?
posted by PostIronyIsNotaMyth at 4:06 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


And to think the newest chapter of this madness is being opened by Ginni Thomas, Clarence Thomas' wife.
"Virginia consumer protection officials have issued a warning letter to the wife of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, noting that her advocacy group is improperly soliciting contributions in the state.

In a letter sent to Virginia Thomas on Thursday, the Office of Consumer Affairs directed Liberty Central, Inc. to the Virginia law that requires groups to register with the office or request an exemption before seeking donations for a charitable purpose.

Liberty Central is a Virginia-based group soliciting contributions online and is not registered or exempt, said Michael Wright, the manager of regulatory programs at the Office of Consumer Affairs, a branch of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Political advocacy is considered a charitable purpose.

'They should be filed with us,' he said.

....Soliciting donations for a charitable purpose without registering with the Office of Consumers Affairs could result in fines of up to $5,000 for each violation, the letter said. Wright said it was not unusual for a group to be unaware of the Virginia law."*
posted by ericb at 4:10 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


I recently saw some wackos in front of Macy's in San Francisco wearing the Obama as Hitler signs, happily passing out nonsense to all the tourists

In SF especially, those were probably LaRouchies.
posted by mr_roboto at 4:11 PM on March 20, 2010


This is what happens when you tell vicious lies to ignorant bigots in order to frighten them. I'm not sure why anyone's surprised.

(The GOP leadership will back away quickly from these people if they have half a brain. It's only a matter of time before one of them shoots somebody.)
posted by EarBucket at 4:11 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


Yeah, see here.
posted by mr_roboto at 4:12 PM on March 20, 2010


Ezra Klein: "Asked WH for text on Prez's speech. They said it wasn't pre-written. He was just talking. It's like there's a teleprompter IN HIS BRAIN."
posted by EarBucket at 4:13 PM on March 20, 2010 [7 favorites]


Metafilter: The more marginalized they get, the weirder they become.
posted by Rory Marinich at 4:13 PM on March 20, 2010


Actually, best call on all this comes from a comment over at John Cole's place:

The Teabaggers fear liberals being in charge because they know exactly how they would react after taking power if we’d been in charge for the last 30 years and treated them as abominably as they treated us.
posted by kgasmart at 4:13 PM on March 20, 2010 [19 favorites]



Some tea-baggers are threatening gun violence, if health care reform isn't stopped.


Yeah but they do the same thing when Denny's doesn't have the grand slam breakfast special.
posted by Liquidwolf at 4:15 PM on March 20, 2010 [43 favorites]


Man it's so incredibly frustrating that pointing out this racism and hatred to an apologist will always result in the same tired argument: "You guys did it to Bush!"
posted by graventy at 4:15 PM on March 20, 2010


I'm tired of "N****r" and "The N-word" when it comes to quoting the anti-HCR-bill people. When someone says "nigger" and you want to quote them, you *quote* them. Sophistry gets us nowhere, and it softens the impact of what they said. This is not the time to waver on offensiveness. Yes, the word hurts people, but everyone needs to be made unavoidably aware that this is being said, here in "Post-Racial America," over, and over, and over. Highlight it. Point at them. Call them out. They are hiding behind all kinds of excuses for their behavior, and by pulling punches when responding, we are helping them hide. Anyone who tries to defend them by saying "most of them aren't racist" can only delude themselves if we let them.

I know that they are a minority, but I don't think my fear of a minority of ignorant, hate-filled, violence-threatening gun owners is disproportionate. I despair that this vile subset of our population has so much media coverage (read: socio-political clout). I despair that our media has abandoned their posts. When I should be glad of getting a foot in the door of positive changes to the United States' miserable health "care" situation, I'm overwhelmed by the brutal and vituperative backdraft that has gathered such strength based on nothing more than ignorance, fear, and the insidious workings of those who would see Obama fail at anything he tries, in any sector of policy, regardless of how it will impact our nation.

Yes, healthcare for all is just like Hitler. Tell me one way that it's not.

I know this is sarcastic, but the fact that so many people absolutely believe that it *is* just like Hitler makes it hard to look at. Where do we even begin? How did we get to a place where this mind-boggling level of ignorance is commonplace among so many, many people? I mean, I can put together all of the elements of our social history, political shifts, economic errors, and educational failures to *understand" how we got here, I suppose, but I simply cannot *comprehend* it.

When Wolfgang Pauli said to students who turned in a paper based on a faulty premise, "Not only is it not right, it's not even wrong!" it was clever, and truthful, but the errors of a few students are relatively easy to address. What do we do when so many Americans are not even wrong? I vote, I am politically active, I am engaged with the process. But right now, I feel helpless and defeated.

This is not how I expected to feel on the verge of a vote for health-care reform that looks like it's going to succeed. Not at all.
posted by tzikeh at 4:16 PM on March 20, 2010 [65 favorites]


Huffington Post, why exactly was "Ni**er" so offensive that two letters needed to be blanked with asterisks, while "Faggot" wasn't?)

They wised up. The headline now reads: "Tea Party Protests: 'Ni**er,' 'Fa**ot' Shouted At Members Of Congress."
posted by ericb at 4:18 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


I can't wait for the teabaggers to figure out the Medicare is a single-payer government-run healthcare program.

Not only that, but it's essentially another socialize-losses setup.

During people's most productive and healthy years, they pay into private insurance programs.

During their declining and often most expensive years, they draw on public insurance.

I'll bet the health insurance industry as whole loves medicare.
posted by weston at 4:19 PM on March 20, 2010 [21 favorites]


If Obama didn't want to be called a Nazi , he shouldn't have tried to reform health care! That's what Hiter was known for!
posted by Liquidwolf at 4:22 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


How dare Obama heal our healthcare system on a Sunday!?

Rep. Steve King and Glenn Beck agree: Voting for health reform on Sunday is ‘an affront to God.’

Let's rewind.

On Palm Sunday in 2005, the Republican-controlled Senate met in chambers and passed a bill (aka the "Palm Sunday Compromise") to allow a federal court to intervene in the case of Terri Schiavo. The House passed the same bill shortly after midnight on Monday morning.

You know what? Fuck you, you asshole hypocrites. You didn't hear me? I said: "Fuck you!"
posted by ericb at 4:23 PM on March 20, 2010 [82 favorites]


Man it's so incredibly frustrating that pointing out this racism and hatred to an apologist will always result in the same tired argument: "You guys did it to Bush!"

Yeah, I felt like calling Bush a nigger was really uncalled for.
posted by EarBucket at 4:23 PM on March 20, 2010 [52 favorites]


To be fair, teabaggers aren't against healthcare, just healthcare for poor people. And, possibly, sick people.

I don't think they honestly even give a shit about health care, beyond that they were told to oppose it by the demagogues that control them. Their entire political philosophy boils down to "the sheriff is a nigg-(DING!)". They're a bunch of mean, stupid, gullible racists that will oppose anything you tell them to if you tell them someone or some group they hate support it, and the Limbaughs and Palins in this country have exploited them like the useful idiots they are. I'm not just assuming this, either - it's right there in the article. "Kill all faggots, kill all niggers". That's what they're about. Any disagreement on actual issues is a smokescreen. They're honestly not smart enough to comprehend political debate.
posted by DecemberBoy at 4:23 PM on March 20, 2010 [36 favorites]


Intellectually, I'm all for free speech. But having to watch those morons in their Obama as Hitler clapboards as I walk to work everyday? Not okay. I chose to live in San Francisco for a reason, and they're really harshing my mellow.

That sign just pushes far too many buttons for me. Like, when did the Holocaust become this trite little gag? Have they no respect for history? And seriously--I spent a year of my life doing everything in my power to help Obama get into the White House and that's my president they're talking shit about. And he's the one they're comparing to Hitler? Seriously? After the George W. Bush debacle?

See? I really shouldn't let them bait me like this. Just thinking about it makes me furious all over again. I think along with handing them the letter netbros linked to, I'll add a little note that each time I walk by them I will donate $500 to the DNC.

Maybe that'll make me feel better.
posted by ohyouknow at 4:25 PM on March 20, 2010 [10 favorites]


>They wised up. The headline now reads: "Tea Party Protests: 'Ni**er,' 'Fa**ot' Shouted At Members Of Congress."

actually, no wisening up - they finally ran out of 'g's
posted by victors at 4:26 PM on March 20, 2010 [8 favorites]


The GOP leadership will back away quickly from these people if they have half a brain.

They can't afford to. They've lost folks like me who were considered socially-liberal fiscally-conservative moderates back in the late 80s. Now things have shifted sufficiently that I'm often irked at the blue dogs because they undermine social causes I care about. The chances I'll vote for a federal level (R) is almost 0 these days. I know plenty of lightly right moderates who've fled the party too.

Having ceded the center, the Republican party needs the teabaggers. They might have been able to treat them the way the Dems often treat the far left (who else you gonna vote for, bub?) until they emboldened them enough to start the purity purges. Now they risk losing them to spoiler candidates if they run from them.
posted by phearlez at 4:29 PM on March 20, 2010 [12 favorites]


To be fair, teabaggers aren't against healthcare, just healthcare for poor people.

The irony being that most teabaggers are poor people who think they aren't.
posted by Foam Pants at 4:33 PM on March 20, 2010 [39 favorites]


These people are amazing because they are truly omniscient. They know that they and their immediate family will never need health insurance because they're out of a job, down on their luck, out of money, and truly sick. They know that their extended family and that their closest friends will never, ever be denied insurance for a pre-existing condition. They know, in a god-like way, what is best for all of the people living around them in their neighborhoods, cities, and states. And, most amazing and enviable of all, they know what is best for all their unborn descendants and everyone else's descendants. They know with certainty that fifty or one hundred years hence no one will not want to live in a world where universal healthcare is taken for granted as a critical, obvious, basic human right.
posted by loosemouth at 4:34 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]



400,000 People protested the Iraq War in 2003 in New York and the mainstream media would barely mention it, but the "Tea Party " gets coverage every time 50 of them congregate to call the president a nigger. Unbelievable shit.
posted by Liquidwolf at 4:35 PM on March 20, 2010 [188 favorites]


Some tea-baggers are threatening gun violence, if health care reform isn't stopped.

This might be a tragedy if it happens, but it's not a threat. In all likelihood nothing would destroy the Tea Party's legitimacy beyond the fringe faster than political violence committed in their name.

Not that I think the violence itself is anywhere near beyond likelihood itself. In fact, I'd say it's at least better-than-even odds the next act of terrorism on American soil will be domestic.
posted by weston at 4:36 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


Man it's so incredibly frustrating that pointing out this racism and hatred to an apologist will always result in the same tired argument: "You guys did it to Bush!"

My answer? Yeah. But he fucking deserved it.
posted by Splunge at 4:37 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]


actually, no wisening up - they finally ran out of 'g's

God help us when they run out of asterisks.
posted by TheWhiteSkull at 4:37 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]




Thanks for the info mr_roboto. I particularly enjoyed this quote: In Seattle, police were called twice in response to people threatening to tear the posters apart, or to assault the LaRouche supporters holding them.
posted by ohyouknow at 4:40 PM on March 20, 2010


I considered posting this on the blue, but I don't think it was substantial enough for a whole post, plus it's prime outrage filter.

With that premise, I still think it's important reading: The GOP's Dirty War (Rolling Stone)
posted by shiu mai baby at 4:41 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Impeach Barack Obama!? For what? What are they on?
posted by dabitch at 4:42 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Sixteen months after the election of the great community organiser, who had hundreds of thousands turn out in freezing weather to hear him speak, who tapped into such a widespread and deeply felt desire for organised action that he had first-time activists spontaneously swearing loyalty oaths to him. Who would have though that, at this point in history, the biggest, most dedicated, most prominent and energetic political mass movement in America would have Glenn Beck as its figurehead?
posted by stammer at 4:45 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


There are going to be 50,000 people marching for immigrants' rights and immigration reform on the Mall tomorrow (more); I am really hoping that none of the tea partiers turned out for the health care vote do anything violent, immigration seems to set them off like no other topic.
posted by enn at 4:45 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


Dammit. That link should've gone here: The GOP's Dirty War
posted by shiu mai baby at 4:45 PM on March 20, 2010 [5 favorites]


I said to a friend the other day, "I try to avoid the phrase 'only in America', but where else would you see public protests against health care? We couldn't think of anywhere, honestly.

I remember reading in blog comments something along these lines: a large number of Americans would gladly vote to spend the rest of their lives living under bridges, eating sparrows roasted on a bonfire, if it came with the cast-iron guarantee that some other guy under the bridge didn't get to share the ketchup.

the "Tea Party " gets coverage every time 50 of them congregate to call the president--

They're packing heat, and the country's media outlets would hate to be scooped. The paranoid style just got a few notches further up the DSM severity scale.
posted by holgate at 4:46 PM on March 20, 2010 [5 favorites]


Someone threw a brick through a window at Democratic Representative Louise Slaughter's office this morning.

Conservative talk show hosts and columnists have ridiculed an 11-year-old Washington state boy's account of his mother's death as a "sob story" exploited by the White House and congressional Democrats like a "kiddie shield" to defend their health care legislation.
posted by tzikeh at 4:53 PM on March 20, 2010


This must be that compassionate conservatism I've heard so much about: Teabaggers mock Parkinson's patient.
posted by EarBucket at 4:55 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


The asterisks make the words magical - nggr, fggt, ywh. Reporters need to quote people accurately, especially if someone is saying nigger and faggot.
posted by Meatbomb at 5:06 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


You know, I'm kind of conflicted about this whole situation. I really, really hope this does not escalate into violence, but secretly I kind of want street fighting to develop. It's a terrible thing to wish. I've studied the history of the Weimar Republic extensively, not to mention France through most of the 19th century, and I understand what the emergence of political violence leads to, but I can't help myself. I want an excuse to come back down to the 'States and mix it up a bit. I've tried to live by most of the principles of Buddhism; but at the same time I remember Seattle, I remember the Brooks Brothers riots, and I remember being surrounded by cops while trying to peacefully protest an illegal war, and I look at these assholes and it makes me sick. I secretly hope they give me a reason.

I really, really want to take a run at these fuckers. I'm having difficulty getting over this.

Should this be an AskMe question?
posted by TheWhiteSkull at 5:06 PM on March 20, 2010 [17 favorites]


Healthcare for all that can afford the mandatory payments!
posted by DU at 5:11 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Seriously how the fuck is LaRouche not dead yet?

That is not dead which can eternal lie.
And with strange aeons even death may die.

Nyarlarouchethotep?
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 5:17 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]


Idiocy has no party.

I'm not sure whether Screaming Lord Sutch and the Monster Raving Looney Party, or Lord Buckethead and the Gremloids, would fall over themselves faster to disagree with you.
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 5:24 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Wow - they heard me. Or they heard somebody, anyway. Cool.
posted by koeselitz at 5:26 PM on March 20, 2010


I know it's easy to ridicule these people. God know I do it. But...all laughing aside...these people scare the living crap out of me. I afraid that they just may have some very real influence on the direction this country heads. I'm also afraid of what they will do if they don't gain that influence.

Am I the only one here who is more than a little concerned about the potential future this "movement" might actually bring?
posted by Thorzdad at 5:28 PM on March 20, 2010 [11 favorites]


It's a terrible thing to wish. . . . I secretly hope they give me a reason.

I agree. These people are awful. I think all violence is awful. Yet I despair for our country when I see them and their naked hatred. How can we reconcile their beliefs with progressive, peaceful behavior? How can a country so divided ever come together, without violence? I can't even squish spiders, so I'm not going to be any help if things come to a head. I just don't see how these mouthy racists and frankly, idiots (love netbros' link!) and I can share a country. It scares me that the bad guys are also the gun nuts (not coincidentally).

You can't really change someone's mind by arguing. They are never going to change their minds. I am never going to change my mind and start being a stupid racist. What is going to happen here?
posted by theredpen at 5:29 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


Maybe all of us lefties just need to start packing heat.

Kidding! Kidding. Sort of.
posted by ohyouknow at 5:34 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


People here and elsewhere are noting the fundamental disconnect between the positions espoused by these groups on the right and their own interests, and how they themselves act when confronted with hardship, which is to say with a sense of profound personal entitlement toward any government assistance they can get. The thing that I'd like to highlight is that their positions do not particularly matter to them as political stances, in the "we are participating in a debate in the public sphere" sense, or the "here is what we want government to be doing" sense, but rather as in-group / out-group identifiers. "No government handouts!", "kill the bill!", "impeach Obama!", "nigger!" and "faggot!" all mean the same thing: "Our group is big, our group is strong, our group is dominant, your group must submit." That is the only real content of what they're saying, which is why they're pretty much unfazed by finding out that the health care bill is objectively not a "government takeover of medicine," that taxes have in fact gone down under Obama, and so forth.

I'm not saying this in a tut-tutting "oh, if only we had a public sphere where people debated in good faith, trying to use facts and reason to reach the best result" way, because obviously that sort of public sphere has never existed, and in a way I think that even if it were possible, it wouldn't be all that great. I'm saying it to point out the actual terms of the actual debate in progress. Disproving their positions doesn't entail showing that their stances on taxes or health care or immigration are wrong; it entails showing them that their group is not dominant and that no one needs to submit to their goddamned fool cracker asses.
posted by You Can't Tip a Buick at 5:34 PM on March 20, 2010 [115 favorites]


I'd love to have seen the reaction if a couple of black men had shown up to an anti-Bush rally carrying AK-47s. Jesus Christ.
posted by EarBucket at 5:35 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


What is going to happen here?

There is going to be violence and the violence will discredit the movement. All this nastiness aside, the bulk of the country is watching the NCAA tourney today and thinking about its brackets, not HCR. But if the teabaggers start making good on their threats of violence, that wakes up the populace real quick. Even the behavior today, the "n*gger" and the "faggot" business, is putting off the suburban soccer moms big time (whose parents are probably part of the teabag riots, but still).
posted by kgasmart at 5:35 PM on March 20, 2010


I'm not sure we're to Defcon: Violencetimes just yet (tho I would srsly love to run through these yokels swinging an aluminum bat and hearing the satisfying "pung!" noise) but I do think we should get very aggressive with these dipshits.

Have unassailable evidence and facts on our sides and engage them everywhere they feel comfortable enough to unhinge their slack jaws to spew this shit. Call them out. Everywhere.
Call names, yell, all that so long as we stick to real empirical evidence.

Track the ones that we can. Call them out in a lie and make sure the fact that we caught them in a lie follows them everywhere.

They should be cowed back into their shitty corners at every turn. These people are beyond help. They don't believe what they do because they are innocently naive of the facts, they do this because their "belief" is preferable to the facts.

Call them out and shut them down. Everywhere.
posted by Senor Cardgage at 5:35 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


Foam Pants: The irony being that most teabaggers are poor people who think they aren't.

"Don't forget that most men with nothing would rather protect the possibility of becoming rich than face the reality of being poor." -- John Dickinson, 1776
posted by tzikeh at 5:39 PM on March 20, 2010 [57 favorites]


Six lobbyists per Congresscritter. A record $267 million spent on lobbying in the last fiscal quarter, just by one segment of the healthcare industry. More than $540 million spent on lobbying Congress last year:

The Money Fighting Health Care Reform
posted by BitterOldPunk at 5:39 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


Impeach Barack Obama!? For what?

GWB (Governing While Black).
posted by acb at 5:43 PM on March 20, 2010 [7 favorites]


I grew up in LaRouche's boyhood hometown, back in the 1980s. The local paper was obsessed with his legal troubles and his weirdnesses, devoting column inch after column inch to his every move.

I don't particularly wonder why I'm liberal-to-downright-cynical-anarchist, depending on the day in media, now.
posted by fairytale of los angeles at 5:47 PM on March 20, 2010


"Don't forget that most men with nothing would rather protect the possibility of becoming rich than face the reality of being poor." -- John Dickinson, 1776

And then there are the white working poor to whom any additional welfare threatens the one thing they're proud of, i.e., being better off than the blacks. Hence they'd rather die proudly of otherwise treatable cancer in medical bankruptcy than live in a welfare state where they're no better than a Negro.
posted by acb at 5:50 PM on March 20, 2010 [13 favorites]


Fuck the teabaggers.
posted by chance at 5:55 PM on March 20, 2010


Stay classy right-wing!
posted by Windopaene at 6:03 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


PigAlien, I saw homunculus's video before you posted and I've been pretty upset since at what was done to your friend Bob at that protest. I hope you wouldn't mind thanking him from a random stranger for his courage. He looked so vulnerable out there. I'm impressed he went at all, and even more so that he tried to create some good out of the experience by giving an interview afterwards. I don't have the right words for how it affected me, but it did, profoundly. Thanks for your post.
posted by melissa may at 6:06 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


Incidentally, unless you like the thought of these people being in power again, do something about it.

If your representative is a Democrat who's voting yes on the bill, call their office and volunteer to work for their campaign this fall. If they're a Democrat who's voting no on the bill, call their office and tell them you'll be volunteering for the campaign of a primary opponent--and then call that opponent's campaign office and volunteer. If they're a Republican, find out who's running against them and sign up to help.

This is critical. Now that the Tea Partiers have essentially seized the reins of the GOP, the next Republicans to take power in Washington are going to make George W. Bush look like Abraham Lincoln.
posted by EarBucket at 6:06 PM on March 20, 2010 [19 favorites]


Boston institution John Harrington wants chaaaange.
posted by Mayor Curley at 6:08 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Getting ugly at the tea party

Well, to be fair, they were all pretty ugly to begin with so they didn't have far to go.
posted by Joey Michaels at 6:09 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


And the poor white remains
On the caboose of the train
But it ain't him to blame
He's only a pawn in their game.
posted by marxchivist at 6:09 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


Stay classy right-wing!

Yeah, because the left has been such a shining example of civility.

This thread is much like HCR itself to me. It's not the thread I wanted and I'm not sure I can get behind it.
posted by cjorgensen at 6:10 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]




The irony being that most teabaggers are poor people who think they aren't.

Not true. Teabaggers are generally upper-middle-class, college-educated white men. A lot of them will be small business owners, managers, and professionals. You couldn't find a more stereotypical class basis for this kind of stuff: they are small-time enough that they are intimidated by Big Capital (Wal-Mart, Goldman Sachs), capitalist enough that they resent taxation and regulation and public services, rich enough that they are frightened of being mobbed by proletarians, educated enough that they recognise and identify strongly with the ideology of the USA (all that Tom Paine guff), and just insecure enough to be intensely paranoid. All their fears and resentments crystallise around a vision of rootless, urbanised corruption that can be incarnated either as unproductive financial speculation or as unproductive government spending. This is counterposed in their mind against the rural businesses they run, which they identify with the yeoman farms of the early USA. Old-fashioned productive capital, linked, maybe, to a specific family, a concrete commodity, a known parcel of land.

This is why TARP was so galvanizing to them - the two most sinister metropolitan abstractions, Washington and Wall Street, finally merging - and why Obama's supposed lack of identifiable heartland roots is so symbolically important to them. It's also, I think, why they are so interested in the Founding Fathers mythology of the USA: they want roots, roots everywhere, not the free-floating abstractions of finance and faceless government agencies and mixed-race Presidents who grew up in some unheard-of foreign country. It's such a big deal for them that when physical evidence of Obama's earthly origin is right in their face - say, a birth certificate - they refuse to see it.

"If only they [the city-dwellers] ran the country like I ran my business!" That's what these people think. All that's missing are the demobbed soldiers to add: "If only they [civilians] ran the country like we run our squad!"

I don't think they're any threat, though. The most they could handle, if they really lost their minds, would be a couple of assassinations, but I doubt they have the energy even for that kind of low-level political violence. They are not cops or soldiers; they're used to firing people, not firing at them. And they can't take power, not these people, not in this universe. The Nazis were allowed to take over because nobody else was seen as capable of dealing with the Communist workers of Germany, who really existed. What political force threatens the establishment of the USA enough that they'd let these jerkoffs get their crazy mitts on the levers of power? The Republicans will take their votes if they can, but if they ever get anywhere near policy they'll be snuffed out by the real bad guys before they can do any damage. The worst they can do is what they're doing now: propaganda work that makes any attempt at providing social services appear in the media as a New York mixed-race banker's plot to sap the precious bodily fluids of the small businessmen of Iowa.
posted by stammer at 6:17 PM on March 20, 2010 [69 favorites]


Is it lame to want to send Obama a "thank you for loving this country, not all of us want to kill you" card? Because I want to more and more every day that I hear this shit.
posted by oinopaponton at 6:21 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]


Is it lame to want to send Obama a "thank you for loving this country, not all of us want to kill you" card?

Call the White House! Call your representative! Seriously, they're getting jammed with calls from angry, confused hillbillies right now. The staffers could really stand to hear a friendly voice right now.
posted by EarBucket at 6:24 PM on March 20, 2010 [11 favorites]


ohyouknow said: "Maybe all of us lefties just need to start packing heat."

Keep assuming I'm not.
posted by sidereal at 6:24 PM on March 20, 2010 [11 favorites]


I really, really want to take a run at these fuckers

... if this could happen before all these gun-sign-wielding asshats can take advantage of, say, newly-legislated healthcare options and services ... yeah, I'm not sure I have a problem with that either.

Let me know if you need some help with airfare.
posted by bhance at 6:29 PM on March 20, 2010


This thread is much like HCR itself to me. It's not the thread I wanted and I'm not sure I can get behind it.

Yeah, we should be rationally debating the crazy-ass racist psychotics who are posting on the internet about how they're going to murder 50-70 million Americans and oh no wait you're just drawing a false equivalency because you're a silly person who shouldn't be taken the least bit seriously, sorry.
posted by Pope Guilty at 6:38 PM on March 20, 2010 [15 favorites]


Conservatives always lose. Progress marches on as they throw a pathetic temper tantrum. They lost during desegregation, they lost when women voted, they lost when democracy took the place of their precious god-king. I don't know why they are proud to be on the side of the historical losers of all humanity.

Fucking losers.
posted by fuq at 6:38 PM on March 20, 2010 [47 favorites]


P.S. AMERICA LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT STRAIGHTIES!
posted by fuq at 6:39 PM on March 20, 2010


Also, I cannot wait to hear the sweet, sweet silence from my Tea Party coworkers on Monday after the bill passes. I'm sure they'll start up with the Glenn Beck talking points midday, but walking in and seeing their faces will be wonderful.
posted by oinopaponton at 6:41 PM on March 20, 2010


kgasmart: Even the behavior today, the "n*gger" and the "faggot" business, is putting off the suburban soccer moms big time

Do you have a link to something that is reporting on this phenomenon? I have not heard anything like this today.
posted by tzikeh at 6:43 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


The more marginalized they get, the weirder they become.

Disagree. They are not marginalized enough. The more media attention they get, the more they amp it up a notch. And like others upthread have pointed out, they get far more attention from the media than the vastly greater numbers of people protesting Bush's war.

One might almost suspect a bias in what the media chooses to cover that glosses over or ignores opposition to Republican policies and gets very excited over opposition to Democratic policies.

Teabaggers are generally upper-middle-class, college-educated white men.

Hard to believe any of these people could have passed a Freshman Comp class.
posted by emjaybee at 6:44 PM on March 20, 2010 [8 favorites]


It's funny, yesterday someone askedMefi, "what's behind the opposition to health care reform".

And my answer, "I'm old, I get my information from Fox News, and blacks, educated elitists, and CHANGE FRIGHTENS ME" was deleted.

Yeah, I think stories like these vindicate my answer.
posted by orthogonality at 6:44 PM on March 20, 2010 [24 favorites]



Intellectually, I'm all for free speech. But having to watch those morons in their Obama as Hitler clapboards as I walk to work everyday? Not okay. I chose to live in San Francisco for a reason, and they're really harshing my mellow.

That sign just pushes far too many buttons for me. Like, when did the Holocaust become this trite little gag? Have they no respect for history? And seriously--I spent a year of my life doing everything in my power to help Obama get into the White House and that's my president they're talking shit about. And he's the one they're comparing to Hitler? Seriously? After the George W. Bush debacle?

See? I really shouldn't let them bait me like this. Just thinking about it makes me furious all over again. I think along with handing them the letter netbros linked to, I'll add a little note that each time I walk by them I will donate $500 to the DNC.

Maybe that'll make me feel better.


You know, a charity could raise a lot of money if they sent a staffer to stand next to these guys with a bucket and a sign saying "Want to piss these guys off? I'm collecting donations for [PFLAG/Planned Parenthood/Re-elect Barbara Boxer]!"
posted by Tsuga at 6:45 PM on March 20, 2010 [25 favorites]


I'd say it's at least better-than-even odds the next act of terrorism on American soil will be domestic.

The last one was.
posted by threeants at 6:45 PM on March 20, 2010 [7 favorites]


I don't even have a sense of humor about this anymore. There is only so much laughing that can be done at the idiotic signs, the Obama=Nazi comparisons, the parading gun wielders.

It's only a matter of time before this erupts into violence. And it's all because of Fox News.
posted by JHarris at 6:47 PM on March 20, 2010 [18 favorites]


The worst part of this is that these people are so crazy, and get so much attention, that they legitimize just plain crazy, which essentially ensures we will be governed by lunatics for the foreseeable future.
posted by milarepa at 6:57 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


oinopaponton: Also, I cannot wait to hear the sweet, sweet silence from my Tea Party coworkers on Monday after the bill passes.

Dear God, friend, I hope you're right. [biting nails]
posted by pianoboy at 6:58 PM on March 20, 2010


It's going to pass. Pelosi's not acting like a Speaker who's not sure she has the votes, and the President of the United States damn sure doesn't cancel a foreign diplomatic trip so that he can stick around Washington and be humiliated in person. Pelosi has 216 votes; she's dribbling them out strategically so as not to look over-confident.
posted by EarBucket at 7:01 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]


One might almost suspect a bias in what the media chooses to cover that glosses over or ignores opposition to Republican policies and gets very excited over opposition to Democratic policies.

Well, obviously. Opposition to Repub policies is an expression of pique on the part of elites who are a priori few and weird, whereas opposition to Dem policies is an expression of the vox populi.

fex ruris, lex orbis!
posted by kenko at 7:03 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


I really, really want to take a run at these fuckers. I'm having difficulty getting over this.

What I like to do, is just get a six pack of beer. Drink it quickly. Then walk over to their ObamaHitler signs and just start peeing on them.

Sure, you'll get your ass kicked, maybe end up in jail, but damn it feels good.
posted by fungible at 7:03 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


YOu know, I treid to read this thread, i tred to read the news, I tried to have an understanding pof everything oging on, and maybe it's my diet and myabe it/s my mood but I just...can't listen to this anymore. Any of it. it breaks my brain. It/s like having a series of tiny strokes. I just- man, tell me if it works out. I'm going to bed.
posted by The Whelk at 7:07 PM on March 20, 2010 [9 favorites]


Its a god think Teh Whelk doesn't right fer a livin'.
posted by cjorgensen at 7:22 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


tell me if it works out.

It doesn't. Everything goes horribly wrong and you have to play as this guy named "Raiden" the rest of the game.
posted by fuq at 7:23 PM on March 20, 2010 [5 favorites]


I was sitting at the counter in the mini-burger this morning having breakfast and struck up a conversation with the guy next to me, while my two yearold daughter ate her meal of hashbrowns with a side of pickles. He was out for a ride and we started talking about motorcycles and what were some of the best routes around here. Then he handed me a card, let me get it, ok let me see . . . C o n f e d e r a t e S o n s A s s o c i a t i o n.

Hmmm, I said. "You know we're always looking for good men" he said. "That so" I said. "You should ride with us sometime, come in hang out. We've got cold beer."

"Well, I doubt you'd want to ride with me" I said; "Sure, you seem like a good guy"

"Well, I voted for Barack Obama" I said. He looked at me for just a moment then he turned and went back to talking to his buddy.

I don't think I'd have felt scared when I was younger, but with my little girl on my lap I suddenly felt scared. I just want to move to New Orleans I just want to get out of this town, I just want to move to New Orleans. Jesus Christ get me out of this town.
posted by nola at 7:24 PM on March 20, 2010 [30 favorites]


Dear God, friend, I hope you're right. [biting nails]

It's been a long, a long time coming, but I know change gonna come.
posted by oinopaponton at 7:27 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


(As a side note, Nancy Pelosi's shaping up to be a seriously fantastic Speaker. She's able to whip her caucus to pass exactly the most progressive legislation she can with a razor-thin margin. She's been instrumental in the last week in pressing the White House to go balls-to-the-wall with the bill, as opposed to the more cautious plan Rahm Emanuel was pushing. She's kicking ass.)
posted by EarBucket at 7:31 PM on March 20, 2010 [11 favorites]


Peeing on signs is a stupid thing that indicates weakness, as is taking a random swing, being paranoid enough to carry a gun, etc. etc. Here are ways to demonstrate that they don't dominate a thing:
  • Help elect the people they oppose.
  • Support raising taxes on them to pay for programs that make society better.
  • Are their jobs decent? Be better than them at their jobs, and then take their jobs.
  • Are their spouses or girlfriends/boyfriends decent? Seduce them! [1]
  • In general, live well and happily.
Don't pee on signs or act like a terrorist, though. Things like that, aside from being dumb, are desperation tactics used by weak people against strong people.


[1]: Sons or daughters could work, too.
posted by You Can't Tip a Buick at 7:34 PM on March 20, 2010 [21 favorites]


being paranoid enough to carry a gun

The psychotic right has been posting all over the internet (see the link I posted earlier) about their intention to engage in mass murder of people they don't like. Self-defense is a good idea and then some.
posted by Pope Guilty at 7:39 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Hee! From @Marnus3 on Twitter: "Teabaggers can't have their country back because the confederacy was dissolved in 1865."
posted by EarBucket at 7:42 PM on March 20, 2010 [16 favorites]


tzikeh: "I'm tired of "N****r" and "The N-word" when it comes to quoting the anti-HCR-bill people. When someone says "nigger" and you want to quote them, you *quote* them."
Everybody has different words that offend them, different things that they hear that they get offended by. To me, the thing that offends me the most is every time that I hear the n-word.

Not "nigger," by the way -- I mean "the n-word." Literally, whenever a white lady on CNN with nice hair says "the n-word"? That's just white people getting away with saying "nigger," that's all that is. They found a way to say "nigger": "n-word!"

It's bullshit 'cause when you say "the n-word" you put the word "nigger" in the listener's head. That's what saying a word is. You say "the n-word" and I go, "Oh, she means 'nigger'" -- you're makin' me say it, in my head! Why don't you fuckin' say it instead and take responsibility for the shitty words you wanna say?
--Louis CK

EarBucket: "(As a side note, Nancy Pelosi's shaping up to be a seriously fantastic Speaker. She's able to whip her caucus to pass exactly the most progressive legislation she can with a razor-thin margin. She's been instrumental in the last week in pressing the White House to go balls-to-the-wall with the bill, as opposed to the more cautious plan Rahm Emanuel was pushing. She's kicking ass.)"

I liked Wonkette's paean to her the other day:
Let us reflect upon Nancy Pelosi: she is so awesome. She wasn’t much of a minority leader or Speaker under Bush, but that has all changed. She has passed every piece of legislation on this Congress’ agenda with a very fractious coalition and not much outside help. If she passes this bill Sunday, she will be one of the most effective Speakers in history. Republicans heap so much shit on her, and she doesn’t care. She is feared in her own caucus. SHE FEASTS ON WEAKNESS. And here she is praying to her evil Italian god “St. Joseph The Worker,” the end.
posted by Rhaomi at 7:45 PM on March 20, 2010 [26 favorites]


When were things pretty?
posted by delmoi at 7:46 PM on March 20, 2010


CNN's reporting that Bill Clinton's making telephone calls to help with the whipping.
posted by EarBucket at 7:50 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Yeah, no. You're a lot more likely to die in a car crash (or, for that matter, have an accident with your gun) than in a terrorist attack from the psychotic right. I think the better plan is to seduce their wives while they're wrapped up writing screeds on the internet. That way at least you'll get shot for something interesting.

You know when you're having a nice day at the beach, hanging out with friends, and then this crazy pot-bellied crew cut dude walks by muttering about how it's not safe to be outside because the muslims could attack any time? You're being that guy right now (which pains me to say, since:

a: I like your name,
b: I like your posts,
c: I'm a total whore, and I've seen your name on the favorites lists for my comments.)

I don't doubt that some right-wingers will do something stupid and violent sooner or later, but it's a big country and until they start organizing into genuine for-reals freikorps the odds of you being the victim of their acts of violence (or at least, victim by reason of politics instead of by reason of adulterous affair) are pretty slim.
posted by You Can't Tip a Buick at 7:53 PM on March 20, 2010 [5 favorites]


Pope Guilty: "Yeah, we should be rationally debating the crazy-ass racist psychotics who are posting on the internet about how they're going to murder 50-70 million Americans and oh no wait you're just drawing a false equivalency because you're a silly person who shouldn't be taken the least bit seriously, sorry."

Little do these cowards know that this fantasy they (reluctantly?) wish for almost came to pass long ago. The more they hint at righteous violence, the more I'd like to get a hold of one of these rabble-rousing, Founder-thumping UltraPatriots and tell them this little story about George Washington:

After the revolution succeeded, Washington enjoyed enormous popular support, and many people expected him to take the reigns of the newborn nation and become a monarch. Even King George expected this -- when an aide informed him that Washington would instead retire to Mount Vernon, the King remarked, "If he does that, he will be the greatest man in the world."

So there's Washington, keeping busy with the management of his estate. But there's trouble brewing. During the war many soldiers had worked for free with the promise of payment once the British were driven away. But the new Congress under the Articles of Confederation did not have enough taxing power to generate the revenues necessary to remunerate the army. Many were angry with the fecklessness of the new legislature, and some high-level officers began plotting open revolt against the civil power.

These rebels approached Washington and invited him to join their cause. They figured that with a celebrated war hero on their side, Congress would surrender quickly -- and if they installed Washington as unilateral ruler, he would see that his former soldiers were taken care of.

Washington was appalled. But he knew he had to diffuse the anger of the rebels effectively. So he leaked news of a covert meeting of the conspirators allegedly scheduled by one of his underlings. When Washington strode in a few minutes after it started, they were surprised. He began exhorting them to be good soldiers and to respect the new republic they'd fought so hard to achieve, pleading with them to "express your utmost horror and detestation of the man who wishes, under any specious pretenses, to overturn the liberties of our country, and who wickedly attempts to open the floodgates of civil discord and deluge our rising empire in blood."

But they were visibly skeptical. He knew he needed something more. So he pulled out a letter from a congressman regarding the delayed pay, then fumbled with it for a few heartbeats before setting it down, taking out his glasses (which few soldiers even knew he needed), and saying:

"Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for I have not only grown gray but almost blind in the service of my country."

An eyewitness later recalled, "There was something so natural, so unaffected, in this appeal, as rendered it superior to the most studied oratory; it forced its way to the heart, and you might see sensibility moisten every eye."

The small audience was so shamed by Washington's statement that the conspiracy fell apart immediately, and the United States was saved. He was a truly great and noble man, one who respected democracy no matter how much its vicissitudes might disappoint in the short term. He certainly doesn't deserve to be co-opted by these maniacs in the name of the same violence he so elegantly struck down.
posted by Rhaomi at 8:00 PM on March 20, 2010 [107 favorites]


If we get to the point where they're openly joining freikorps, it's much too late.
posted by Pope Guilty at 8:02 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


Self-defense is a good idea and then some.

Yeah, except for the fact that those wacky stats about how carrying a firearm or any other deadly weapon increases your chances of being fucking killed still hold true even if you don't drive a pick-up with a 'Cold, Dead Hands' bumpersticker on it. A gun doesn't give a shit if your justification is 'There's homicidal crackers on the internet out to get me' rather than 'Man, those black sons of bitches down the road better think twice before trying to fuck with me and mine'. What a horribly asinine and truly irresponsible thing to say*. Grow the fuck up.


*Yeahyeahyeah, I know, they say so much worse, why aren't I denouncing them? If they posted thei vile horseshit here, I would.
posted by Alvy Ampersand at 8:03 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]



You can't really change someone's mind by arguing. They are never going to change their minds. I am never going to change my mind and start being a stupid racist. What is going to happen here?


Pandemic.
posted by thirteen at 8:04 PM on March 20, 2010




being paranoid enough to carry a gun

You know, I get that being a gun owning leftist is a bit of an oddity. But, I would think that the liberal idea of tolerance would preclude one from judging people because they make different life choices than you. I am a gun owner. I have had a CCP. I am also a social libertarian. I am not paranoid.

Now, my particular growing-up environment may have been different from most. I grew up around guns and have always felt comfortable around them. I also understand that many people feel differently. I don't look down on them for holding a different opinion from me.
posted by anansi at 8:09 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


I'm not a gun person myself, but if you've got reason to carry one, that's awesome. But it seems clear to me that, contra Pope Guilty, "fear of sudden right-wing revolution" is a pretty objectively wrongheaded reason for carrying a gun.
posted by You Can't Tip a Buick at 8:17 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


400,000 People protested the Iraq War in 2003 in New York and the mainstream media would barely mention it, but the "Tea Party " gets coverage every time 50 of them congregate to call the president a nigger. Unbelievable shit.

Only unbelievable if you fail to realize that the function of the media is to serve the interests of the media, and that the interests of the media are well served by the availability of something spectacular to draw the public's attention.

400,000 people protesting against a war: media says "meh." I mean, everybody loves a parade and all, but the an anti-war protest is pretty much guaranteed to be a primarily peaceful protest, and peaceful protest simply doesn't rate as high on the spectacle scale as some poor fucker getting his face beaten in, or his shop windows broken, or his home destroyed by a cruise missile with an onboard camera.

Plus, the media love war, simply because it is so spectacular. Remember the endless footage of night vision fireworks over Baghdad? It also makes for excellent opportunities to run hand-wringing pieces about how awful it all is (although that doesn't usually happen until after a certain amount of spectacle fatigue has set in amongst the audience).

If you look at media coverage of any protest, you will find that the bits the media have chosen for your evening's entertainment are the most violent parts the reporters on the ground could find. You will especially notice this after having attended one or two peaceful protests. What ends up on the nightly news is always the most grotesque freak-show aspect of whatever happened on the day.

Tea Party events get the coverage they do because they are deliberately constructed as grotesque freak shows. You Can't Tip a Buick absolutely nailed it: the content of what these people are saying doesn't matter to them anywhere near as much as the fact that they're all shouting it at the same time.

A small angry mob with pitchforks and torches is more spectacular than a huge assembly of peaceful protesters, if for no other reason than that the probability of ending up with something suitably frightening to report on is so much higher.

The media serve the media, and spectacle sells. Shit, yes; unbelievable, not at all.
posted by flabdablet at 8:17 PM on March 20, 2010 [14 favorites]


> "Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for I have not only grown gray but almost blind in the service of my country."

This, the Cincinnatus Move, has always seemed to me like a truly big deal; I'm puzzled that it's not a more prominent part of national lore. It's surely more important than the kiddie crap about the cherry tree.
posted by darth_tedious at 8:21 PM on March 20, 2010 [13 favorites]


Man, if a conservative threatens me, I'll just threaten to distribute materials teaching safe gay sex. If my brief experiences with WND are indicative of the right wing pathos, nothing scares them more.

Why can't Obama do the same? If HCR doesn't pass, he'll do an airlift over Middle America dropping condoms and detailed pamphlets.

That would also steal the far right's major talking point about the gay agenda. A metaphorical h-bomb with no surge in gayness would stand in the face of any law for equal pay for gay employees turning the kiddos gay.
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:24 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


As a side note, Nancy Pelosi's shaping up to be a seriously fantastic Speaker.

The NYT tick-tock is very nice to her, but it feels well deserved. She is clearly respected by the House GOP leadership, while Harry Reid is almost pitied by Senate Republicans. Partly that's because the House is set up to get shit done, while the Senate is the turd in the punchbowl of representative government, but dealing with a couple of hundred egos, a few dozen of whom really want their moment of playing Special Wavering Flower, is not that easy.
posted by holgate at 8:26 PM on March 20, 2010


White and hetero supremacy - a match made in hatedom.
posted by yeloson at 8:30 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


If you look at media coverage of any protest, you will find that the bits the media have chosen for your evening's entertainment are the most violent parts the reporters on the ground could find.

Charlie Brooker provides, in relation to the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake, and actually gives Fox News credit for its coverage.

I always had the feeling during the 2008 election that the cablenews live feeds lingered with Obama just a little too long, because the producers were thinking... well, what if something happens.
posted by holgate at 8:36 PM on March 20, 2010


VOTE NO OR ELSE

I tremble in my boots. Tremble.
posted by flabdablet at 8:37 PM on March 20, 2010


You Can't Tip a Buick: "I don't doubt that some right-wingers will do something stupid and violent sooner or later, but it's a big country and until they start organizing into genuine for-reals freikorps the odds of you being the victim of their acts of violence (or at least, victim by reason of politics instead of by reason of adulterous affair) are pretty slim."

I don't think it's so much fear for one's personal safety as it is fear what kind of effect this destructive rhetoric can have on the country -- and what the teabagger types might do if their rhetoric ever delivers them real political power.

And that's the point of terrorism anyway, right? Violence is only a means to the end of altering a society's political stance. It happened after 9/11, and there's a real chance of it happening now. I don't fear being killed by a wingnut, but I do fear what might be unleashed if their furious blustering gets beyond the "incoherent threatening" stage.
posted by Rhaomi at 8:52 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


Ju**alos?
posted by symbioid at 8:55 PM on March 20, 2010 [18 favorites]


I joked about starting a pool on when the first teabagger will shoot a politician, and my friend pulls out 'crazy left wingers were just as threatening against Bush, it's more likely one of them will shoot someone!'.
posted by jacalata at 9:05 PM on March 20, 2010


I don't think it's so much fear for one's personal safety as it is fear what kind of effect this destructive rhetoric can have on the country -- and what the teabagger types might do if their rhetoric ever delivers them real political power.

And that's the point of terrorism anyway, right? Violence is only a means to the end of altering a society's political stance. It happened after 9/11, and there's a real chance of it happening now. I don't fear being killed by a wingnut, but I do fear what might be unleashed if their furious blustering gets beyond the "incoherent threatening" stage.


This. It's not me I'm worried about.
posted by oinopaponton at 9:05 PM on March 20, 2010


The psychotic right has been posting all over the internet (see the link I posted earlier) about their intention to engage in mass murder of people they don't like. Self-defense is a good idea and then some.

I'm another of the atypical leftish gun owners that anansi mentions, but I know that the one thing that a gun is NEVER going to be useful for is preventing me from being a victim of random and sudden violence. Even if I had it strapped to my hip every second of the day I'd be unable to respond if someone walked calmly up to me and pulled a gun on me. Trained law enforcement have nutters get the better of them this way and they're supposedly in the process of Being Alert.

I suppose if I'm not the first person they open fire at I might be able to respond, but for survival purposes it's more likely I'd do myself better by running and hiding. Let the professionals get involved in the shootout.

If the psychotic right comes to my house and tries to kick the door in while I sleep? Okay, then I'll believe self-defense with a firearm is a good plan. Otherwise I'm just going to avoid large concentrations of obvious nutters and keep voting for the least whackjob candidates I'm offered - it seems more likely to be a successful technique than being strapped 24/7 and I'm not aware of anyone ever having had their vote wrestled out of their hands and used against them.
posted by phearlez at 9:05 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]


"And, most amazing and enviable of all, they know what is best for all their unborn descendants and everyone else's descendants." -- Loosemouth

Yeah, but, you see...

If this passes, there will be no descendants, because the Obama Gestapo will have them all murdered in the baby bloodbath genocide of mandated nazi abortions! So of COURSE they know what's best, because if they don't stop it now, there will be no child to leave behind!
posted by symbioid at 9:18 PM on March 20, 2010


Yeah, and they're in a hurry because, you know, death panels.
posted by flabdablet at 9:23 PM on March 20, 2010


At least 4 times a week, white people look at me funny when I go to install equipment at their homes. It's usually people over 50. Either that or some middle class 30 something in the suburbs. This didn't as often even a year ago. Maybe it's because I'm ugly. I know one thing for sure: very few racist haters can articulate their message of supremacy without resorting to the stupid words. They all break down and say what they really feel eventually. This will get worse, and I see really bad times coming. So, for now, I kind of get a kick out of going to all these big homes and getting these weird looks. I imagine I'm a spy for the black man, just like they do. It's like 'ha, I know where you live fool!' Now, at the wealthy homes I've been in, they don't look at me funny at all, go figure. It's more like pity or they know I'm harmless (I'm laughing as I edit this). The harmless look goes for cops and the working poor, as well. There are so many insecure people out there these days. They have no idea what they're really upset about, so they follow someone who says 'this is why America is angry', based on some poll that...(And I've never been polled, by the way, WTF?) came from some group, comprised of people who grew up watching the 700 club. It's been about 6 years since I've had cable tv. It's making people sick.
posted by Flex1970 at 9:34 PM on March 20, 2010 [22 favorites]


I'm not clear what's being threatened.

"Vote no or else".
Or else what? Like what are they going to attack?

I can't imagine any plan of attack that would represent even a minor inconvenience to the government...

It is possible I lack the imagination and "crazygland" necessary to imagine how a tiny group of middelaged white folks are going to bring the us government to their knees..

All I can think of is that they're going to smash up some kiosks in the national mall, terrorize some ducks, err.. walk on the grass?

Even if they shoot up the place.. It's mostly marble and tourists.. Not to diminish the value of tourists, but again, not a really useful target.

I wish there were crazyfolks cliffnotes. This would be easier to understand.
posted by Lord_Pall at 9:35 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


There are not conservatives. They're ultra-nationalists.

Be very, very goddamn afraid America.
posted by GuyZero at 9:39 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


Call the White House! Call your representative! Seriously, they're getting jammed with calls from angry, confused hillbillies right now. The staffers could really stand to hear a friendly voice right now.

Definitely do this, if you can.

Seattle's TV airwaves have been filled with anti-healthcare ads targeting Rep. Adam Smith. Smith is pro-healthcare, and is planning on voting 'Yes' tomorrow. So, I called his office last Wednesday, and talked to them, thanking him for his support and how I want healthcare reform. Pretty please. They are indeed being swamped by the anti-healthcare side. When I asked if the phone lines have been busy, they said "You don't know the half of it."
posted by spinifex23 at 9:44 PM on March 20, 2010


There's no particular reason to be very, very goddamn afraid of ultra-nationalists unless they have a good shot at getting control of the armed forces. Replacing Bush with Obama as CinC seems to have made that rather less likely. So as you work out how afraid you want to be, a good starting point might be remembering back a few years and then dialling it back a notch or two.
posted by flabdablet at 9:47 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


I read poetry to get me in the mood for big events; tonight for the health care vote tomorrow. In case anyone else is into this sort of thing:

O, let my land be a land where Liberty
Is crowned with no false patriotic wreath,
But opportunity is real, and life is free,
Equality is in the air we breathe.

(There's never been equality for me,
Nor freedom in this "homeland of the free.")...

O, let America be America again--
The land that never has been yet--
And yet must be--...

Sure, call me any ugly name you choose--
The steel of freedom does not stain.
From those who live like leeches on the people's lives,
We must take back our land again,
America!

O, yes,
I say it plain,
America never was America to me,
And yet I swear this oath--
America will be!
An ever-living seed,
Its dream
Lies deep in the heart of me,
We, the people, must redeem
Our land, the mines, the plants, the rivers,
The mountains and the endless plain--
All, all the stretch of these great green states--
And make America again!


Langston Hughes, "Let America Be America Again"
posted by sallybrown at 9:53 PM on March 20, 2010 [6 favorites]


There are not conservatives. They're ultra-nationalists.

Absolutely.

Hey, did you know there's an immigration rally in Washington today?

Day laborers on foot from Long Island and Californians who sold tamales to pay for their trip are expected to rally on Sunday in Washington, D.C., with tens of thousands of immigrants, many of them undocumented Hispanics, to dramatize their pleas for immigration reform.

The laborers, walking more than 250 miles from Hempstead, N.Y., hope to join immigrants aboard more than 700 buses from at least 28 states and numerous caravans from the South and Southwest


That'll go over well in teabag nation, don't you think?
posted by kgasmart at 9:55 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


These people seem steeped.

For a group self-identifying as Tea Partiers, they all sure seem in desperate need of a soothing Chamomile...
posted by mazola at 10:16 PM on March 20, 2010 [2 favorites]


How dare Obama heal our healthcare system on a Sunday!?

Glenn beck had Rep. Steve King on tonight. They agreed on this exact point, that it was a "slap in the face of God" to vote in a law creating a new right on the Sabbath. I'm sorry but if you want to satirize these people you'll have to try harder. Or maybe that's just not possible anymore.
posted by scalefree at 10:55 PM on March 20, 2010


Back prior to the tea bagger's increased rabble rousing I was hypothesizing about the long term need of the GOP is to make a clean break from the large bloc of blatant racists and gay haters within the party. Because, I feel, as much as I dislike the current crop of GOPers I do think we need multiple voices at the table and I also think the GOP is in serious trouble in the long term. As America gets less white and as younger, more gay friendly, generations matriculate into the system the GOP is going to face ever greater challenges in remaining politically viable with it's current "christian" "straight" white boy hegemony. It would definitely hurt the GOP in the short to medium term but it would also mean there will be a long term viability.

So, the Tea Party comes along and I think "hey, perfect, a ready made vehicle to dump all that shit into. Here is a way to cull and isolate the worse social elements of the Republican party." But, given how much the Republicans seem to bend over backwards and actually incite these asshole it is pretty clean rather than move away from those reprehensible social attitudes the Republicans want to embrace them whole heartedly. There is no room in the Republican party for moderates, and those that are left would be well advised to jump ship, weather Independent or Democratic it doesn't really matter. I don't care for many of their positions but frankly, as right of center as Snowe and Collins and a hand few of others are, they don't belong to the modern Republicans.

Wonder how Steele feels about the Nigger signs and his party's embrace of these assclowns.
posted by edgeways at 11:01 PM on March 20, 2010 [3 favorites]


Idiocy has no party.

Yeah, but it gravitates in large numbers to the tea party. For every one wacko you'll find at, say, a rally for Democrats, you'll find thirteen thousand at a tea party rally.
posted by Astro Zombie at 11:05 PM on March 20, 2010 [9 favorites]


There are not conservatives. They're ultra-nationalists.

Fuck that. These are right-wing archetypes and conservatives to the core. Call these scumbags what they are.
posted by Blazecock Pileon at 11:16 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


This is just to say, we/re all counting on you.
posted by The Whelk at 11:19 PM on March 20, 2010 [4 favorites]


There is going to be violence and the violence will discredit the movement. ...if the teabaggers start making good on their threats of violence, that wakes up the populace real quick. Even the behavior today, the "n*gger" and the "faggot" business, is putting off the suburban soccer moms big time.
posted by kgasmart


I tend to think this as well.

Remember the "militias" of the early 90's? Then the OK city bombing and all the subsequent talking about how McVeigh had militia ties? Afterwards... yeah no so many militias.

Hope to Buddha it doesn't take something like that nowadays but the GOP certainly seems blind to the possibility.
posted by edgeways at 11:20 PM on March 20, 2010


Even if they shoot up the place.. It's mostly marble and tourists.. Not to diminish the value of tourists, but again, not a really useful target.
As a Hill staffer, I really would rather this not happen.

Hugs to the folks making thank-you calls if your rep is a yes - we're drowning in calls no matter what, so we might as well hear from a friendly voice or two.
posted by naoko at 11:24 PM on March 20, 2010 [1 favorite]


stammer said: "(teabaggers are) educated enough that they recognise and identify strongly with the ideology of the USA (all that Tom Paine guff)"

Funny thing about that. Tom Paine actually would be called a damn atheist communist NWO fascist if these people really read his works (you know besides the "lets fight a revolutionary war" tracts).

1) Deist (writing a tract against Christianity)
2) Supported/dreamed of an international order almost 200 years before it came to be.
3) Wrote a pamphlet called "Agrarian Justice" in which he proposed that all (white males of age 21, you know the schtick) be given a lump sum by society to start their lives out with (Oh, and a pensioners benefit! You know -- that pesky "Social Security" that FDR was such a Communist for bringing to the fore)
(via wikipedia):
Agrarian Justice is the title of a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine, published in 1797, which advocated the use of an estate tax to fund a universal old-age and disability pension, as well as a fixed sum to be paid to all citizens on reaching maturity.
Yeah, I'd love to see the look on their faces if they actually read what the founding fathers actually wrote instead of repeating the mantra of their "Christian Nation" ideologue masters...
posted by symbioid at 11:30 PM on March 20, 2010 [21 favorites]


Such angry unhappy faces. It's Spring, maybe a spring tonic would help.
posted by Cranberry at 12:01 AM on March 21, 2010


How can we reconcile their beliefs with progressive, peaceful behavior? How can a country so divided ever come together, without violence?

Well according to that video they're pretty old. We could just wait for them to die.

I don't think violence is likely from this bunch. A violent movement requires of it's members discretion, self-sacrifice, total obedience, some kind of physical fitness and adherence to a consistent ideology. I think the country is pretty safe.
posted by fshgrl at 12:04 AM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


I don't think violence is likely from this bunch. A violent movement requires of it's members discretion, self-sacrifice, total obedience, some kind of physical fitness and adherence to a consistent ideology.

You are conflating your terms, assuming a "violent movement" is the same thing as a movement that resorts to violence. Occasional violence is very well possible from this bunch, and when it happens it could well become a powderkeg situation.

In fact, that would actually be a violent movement, and not necessarily possessing any of the things you say are required.

And when it happens, what will be the media's primary depiction of it? "Look how far the Tea Party movement has taken things?" Or, "Look how far we pushed them that they felt they had to attack?"
posted by JHarris at 12:18 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Tom Paine actually would be called a damn atheist communist NWO fascist if these people really read his works

And Adam Smith would be appalled at how his works are used in the modern discourse. But here's the thing: it doesn't matter that they're factually incorrect, because they feel right. The tea partiers have nothing to do with the reasoned-debate-in-pursuit-of-consensus John Stuart Mill envisioned. This is ego defense and ideological defense.

I think it's a mistake to dismiss the Tea Party as oldsters who'll be dead soon anyway. There are plenty of people under 50 in this group. Just as the media flock to Tea Party events for their value as spectacle, TV clips favor instantly-recognizable stereotyped characters. The GOVERNMENT OUT OF MY MEDICARE oldster is that stereotype. But the insecure fuck who could barely control his contempt as he flung dollar bills at PigAlien's friend wasn't old. He was maybe 40.

They don't stand for anything, as evidenced by their ignorance of their own supposedly sacred texts. But they'll sure as hell stand against any attempt at liberty and justice for all. And given their love for free-market economics, corporate money will help them frame the debate every step of the way.

These people aren't going away, and ultranationalism doesn't stop being a threat because it wears a MARXISM IS AN OBAMANATION t-shirt instead of a swastika armband. To paraphrase Orwell, if you pretend that they merely an aberration which will presently pass off of its own accord, you are dreaming a dream from which I sincerely hope you will awake.
posted by Monsters at 12:29 AM on March 21, 2010 [10 favorites]


that they *are* merely an aberration, rather.
Sorry George
posted by Monsters at 12:31 AM on March 21, 2010


As kgasmart mentioned upthread, 100,000 people are expected to march on the Mall today for immigration reform: something that deserves more attention.
posted by HP LaserJet P10006 at 12:39 AM on March 21, 2010


I'm sure the ensuing bloodbath when the Teabaggers see the rally will get plenty of media attention.
posted by kafziel at 12:46 AM on March 21, 2010


Anyone who can corner the market on brown shirts will make a killing.
posted by Jimmy Havok at 1:05 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I look forward to the inevitable clash between the Teabaggers and the Neo-Nazi white supremacists.

"Obama is just like Hitler!"
"WHAT DID YOU SAY!?!?!"

It'll be like an Ouroboros of race hate.
posted by haveanicesummer at 1:37 AM on March 21, 2010 [63 favorites]


so are these teabaggers going to come out in November if this passes? Because the GOP will have shown their weakness.
posted by Ironmouth at 2:12 AM on March 21, 2010


I don't know if I'm allowed to do this, but I would just like to re-iterate how awesome Nancy Pelosi is. A few weeks ago I mentioned why I thought she was so rad (because I felt the need to stand up for her awesomeness), and just when I think she can't possibly live up to my high expectations for her all the time, she gets even more shit done. She's just all kinds of badass.

So the next time I see those Obama/Hitler signs I'll let them know that they just compelled me to give The Speaker of the House $500--and I'll stick around for a bit to see if anyone else wants to join in. That actually sounds like fun (and, ahem, a little more my speed than packing heat).
posted by ohyouknow at 2:20 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I think we should thank that miserable stain of human excrement Rupert Murdoch for this whole ado. The man is, quite simply, evil in person. Over a couple of decades, he has single-handedly managed to poison the political discourse in three continents, supporting a full-blown takeover of responsible conservatism by populist ultranationalists.
posted by Skeptic at 3:12 AM on March 21, 2010 [15 favorites]


I think we should thank that miserable stain of human excrement Rupert Murdoch for this whole ado. The man is, quite simply, evil in person.

Well honestly, this kind of thing has been in the offing since the creation of the mass media. We've even seen something like it before, in the form of William Randolph Hearst.

People are far too trusting of the media, and of people who tell them things they want to hear. If it hadn't been Rupert Murdoch, now, it would have been someone else, and later. Fox News has been an eye-opener for some people, even if it hasn't been as many as we'd like.

People are far too trusting of large corporations too. We should take the opportunity to get that out of our systems while we're at it.
posted by JHarris at 3:25 AM on March 21, 2010


JHarris The main difference between Murdoch and Hearst is that Murdoch is so much more global. Hearst's nasty influence only extended to the US. Murdoch's foul stench is all around American, British and Australian politics. Murdoch's propaganda is also much more sophisticated and pervasive than Hearst's could ever be. Remember: even in the US it isn't just Fox News. It's also the WSJ and the New York Post. It's like a nine-ring circus of evil.
posted by Skeptic at 4:49 AM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Yes, healthcare for all is just like Hitler.

In the 40s my dad's local fish and chip shop was bombed out. What was my nearest local fish and chip shop now has a NHS outreach centre on the site where it once stood.
posted by vbfg at 5:19 AM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


Sometime two weeks ago, they broke ground at the controversial Atlantic Yards development here in Brooklyn. There was a team of protestors, and a good friend of mine was among them.

There was one arrest -- my friend. The protestors were making noise to drown out the speeches, and police ordered them to stop -- but my friend, who was beating a drum, did not. So they arrested him.

He saw this same article, and his reaction was: "Sure, I get arrested for playing a drum, but the frakin' teabaggers take over a federal building and shout racial and anti-gay epithets and are allowed to go their way."

I can't help but think he's got a point in pointing out the double standard.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 5:52 AM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


My Congressperson is Brian Baird (Bluedog, WA) who announced a few months ago that he's not running for office again. I've called his office numerous times over the last couple of weeks to find out which way he's voting and to exhort him to vote "yes." As of Friday, he claimed that he still hadn't made up his mind.

Which leads me to believe that he's going to vote "no." Either he's the most wishy-washy person in the country or the most coy summbitch in office. I realized at some point that there was no sense in calling his office at all because, since he's not trying for re-election, he really doesn't care what his constituents think.

I continued to call, of course, because what else could I do? Even an exercise in futility is better than not doing anything.
posted by leftcoastbob at 6:00 AM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


"...and are allowed to go their way"

They were actually arrested, though, were they not? I thought the individual congressmen chose not to press charges?
posted by elizardbits at 6:12 AM on March 21, 2010




oinopaponton: That was exactly what this thread needed.

Thanks.
posted by Aizkolari at 6:32 AM on March 21, 2010


Caucus chairman John Larson: "We've got the votes."
posted by EarBucket at 6:42 AM on March 21, 2010


From @Marnus3 on Twitter: "Teabaggers can't have their country back because the confederacy was dissolved in 1865."

You can't make this shit up.

Rep. Paul Broun (R-GA) :
"If ObamaCare passes, that free insurance card that’s in people’s pockets is gonna be as worthless as a Confederate dollar after the War Between The States — the Great War of Yankee Aggression."

"...Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) compared health reform to a Japanese suicide bombing attack. And Glenn Beck has continuously referred to health reform as 'reparations' for slavery. But Broun’s analogy between health reform and a 'Great War of Yankee Aggression' might take the cake for its coded racism, historical revisionism, and outright level of detachment from reality." *

posted by ericb at 6:43 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


This is why TARP was so galvanizing to them

And it must be irrational conservatism - why else would anyone oppose using a trillion dollars of taxpayer money to reward businesses whose extravagance of executive compensation was exceeded only by their extravagantly failed economic decisions? That's some fine, rational progressivism right there - any resemblance between the Bush-cum-Obama plan and Reaganomics-gone-crazier is surely illusory.

Of course, after we enacted our progressive plan, the economy started failing even faster than we'd predicted would happen without TARP, and then we had to hold more Congressional meetings when it turned out that some of the taxpayer money was itself getting used for extravagant executive compensation, but who could have seen any of that coming?
posted by roystgnr at 7:05 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Remember the "militias" of the early 90's? Then the OK city bombing and all the subsequent talking about how McVeigh had militia ties? Afterwards... yeah no so many militias.

Yeah, but Fox News and its spin machine was still a year away from its birth when OKC happened.

I'm not saying they would definitely try to paint them as a hero, if some teabagger finally decides to shoot-up some congressman's office. I'm just saying we'd probably see a lot of reports showing the teabagger as a concerned, patriotic family man just trying to hold his family together. in these trying times..and the congressman as an acknowledged friend of the gay plague and in support of baby-killing. We report, you decide, y'know.
posted by Thorzdad at 7:44 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Pfft. Everyone knows Robert Mugabe is Black Hitler.
posted by electroboy at 7:48 AM on March 21, 2010




"Frank, an openly gay lawmaker, had to call the Captiol Police 'to move away' five or six protesters who were banging on his office door and shouting through the mail slot...While making the trek across the street from his office to the Capitol, Frank was called a 'Homo Communist' and told to 'go homo to Massachusetts' by several protesters, according to witnesses and confirmed by Frank...Frank, a longtime advocate for lesbian and gay rights, called it 'unfortunate' that people protesting in the Tea Party event took to spewing 'bigoted, abusive, personal things' at him and some African-American members. 'If this was a movement that I was part of, I’d be doing more than I think the Republicans are, to differentiate myself,' Frank said in an interview with The Hill that afternoon." *
posted by ericb at 8:00 AM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]




Barney Frank, you're always welcome to come homo to Massachusetts.
posted by oinopaponton at 8:24 AM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


My heart is in my throat for the states where there is the potential for things to get more violent. I'm still thinking about nola's story.

When the civil union bill was passed here in Vermont, Tea Party Lite people pushed forward with their "Take Back Vermont" slogan. The best tactic against it turned out to be humor. I saw a lot of signs that said things like "Take Back Your Library Books" and some tourists even ended up thinking the "Take Back Vermont" slogan was urging them to buy more maple syrup. It also reminds me of the "God Hates Signs" rebuttal.

Humor might not deflect a bullet, but it's better than fighting (or trading) fire with fire.
posted by Wuggie Norple at 8:37 AM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


These people are so far removed from reality that I am consistently amazed they manage to find their way to these protests. Really and truly.
posted by dilettante at 8:42 AM on March 21, 2010


Rep. Paul Broun (R-GA) :
"If ObamaCare passes, that free insurance card that’s in people’s pockets is gonna be as worthless as a Confederate dollar after the War Between The States — the Great War of Yankee Aggression."


Whoah. I'm speechless. That "R", before "GA", it stands for "Republican", right? The Grand Old Party? The "Party of Lincoln"?!

Because I think I should be forgiven for thinking that it could just stand for "Racist" in this case.

(I'm sure not even Nixon would have felt comfortable thinking that his "Southern Strategy" would end up, not in a Republican takeover of the South, but in a takeover of the Republican party by "that South")

P.S.: Who, in the US, has such a "free insurance card"? Apart from Congressmen like Broun, I mean...
posted by Skeptic at 8:44 AM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


I'm sure not even Nixon would have felt comfortable ...

And the thing is these wingnuts don't even realize that Nixon proposed universal health care, but failed to see it through due to his resignation from office.

Democrats' health plans echo Nixon's failed GOP proposal.
posted by ericb at 8:51 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


that free insurance card that’s in people’s pockets

Free insurance card? All I have to say is bring. it. on.
posted by justgary at 9:15 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


This morning's tea party stunt (specifically the hurling of racial slurs at Rep. John Lewis) is already paying dividends: I just got back from brunch with my parents, both of whom voted for Bush twice and were uncertain about whether they supported the health care bill.

"You know," my dad said, "I was thinking these people had a point, but what they're doing makes no sense. How does spitting in the face of an American hero [he loves John Lewis] have anything to do with health care? These people aren't mad about the bill; they're mad there's a black guy in the White House."

Keep discrediting yourselves, you racist, homophobic trash.
posted by sallybrown at 9:35 AM on March 21, 2010 [33 favorites]


"The "Party of Lincoln"?!" posted by Skeptic at 10:44 AM on March 21

Republicans are the "Party of Lincoln" like Christianity is the "Religion of Jesus"...
posted by symbioid at 9:40 AM on March 21, 2010 [17 favorites]


They really do believe that the health care reform bill is UHC, don't they?
posted by Pope Guilty at 9:40 AM on March 21, 2010


Does that make Jews for Jesus the Log Cabin Republicans?
posted by mccarty.tim at 9:50 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I don't feel like wading through the news to find out what's most likely. I could go call a bookie and get the odds, but I don't feel like Googling one.

Do they have the votes for this thingy or not?
posted by mccarty.tim at 9:53 AM on March 21, 2010


Do they have the votes for this thingy or not?

From this nifty vote-tracking graph on the NYT's website, it looks like there are 209 solid YES votes and 207 solid NO votes, with 15 votes in play.
posted by sallybrown at 10:02 AM on March 21, 2010


Do they have the votes for this thingy or not?

It's not clear. Pelosi has said that she wouldn't take this to a vote unless she knew it would pass. But because of the news that President Clinton was making calls and they're still talking to some Democratic Reps about abortion as of this morning, opponents to the bill are seeing this as a sign that they still don't really have the votes.
posted by zerbinetta at 10:03 AM on March 21, 2010


MSNBC reporting Stupak, Yes!

If the alleged 9 votes he has go with him it is in the bag.
posted by Ironmouth at 10:03 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Yup. Stupak seals the deal if he's bringing his bloc with him. Done and done.
posted by EarBucket at 10:06 AM on March 21, 2010


My liver still remembers the NY state marriage bill and it's sending out phantom pangs.
posted by The Whelk at 10:07 AM on March 21, 2010 [9 favorites]


My liver still remembers the NY state marriage bill and it's sending out phantom pangs.

That is exactly what I fear. What's to stop that from happening here?
posted by zerbinetta at 10:13 AM on March 21, 2010


That is exactly what I fear. What's to stop that from happening here?
posted by zerbinetta


Well hopefully Pelosi is better at her job and isn't miscounting her votes. But there's no guarantee until this thing is on the record.
posted by haveanicesummer at 10:15 AM on March 21, 2010


My liver still remembers the NY state marriage bill and it's sending out phantom pangs.

That is exactly what I fear. What's to stop that from happening here?


Nancy Pelosi knows what the fuck she's doing. That makes this an entirely different situation.
posted by EarBucket at 10:16 AM on March 21, 2010


[variations of] There is going to be violence and the violence will discredit the movement.

Violence is not going to discredit the movement at all, not in the eyes of those for whom the movement has legitimacy in the first place.
posted by five fresh fish at 10:18 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Brian Baird says he'll vote yes. He voted no on the original bill, so he's an important flip.
posted by EarBucket at 10:18 AM on March 21, 2010


That is exactly what I fear. What's to stop that from happening here?

Instant primary challenges. That guy facing Blanche Lincoln got stood up fast. He got 2 mil within minutes from labor and the magic internet power gave him scads more cash like that.
posted by Ironmouth at 10:19 AM on March 21, 2010


This is what we're up against: "ASSASSINATION! America, we survived the #Assassinations of #Lincoln & #Kennedy. We'll surely get over a bullet 2 #BarackObama's head!"
posted by EarBucket at 10:26 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Interesting that that's posted to the #tlot hashtag and not #tcot.
posted by Pope Guilty at 10:27 AM on March 21, 2010


When did Baird say he'd vote "yes", EarBucket? That really would be great news.
posted by leftcoastbob at 10:29 AM on March 21, 2010


I made this last summer, but it seems more appropriate now than ever.
posted by EarBucket at 10:29 AM on March 21, 2010 [16 favorites]


Holy shit, EarBucket, that's yours? Nice work.
posted by Pope Guilty at 10:33 AM on March 21, 2010


When did Baird say he'd vote "yes", EarBucket? That really would be great news.

Just a few minutes ago, but several news bureaus have confirmed with his office. The momentum on this is moving very quickly to the pro-reform side; people know the train's leaving the station.

Stupak just told CNN he's not committed to a yes vote yet, but he thinks they're very close to a deal. I suspect at this point he's more interested in saving face than anything. He'll be a yes--they just have to find a way for him to pretend like he got something out of his grandstanding. If Obama needs to issue an executive statement reiterating that the bill won't make everyone get gay Mexican abortions to get Stupak and his half-dozen votes on board, I'm cool with that.
posted by EarBucket at 10:33 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


John Tanner (who's retiring after this year) just announced he's still a no vote. Worthless.
posted by EarBucket at 10:37 AM on March 21, 2010


Devin Nunes (R-CA): Democrats make people so crazy they can't help saying "nigger!"
posted by EarBucket at 10:40 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I'm watching C-SPAN, and the tea party people swaying and sort-of singing "NAAAN-CYY, NAAAN-CYY, NAAAN-CYY" is really freaking me out.
posted by sallybrown at 10:42 AM on March 21, 2010


Bill Foster confirms he's still on board. He was a yes vote last time, but he's in a swing district and was wavering.
posted by EarBucket at 10:43 AM on March 21, 2010


"NAAAN-CYY, NAAAN-CYY, NAAAN-CYY"

Fuckin bullies never change.
posted by The Whelk at 10:44 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I have complete confidence that if it came right down to it, Nancy Pelosi could kick every one of their asses five ways to Sunday. You do NOT fuck with Nancy!
posted by ValkoSipuliSuola at 10:46 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Devin Nunes (R-CA): Democrats make people so crazy they can't help saying "nigger!"

This is unbelievable to me. Talk about the death of culture. I just don't know how some of these people sleep at night!
posted by theredpen at 10:48 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I'm so pissed off at my old representative Jason Altmire that I could scream. I busted my ass door knocking and phone calling for him in '06 after he promised me to my face that he was in favor of single payer health care and now he's voting no because of some BS about cost controls. I'm glad that I don't live in his district any more so that I won't have chose between voting for him and his crazy evil republican opponent.
posted by octothorpe at 10:49 AM on March 21, 2010


Man, I cannot wait to see how fast the media and the Republican party "forget" that prominent Republicans have associated themselves with and otherwise encouraged the Tea Party when those idiots finally get around to killing someone.

You know, the same media and Republicans that hold Obama personally accountable for everything anyone black and everyone even slightly to the left ever has done or ever will do.
posted by lord_wolf at 10:51 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I hope it passes for many reasons. I know it's far from perfect, but I expected that. Obama has repeatedly stated a view of democracy as a thing that is endlessly perfectable, rather than natively perfect, and I am sure he believes an all right bill can, over time, be shaped into a better law and, eventually, a great one. I'd like to believe him. We'll see.

More than that, I think a victory for the Dems over so overwhelming an opposition would be the kick in the pants they need. They're just so used to losing, they're like the Bad News Bears out there without a Jackie Earl Haley, there's barely a fight in them. This could be their Jackie Earl Haley.

Speaking of whom, I have been glad to see his recent revival. He's awesome.
posted by Astro Zombie at 10:54 AM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Fox News will only go so far as to hint at violence in order to inflate their wedge issues. If the teabaggers were a real threat to law and order, Fox News would lay back. Thems talking heads have their paychecks, private insurance and zillionaire executives to worry about.

On the other hand, assassinations and petty domestic terrorism are good for ratings, so there's that. They'll poke the beehive, but they'll sure as hell get out of the way when the bees start stinging. (Then let them calm down, and start poking again.)
posted by Skwirl at 10:55 AM on March 21, 2010


Pelosi's carrying the same gavel that John McCormack used to pass Medicare in 1965. Bad. Ass.
posted by EarBucket at 10:55 AM on March 21, 2010 [11 favorites]


I wonder how much of this comes down to bullying. You get out of your twenties and get a real job and start having a career path and all that, and you don't get to be a bully any more — and I'm sure there are people who really miss the power of being a bully. So they attend a tea party and call people names and show that they're all tough and powerful.

Makes me wonder if popping 'em good and sharp once in the nose would send 'em packing.
posted by five fresh fish at 10:57 AM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


The anticipation is maddening. Someone pass a bill or shoot someone or have a hate orgy or something.


I'm doing my part by giving out hugs.
posted by The Whelk at 10:59 AM on March 21, 2010




Oh can the tea party dissolve into fractured in-fights and paranoia and recriminations, oh can it?
posted by The Whelk at 11:01 AM on March 21, 2010


P.S don't go into Wonkette's comment section if you value your sanity.
posted by The Whelk at 11:03 AM on March 21, 2010


For what it's worth, Obama's numbers in the Gallup Daily poll jumped from 47-47 yesterday to 50-43 today. Gallup does a three-day rolling sample, which means that yesterday's poll numbers saw a double-digit bounce to affect the average that much.
posted by EarBucket at 11:06 AM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


I'm watching C-SPAN, and the tea party people swaying and sort-of singing "NAAAN-CYY, NAAAN-CYY, NAAAN-CYY" is really freaking me out.

Siiiing, Cookooooo!
posted by Pope Guilty at 11:07 AM on March 21, 2010


The Whelk: "P.S don't go into Wonkette's comment section if you value your sanity."

It can't be worse than The Politico's comment section.
posted by octothorpe at 11:10 AM on March 21, 2010



It can't be worse than The Politico's comment section.

I don't think this game has a winner.
posted by The Whelk at 11:15 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I don't think this game has a winner.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY A GAME?
posted by one more dead town's last parade at 11:16 AM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


"It can't be worse than The Politico's comment section."

True, but it's the difference between a sewage facility and a cesspool. I don't want to swim in either.
posted by Ludi at 11:22 AM on March 21, 2010


Republicans unveil a don't tread on me flag?


Is that really what this is?
posted by Lord_Pall at 11:32 AM on March 21, 2010


P.S don't go into Wonkette's comment section if you value your sanity.
posted by The Whelk at 2:03 PM on March 21 [+] [!]


I dunno - it looks all right to me?

/from page on R-GA Broun's idiotic *War Between the States* babbling
#
glamourdammerung says at 1:37 pm, March 19th, 2010
- Reply

Literally calling Representative Broun’s office now to inform him the Civil War started when Southerners fired on federal troops in Fort Sumter and ended a while back with a decisive Union victory.
#
bureaucrap says at 1:38 pm, March 19th, 2010
- Reply

I know it’s been said millions of times before by millions of people, but we really mean it. If you guys down in the south decide to secede again, we’ll let you win. Don’t let the social justice hit you on the way out.

Read more at Wonkette: http://wonkette.com/414319/gop-congressmen-start-throwing-civil-war-references-around#ixzz0ipzPoPsX

posted by toodleydoodley at 11:39 AM on March 21, 2010


Watching a rerun of a Devin Nunes interview on C-Span right now. He just vaguely intimated that all those nuns and Catholic hospitals who came out in favor of the bill are actually Commie spies posing as real Catholics.
posted by EarBucket at 11:53 AM on March 21, 2010


theredpen: "Devin Nunes (R-CA): Democrats make people so crazy they can't help saying "nigger!"

This is unbelievable to me. Talk about the death of culture. I just don't know how some of these people sleep at night!
"

I'm watching this guy right now and it's taking a vast reserve of self-control to not smash my TV.

"The leadership of the Church is through the bishop structure ... there's organizations that use 'Catholic' in their name but they're really leftist groups." Yeah, douchebag, the CATHOLIC nun I sat next to this morning at Mass, who was one of the 59,000 CATHOLIC nuns represented in that letter to Congress, SHE'S a leftist? (Well, maybe she is, but she's sure as hell Catholic, too).

I HATE THESE PEOPLE.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 11:56 AM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Watching a rerun of a Devin Nunes interview on C-Span right now. He just vaguely intimated that all those nuns and Catholic hospitals who came out in favor of the bill are actually Commie spies posing as real Catholics.
posted by EarBucket at 2:53 PM on March 21 [+] [!]


is he sure he's from California? because that's what they've always thought down here in the Southland. I'd like to see a birth certificate.
posted by toodleydoodley at 11:56 AM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Nunes: If you don't behave the way we want, we will call you totalitarian and you can expect to get called racial and homophobic slurs. Also, if you dress like that, you're probably asking for it.

Oh, and fuck nuns who work as nurses. Buncha commies. Not that I'm saying they're commies.

Also, fuck the Irish and their leprechauns.
posted by Astro Zombie at 11:57 AM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Man, The GOP really hates Nuns.
posted by The Whelk at 11:59 AM on March 21, 2010




You know, Nunes is talking about "buying votes" to get the bill passed. Isn't that illegal? If he thinks someone is buying, or selling, votes, why doesn't he name names and do something about it? This guy is a tool.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 12:03 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I liked when Nunes said there's really no use trying to get help from your congressman; Nunes is, of course, a congressman.
posted by Astro Zombie at 12:05 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


" Larger anti-War Rally"

I've met a few people who think we've completely pulled out and not actually "at war" anymore. At this point in the national discussion, it's like finding out "Boys meets World" is still on the air or something.
posted by The Whelk at 12:07 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I liked when Nunes said there's really no use trying to get help from your congressman; Nunes is, of course, a congressman.

I don't know, I think it's just an example of the larger absurdity of a political party basing their ideology on the concept that government is baaaaaad. Now elect us into government, please.
posted by synaesthetichaze at 12:11 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


This whole situation is incredible. The amount of venom is far, far, far beyond a simple political policy disagreement. When you're claiming that people should be shot and killed for trying to help the lower classes get affordable access to medical treatment it isn't about healthcare any more. It's about racism, or anger that the "Democrat Party" is setting policy, or something. I think people tend to act like this when they're really scared but I'm not sure what the driver is yet. Maybe it's just the world moving on from white Republicans running everything and this is just the outlet for frustration at that development.
posted by LastOfHisKind at 12:16 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


..and they're gonna break all their toys so no one can play with them!
posted by The Whelk at 12:21 PM on March 21, 2010


Can anyone tell me who the gentleman acting as Speaker right now is (on C-Span)? Because he is clearly a bad-ass and has a death-stare that he could only have learned at Pelosi's knee, and I think I love him.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 12:28 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Yes! I love that guy: his grasp of parliamentary procedure, his glare, the way he's grasping that mallet under his folded arms. It's like Article One has a bouncer.
posted by EarBucket at 12:31 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


floam: "Lulu, that's Jesse Jackson, Jr."

I am clearly half-blind with rage, because I should have known that. Thanks!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 12:31 PM on March 21, 2010


Is Darrel Issa always such a complete wanker?
posted by octothorpe at 12:34 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Is Darrel Issa always such a complete wanker?

Yes.
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 12:35 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


octothorpe: "Is Darrel Issa always such a complete wanker?"

I'm going to guess yes. Also, I'm waiting for Jesse Jackson, Jr., to just whip that gavel across the chamber to smite Issa in the forehead, all Thor-like.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 12:36 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Oh my god, Kingston sounds exactly like Mr. Mackey from South Park.
posted by EarBucket at 12:39 PM on March 21, 2010


I think I need a personal phone call from a very southern ultra-liberal to undo my regrettable growing bias against southern accents at this point after watching C-SPAN for a while. I know you're out there! Bill Clinton's varies a bit or he might do it.
posted by theredpen at 12:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Jesse jackon Jr looks like he's gonna hit someone.
posted by The Whelk at 12:41 PM on March 21, 2010


Rhubarb! Rhubarb! Rhubarb!
posted by The Whelk at 12:42 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


He's getting laughs!
posted by The Whelk at 12:43 PM on March 21, 2010


Look at your representative. Now look at me. Now look at your representative. Now back at me.
posted by shiu mai baby at 12:44 PM on March 21, 2010 [17 favorites]


YAAAAAAAAY!

NAAAAAAAAAAYYYYY!
posted by The Whelk at 12:44 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh look, angry white people.
posted by The Whelk at 12:45 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


The Repubs couldn't be any more nakedly obstructionist; they're tossing out every point of order they can think of, and then arguing them past when it's been settled. It's weird watching them try to work so unsympathetic a ref.
posted by Astro Zombie at 12:48 PM on March 21, 2010


Jackson was great, considering how childish some of our fine Representatives were behaving.
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 12:49 PM on March 21, 2010


POINT OF ORDER: YOU SUCK!
posted by The Whelk at 12:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


Wait, is this the bill that forces Rush Limbaugh to move to Costa Rica?
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 12:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


The Hill reports that Stupak and his bloc are on board.
posted by EarBucket at 12:55 PM on March 21, 2010


Man.. Conservatives have a motherfucking BROCHURE.

How come we don't have a brochure?
posted by Lord_Pall at 12:59 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Who is this oddly reasonable fellow on C-Span?
posted by The Whelk at 1:01 PM on March 21, 2010


You can watch the Stupak press conference live here.
posted by EarBucket at 1:01 PM on March 21, 2010




That's a very polite way to say "Shut up asshats"
posted by The Whelk at 1:10 PM on March 21, 2010


Leadership is saying they have 220 votes to pass.
posted by EarBucket at 1:14 PM on March 21, 2010


Text of the White House executive abortion order.
posted by EarBucket at 4:04 PM on March 21 [+] [!]

That's a very polite way to say "Shut up asshats"
posted by The Whelk at 4:10 PM on March 21


except some teabagging fool will think it is an executive order to forcibly perform abortions on oh god stop me
posted by toodleydoodley at 1:15 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Summary of Lady's speech "Dudes, even NIXON was behind it. Seriously"
posted by The Whelk at 1:15 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I'm afraid to look, but how's it going, Americans? I'm holding my breath and crossing everything I can that this thing passes, imperfect as it is. Best wishes from your socialist neighbours to the North, and all.
posted by jokeefe at 1:16 PM on March 21, 2010


Cautiously optimistic, jokeefe. Stupak seems to have gotten what he really wanted (attention), so it's possible this may knock-on-wood actually go through. I wonder what the teabaggers will do tomorrow?
posted by theredpen at 1:18 PM on March 21, 2010


can I get a greasemonkey script that flashes a small, discreet icon in the lower right corner of my toolbar, showing me if the person speaking on cspan has a fucking brain or not? like, 'brain' for yes, 'slash/circle brain' for no? and then I can either switch tabs to watch or not.

I can't even leave the sound up to intelligible levels because the foam from my gnashing teeth keeps dripping on my keyboard and I'm trying to work.
posted by toodleydoodley at 1:19 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


Christ what an asshole
posted by The Whelk at 1:19 PM on March 21, 2010


The Whelk: "That's a very polite way to say "Shut up asshats""

Wonkette says it best: "They’ve reached an agreement! Obama has promised that he will, indeed, compose a Sternly Worded Letter about ladies and their hoohas. Great ten-month stand, Stupak!"
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 1:22 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


Prediction: Joseph Cao crosses the aisle to vote for the bill again, at the last second, after it's well past 216 votes. He can't afford not to.
posted by EarBucket at 1:24 PM on March 21, 2010


Notable coloqualisms I've seen on twitter today-

Libtards
Obamizle
Debtocrats
Dumbocrats
Demoncrat
Denturecrats
posted by Lord_Pall at 1:25 PM on March 21, 2010


Denturecrats

I read this as Denture Cats and had a strange image
posted by The Whelk at 1:26 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


The worst they can do is what they're doing now: propaganda work that makes any attempt at providing social services appear in the media as a New York mixed-race banker's plot to sap the precious bodily fluids of the small businessmen of Iowa.

I know this was meant in the LOLFLYOVERMOUTHBREATERS sense, but you'll recall that Iowa is where this administration got off the ground while New York was home to Obama's race-baiting opponent. Just saying.
posted by the christopher hundreds at 1:27 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


So when are they supposed to finally vote on this bill?
posted by Rory Marinich at 1:28 PM on March 21, 2010


can I get a greasemonkey script that flashes a small, discreet icon in the lower right corner of my toolbar, showing me if the person speaking on cspan has a fucking brain or not? like, 'brain' for yes, 'slash/circle brain' for no? and then I can either switch tabs to watch or not.

In this topic, just look at their name and see if there is a Little "R" next to it. Then hit mute.
posted by Astro Zombie at 1:28 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"So, my friends, let's just junk those Dumb-ocrats and their bleeding-heart smell-fare program."--Birch Barlow
posted by box at 1:29 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


McGovern is *fired up*
posted by The Whelk at 1:30 PM on March 21, 2010


I can't get this scene out of my head for some reason.
posted by EarBucket at 1:31 PM on March 21, 2010


So when are they supposed to finally vote on this bill?

Long after dark--it wouldn't be entirely surprising if they go till midnight or even later.
posted by EarBucket at 1:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Brian Baird was swayed by phone calls from his constituents.
posted by EarBucket at 1:33 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Also, a question. I'm talking to a 15-year-old girl who's from a Republican family. She asked me why I support the health care plan. And... there are so many reasons. I haven't a clue where to start explaining to her. Anybody else got any idea of what I should make the core of the argument?
posted by Rory Marinich at 1:35 PM on March 21, 2010


This just in: Alcee Hastings is awesome.
posted by Monsters at 1:35 PM on March 21, 2010


So, rules vote @ 5:30, 2 hours of debate, then bill vote @ ... 8-ish? I need to pace my drinking until then. I'm so mad over the events of the past couple days that I'm vibrating, and the drinking, it helps. I can't wait 'til we pass this and I can stand to look at television again.
posted by ersatzkat at 1:38 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


David Frum: "if HCR prevails, Republicans need an accountability moment. Jim DeMint/ Rush / Beck etc. ed us to Waterloo all right . Ours."
posted by EarBucket at 1:39 PM on March 21, 2010


Rory: Perhaps explain to her how your values lead to your decisions? My values dictate that people should not suffer illness, go bankrupt or even die simply to raise the profit margin of an insurance company.

Although I prefer to argue from fact and logic, it's not going to convince your young friend. Her objections are premised on values, and meeting her on that ground puts the lie to the conservative canard that 'lieberals' are immoral communists.
posted by Monsters at 1:40 PM on March 21, 2010


also, please draw the Denture Cat, thx
posted by ersatzkat at 1:40 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Brian Baird was swayed by phone calls from his constituents.
posted by EarBucket


You're welcome!
posted by leftcoastbob at 1:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


theredpen: I think I need a personal phone call from a very southern ultra-liberal to undo my regrettable growing bias against southern accents at this point after watching C-SPAN for a while. I know you're out there! Bill Clinton's varies a bit or he might do it.

Are you saying Billy Clint is an "ultra-liberal"?
posted by paisley henosis at 1:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Twitter: RT @ljarratt Bart Stupak's campaign phone # (906) 863 -2800 Call, tell them you are donating to his opponent for his betrayal #teaparty #hcr
posted by jacalata at 1:46 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I wonder how much of this is the death throes of white privilege. Those middling-aged, white guys at the protests just might be waking up to the fact that they no longer necessarily have all the advantages in getting an education, healthcare, jobs, the Office of the President, etc.
posted by five fresh fish at 1:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


Rory: "Because if you have an accident, I don't want you to die because an insurance company decides you're too expensive to fix."
posted by five fresh fish at 1:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Five fresh fish "Wasn't it better when rich white men had all the power instead of just most of it?"
posted by The Whelk at 1:58 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


This ranting about tax increases is boggling to me. You know who will pay those taxes? My family. I'll be honest - we do OK financially. And you will NEVER hear me or my husband complain about paying our taxes to support health care and other social services. Yeah, we'll bitch about the money tossed at the DoD and the military/industrial complex. But to pay for health services for the poor and under-served? Sign us up.

The people bitching about the taxes - they don't speak for me, no matter my income bracket.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 1:58 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


They're talking about "arm-twisting bathroom deals!" oh wait, I realize I'm hard of hearing...
posted by Wuggie Norple at 1:59 PM on March 21, 2010


Jesse still sounds like he wants to slap these chuckleheads.
posted by The Whelk at 2:01 PM on March 21, 2010


LOTS OF CITIES
posted by The Whelk at 2:02 PM on March 21, 2010


I like how he almost dropped the bill on his foot. Haw haw haw!
posted by Wuggie Norple at 2:03 PM on March 21, 2010


I like how Jesse Jr. smacked him down for it.
posted by ersatzkat at 2:03 PM on March 21, 2010


Wait a second, all these people asking for consent to revise and extend their remarks - they aren't making any remarks, other than "flawed health care bill". But they'll get to enter their supposed speeches into the record, like they actually got up and SAID it? Wha?
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 2:04 PM on March 21, 2010


Conga line of cowards.
posted by ersatzkat at 2:04 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Oh right, dittoheads!
posted by Wuggie Norple at 2:05 PM on March 21, 2010


All the same ...lines....it's like auditing people for the role of Douchebag Senator.
posted by The Whelk at 2:05 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


oh snap new Jersey! NO IMPROVING!
posted by The Whelk at 2:05 PM on March 21, 2010


Jesse's all "did I *stutter*??"
posted by ersatzkat at 2:06 PM on March 21, 2010


Can someone explain to this evil free socialist healthcare qualifying Brit, what the unanimous consent conga line is actually doing?
posted by i_cola at 2:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh god help me I am shouting at the teevee like a DRUNK SPORTS FAN. All this wild moodswinging from glee to rage and back again feels terribly unhealthy.

Do you think alcohol will help? I think alcohol will help.
posted by elizardbits at 2:08 PM on March 21, 2010


ALCOHOL IS HELPING!!
posted by ersatzkat at 2:09 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


...did he say "whales"?
posted by ersatzkat at 2:09 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh god don't go to the Rapture Ready forums if you don't want to have a aneurysm.

Well he just lost the Welsh vote.
posted by The Whelk at 2:09 PM on March 21, 2010


Elizardbits - THIS IS MY SPORTS.
posted by The Whelk at 2:10 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


The Whelk: "All the same ...lines....it's like auditing people for the role of Douchebag Senator."

"Mr. Speaker, Obamacare is the costliest, cruelest, coldest, most flawed health care bill I've ever known in my life."

"Mr. Speaker, Obamacare is the costliest, cruelest, coldest, most flawed health care bill I've ever known in my life."

"Mr. Speaker, Obamacare is the costliest, cruelest, coldest, most flawed health care bill I've ever known in my life."

"Mr. Speaker, Obamacare is the costliest, cruelest, coldest, most flawed health care bill I've ever known in my life."
posted by Rhaomi at 2:11 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


tbh I think I would prefer to see Congress battle it out like gladiators. Less of the snide, cutting remarks, and more of the EPIC SWORD FIGHTING AND BATTLE CRIES. Plus, I bet Pelosi would rock the greaves and breastplate.

I blame the terrible yet addicting Spartacus: Blood & Sand
posted by elizardbits at 2:14 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]



The teabaggers could care less about HCR beyond the fact that it is proposed by a black democratic president. Had McCain won and put forth the exact same proposals as Obama did there would have been no (relatively) objections.
A few months ago I confronted teabaggers at a downtown rally. I accused them of being racists. There response? "Damn right and as a white man you should be too". So forget about all the socialist, Hitler and other BS. It is about RACISM. Period.
posted by notreally at 2:15 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Ooh, Bachmann switched out 'flawed' for 'dangerous.' I wonder if it'll catch on.
posted by box at 2:18 PM on March 21, 2010


Frum's blog entry on the subject EarBucket referred to.

Certainly hope he's right (not about HCR being a "debacle", but the strategic analysis is interesting). At the very least, it's a good point about the dangers of following media personalities instead of politicians --- while the latter are hardly angels, their motives are quite different from the former, who thrive almost entirely on controversy and anger (which can be quite dangerous for politicians, regardless of who it is directed at).
posted by wildcrdj at 2:20 PM on March 21, 2010


Jesus is Jerrold Nadler ok? is he voluntarily abstaining from using his solid gold insurance until we pass HCR?
posted by toodleydoodley at 2:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Is CPAN on the web? I don't see any dead-obvious links to it in this thread.
posted by five fresh fish at 2:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Or C-SPAN, even.
posted by five fresh fish at 2:32 PM on March 21, 2010


cspan.org
posted by jacalata at 2:33 PM on March 21, 2010


Found it. I think. Looks like a bunch of assholes arguing, at any rate.
posted by five fresh fish at 2:34 PM on March 21, 2010


Free Republic Agonistes:
To: ealgeone
To undo this, we need a majority in the House, 60 in the Senate, and a GOP President.

We may have all that in 2013. But it’s a tall order.

And then the GOP will have to be tough.

Imagine what they could do if the GOPers were 1/2 as tough at the Dems.



8 posted on Sunday, March 21, 2010 5:16:22 PM by Ted Grant
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 1 | View Replies]

Yep. This fall isn't going as a lot of people have been predicting. They have to run on repeal. And they'll have to show how they would change everything for the better. How they could possibly do that, I don't know.
posted by Ironmouth at 2:34 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Dreier is unbelievable. he's actually up there saying, in essence, "this hurts me even more than it hurts y'all."
posted by toodleydoodley at 2:36 PM on March 21, 2010


Maybe it's the giddiness of pending legislative success and/or the bloody marys (sp?) talking, but I can't help wonder if the GOP refusal to distance themselves from this slime will actually hurt their electoral chances? To try a slightly different metaphor:

How many times can the GOP appeal to the slowest common denominator before they end up dividing by zero?
posted by joe lisboa at 2:39 PM on March 21, 2010 [8 favorites]


"if the GOPers were 1/2 as tough at the Dems."

what
posted by Rhaomi at 2:42 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


How many times can the GOP appeal to the slowest common denominator before they end up dividing by zero?

Damn, that is fucking clever. I hope you don't mind if I steal that and say it every five seconds for the next few months.
posted by synaesthetichaze at 2:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Are you saying Billy Clint is an "ultra-liberal"?

No, and I apologize to anyone with a southern accent! And everyone at large, actually.
posted by theredpen at 2:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Why are they suddenly voting to "celebrate cold war veterans" or whatever?
posted by hackly_fracture at 2:56 PM on March 21, 2010


How can you have a veteran of a 'cold' war, anyway?

Seriously, is it just everybody who served between WWII and the fall of the Berlin Wall who didn't fight in 'Nam or Korea? Or are they Cold War vets too?
posted by paisley henosis at 3:03 PM on March 21, 2010


so, there are 431 present. who's not there?
posted by toodleydoodley at 3:05 PM on March 21, 2010


I think I need a personal phone call from a very southern ultra-liberal to undo my regrettable growing bias against southern accents at this point after watching C-SPAN for a while. I know you're out there! Bill Clinton's varies a bit or he might do it.

MeMail me & you will get it. And yes, I have already called my Rep. (John Lewis) to say thank you and tell him I'm proud to have voted for him in 2008 & I'll be proud to do it again in November.
posted by pointystick at 3:05 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


According to Kos, Loretta Sanchez is the absent rep.
posted by synaesthetichaze at 3:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Can somebody link me to a summary of what is and isn't in the bill that they will (eventually) be voting on?
posted by paisley henosis at 3:14 PM on March 21, 2010


According to Kos, Loretta Sanchez is the absent rep.

Wapo says she's there but unaccounted for. (she's a Democrat, by the way)
posted by Threeway Handshake at 3:14 PM on March 21, 2010


WaPo on Sanchez' absence.
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 3:14 PM on March 21, 2010


Aw, jinx.
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 3:14 PM on March 21, 2010


Ah, good. Even if she is probably a 'no' vote, I wouldn't want any rep to blow off this historic vote.
posted by synaesthetichaze at 3:18 PM on March 21, 2010


a thing just passed!
posted by hackly_fracture at 3:22 PM on March 21, 2010


HR3950 at OpenCongress.org
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 3:23 PM on March 21, 2010


ok, Sanchez. who else? I mean, Jackson can vote while he's swinging the warhammer around at people, right? and Nancy Pelosi is perhaps too busy to vote while she's out jacking people up in the cloakroom?
posted by toodleydoodley at 3:24 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Thanks sadiehawkinstein.
posted by paisley henosis at 3:30 PM on March 21, 2010


MeMail me & you will get it.

Thank you, pointystick! I may take you up on it at some point (especially if this doesn't pass, although I might be a bit ranty at that point). Always glad to thwart stereotyping, even when I'm the fool who needs a refresher.
posted by theredpen at 3:30 PM on March 21, 2010


First vote passes 224-206.
posted by EarBucket at 3:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Well, they've approved the rules for debate.
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 3:38 PM on March 21, 2010


Aw, Jesse Jackson Jr. had to hand over the gavel. That is a shame; I think he had everyone in line!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 3:42 PM on March 21, 2010


They're about two hours behind the original schedule at this point. If the Republicans don't pull any more parliamentary hijinks, the final vote should be around 10:30. I wouldn't bet on that happening.
posted by EarBucket at 3:43 PM on March 21, 2010


Steny Hoyer's invoking the civil rights marches of the 1960s. Ordinarily I'd think that was a bit much, but the crazies kind of opened that door right up for him.
posted by EarBucket at 3:44 PM on March 21, 2010


I was drinking wine, what happened?
posted by The Whelk at 3:44 PM on March 21, 2010


First vote passes 224-206.

....Wait.

This means we WON?

*is afraid to believe it's really and for true*
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 3:44 PM on March 21, 2010


(on preview)

....Oh.

Never mind.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 3:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Not quite yet, but it's basically all over but the kabuki now.
posted by EarBucket at 3:46 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm not real familiar with the parliamentary processes of the House; can anyone explain why you'd vote against the rules of debate? What's the point?
posted by synaesthetichaze at 3:48 PM on March 21, 2010


Anyone know of any good drinking games for the next two hours of debate?
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 3:48 PM on March 21, 2010


Accidentally bought 100 proof vodka; my drinking game is to sip my bloody mary while refreshing CNN and trying not to fall over.
posted by oinopaponton at 3:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


I MUST AWAY TO THE CINEMA, MEFI. If something amiss should occur in Congress while I am out, please safeguard my pitchfork and torch until my return.
posted by elizardbits at 3:50 PM on March 21, 2010


John Boehner has apparently requested that Republican lawmakers behave, and I quote, "like grown-ups."
posted by EarBucket at 3:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


every time you gasp in astonishment, either at the awesome or the stoopid, drink. for medicinal purposes.
posted by toodleydoodley at 3:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


John Boehner has apparently requested that Republican lawmakers behave, and I quote, "like grown-ups."
posted by EarBucket at 6:50 PM on March 21 [+] [!]


sure, but wouldn't a historic brawl be more fun?
posted by toodleydoodley at 3:53 PM on March 21, 2010


Accidentally bought 100 proof vodka;

You never ..accidently buy 100 proof.

Okay so now this speech is reminding me of the Oscars. Is it all kabuki now or can we get a good hissy fit in?
posted by The Whelk at 3:57 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh Rep. Deal, you dick.
posted by The Whelk at 4:01 PM on March 21, 2010


I do not think these people understand what "Constitutional" and "Unconstitutional" actually mean.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 4:02 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Okay so now this speech is reminding me of the Oscars.

Wherein we'll discover but one fortnight hence that Nancy Pelosi's husband is carrying on with a heavily tatted motorcycle aficionado?

wut.
posted by joe lisboa at 4:03 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm glad Waxman is my congressman.
posted by Bookhouse at 4:04 PM on March 21, 2010


Mas-R dude was like an evil gnome
posted by The Whelk at 4:05 PM on March 21, 2010


hey, see there, listen to Rep. Dingell, that's direct and folksy in a good way.
posted by The Whelk at 4:06 PM on March 21, 2010


NJ rep is ....fabulous . I want his hair.
posted by The Whelk at 4:11 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm glad Waxman is my congressman.
posted by Bookhouse at 4:04 PM on March 21 [+] [!]

Me too. He's a gem.
posted by biddeford at 4:12 PM on March 21, 2010


BALLYHO IS OCCURING!
posted by The Whelk at 4:14 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


..it will DESTROY FREEDOM? and UNAMERICAN? God is he a Markov bot?
posted by The Whelk at 4:15 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


I have the conch!
posted by zerbinetta at 4:15 PM on March 21, 2010


I think, in the interest of preserving my own sanity and the "chill" mood my roommate noticed I was in today, that it would be best if I NOT watch any of these proceedings.

I'll check in on y'all as things progress, but...I'd better not watch the actual sausage being made.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 4:17 PM on March 21, 2010


Bono Mack - great name, terrible hair. And speech, she sounds like she's telling us What She Did This Summer.
posted by The Whelk at 4:18 PM on March 21, 2010


BALLYHO IS OCCURING!

…any night, any day. In your heart, it's there, occurring. Some vote yea, some vote nay.
posted by one more dead town's last parade at 4:19 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Virgin Islands rockin the gold and teal ...mumu? robe? What?
posted by The Whelk at 4:19 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh Stupak, your voice sounds like how beige looks.
posted by The Whelk at 4:20 PM on March 21, 2010 [9 favorites]


nd the "chill" mood my roommate noticed I was in today

Oh you can say you're a bit lit, it's okay. It's Sunday.
posted by The Whelk at 4:21 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Sensenbrenner looks and sounds like a cartoon hedgehog.
posted by The Whelk at 4:22 PM on March 21, 2010


Wait so, his argument is that we shouldn't pass it cause then it will get passed?
posted by The Whelk at 4:24 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]



Wait, is this the bill that forces Rush Limbaugh to move to Costa Rica?


He says that was misreported. It is, instead, the bill that will force him to go a country with socialized medicine (Costa Rica) to get healthcare.
posted by dilettante at 4:24 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


To be fair, teabaggers aren't against healthcare, just healthcare for poor people. And, possibly, sick people.

So are insurance companies.

If this was about actual HEALTH, there would be talk of brining back the Kennedy era Music-Man written/sung songs like "go you chickenfat go" and revamp our food system to not go for cheap carbs.

This is about keeping the insurance firms solvent as their commercial real estate empires collapse.
posted by rough ashlar at 4:25 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh Sullivan, you have a point? No, wonderful.
posted by The Whelk at 4:26 PM on March 21, 2010


I don't know about this "closing the donut hole" analogy. A donut without a hole isn't really a donut, even. Why are they using that?
posted by biddeford at 4:27 PM on March 21, 2010


This sounds like whack a mole now

OH GOD HOUSE METAPHORS.
posted by The Whelk at 4:27 PM on March 21, 2010


Gingrich wins "Most Inadvertantly Revealing Analogy of the Day":
[F]ormer Republican House speaker Newt Gingrich said Obama and the Democrats will regret their decision to push for comprehensive reform. Calling the bill "the most radical social experiment . . . in modern times," Gingrich said: "They will have destroyed their party much as Lyndon Johnson shattered the Democratic Party for 40 years" with the enactment of civil rights legislation in the 1960s.

No one doubts that Johnson was right to push for those civil rights measures. And he was well aware of the potential damage they would do to a Democratic Party that was then a coalition including whites and African Americans, liberals from the North and conservative segregationists from the South.

Those battles over civil rights set off a political realignment that played out over decades and led eventually to a Republican domination of the South that continues to this day.
posted by Rhaomi at 4:28 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Mr. Pibbs?
posted by The Whelk at 4:28 PM on March 21, 2010


What the living fuck is an entitlement crisis?
posted by The Whelk at 4:28 PM on March 21, 2010


-GENTLEMEN'S TIME IS EXPIRED!
posted by The Whelk at 4:29 PM on March 21, 2010


It is interesting to me that the "leaders" of the "pro-life" movement in the House are all men.

Also, RESPECT THE GAVEL.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 4:30 PM on March 21, 2010


.

(for FREEDOM)
posted by oinopaponton at 4:31 PM on March 21, 2010


They call me MISTER PIBBS!
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 4:31 PM on March 21, 2010


I fear I may have bollocksed my attempt to Bullock this, above. No offense intended to any one. Blame it on my provincialism and we'll still be cool.
posted by joe lisboa at 4:31 PM on March 21, 2010


45 seconds does not mean "talk slowly and waste time with bad analogies."
posted by zerbinetta at 4:32 PM on March 21, 2010


No one can stop speaking on time!
posted by The Whelk at 4:33 PM on March 21, 2010


Doyle understands the importance of props.
posted by The Whelk at 4:33 PM on March 21, 2010


Gentle"lady" looks like she should be drinkin' at rush week.

Is all these "keystone state" stuff normal? It seems ...odd
posted by The Whelk at 4:35 PM on March 21, 2010


"never seen?" Oh Rodgers, I'll bet my left arm you've seen worse.
posted by The Whelk at 4:36 PM on March 21, 2010


No one can stop speaking on time!

There's a part of me that wishes the orchestra would start playing to drive them away from the microphone.
posted by EarBucket at 4:36 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Americans... pitted against Americans! For the FIRST TIME IN HISTORY!!!!!1!
posted by biddeford at 4:37 PM on March 21, 2010


Illinois lady don't need no microphone! She goes to 11.
posted by The Whelk at 4:37 PM on March 21, 2010


HEED THE GAVEL!
posted by The Whelk at 4:38 PM on March 21, 2010


Americans... pitted against Americans! For the FIRST TIME IN HISTORY!!!!!1!

What about the Great War of Yankee Aggression?
posted by EarBucket at 4:38 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"how much time do I have remaining?" "55 seconds." "......55 seconds" and then he gives someone 15 seconds.

This is ..so weird.
posted by The Whelk at 4:38 PM on March 21, 2010


so, there are 431 present. who's not there?

Arent'y there four vacancies?
posted by goodnewsfortheinsane at 4:39 PM on March 21, 2010


FUCK YOU I JUST USED TURBOTAX TODAY IT WORKS WELL!
posted by The Whelk at 4:39 PM on March 21, 2010


What the living fuck is an entitlement crisis?

Just guessing, since I'm not actually watching the "action" (HA) unfold... s/he is probably referring to entitlement spending, stuff like Medicare and Social Security that, basically, they can't change in the yearly budget. It accounts for about half of that $3.5T budget, which is why the Republican alternative to the Democrats' budget this year was about .001% less in dollar amount. They can't touch Medicare/SS, and even though they *could* touch DoD, they won't.
posted by synaesthetichaze at 4:39 PM on March 21, 2010


tl;dr Speaker speech "SHUT UP YOU GUYS"
posted by The Whelk at 4:39 PM on March 21, 2010


What about the Great War of Yankee Aggression?

Don't even get me started on the Ambivalent War of Midwestern Passive-Aggression. Or do.
posted by joe lisboa at 4:40 PM on March 21, 2010 [8 favorites]


Arent'y there four vacancies?

Yup. All hands are on deck today. There was some question as to whether Sanchez would show up, but she's there.
posted by EarBucket at 4:40 PM on March 21, 2010


The Whelk is sounding more and more LIKE SOCKINGTON.
posted by moody cow at 4:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Tammy Baldwin, I like your vote but not your hair. The 80s were a long time ago, really.
posted by The Whelk at 4:41 PM on March 21, 2010


LIKE SOCKINGTON.

How is this a bad thing?
posted by The Whelk at 4:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


No, not bad at all!
posted by moody cow at 4:42 PM on March 21, 2010


Barton looks like someone who is found dead ontop of someone.
posted by The Whelk at 4:42 PM on March 21, 2010


"A bill that everyone can support?"

Fuck you, you disingenuous asshole.
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 4:43 PM on March 21, 2010


Madam Speaker is rockin a close crop - I don't know why I'm talking so much about hair also Levin's voice makes me sleepy, I don't care if he deserves to be heard.

Robert Frost! he sounds like Robert Frost. I...zzzzz.....
posted by The Whelk at 4:44 PM on March 21, 2010


TENTACLES! Republicans can't stop thinking about Hentai
posted by The Whelk at 4:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Rep. Camp?

Oh...I...nevermind.
posted by The Whelk at 4:46 PM on March 21, 2010


RUIN! THERE WILL BE RUIN!!!!!
posted by Ouisch at 4:46 PM on March 21, 2010


This is the sort of event that demands a MeFi twitter feed. Live-blogging C-SPAN. It's sort of the political equivalent of Mystery Science Theatre 3000.
posted by five fresh fish at 4:46 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Rangel's voice is not one you find outside 1940s movies. Also, is that the BIGEST POCKETSQAURE IN THE WORLD? He should be carrying a mint julep at all times.

"Pawht!" adorable!

"Thank Gowd I'm own e right side" Weeee!
posted by The Whelk at 4:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


And, for the record, I am drinking (liberally grogged) tea while watching. It's my own little tea party.
posted by Ouisch at 4:48 PM on March 21, 2010


I AM A CARTOON MOUSE!!!
posted by The Whelk at 4:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Herger is 12 inches tall!
posted by The Whelk at 4:49 PM on March 21, 2010


"A bill that everyone can support?"

Re-election for life for everyone in the House? That's about all I can come up with. Maybe more money too.
posted by wildcrdj at 4:49 PM on March 21, 2010


Aww! He's like a sleepy puppy!
posted by zerbinetta at 4:50 PM on March 21, 2010


I too noticed the massive pocketsquare. In hopes of delicious republican tears?
posted by Monsters at 4:50 PM on March 21, 2010


Give 'em hell John Lewis. Shame 'em.
posted by ersatzkat at 4:50 PM on March 21, 2010


Man, that's a Preeeaaaacher voice! THEY NEED IT NOOOOOW!
posted by The Whelk at 4:50 PM on March 21, 2010


GRAB YOUR MOMENT! GRAB IT BY THE BALLS!
posted by The Whelk at 4:50 PM on March 21, 2010


"give health care a chance" Oh ...my. Hmm.
posted by The Whelk at 4:51 PM on March 21, 2010


Re-election for life for everyone in the House? That's about all I can come up with. Maybe more money too.

If Obama supported it there wouldn't be a single yea vote in the R column.
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 4:51 PM on March 21, 2010


Jeebus, I love me some John Lewis.
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 4:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


FREEDOM FROM HUGE UNSIGHTLY TIES
posted by The Whelk at 4:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


If Obama supported it there wouldn't be a single yea vote in the R column.

Hey, they might resign en masse in protest. It's worth a shot.
posted by EarBucket at 4:52 PM on March 21, 2010


yeah! Freedom to go bankrupt from medical bills!! USA
posted by Monsters at 4:52 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I'm sorry to interrupt this amusing thread with a practical question, but seriously: when, exactly, will the last, best hope for Freedom expire tonight? I mean, won't it technically remain on life support until the Senate votes and the President signs the bill? I'm trying to keep this in perspective. Also too, can we just drop our elderly relations off at any old death panel camp or is there some sort of system here? Thanks! Cross-posted in AskMe.
posted by joe lisboa at 4:52 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


The fight for freedom from...healthcare coverage. Ahhhhh....taste the freedom.
posted by Ouisch at 4:52 PM on March 21, 2010


Neal, you're not fooling anyone, I know you're passionate but please, buy a rug.
posted by The Whelk at 4:53 PM on March 21, 2010


oh good snap on "Nobody!" with a lovely spice of egoism.
posted by The Whelk at 4:53 PM on March 21, 2010


DNA! DNA! DNA!
posted by ersatzkat at 4:53 PM on March 21, 2010


Wait when they they do a Speaker chance? was there a teleporter? Is the speaker a SHAPE SHIFTER?
posted by The Whelk at 4:54 PM on March 21, 2010


DING DING DING WE HAVE OBAMACARE!
posted by The Whelk at 4:54 PM on March 21, 2010


any old death panel camp

They're called Freedom Camps, please.
posted by EarBucket at 4:55 PM on March 21, 2010


I don't like this new speaker. She is decidedly NOT a hardass.
posted by ersatzkat at 4:55 PM on March 21, 2010


So... fact check on that Massachusetts horror story?
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 4:56 PM on March 21, 2010


The chick is gone and now Droopy Dog is speaker! You're right!
posted by ersatzkat at 4:57 PM on March 21, 2010


Random echo and then ...noise!

The new Speaker kinda sounds like he's on the Vulcan High Consul

"aaalll rules"
posted by The Whelk at 4:57 PM on March 21, 2010


Kabuki theatre would have better makeup!
posted by The Whelk at 4:57 PM on March 21, 2010


floam - *clang* "Bring out your dead!"
posted by cmyk at 4:58 PM on March 21, 2010


EUREKA, CA REPRESENT
posted by Ouisch at 4:59 PM on March 21, 2010


Rock that blue tie, rock it hard.

Also I'm getting memo point vertigo. 26 year olds are getting donut holes? I love those things.
posted by The Whelk at 4:59 PM on March 21, 2010


WAIT, THERE ARE SOCIALIST GHOSTS?!
posted by EarBucket at 5:00 PM on March 21, 2010


Great, it's Mr. You Made Us Call You 'Faggot'.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:00 PM on March 21, 2010


YOU LOOK LIKE A SERIAL KILLER NUNES.
posted by The Whelk at 5:00 PM on March 21, 2010


omfg are you kidding me

Communist ghosts, people. I think we're done here.
posted by Ouisch at 5:00 PM on March 21, 2010


NUNES HATES UPTOPIAS!
posted by The Whelk at 5:00 PM on March 21, 2010


That was high value crazy for money. SOCIALIST GHOSTS.
posted by The Whelk at 5:01 PM on March 21, 2010


Gods, that Devin Nunes dude isn't for real, is he? That bit about universal healthcare being a step back into Communist Russia is the literal definition of batshit.
posted by five fresh fish at 5:01 PM on March 21, 2010


Wait, MADAM speaker again? What weird Proteus is this?
posted by The Whelk at 5:01 PM on March 21, 2010


There's a spectre haunting Europe K Street ...
posted by joe lisboa at 5:01 PM on March 21, 2010


Schauer's hair is 20 years younger than he is
posted by The Whelk at 5:02 PM on March 21, 2010


These speeches are like talking point mad libs.
posted by EarBucket at 5:02 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Oh Tibri, don't take my word for it? shouldn't you be selling medicine in a road show?

Also, three EDITORIALS?
posted by The Whelk at 5:02 PM on March 21, 2010


Socialist Ghosts? Pffft. Pitchfork gave 'em a 4.6 and their bassist's side project puts on a way better live show.
posted by joe lisboa at 5:03 PM on March 21, 2010 [8 favorites]


This is like the best surrealist cinema.
posted by The Whelk at 5:03 PM on March 21, 2010


Kind looks like how I imagine everyone in Wisconsin looks like.

Also, kind ..tee hee hee
posted by The Whelk at 5:03 PM on March 21, 2010


The Whelk, he's from Columbus. It's the best he could do. [NOT OHIO-IST].
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 5:04 PM on March 21, 2010


Hit 'em with the math, bitches!!
posted by ersatzkat at 5:05 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Xaiver is an awesome name, so there.
posted by The Whelk at 5:06 PM on March 21, 2010


I like this Becerra fellow...
posted by ersatzkat at 5:06 PM on March 21, 2010


Hey: cemeteries accept progress. Bring out yer dead!
posted by sadiehawkinstein at 5:06 PM on March 21, 2010


GINNY SERIOUSLY YOU ARE WEARING A CUSTARD
posted by The Whelk at 5:06 PM on March 21, 2010


ALSO YOU SOUND LIKE A JUDGMENTAL 50S HYGIENE FILM
posted by The Whelk at 5:07 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


cemeteries accept progress.

RIFYL: Guided By Voices, Robert Pollard, et al.
posted by joe lisboa at 5:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Levin yields to people, it's what he does. He's a big yellow sign.
posted by The Whelk at 5:07 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


..the drapes matched the upholstery.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:07 PM on March 21, 2010


FEARMONGERING!!!
posted by ersatzkat at 5:08 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Pascrell is HURT, okay, HURT. It's about TRUST. About FAMILY.
posted by The Whelk at 5:08 PM on March 21, 2010


FIGHT FIGHT
posted by The Whelk at 5:08 PM on March 21, 2010


He's a big yellow sign.

Big Bird, semiotician.
posted by joe lisboa at 5:09 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Ha, and then c-psan goes blank.
posted by The Whelk at 5:09 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm gonna go on chatroulette and broadcast the cspan stream instead of my webcam.
posted by localhuman at 5:09 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Mine's not blank, just muted.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:10 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm gonna go on chatroulette and broadcast the cspan stream instead of my webcam.

HOT.GAVEL.ACTION.
posted by joe lisboa at 5:11 PM on March 21, 2010


ditto!

So is this the Hate Orgy and muted so we can;t hear the frightful suction?
posted by The Whelk at 5:11 PM on March 21, 2010


I don't get what Pacrell said that needs to be reviewed. I mean, the GHOSTS didn't get reviewed, right?
posted by Ouisch at 5:11 PM on March 21, 2010


I mean, the GHOSTS didn't get reviewed, right?

We've been over this.
posted by joe lisboa at 5:13 PM on March 21, 2010


my bad
posted by Ouisch at 5:14 PM on March 21, 2010


Hai everybody, I we getting drunk and watching HCR pass tonight? Thank God, I am so fucking in. I assume everyone is drinking hot totties in honor of the tea party.

I've got C-span queued up, and the recess is done. Let's roll!
posted by Think_Long at 5:14 PM on March 21, 2010


YOU HURT CONGRESS'S FEELINGS
posted by The Whelk at 5:14 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


In my Head, this is how MetaTalk looks.
posted by The Whelk at 5:15 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


HE AINT NO RANGER WHERE IS HIS BOW?
posted by The Whelk at 5:16 PM on March 21, 2010


The "headlong rush towards socialism" is a really fun ride, and not really that scary. Alpine sliding is better.
posted by Think_Long at 5:16 PM on March 21, 2010


Mister Speaker has a snippy way of hitting the gavel.

wait what

IDOLATRY?


SERIOUSLY?
posted by The Whelk at 5:17 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Exercise in idolatrous sadism? That's kind of fun, actually....
posted by cmyk at 5:17 PM on March 21, 2010


Uh Oh heavy heart. I think we should take him in and weigh that sucker and see just how heavy it is.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:17 PM on March 21, 2010


the fuck now?
posted by The Whelk at 5:17 PM on March 21, 2010


Is that Tom Colicchio?
posted by albrecht at 5:17 PM on March 21, 2010


I've got a bottle of Becharovka and a pot of tea at my elbow. No fucking around.
posted by Ouisch at 5:18 PM on March 21, 2010


CROWLEY USE YOUR DARK MAGIC C'MON
posted by The Whelk at 5:18 PM on March 21, 2010


ha ha ha, yes we are tired of talking about

and what was that uprising?

I don't like Mister Speaker.
posted by The Whelk at 5:19 PM on March 21, 2010


So far, Republicans = Horrible huge ties.
posted by The Whelk at 5:19 PM on March 21, 2010


and crowd goes mild.
posted by The Whelk at 5:19 PM on March 21, 2010


Dave Reichert can kiss my fat white butt. Another reason I don't live on the other side of the lake - he'd be my district rep.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 5:20 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Ouisch: Ironically, I almost had to go to the hospital due to a bottle of Becharovka. That stuff is deceptively strong.
posted by Think_Long at 5:20 PM on March 21, 2010


And the conga line of sympathy gets charged time.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:20 PM on March 21, 2010


Wait, what am I supposed to fear/hate now: The Teen Idols or the Teen Idles? Seriously, this is huge.
posted by joe lisboa at 5:21 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


We have achieved Godwin.
posted by Ouisch at 5:21 PM on March 21, 2010


Van houten? Milhouse did well for himself.

Also, Godwin! In a good way.
posted by The Whelk at 5:21 PM on March 21, 2010


ooo...Rhetoric of Mass Distortion. He's good.
posted by The Whelk at 5:21 PM on March 21, 2010


"America has spoken loud and clear": WE DON'T WANT HEALTH CARE. EVER. WE WANT TO DIE PENNILESS. WITHOUT THE DRUGS WE NEED. WITHOUT ANY MEDICAL INTERVENTION AT ALL. WE LIKE IT THAT WAY.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:22 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


If it's Armageddon, that means the Rapture's coming soon too, right?
posted by Ouisch at 5:22 PM on March 21, 2010


We all have compassion ..except for me! I hate the poor!
posted by The Whelk at 5:22 PM on March 21, 2010


not for us ouisch, keep drinking.
posted by Think_Long at 5:22 PM on March 21, 2010


JHARRIS:
It's only a matter of time before this erupts into violence. And it's all because of Fox News.

Sadly, it wouldn't be the first time in recent history.
posted by echolalia67 at 5:23 PM on March 21, 2010


Think_Long: good thing I'm drinking it in Canada then, eh?

We take care of our binge-drinkers up here.
posted by Ouisch at 5:23 PM on March 21, 2010


Notice "entitlements"? All these poor people with their health care entitlements. Hmmpph. Like they're "entitled" to be healthy.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:23 PM on March 21, 2010


Mister Speaker has clearly come here from the 70s to teach us.
posted by The Whelk at 5:23 PM on March 21, 2010


What is this "Greek fiscal tragedy" of which you speak?
posted by zerbinetta at 5:23 PM on March 21, 2010


Boustany: We all have compassion. But not if it costs us any money.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:23 PM on March 21, 2010


McDermott is doin that Clinton hand thing, also he looks charmingly squiffy
posted by The Whelk at 5:24 PM on March 21, 2010


Everyone take a shot if they mention the turtle fence!
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:24 PM on March 21, 2010


Jesus, this thread is speedy right now.
posted by Pope Guilty at 5:24 PM on March 21, 2010


HAHAHAHA MCDERMOTT!
posted by ersatzkat at 5:24 PM on March 21, 2010


Mr. Speaker looks like a sad Tom Sellick
posted by Think_Long at 5:24 PM on March 21, 2010


Heller's face looks like a sad dog. Also, panicky.
posted by The Whelk at 5:24 PM on March 21, 2010


Bicycle pin!
posted by Think_Long at 5:25 PM on March 21, 2010


I don't know what's weirder, the bike pin or the bow tie.
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 5:26 PM on March 21, 2010


GRUMBLE! MUMBLE!
posted by The Whelk at 5:26 PM on March 21, 2010


Bow tie! Plus bicycle pin. He's a democrat alright.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:26 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


You gotta go back to Hamilton for a positive example? Did you sleep through Modern History 101?
posted by ersatzkat at 5:27 PM on March 21, 2010


He's from Oregon. The bicycle is mandatory.
posted by cmyk at 5:27 PM on March 21, 2010


PELOISCARE, first time I heard that. Also, you look like a bad history teacher.
posted by The Whelk at 5:27 PM on March 21, 2010


"the...chaaair willlll note" so ..sleepy
posted by The Whelk at 5:27 PM on March 21, 2010


"Just because something's historic doesn't mean it's good"? WTF? You don't want anyone to touch Medicare or Social Security, because they are SACRED, but when the other side refers to them as "historic", you come back with THAT?
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 5:27 PM on March 21, 2010


Why is Norman Osbourne in the Speaker's chair?
posted by EarBucket at 5:27 PM on March 21, 2010


SHUT UP GUY FROM MICHIGAN WHO PISSED OFF MR SPEAKER! NOT OTHER MICHIGAN GUY!
posted by ersatzkat at 5:27 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Preach it, Danny Davis.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:28 PM on March 21, 2010


"Do the right thing".hard to sell that line unless you look and sound like a Wise Patriarch
posted by The Whelk at 5:28 PM on March 21, 2010


I just like the term Gentlelady
posted by The Whelk at 5:29 PM on March 21, 2010


How can a state be left roughshod? You can ride roughshod over somebody else, but leave someone roughshod?
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:29 PM on March 21, 2010


Why gentlelady not gentlewoman? Is that standard?
posted by Think_Long at 5:29 PM on March 21, 2010


Bummer that the only DIRTY MOSLIM in the senate didn't speak out. Oh well, we still love him here.
posted by Think_Long at 5:29 PM on March 21, 2010


HER HAIR IS CRAZY GREAT.
posted by The Whelk at 5:30 PM on March 21, 2010


Are those heels? You go breast cancer congress lady, you march right on out with your head high.
posted by The Whelk at 5:30 PM on March 21, 2010


CSPAN should cut back to the teabaggers when it gets all quiet.
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:31 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Huh Andrews' suit is actually tailored. There are a lot of off the rack lookin stuff in this movie.
posted by The Whelk at 5:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Are there any pro-HCR protesters out there tonight?
posted by Think_Long at 5:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Poor Andrews - he's not gonna get anywhere by trying to make *sense*.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:33 PM on March 21, 2010


WTF YOU CAN'T USE FACTS THIS IS CONGRESS SHUT UP ANDREWS.
posted by The Whelk at 5:33 PM on March 21, 2010


...Dick Army. hahahahaha. Still.

"15 seconds!"

..a DECENT society.
posted by The Whelk at 5:34 PM on March 21, 2010


"Treating everyone as equals when they're clearly not equal is called what, children?"

"COMMUNISM!"
posted by ersatzkat at 5:34 PM on March 21, 2010


Breast cancer survivor Gentle Lady (Schultz?) doesn't leave the house without the SPF 45 slapped on-- she is from Florida but is "Twilight Pale." (New color introduced by Behr Paints)
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:34 PM on March 21, 2010


Whose hair is/was crazy great?
posted by mazola at 5:35 PM on March 21, 2010


PEOPLE BEING HEALTHY WILL RUIN JOBS! ALSO BACK ROOM! PEOPLE!
posted by The Whelk at 5:35 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


mazola; Gentlelady Rep Schultz? who survived breast cancer and had a powder blue suit and just.. a WAVE of a frizz.
posted by The Whelk at 5:36 PM on March 21, 2010


"No more haves and have nots". I see the problem now.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:37 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


HE HAS THE DEEPEST FROWN LINES IN THE WORLD.
posted by The Whelk at 5:37 PM on March 21, 2010


Did Tom Price just say "Washingtoon?" Cause that would make a lot of sense.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:38 PM on March 21, 2010


Tom Price has the voice of a horse-racing announcer from the nineteen forties.
posted by cmyk at 5:38 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


It's the division between the haves and the have nots that make this country fun for the rich!
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:38 PM on March 21, 2010



Washingtoon????? Is that like the cartoon version?
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:38 PM on March 21, 2010


Did he just say "patients being able to choose their positions and how and when they'll be treated..."???

That's a different thing.
posted by anastasiav at 5:38 PM on March 21, 2010


He didn't say a single thing in the whole time. That's talent.
posted by The Whelk at 5:39 PM on March 21, 2010


SPEAK QUICKLY YOU ONLY 15 SECONDS!
posted by The Whelk at 5:39 PM on March 21, 2010


My fucking insurance company already gets in between me and my doctor; so WTF is all of this crap about violating the doctor-patient relationship? It's already violated.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 5:40 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


uh oh - gender card.
posted by Think_Long at 5:40 PM on March 21, 2010


Tom Price's forehead is so smooth and shiny! It looks like it has been waxed and buffed.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:40 PM on March 21, 2010


She's awesome.
posted by Think_Long at 5:40 PM on March 21, 2010


That's your fault for deciding to be a woman!

DRAMATIC PAPER SLAP
posted by The Whelk at 5:40 PM on March 21, 2010


Vagina: best pre-existing condition EVAR.
posted by Ouisch at 5:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


You go, Woolsey - "being a woman is a pre-existing condition" is far too true.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 5:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


OH STOP TALKING YOUR VOICE IS LIKE WORMS
posted by The Whelk at 5:41 PM on March 21, 2010


Maybe Kentucky wouldn't have such budgetary problems were it not for the LAST unfunded mandate, thank you GWB.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:42 PM on March 21, 2010


That republican nodding is creepy.
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:42 PM on March 21, 2010


Wow, that's a hell of a comb over Guthrie's rocking.
posted by biddeford at 5:43 PM on March 21, 2010


Santa?
posted by The Whelk at 5:43 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh noes! Student loans are going to pay for our health care.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:43 PM on March 21, 2010


Grijalva is adorable. Can I hug him?
posted by Ouisch at 5:43 PM on March 21, 2010


bolo tie: personal style choice or pandering to a constituency?
posted by anastasiav at 5:44 PM on March 21, 2010


It is telling to see the diversity divide between the two parties.
posted by Think_Long at 5:44 PM on March 21, 2010


Leeeape.
posted by The Whelk at 5:44 PM on March 21, 2010


Grijalva is *wonderful*. Go him.
posted by ersatzkat at 5:44 PM on March 21, 2010


Grijalva sounds like a muppet. I mean that as a compliment.
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:44 PM on March 21, 2010


Yah the Republican side is all angry old white men
posted by The Whelk at 5:44 PM on March 21, 2010


I swear, I thought he just introduced "Mrs. Bigot."
posted by EarBucket at 5:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Hey! No race-baiting, Think_Long! The Democrats are the real racists because of welfare!HAMBURGER, but I really heard someone argue that, once.
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:45 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


oh Biggert, you keep saying back-room deals and now it sounds like a verbal tic, also your necklace is ugly and you sound like you're giving an oral report.
posted by The Whelk at 5:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Also? What is that flesh-colored frock?
posted by The Whelk at 5:45 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Take note: Biggert is a Gentle Woman NOT a Gentle Lady.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Also? What is that flesh-colored frock?

If I had a nickel every time someone asked me that . . .
posted by Think_Long at 5:46 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Shea-porter is. ! very! very! quick!

thank! you!
posted by The Whelk at 5:46 PM on March 21, 2010


"Mrs. Bigot" looked and sounded disturbing like Mrs Landingham. Jed Bartlett would be disappointed.
posted by anastasiav at 5:46 PM on March 21, 2010


at least someone gets the 55 second rule thing
posted by The Whelk at 5:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Carol Shea-Porter has been taking speed speaking lessons on the side.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:47 PM on March 21, 2010


Mr. Speaker looks like a sad Tom Sellick
posted by Think_Long at 8:24 PM on March 21 [+] [!]


I was thinking Geraldo Rivera?
posted by toodleydoodley at 5:47 PM on March 21, 2010


did someone just grab his crotch behind Kline?

Also Kline, you're a dick.
posted by The Whelk at 5:47 PM on March 21, 2010


I like how John Klien is like "We know we lost, boo hoo. But listen to the teabaggers..."
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:48 PM on March 21, 2010


KEEP LOOKING AT YOUR SPEECH NEVER LOOK UP!
posted by The Whelk at 5:48 PM on March 21, 2010


You had eight years to do better. Someone else's turn now. Buh-bye.
posted by Ouisch at 5:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


PLOW THROUGH IT! THE END IS NEAR! KEEP GOING YOU TRAIN OF BORING GO!
posted by The Whelk at 5:49 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


If we all call Klien's office right now will he listen to us?
posted by anastasiav at 5:49 PM on March 21, 2010


I don't care what people say. That's a sweet combover and stache. When I'm that old, I'll have that job and that look.
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:49 PM on March 21, 2010


How much longer do we have before the vote? Hours??
posted by anastasiav at 5:49 PM on March 21, 2010


Miller moves like a muppet. This is not a bad thing.

Is Titus rocking leather? Gentlelaides get so much better sartorial options.

All this talk of donut holes is making me hungry.
posted by The Whelk at 5:50 PM on March 21, 2010


Kline stumbles over the phrase "American People." "Amer..ber..can" Is he choking on his lies?
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:50 PM on March 21, 2010


HOOOOOOURS
posted by The Whelk at 5:50 PM on March 21, 2010


ok, I'm drinking on "donut hole"
posted by toodleydoodley at 5:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


The vote's penciled in at 9:30, of course it could be delayed if the debate runs long (it probably will, but only by a few minutes in my opinion).
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:50 PM on March 21, 2010


how come some of the democrats look as if they'd had actual jobs at some time in the past?
posted by toodleydoodley at 5:51 PM on March 21, 2010


KERFUFFLE
posted by The Whelk at 5:51 PM on March 21, 2010


I will be so drunk by then.
posted by Ouisch at 5:51 PM on March 21, 2010


Aren't they already behind by an hour?
posted by Think_Long at 5:51 PM on March 21, 2010


Mmm, Ruben.
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:52 PM on March 21, 2010


I don't know about you lot, but I drink whenever I see an 'R-' on the screen.
posted by palindromic at 5:52 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Again, it's like the Oscars.
posted by The Whelk at 5:52 PM on March 21, 2010


"Amer..ber..can" Is he choking on his lies?

Amer-Beer-Can: he's choking on the great taste and/or fillinglessness.
posted by joe lisboa at 5:52 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I don't understand why these people keep babbling, and the rationale for yielding their time back and forth. And what was with the two sides using different speaking-length times? I don't understand what's going on right now.

They're gonna have a formal vote when everyone gets a chance to beak off? Is that it?
posted by five fresh fish at 5:53 PM on March 21, 2010


Mr. Speaker looks like a sad Tom Sellick
posted by Think_Long at 8:24 PM on March 21 [+] [!]

I was thinking Geraldo Rivera?
posted by toodleydoodley at 8:47 PM on March 21 [+] [!]


I was thinking Alex Trebek. (<---insert your favorite big mustache flaunter here.)
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:53 PM on March 21, 2010


They're gonna have a formal vote when everyone gets a chance to beak off? Is that it?

Yes
posted by anastasiav at 5:53 PM on March 21, 2010


What is that guy behind the rep doing? he looks like he's trying to hold in a fart.
posted by The Whelk at 5:53 PM on March 21, 2010


This is the debate fff. Boring as shit, tedious, but "democratic" or something.
posted by Think_Long at 5:54 PM on March 21, 2010


hooray for DC's rep, she's awesome.
posted by Think_Long at 5:54 PM on March 21, 2010


She's was Alternate universe Cyndi Lauper
posted by The Whelk at 5:54 PM on March 21, 2010


FLAWED IS NOW HISTORIC
posted by The Whelk at 5:55 PM on March 21, 2010


My most cherished birthright is my health.
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:55 PM on March 21, 2010


Huh? Was that little run of five(?) people a bunch of people changing their vote? They've been convinced by something that was said?
posted by five fresh fish at 5:55 PM on March 21, 2010


Yeah government-funded abortions are exactly what won over Stupak today.


/wat
posted by oinopaponton at 5:56 PM on March 21, 2010


So many reasons, like all the money I get if I don't! Oh god, Hensarling, if I was cynical I'd say he'll be POTUS in 18 years. guuuuh

"CHINE-ese"
posted by The Whelk at 5:56 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh no. Bachman's coming soon, we Minnesotans will be covering our faces.
posted by Think_Long at 5:56 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Hensarling is an old norse name, meaning "man who trades chickens for health care"
posted by anastasiav at 5:57 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


HE HAS SCARY CHEEKBONES.

"meatheochre" Sweetie that's not a word.
posted by The Whelk at 5:57 PM on March 21, 2010


Huh? Was that little run of five(?) people a bunch of people changing their vote? They've been convinced by something that was said?

They didn't get time on the floor so they are inserting their historic remarks on the official record without actually voicing them.
posted by Think_Long at 5:57 PM on March 21, 2010


It is like the Oscars! I got the tv all to myself, though this time it took my husband catching me telling our 6-year-old daughter that Jean Schmidt is "batshit insane" and that she (our daughter) could tell anyone she likes just that. Also, that if anyone ever says in her earshot that having a black or woman president is bad, she can tell them that they are stupid - and stupid is a word we're trying to purge from her vocabulary.

So, teaching the kids potty words gets me my C-Span fix! I'll have to remember this!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 5:57 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


If Bachman says freedom, takeover or tyranny, take a shot. If she says something insane, just blow yourself over the head with a liquor bottle. Like I need to tell you that.
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:57 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Affordable and portable health care? What planet does that guy live on?
posted by cmyk at 5:57 PM on March 21, 2010


Are they applauding him for getting kicked off, or for citing the slipery slope fallacy?
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:58 PM on March 21, 2010


So, teaching the kids potty words gets me my C-Span fix! I'll have to remember this!

Heh. I sent my son upstairs with daddy for bedtime tonight, a huge break in route. Daddy told my son I was "sick", I think because I was growling at the computer.
posted by anastasiav at 5:59 PM on March 21, 2010


SPECIOUS, CONTRADICTORY AND DOWNRIGHT LAUGHABLE!!!111
posted by toodleydoodley at 5:59 PM on March 21, 2010


MOORE IS RIGHT ON, FUCK YEAH

*celebratory shot*
posted by Ouisch at 6:00 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Wow, Gwen Moore.
posted by box at 6:00 PM on March 21, 2010


sweet.
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:00 PM on March 21, 2010


"These arguments would be lllllllllllllaughable." Gwen's talking like her words taste good.
posted by Monsters at 6:00 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


He just pulled his earlobe - what code signal is that?
posted by Think_Long at 6:00 PM on March 21, 2010


GO GWEN MOORE!
posted by The Whelk at 6:00 PM on March 21, 2010


I heart Gwen.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:01 PM on March 21, 2010


Gwen Moore is calling them out on their CBO BS. Glad to see this running well.

Oh, and good to see a guy pulling out the "Unconstitutional" screed. It'd be nice if there were a public thingy you could buy as an alternative to the private product, eh?
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:01 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Mister sir, so far you have made not one actual point. Like, talk in directs.

REQUIRE US TO PURCHASE A CAR? Oh we live in reality so that doesn't happen.
posted by The Whelk at 6:01 PM on March 21, 2010


required to purchase gov't product as a price of citizenship? that's a novel argument.
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:01 PM on March 21, 2010


"require us to purchase a GM car."

Does this guy not understand that commodities are not equal to healthcare? See Arrow 1963, for chrissakes.
posted by palindromic at 6:02 PM on March 21, 2010


Wow it is like a tragic parade of hair loss. Does serving in the House cause male pattern baldness?
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:02 PM on March 21, 2010


What if Oprah just gave us all healthcare coverage instead? Would that make him happy?
posted by Ouisch at 6:02 PM on March 21, 2010


As a resident of Somerset county, I feel sorry for the good people in Paramus, NJ.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:02 PM on March 21, 2010


oh, STFU. just stop the war - it'll pay for health care, beer and ice cream for all citizens and pbj sandwiches for every schoolchild in america
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:03 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Anyoe doing a red tie-blue tie scorecard?
posted by The Whelk at 6:03 PM on March 21, 2010


I could go for an ice cream cream stout float right now. I think I've earned it by most drinking game rules for this debate.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:04 PM on March 21, 2010


Yes, ABSOLUTELY YES
posted by The Whelk at 6:04 PM on March 21, 2010


oh, STFU. just stop the war - it'll pay for health care, beer and ice cream for all citizens and pbj sandwiches for every schoolchild in america
Peanut Butter isn't allowed in schools anymore.
posted by Brainy at 6:04 PM on March 21, 2010


CRAZY ZEBRA PRINT AND HOT PINK
posted by The Whelk at 6:04 PM on March 21, 2010


(I meant the !!! without the 111. demon rum made me mis-speak.)
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:04 PM on March 21, 2010


" Today we answer the clarion call..." Confess. How many of you use "clarion call" when you speak in normal situations?
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:05 PM on March 21, 2010


Lady behind miller looks like she's falling asleep.

"dream deferred?" Man the civil rights metaphors are in the thick tonight
posted by The Whelk at 6:05 PM on March 21, 2010


"Well, looks like I just answered the clarion call" *flush*
posted by Think_Long at 6:05 PM on March 21, 2010


GONNA GO EAT NOW.
posted by The Whelk at 6:05 PM on March 21, 2010


oh, STFU. just stop the war - it'll pay for health care, beer and ice cream for all citizens and pbj sandwiches for every schoolchild in america
Peanut Butter isn't allowed in schools anymore.
posted by Brainy at 9:04 PM on March 21 [+] [!]


true story: my bud teaches kindergarten. she leaves a tub of peanut butter and a loaf of bread in the classroom every day and every day the kids swarm it, make like 15 sandwiches each and take them all home to their parents and siblings. health care is but a start, especially around here.
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:07 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


" Today we answer the clarion call..." Confess. How many of you use "clarion call" when you speak in normal situations?

Well, I did stay in a Holiday Inn Express last night.
posted by albrecht at 6:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Me too. Back later, when people stop talking and start the revolution or whatever they're planning.
posted by Think_Long at 6:07 PM on March 21, 2010


God that's sad.
posted by Ouisch at 6:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Uh oh. Sprat is a mumbler extraordinaire.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:08 PM on March 21, 2010


Lummis' hair is an emo office manager gone mad.
posted by palindromic at 6:08 PM on March 21, 2010


If you can't pronounce entrepreneurs, you don't get to discuss entrepreneurs.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:08 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


KEEP YOUR GOVURNMIT OUT OF TRICARE!
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:08 PM on March 21, 2010


America deserves better than treating poor people.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:09 PM on March 21, 2010


If you can't pronounce entrepreneurs, you don't get to discuss entrepreneurs.
posted by Astro Zombie at 9:08 PM on March 21 [+] [!]


it's ontapanoor, right? I saw that on Mr. Robinson's Neighborhood
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:10 PM on March 21, 2010


toodley, you might enjoy this book: The Moral Underground. Your friend's peanut butter story could have come from its pages.
posted by Monsters at 6:10 PM on March 21, 2010


This is ultimately a debate about whether or not we get healthcare like a 1st world country. Healthcare is very pro-human.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:11 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I just lost the TV, so I'm back to streaming C-Span. Kids are still in earshot though, so I may have to do my cussing here. At least it motivated me to head back to my decluttering efforts.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:11 PM on March 21, 2010


oh, STFU. just stop the war - it'll pay for health care, beer and ice cream for all citizens and pbj sandwiches for every schoolchild in america
Peanut Butter isn't allowed in schools anymore.
posted by Brainy at 9:04 PM on March 21 [+] [!]

true story: my bud teaches kindergarten. she leaves a tub of peanut butter and a loaf of bread in the classroom every day and every day the kids swarm it, make like 15 sandwiches each and take them all home to their parents and siblings. health care is but a start, especially around here.


Good, I was going by my sister who says she's not allowed to give my little nephew PB&J because of peanut allergies. Glad to hear that's not the case everywhere.

posted by Brainy at 6:11 PM on March 21, 2010


Ryan could be talking for the other side, with only slight changes.
posted by anastasiav at 6:11 PM on March 21, 2010


"Chock full" Our HCB bill is Chock Full 'O Nutz

NEws Flash: America is not just a mass of land!
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:11 PM on March 21, 2010


"Why are so many people swarming the capitol today?" -- Rep. Paul Ryan

I dunno. Scare tactics, lies, astroturfing, and lots of money from PR agencies that support insurance companies?

I mean, seriously, have you talked to the people who are swarming the capitol? Most of them just discovered politics recently, and don't really understand all of it, except, oh my God, are they angry. This is not democracy; it's mob rule.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:12 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Wow those founding fathers were really prescient when they were all like "Free market in the health insurance sector!"

Wait no they were too busy getting LEECHED TO DEATH. By DOCTORS WITH LEECHES.
posted by oinopaponton at 6:12 PM on March 21, 2010


Which movie is he talking about?
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:12 PM on March 21, 2010


Ryan confuses me greatly. He almost seems like he gets it, but then pulls away at the last moment.
posted by palindromic at 6:12 PM on March 21, 2010


European social welfare state, my ass. Ryan is a fool.
posted by Monsters at 6:12 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


toodley, you might enjoy this book: The Moral Underground. Your friend's peanut butter story could have come from its pages.
posted by Monsters at 9:10 PM on March 21 [+] [!]


this is the one about the managers who quietly let employees leave early to take a sick child to the doctor and then punch them out at quitting time (for example), right? yeah, I'll definitely check this out.
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:12 PM on March 21, 2010


I've gotta say, it's hilarious to see a congressman condoning the idea that people may depend on the government for their livelihood. Look in the mirror, genius.
posted by cmyk at 6:12 PM on March 21, 2010 [7 favorites]


Hmm, I could have sworn I heard "Death crisis"...
posted by OLechat at 6:13 PM on March 21, 2010


Rep. Paul Ryan, I wasn't John McCain's friend, and I am not yours. Stop your parade of down-home (stupid) phrases.
posted by theredpen at 6:13 PM on March 21, 2010


I dunno. Scare tactics, lies, astroturfing, and lots of money from PR agencies that support insurance companies?

Actually, I believe that today is a pro-immigrant rights rally that is swarming the Capital.
posted by anastasiav at 6:13 PM on March 21, 2010


America is the most pro-human idea evah?!? I'm sorry, I disagree. It was a hufuckingmongous step in the right direction, but other countries have done it better. And this douchebag has not a clue what he's on about. I note he's not giving up his government benefits in honour of his supposedly high ideals.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:13 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


This is ultimately a debate about whether or not we get healthcare like a 1st world country. Healthcare is very pro-human.

Oh god, if only it were.
posted by Pope Guilty at 6:13 PM on March 21, 2010


Did he really just say that there are more people on welfare than not? What is going on in his district?
posted by theredpen at 6:13 PM on March 21, 2010


"It's unconscionable what we are leaving the next generation." -- Paul Ryan

The right to life? How dare we.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:13 PM on March 21, 2010


I thought namedropping Scott Brown was bad since he's a RINO for OBUMMER JOBZ BILLZ
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:13 PM on March 21, 2010


I wish they'd leave the names up. How the hell are we gonna know who's talking?
posted by five fresh fish at 6:14 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Rep. Ryan, I despise you and everything you stand for.
posted by Sphinx at 6:14 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Does this guy not understand that commodities are not equal to healthcare?

COMMIE-ODDITIES!
posted by joe lisboa at 6:15 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Ryan somehow believes that health insurance is a (presumably socialist) way of equalizing the RESULTS of people's lives? And not a way of trying to level the playing field to give people equal opportunities?

Cause, yeah, pre-existing conditions (like vaginas and diabetes and whatnot) are totally always the results of people's choices. And not at all unfair inequalities that a civil, humane society is responsible for accommodating.
posted by Ouisch at 6:15 PM on March 21, 2010


Now we are marching toward a tipping point. But he wants us to climb a hill. This guy (Ryan) thinks Americans are physically capable of more than a wobble towards the easy chair.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:15 PM on March 21, 2010


... condemning. Not condoning. Too much political babble makes my English not good.
posted by cmyk at 6:15 PM on March 21, 2010


Again, what's with this bizarre time-keeping?
posted by five fresh fish at 6:15 PM on March 21, 2010


Won't someone think of the poor Europeans and their failed healthcare experiments? It sounds terrible over there.
posted by octothorpe at 6:15 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Dude just yielded to himself. Seems...dirty.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:15 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


New rule: If you can't keep a head full of hair, grow a beard. It'd make the House much easier on the eyes.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:16 PM on March 21, 2010


If you can't pronounce entrepreneurs, you don't get to discuss entrepreneurs.

But do enjoy the oar derves.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:16 PM on March 21, 2010


Is anyone else having trouble understanding this guy? pointystick, help!
posted by theredpen at 6:16 PM on March 21, 2010


Auctioneer on vicodin.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:17 PM on March 21, 2010


3 1/2 minutes - aw shit.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:17 PM on March 21, 2010


God. Did anyone else groan out loud when Spratt said he wanted to yield to himself? That blurgha blurgh ONE HUNDRED MILLION DOLLARS... now that may sound blurgha blurrrr but

How in the hell did this guy ever get elected?
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:17 PM on March 21, 2010


I think Obama should have proposed that all Americans get covered by the same coverage that the House gets. And the only discussion that would then need to go on is:
[GOP spew]
"Your constituents should get the same coverage as you do."
[GOP spew]
"Your constituents should get the same coverage as you do."
[GOP spew]
"Your constituents should get the same coverage as you do."
[GOP spew]
"Your constituents should get the same coverage as you do."
[GOP spew]
"Your constituents should get the same coverage as you do."
[GOP spew]
"Your constituents should get the same coverage as you do."
[GOP spew]
"Your constituents should get the same coverage as you do."

Until the vote passes.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:18 PM on March 21, 2010 [10 favorites]


Breaking history - OH SNAP!
posted by Ouisch at 6:18 PM on March 21, 2010


"Our tradition of keeping poor people poor"
posted by ersatzkat at 6:18 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


We had a history, but we breaked it. :(
posted by palindromic at 6:18 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


,,,oooo, and "humble"
posted by ersatzkat at 6:18 PM on March 21, 2010


You broke history! Goddammit we needed that for later!
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 6:18 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I do not think "arrogant" means what you think it means.
posted by theredpen at 6:19 PM on March 21, 2010


3 1/2 minutes - aw shit.

Weird, that's just where I got to in the feed. You're getting it a couple minutes earlier than I.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:19 PM on March 21, 2010


Anyone have an idea when the vote will take place? I want to drink a victory beer, but I want to know if I have time to chill a stout, or if I should just drink the porter I have in the fridge.

Also, since when was Obama the most pro-abortion president in history? Didn't he just make partial birth abortion more illegal?
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:19 PM on March 21, 2010


Abortions for all. Tiny American flags for insurance companies!
posted by localhuman at 6:19 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"The People's House" sounds pretty socialist if you ask me.
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 6:19 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


"Some people say we're making history; I say we're breaking history." -- Rep. Mike Pence

This is the state of epigrams? Oscar Wilde wept.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:19 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


probortion obamacare!
posted by Ouisch at 6:19 PM on March 21, 2010


According to this Mike Pence guy, I'm not an American people. Plus, Reagan.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:20 PM on March 21, 2010


So Pence is saying that we're abandoning a long-running tradition of letting the least of us fall through the cracks and pretend it's okay, and this is bad how?
posted by cmyk at 6:20 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Mike Pence is an astounding asshole. Wow.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:20 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


I want to drink a victory beer, but I want to know if I have time to chill a stout, or if I should just drink the porter I have in the fridge.

both
posted by oinopaponton at 6:20 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh and SHUT UP ABOUT YOUR FUCKING BIBLE VERSES. There, I said it.
posted by theredpen at 6:20 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Pence says that this bill mandates that everyone get heath insurance whether they need it or not! Who the hell doesn't need health insurance?
posted by octothorpe at 6:21 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I think you could safely shove the stout right up Pence's ass and have it adequately chilled in time.
posted by Ouisch at 6:22 PM on March 21, 2010


mccarty.tim, do whatever gets you shitfaced fastest. You're gonna need it. Wow.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:22 PM on March 21, 2010


3 1/2 minutes - aw shit.

Weird, that's just where I got to in the feed. You're getting it a couple minutes earlier than I.

***

Well, I *am* on the east coast :)
posted by ersatzkat at 6:22 PM on March 21, 2010


I know. They keep acting as though there are just millions of Americans out there who don't have health insurance because they genuinely just DON'T WANT IT.
posted by Ouisch at 6:22 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Abortion...check
Ronald Reagan...check
Prayer....check
Socialized medicine ....check


Pence loves the GOP; he eats, sleeps, and breathes the talking points.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:23 PM on March 21, 2010


mccarty.tim: "Anyone have an idea when the vote will take place? I want to drink a victory beer, but I want to know if I have time to chill a stout, or if I should just drink the porter I have in the fridge."

Chill the stout; drink the porter now. I have the feeling you'll have time for both. I'm working my way through a bottle of wine, and my husband is drinking, no joke, an ale called "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot".
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:23 PM on March 21, 2010


"Stand with those who have gone before." --Ryan

But we would have to ... run ... to catch up with them ... because they are standing further down the road.

Republimetaphorimpairment.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:23 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Pence: "Stand with the status quo! God only knows what those uppity colored folks and women will do if they're healthy! If things don't stay the way they are I might be in trouble!"

Someone bring in a tiny violin for this guy.
posted by cmyk at 6:23 PM on March 21, 2010


If Pence has ideas for reforming health care that are so great, where was he the last 10 years? Hell, a year ago would have been soon enough to introduce them.
posted by jacalata at 6:23 PM on March 21, 2010


Octothorpe: "Healthy" idiots who think they're too bulletproof for illnesses and injuries. The people who should subsidize the unhealthy and unlucky.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:23 PM on March 21, 2010


I think it's the duty of everyone to take clips from this godawful "debate" and play them over and over and over to the people you know. There are people who are representing you Who. Are. Evil. They hate you.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:23 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Spratt's probably awesome to listen to while stoned.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:25 PM on March 21, 2010


Ooooo he "takes pleasure in yielding." Kinky
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:25 PM on March 21, 2010


mccarty.tim, let's find out! Self-medication sounds like a better option than waiting for these morons to pass legislation. I yield to myself.
posted by theredpen at 6:26 PM on March 21, 2010


Just hearing Clyburn makes me tear up a little. And these motherfuckers wanna call him names.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:26 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Damn son, you just got Clyburned.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:26 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


It sounds terrible over there.

Seven quid gets you a prescription for some good shit that takes away the base anti-human horror of the NHS.
posted by holgate at 6:26 PM on March 21, 2010


I like how the Republicans claim we could easily have come to a bipartisan solution.

Really? Before the health care fight, before the economic stimulus package, before President Obama even took office, Senator Mitch McConnell, the Republican minority leader, had a strategy for his party: use his extensive knowledge of Senate procedure to slow things down, take advantage of the difficulties Democrats would have in governing and deny Democrats any Republican support on big legislation.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:27 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


DONUT HOLE

I'm taking someone's drinking advice from upthread. Expect diminishing returns in coherence.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:27 PM on March 21, 2010


I just dealt with someone who was dropping their insurance because the $80/month was "too much for something I never use".

First: dammit, if $80/month is busting someone, we NEED other options.

Second: Um, that's not how health insurance actually works. Never tried to use it, indeed.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:27 PM on March 21, 2010


Spratt's probably awesome to listen to while stoned.

All I know is that all this talk of donut holes has done given me the munchies.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:27 PM on March 21, 2010


"This is the civil rights act of the 21st century"

I'm waiting for gay marriage...
posted by OLechat at 6:28 PM on March 21, 2010


THIS IS THE CIVIL RIGHTS BILL OF THE 21ST CENTURY
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:28 PM on March 21, 2010




AT THIS TIME WHEN PEOPLE ARE OUT OF WORK AND HAVE LOST THEIR HEALTH CARE, HOW TERRIBLE FOR THEM TO GET HEALTH CARE.
posted by Ouisch at 6:29 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


jinx, slow fingers. why does chivas taste like fucking sawdust?
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:29 PM on March 21, 2010


15 million out of work and she's worried about thier employers but not the unemployed and their families. Does she think they don't vote? Shameless.
posted by Monsters at 6:29 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"At a time what 15 millions Americans are out of work ..."

And out of health care. This seems exactly the right time for health care reform -- it's when so many people need it.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:29 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


The Chair recognizes the Representative from Walla Walla Wahmbulance, who fears "getting tricked into voting for a bill" and closes with a quote from President Ford. ISYN.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:29 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Also, on behalf of everyone who has some connection to the name Rodgers, I apologize to everyone who has to listen to the tools who have that name on the Republican side of the aisle.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:30 PM on March 21, 2010


Health care = deficit reduction. Sing it, sister.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:30 PM on March 21, 2010


DONUT HOLE! Woot! Drink up.
posted by Ouisch at 6:31 PM on March 21, 2010


Twice in a few seconds!
posted by OLechat at 6:31 PM on March 21, 2010


oh, she made me wait on that donut hole!
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:32 PM on March 21, 2010


BLANKET! My favorite Jackson.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:33 PM on March 21, 2010


"Wrong Bill, wrong time. I'm just going to pretend that I have a right time in my head."
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:33 PM on March 21, 2010


I'll have my healthcare in Snuggie form!
posted by ersatzkat at 6:33 PM on March 21, 2010


STOP USING METAPHORS REPUBLICANS THEY ARE SO FUCKING STUPID ALL THE TIME!
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 6:33 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


THIS BLANKET IS A WALL. WITH HOLES.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:33 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Now there's a wind? And a blanket? Health care is going to dutch oven the American people? Or something?
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 6:34 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


You know what? I'm gonna go out and buy a big cozy blanket and call it my Obamacare Binky.
posted by cmyk at 6:34 PM on March 21, 2010


THINK OF THE CHILDREN
posted by Monsters at 6:34 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh! Acting like Pelosi is evil again! TAKE A SHOT!
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:35 PM on March 21, 2010


THIS BLANKET WITH HOLES THAT IS ALSO A WALL WILL STOP YOU FROM ENJOYING THE SUNSHINE IN YOUR BACKYARD WHILE YOUR HEART BEATS FOR FAMILIES.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:35 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


The heartbeat of America! That's today's Chevrolet!
posted by Ouisch at 6:35 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Ugh. This blanket metaphor is just idiotic.

It's not a warm protective blanket, but one made of rotting meat! It doesn't cover you, but wraps itself around you like an anaconda! A blanket anaconda that digests you while you are still alive! It is a space blanket made of killer space spiders! THEY WILL PLANT THEIR SPACE SPIDER BLANKET EGGS IN YOUR SKIN!
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:35 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


THE HEARTBEAT OF AMERICA!
posted by octothorpe at 6:35 PM on March 21, 2010


listen to the heartbeat of 'merica, listen to the heartbeat through the blanket
posted by localhuman at 6:36 PM on March 21, 2010


NO! No! We don't want any blankets woven by strongarm politicians that will become a barrier. Even though it is holey and patched by flimsy fabric, we will fill the heavy weight of it as we drape it over our shoulders. Heavy holey blankets...hell!
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:36 PM on March 21, 2010


They applaud the wall of blankets? Really? I could come up with better antihealthcare monologues. In fact, I think I'm going to teabag for pay.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:36 PM on March 21, 2010


Rep Capito is really working the evil blanket metphor. It's woven with badness and drapes our children with doom!
posted by biddeford at 6:36 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I just got diabetes from how sugary sweet that Heartbeat of America metaphor was. Does that qualify as a pre-existing condition?
posted by oinopaponton at 6:36 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I'm gonna have to go out and buy a big crate of whiskey at this rate. WTF, (generally) Republican dipshits?

Listen to the heartbeat of America! The beat that is beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee…………………………

Stat!
posted by five fresh fish at 6:36 PM on March 21, 2010


Mr. Obama TEAR DOWN THIS BLANKET.
posted by Nomiconic at 6:36 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


we got the beat
posted by eddydamascene at 6:38 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


WTF in the gallery during Boyd?
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:38 PM on March 21, 2010


I'VE FUCKING HAD IT WITH THESE MOTHERFUCKING METAPHORS IN THE MOTHERFUCKING HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:39 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


... did I mention I DELIVERED BABIES?!?!
posted by joe lisboa at 6:39 PM on March 21, 2010


Tennessee can't make it work. Therefore: no one can.
posted by ColdChef at 6:40 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Is this the worst combover yet? Seriously, they just redefine what can be done that's awful with hair.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:40 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


joe lisboa: "... did I mention I DELIVERED BABIES?!?!"

I gave BIRTH to babies! No one delivered those damn babies besides me - especially the second one, who landed on the bed when no one was paying attention!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:40 PM on March 21, 2010


ew that combover

(no, I'm not classier than that)
posted by oinopaponton at 6:40 PM on March 21, 2010


I want to start a fund to get the congress a better barber. I've never seen a worse set of haircuts in my life. And I work with engineers.
posted by octothorpe at 6:41 PM on March 21, 2010


I don't want to trifle, but Boyd didn't say anything about donut holes. although his NoFL accent continues to charm me.
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:41 PM on March 21, 2010


Yeah, but I bet those non-partisan cancers belonged to people who could and could NOT pay.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:41 PM on March 21, 2010


the healthcare bill: The Choking Slanket of Gay Mexican Socialism Masquerading as the Comforting Snuggie of Reform
posted by biddeford at 6:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"We have the best health care in the world."

Objectively, no. But I'm sure everything else you said is true.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


mccarty.tim: "Is this the worst combover yet? Seriously, they just redefine what can be done that's awful with hair."

Could be worse. Jim Traficant could still be in Congress.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:41 PM on March 21, 2010


Why can't he choose to listen to the CBO, who says passing this is cheaper than not passing it?
posted by ersatzkat at 6:41 PM on March 21, 2010


Does the healthcare plan cover hair plugs? Please?
posted by five fresh fish at 6:42 PM on March 21, 2010


theredpen, I'm at a friend's & she won't let me watch because I'm too antsy. So I've just got teh interwebz. How bad is it?
posted by pointystick at 6:42 PM on March 21, 2010


WTF is with the "I choose to listen to the American people and vote No"? Is there seriously a majority of people who don't want healthcare?
posted by five fresh fish at 6:43 PM on March 21, 2010


Who's Bobby Scott listening to that he thinks "today we get to discuss the bills"? Has he BEEN in this room as long as I have?
posted by ersatzkat at 6:43 PM on March 21, 2010


DONUT HOLE
posted by ersatzkat at 6:43 PM on March 21, 2010


I'VE FALLEN INTO THE DONUT HOLE AND I CAN'T GET UP!

*drink*
posted by Ouisch at 6:44 PM on March 21, 2010


This is like watching hotdogs being made: nothing but lips and assholes.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:44 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


Dude - never log out AGAIN!
posted by ersatzkat at 6:44 PM on March 21, 2010


Donut holes, give them to me.
posted by oinopaponton at 6:44 PM on March 21, 2010


Notice that every time people in the audience get restive and start interrupting, it's when the present speaker is in favor of the bill? When all else fails, go 'baaaawwwwwwww' really loudly.
posted by cmyk at 6:45 PM on March 21, 2010


I can't take it any more. Wake me when the actual voting starts.
posted by anastasiav at 6:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Notice some of the Rs calling it a "health bill" instead of "health care"? Am I paranoid? Have I had too many white gummi bear martinis?
posted by ersatzkat at 6:45 PM on March 21, 2010


This is like watching hotdogs being made: nothing but lips and assholes.

That also describes my Friday night.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:45 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"I choose to listen to the American people and vote No"? Is there seriously a majority of people who don't want healthcare?

I'm afraid there may be a majority of angry phone calls to Congress against it. People who support it think it's obvious and reasonable and don't have the spittle flying so much, especially since polls keep showing support and we all believe Congress is sensitive to polls more than actual contact. Maybe.
posted by dilettante at 6:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Bachmen's onscreen. Oh boy. I'm a bit excited and scared.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:46 PM on March 21, 2010


OH SHIT HERE COMES CANTOR
posted by joedan at 6:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Dude, this guy was drinking on donut hole the whole time too.
posted by Ouisch at 6:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Uh, yeah, that's because they're being obnoxious and loud.
posted by OLechat at 6:47 PM on March 21, 2010


"We hear you loud and clear, but we just don't give a shit."
posted by joe lisboa at 6:47 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Oh great - Cantor. Think kittens. Think kittens.
posted by cashman at 6:47 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Why does the speaker keep calling for order? Are there teabaggers in the gallery?
posted by biddeford at 6:47 PM on March 21, 2010


Stop piling debt on our children, unless that debt is incurred in service of a war on brown people.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


Stop spending our money to make people healthy and start spending it on ways to kill other people!
posted by ColdChef at 6:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Remember how the government crippled innovation back when ARPANET was being made?
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


AMERICANS DO NOT WANT HEALTH WE HEAR YOU AMERICANS WANT BANKRUPTCY FROM ESCALATING HEALTH CARE COSTS WE HEAR YOU WE HEAR oh that was the health industry lobbyists?

WE HEAR THEM.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:48 PM on March 21, 2010


Is there any conceivable way in which this bill pays for abortion? Any at all?
posted by oinopaponton at 6:49 PM on March 21, 2010


I fundamentally object to war, but I have to fucking pay for it.
posted by ersatzkat at 6:49 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


Bombing brown children > abortion
posted by Ouisch at 6:49 PM on March 21, 2010


ersatzkat: "Stop piling debt on our children, unless that debt is incurred in service of a war on brown people."

One way or another, my kids are going to end up paying for something. I'd rather it be health care than a war on brown people. So STFU, Cantor.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:49 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


I don't get how HCR is going to cripple entrepreneurs.
posted by leftcoastbob at 6:49 PM on March 21, 2010


five fresh fish: "WTF is with the "I choose to listen to the American people and vote No"? Is there seriously a majority of people who don't want healthcare?"

Some polls show a slight majority (~55%) opposing the current bill. What Republicans fail to mention is that a significant chunk of that opposition is from people who think it isn't liberal enough.
posted by Rhaomi at 6:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


As an entrepreneur...I'm really fucking glad to live in a country with universal health care. Otherwise I never would have made the leap.
posted by Ouisch at 6:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Boehner's a narcissistic prick, I get that. But when, exactly, did Cantor sell his soul? I kinda feel bad for the guy. In a parallel universe he's a likable neighbor or something. Mostly harmless, you know?
posted by joe lisboa at 6:50 PM on March 21, 2010


Cantor does the opposite. Fear and uncertainty.
posted by box at 6:50 PM on March 21, 2010


Cantor's whole rant: (citation needed)
posted by palindromic at 6:50 PM on March 21, 2010


I would be happy to not recognize America. "Hey, didn't you have all those tumors? I don't even recognize you without them!"
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Healthcare will make the USA unrecognisable? Given how it has, recently, been a pariah on the world stage, maybe an unrecognisable USA would be advantageous.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:51 PM on March 21, 2010


It's not health care reform; it's a MAKEOVER!

*drink*
posted by Ouisch at 6:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Metapoll Pollster.com says that the Nays have a slight lead, but that's most likely because people dislike the current bill, not the idea of healthcare reform in general. But they've been losing that momentum as the big vote comes up.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:52 PM on March 21, 2010


Cantor is deliberately spoofing Colbert, right? It's all a comedy act, right? Please?
posted by five fresh fish at 6:52 PM on March 21, 2010


ANY IDEA WHEN THEY VOTE??OMG
posted by ersatzkat at 6:52 PM on March 21, 2010


TPM estimates that the vote will happen somewhere between 10:50 and 11:15.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:53 PM on March 21, 2010


Srlsy, I'm drunk. When's the vote.
posted by Ouisch at 6:54 PM on March 21, 2010


NO ONE KNOWS ROBERT'S RULES
posted by ersatzkat at 6:54 PM on March 21, 2010


I wouldn't buy a used car from this Lungren character. Yeesh.
posted by palindromic at 6:54 PM on March 21, 2010


I WILL NOT RESPOND TO HYPOTHETICALS
posted by eddydamascene at 6:54 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Where's Jesse Jackson Jr. when you need him?
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 6:54 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


mccarty.tim: "TPM estimates that the vote will happen somewhere between 10:50 and 11:15."

This is one of the days I am grateful that I: 1) live on the west coast and 2) have TiVo.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 6:55 PM on March 21, 2010


I HEART THE SPEAKER! That was damn amusing.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:55 PM on March 21, 2010


I would buy a car from Dolph Lundgren.
posted by Ouisch at 6:55 PM on March 21, 2010


No wonder they claim to hate government, they're fucking terrible at how to do it. Clearly dragging their heels now. Desperation remains a stinky cologne.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


PARLIMENTARY BITCH FIGHT
posted by ersatzkat at 6:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I don't have the cable, but I just found a new, non-digital station that is playing Night Gallery, so while I read this thread I'm watching some early 70's version of Lauren Graham repeatedly have a bad trip/past life regression thing and scream while watching visions of herself be burned as a witch. Her Ken doll husband looks on, impassively.

I figure this is basically like being in the house chambers.
posted by dirtdirt at 6:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


"The chair is not obligated to instruct members of the rules of the house!"

I've been waiting for somebody to say that. All this inquires are naked a stalling tactic.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


So does that mean just 7 minutes of blather left?
posted by cashman at 6:55 PM on March 21, 2010


"TPM estimates that the vote will happen somewhere between 10:50 and 11:15."

WELL BALLS
posted by Ouisch at 6:56 PM on March 21, 2010


I stand in opposition to her haircut.
posted by ColdChef at 6:56 PM on March 21, 2010


My conscience says to not say that this woman looks like a Vulcan. Oops.
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:56 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


To be completely uncouth, I'll state it baldly: are there any black house reps who oppose the bill?
posted by five fresh fish at 6:57 PM on March 21, 2010


Hey, Rep. Delauro's in the pink Ladies! Vote no and Rizzo's gonna be waiting for ya out back.
posted by Monsters at 6:57 PM on March 21, 2010


I dig her jacket. Pink suede zipper motorcycle jacket. That is just brazenly awesome.
posted by Ouisch at 6:57 PM on March 21, 2010


DeLauro has the same haircut I had when I was 10. My father did my hair.

I'm not being mean; I just recognize the haircut.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:57 PM on March 21, 2010


What's a black house?
posted by ColdChef at 6:58 PM on March 21, 2010


I've never heard of DeLauro, but I'm really enjoying listening to her.
posted by joedan at 6:58 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


There are some people who, just by their haircut, you know they're a Democrat.
posted by five fresh fish at 6:58 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Quotes! This should be good.
posted by OLechat at 6:58 PM on March 21, 2010


What's a black house?

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, hence the consternation.
posted by joe lisboa at 6:58 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


DeLauro rocked.
posted by octothorpe at 6:59 PM on March 21, 2010


Looking closer, I'm not convinced DeLauro isn't Conner Oberst.
posted by Astro Zombie at 6:59 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Remember back when the conservatives were afraid Obama would paint the White House black? And then we were all kind of disappointed he didn't do it?
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:59 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"Another democrat from Virginia says, I HAVE SPOKEN WITH SMUT."

Ahaha.
posted by cmyk at 6:59 PM on March 21, 2010


God forbid that we pass a bill that does too much.
posted by ColdChef at 7:00 PM on March 21, 2010


GAH WE GET THAT IT COSTS OVER A TRILLION GET TO THE VOTING THIS IS BORING!
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:00 PM on March 21, 2010


He's spoken with smut?
posted by localhuman at 7:00 PM on March 21, 2010


He's a phone sex operator.
posted by Ouisch at 7:00 PM on March 21, 2010


ColdChef: this is the House, not the Senate, right? Doesn't really matter, though: my question is whether there are any black representatives, Senate or House, that are against healthcare reform. I am developing a suspicion that the opponents are all well-off white guys. "Fuck you, got mine," IOW.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:00 PM on March 21, 2010


It's how he gets the REALLY GOOD insurance.
posted by Ouisch at 7:00 PM on March 21, 2010


Yes, it costs money. It will cost more to do nothing. So sayeth the CBO. STFU.
posted by ersatzkat at 7:00 PM on March 21, 2010


How much time is wasted while they argue about time?
posted by ColdChef at 7:02 PM on March 21, 2010


Good job getting Andrews to bat cleanup.
posted by ersatzkat at 7:02 PM on March 21, 2010


...that's the kind of country I want. That's the kind of country I voted to get.
posted by ersatzkat at 7:03 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Are they saving Bachman and Grayson for last to get better ratings?
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:03 PM on March 21, 2010


LOL BOHENER! KEEP YOUR BOHENERCARE OFF MY GRANDMA!
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:04 PM on March 21, 2010


Is a heavy heart a pre-existing condition?
posted by OLechat at 7:04 PM on March 21, 2010


No...Boehner.
posted by ersatzkat at 7:04 PM on March 21, 2010


Also, my 3-year-old just fell asleep sitting at the kitchen table because I'm insisting on watching/listening to this nonsense. He's probably the smartest person in the house right now.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:04 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I request unanimous consent to rise and extend my middle finger.
posted by eddydamascene at 7:04 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


A sad and heavy heart is a pre-existing condition.
posted by ColdChef at 7:04 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


He has a sad and heavy heart--well then he's lucky that he has good health insurance.
posted by leftcoastbob at 7:04 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


BOEHNER. HAHAHAHAHHA.

I DON'T THINK IT'S HIS HEART THAT'S FEELING HEAVY, EH? EH?
posted by Ouisch at 7:04 PM on March 21, 2010


Jinx, OLechat!
posted by ColdChef at 7:05 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh, no. Do you hear that? The unwashed masses who want to go to the doctor have ruined Boehner's dignity.
posted by cmyk at 7:05 PM on March 21, 2010


anyone else like to pronounce "Boehner" as "boner"? Just me?
posted by oinopaponton at 7:05 PM on March 21, 2010


There are some people who, just by their haircut, you know they're a Democrat.
posted by five fresh fish at 9:58 PM on March 21


yeah, I've gotten to the point now, with the sound off, I can tell by hair and clothing which side they're on. good suits and blow dry is rich/suburban conservative. good suit and parted but otherwise unworked hair is urban liberal. bad suit, self-haircut and worried look is suburban/rural liberal. bad suit, combover and angry look is suburban/rural conservative. black representatives dress better than everybody because, you know, they have to.
posted by toodleydoodley at 7:05 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


lulu, go tuck that child into bed. The congress will still be here when you get back.
posted by anastasiav at 7:05 PM on March 21, 2010


Boehner is really bad. Wow, falling flat. Crazy.
posted by Ironmouth at 7:06 PM on March 21, 2010


Apparently his insurance covers boehner pills, is all I'm sayin.
posted by Ouisch at 7:06 PM on March 21, 2010


Why am I, a Canuck, subjecting myself to Boehner? I am going to go for the easy answer: I have drunk too much to be held responsible for myself.

I want to beat him with a club.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:06 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Yes we can.
posted by Rhaomi at 7:06 PM on March 21, 2010


Yes, you can tell "your" senior citizens that, if you care about not lying. Also: ABORTIONZZZ!1!
posted by joe lisboa at 7:07 PM on March 21, 2010


JUST LIKE A BABY SEAL, AMIRITE?
posted by Ouisch at 7:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Boehner is the same color as the wood paneling behind him. [NOT-ORANGIST]
posted by octothorpe at 7:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Come to think of it, there are some people you can tell from their haircut, they are Republican. A certain... douchbagginess to their appearance.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:07 PM on March 21, 2010


And ... Boehner just woke him up. Now he's wailing. He might still be the smartest person in the house.

And oinopaponton, yes, every single time I see or hear his name. BONER. 'Cause that is how they pronounce it back in Ohio. Again, [NOT OHIO-IST].
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:07 PM on March 21, 2010


WHOA. Boner just gave himself a boner. He's playing directly to the Tea Partiers now. No joke. This is ugly.
posted by joe lisboa at 7:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Language, sir.
posted by ColdChef at 7:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Dignity of the what now?
posted by Riki tiki at 7:08 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I thought it was "bay-ner".
posted by Pope Guilty at 7:08 PM on March 21, 2010


What happened to Boehner requesting everyone act like a grownup? He's shouting like a 2 year old.
posted by hollygoheavy at 7:08 PM on March 21, 2010


fff and I have somehow telepathically communicated Canadian parliament behavioural standards to congress.
posted by Ouisch at 7:08 PM on March 21, 2010


Looking at guys like Boehner and Ryan and Cantor kind of makes me ill. Some of these reps in their poorly tailored suits and Super Cuts haircuts - they clearly believe it, they buy the party line.

But there's no way that these sharp-dressed, well-educated businessmen believe they're on the sides of angels. They are evil men, who care not for the least of them.

Ugh, a special ring of hell, etc.
posted by palindromic at 7:08 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Seriously, this could be written by Glenn Beck. It's the wingnut convergence.
posted by joe lisboa at 7:08 PM on March 21, 2010


Fuck. That.
posted by OLechat at 7:08 PM on March 21, 2010


Yes, because let's drag this shit out even longer.
posted by ColdChef at 7:09 PM on March 21, 2010


Boehner seems to have decided that "No you can't!" will make a catchy slogan for the GOP. I wish him luck with that in November.
posted by EarBucket at 7:09 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


What in the fuck is this douche pulling?
posted by Ouisch at 7:09 PM on March 21, 2010


Boner, fuck you and your stall tactics. Nobody cares about your filibustering stamina.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:09 PM on March 21, 2010


Procedural game-playing now. This is just infuriating and nauseating. Nice move, chair!
posted by joe lisboa at 7:09 PM on March 21, 2010


Is that a rhetorical question?
posted by octothorpe at 7:09 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh, SNAP. "The chair will decide at the time this request is made. This is not it."
posted by cmyk at 7:09 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


This is like Ted Bundy courtroom theatrics. Is he going to propose to someone next?
posted by Ouisch at 7:10 PM on March 21, 2010


The People's House sounds like a place they send dissidents to in North Korea.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:10 PM on March 21, 2010


OBEY OBEY.

Seriously. "Now is not the time."
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:10 PM on March 21, 2010


ice. burn.
posted by the bricabrac man at 7:10 PM on March 21, 2010


The process BEEN broken, son.
posted by ColdChef at 7:10 PM on March 21, 2010


fff and I have somehow telepathically communicated Canadian parliament behavioural standards to congress.

Noooo! Our douchebags are…

Well, no. They're just as douchebaggy. But there are so fewer of them. Much more difficult to get shitfaced.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:11 PM on March 21, 2010


A Republican pushing fear? I'm shocked, I tell you.
posted by Monsters at 7:11 PM on March 21, 2010


Um, then super shame on you, John Boehner!
posted by palindromic at 7:11 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Yeah, except when our desires involve not going to fucking war.
posted by cashman at 7:11 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


WILL YOU GRANT MY REQUEST?
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 7:11 PM on March 21, 2010


Moses is watching!
posted by EarBucket at 7:12 PM on March 21, 2010


I wish I could flag Boehner as noise and move on.
posted by localhuman at 7:12 PM on March 21, 2010


This is like the man who taught his Boner to talk. And it just. would. not. shut. up.
posted by Ouisch at 7:12 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"The Law Givers" would be an awesome name for a band.
posted by nooneyouknow at 7:12 PM on March 21, 2010


ROU_Xenophobe: "WILL YOU GRANT MY REQUEST?"

NOW IS NOT THE TIME. I already told you!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:12 PM on March 21, 2010


Boehner's shovel is way bigger than most representatives. Gods, can he shovel the shit deep and wide.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:12 PM on March 21, 2010


Health care makes baby Moses cry.
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 7:12 PM on March 21, 2010


I just don't get the "more than the system can handle" argument. Are they saying that its actually good that more people don't have insurance, because if we all could afford healthcare then the system would be overwhelmed? That's got to be one of the stupidest arguments ever, and yet I hear it over and over and over again.

Rep Boehner, you're a disgrace to the history of this country. History will judge you, and will judge you harshly.
posted by anastasiav at 7:13 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Thank God Bohner is telling Democrats how to win in the next election, It's nice of him to help out like that.
posted by Astro Zombie at 7:13 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Oh there's plenty of comedy in this institution.
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 7:13 PM on March 21, 2010


*grumble grumble second bottle of wine grumble*
posted by palindromic at 7:13 PM on March 21, 2010


I think Boner just returned comedy to this institution.
posted by Ouisch at 7:14 PM on March 21, 2010


This will go down as serious overreach on the part of the GOP and its allies, willful or otherwise. Once this bill passes and the world doesn't end and even gets marginally less shitty, their load will have been expended. You can't go all in on Godwin for a good half of the first Black president's term and LOSE. That's an all-in bluff. The fringe groups will stay loyal, no doubt, but if the economy doesn't tank than any and all GOP complaints from here on out will be dismissed as just that: empty, merely tactical complaints.
posted by joe lisboa at 7:14 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


Thomas Jef-for-sun? I don't remember learning any names like that in my public school days in West Texas USA. This Boner fella sounds like one of 'em, whatchacallit, "academic elitisms".
posted by Riki tiki at 7:14 PM on March 21, 2010


So, what are the republicans trying to pull? Do they think they can stall this until the candidates post-election are sworn in next January? Because I don't think I'll vote for the republican windbags who froze up the house.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:14 PM on March 21, 2010


The second he stopped talking...I came.
posted by Ouisch at 7:14 PM on March 21, 2010


'zat all you got, BOner?
posted by toodleydoodley at 7:15 PM on March 21, 2010


All aside, this is truly fascinating stuff to watch. Go internet and all that.
posted by localhuman at 7:15 PM on March 21, 2010


Pelosi time.
posted by eddydamascene at 7:15 PM on March 21, 2010


Put the smack down, Nancy. We know you can do it.
posted by Monsters at 7:16 PM on March 21, 2010


Don't fuck it up. We're nearly there.
posted by ColdChef at 7:16 PM on March 21, 2010


Why do people think Pelosi is so evil? Is it because she's so good at her job and doesn't care what people think of her?
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:16 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


I like her haircut.
posted by OLechat at 7:17 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Who else wants to start singing "Let's Do it For Our Country" from "Grease 2"?
posted by ColdChef at 7:17 PM on March 21, 2010


mccarty.tim: Why do people think Pelosi is so evil? Is it because she's so good at her job and doesn't care what people think of her?

People hate each other for much less than that all the time, even without also assigning blame for the death of ALL THE BABIES.
posted by Riki tiki at 7:18 PM on March 21, 2010


Booing the president? Wow.
posted by ColdChef at 7:18 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I thought it was "bay-ner".

That's why you can sell this on eBoe in the Boe Area.
posted by holgate at 7:18 PM on March 21, 2010


Nancy, talk faster - he only yielded you one minute.
posted by anastasiav at 7:18 PM on March 21, 2010


I will sing with you, ColdChef. I am drinking white gummi bear martinis. I will sing with most anyone.
posted by ersatzkat at 7:18 PM on March 21, 2010


I wonder what they're saying at Free Republic? I don't have my lead undies on, so I'm not going there.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:18 PM on March 21, 2010


Booing the president? Wow.

Eh, when the shoe was on the other foot I wouldn't have blamed the Dems for booing Bush.
posted by anastasiav at 7:19 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


I was hoping she'd go with "sextacular". Instead, "opportunity". *shrug*
posted by ersatzkat at 7:19 PM on March 21, 2010


Why do people think Pelosi is so evil? Is it because she's so good at her job and doesn't care what people think of her?

I think it might be just the 'she' and 'her' part of your questions: that she wields her power effectively. Especially when you compare her to her male counterpart in the Senate, that weinie Reid.

Clearly evil.
posted by palindromic at 7:20 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


SEXCELLENT
posted by Ouisch at 7:20 PM on March 21, 2010


Nancy, talk faster - he only yielded you one minute.

That was a joke. When you're Speaker, nobody tells you your time is up.
posted by EarBucket at 7:20 PM on March 21, 2010


Pelosi's talking like it's over. Is it over? Has it passed then? I'm in England listening on a crappy mobile connection.
posted by blue funk at 7:20 PM on March 21, 2010


Pelosi's argument about health care freeing people to follow their talent is one of the most compelling reasons for health reform, IMHO. Entrepreneurial freedom is fundamentally American.
posted by tss at 7:20 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


(albeit not to the exclusion of other nationalities)
posted by tss at 7:21 PM on March 21, 2010


I just checked Free Republic. Surprisingly, Mrs. Pelosi's impassioned plea has changed all of their minds.
posted by ColdChef at 7:21 PM on March 21, 2010 [9 favorites]


I am an American who left my country when I had the chance because it was so fucked up. If health care is not reformed, I will probably never return.

Just putting that out there.
posted by Ouisch at 7:21 PM on March 21, 2010


Blue Funk, they have the votes. They're just putting off the official vote until after this debate.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:21 PM on March 21, 2010


Pelosi's talking like it's over. Is it over? Has it passed then?

Not yet; it'll probably be about another hour. It's basically a done deal, though.
posted by EarBucket at 7:22 PM on March 21, 2010


ersatzkat: "I will sing with you, ColdChef. I am drinking white gummi bear martinis. I will sing with most anyone."

Oh, sweet baby jeebus asleep on the hay, where are you having such a lovely drink? And will you tell me how to make it?

I am forcing my daughter to watch this. For so many reasons, just l like I made her watch Hilary Clinton's speeches and Barack Obama's speech on election night. Because someday, it will matter to her that she saw it. (The 3-year-old went back to sleep. He doesn't care.)
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:22 PM on March 21, 2010


Aw, man, the last one of these threads I followed closely was the gay marriage in New York thing. I don't need that level of sadness and denouement again Metafilter!
posted by graventy at 7:22 PM on March 21, 2010


END discriminigation and hateration in this dancery.
posted by cashman at 7:22 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


SING IT NANCY
posted by Ouisch at 7:23 PM on March 21, 2010


If health care is not reformed, I will probably never return.

So tonight's vote won't affect whether or not you return?
posted by Pope Guilty at 7:23 PM on March 21, 2010


but if the economy doesn't tank

Good luck with that.

But at least you'll have healthcare.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:24 PM on March 21, 2010


OK never mind I'm a bit out of sync I think.

On preview: thanks Earbucket, mccarty.tim.
posted by blue funk at 7:24 PM on March 21, 2010


I heard a BOO on "being a woman will no longer be a preexisting medical condition." True colors and all that, Republicans.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:24 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Harumph! Harumph! Hey, I didn't get a 'Harumph' out of that guy!
posted by ColdChef at 7:24 PM on March 21, 2010


"Being a woman will no longer be a pre-existing medical condition!"

Truth.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:24 PM on March 21, 2010


RedState already has a massmailing in order. They're calling Stupak Judas.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:25 PM on March 21, 2010


Pelosi's seen a grown man cry? She'd better be making some grown men cry in the next few hours.
posted by one more dead town's last parade at 7:25 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Oh, sweet baby jeebus asleep on the hay, where are you having such a lovely drink? And will you tell me how to make it?

I am having them while sprawled across my bed shouting at C-SPAN and refreshing this thread. My husband keeps bringing me refills. He's an enabling saint. Here's how you make it:

1 part raspberry vodka
1 part peach schnapps
1 part sweet and sour mix (bottled is fine, the more sloshed you get the less likely you are to make your own sweet and sour mix)

Shake this with ice and strain into a glass. Top with 1 part Sprite. Thank me later. I won't remember if you thank me tonight.
posted by ersatzkat at 7:25 PM on March 21, 2010 [17 favorites]


Pope Guilty...sometimes you don't make sense when you talk.
posted by Ouisch at 7:26 PM on March 21, 2010


I heard that boo as well. I'm so thankful that those rich white men in the GOP are working so hard to protect me from myself, because the good lord knows that I'm just a hysterical woman and I can't possibly understand anything about my own body.

(They are all cordially invited to go fuck themselves.)
posted by cmyk at 7:26 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


They're calling Stupak Judas.

If they mailed bags of rock salt to Olympia Snowe, are they going to be sending Stupak's office pieces of silver?
posted by EarBucket at 7:26 PM on March 21, 2010


I am having them while sprawled across my bed

Would madam care for... a sippy cup?
posted by Pope Guilty at 7:26 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


I just checked Free Republic. Surprisingly, Mrs. Pelosi's impassioned plea has changed all of their minds.

Oh, you scamp, you.
posted by marxchivist at 7:27 PM on March 21, 2010


She's ending it like an Academy Award speech.
posted by ColdChef at 7:27 PM on March 21, 2010


Lulu's Pink Converse -- don't know how old your daughter is, but I was 17 when I watched bill C-38 pass in Canada in 2005 (the gay marriage law) and it has stuck with me. Maybe that's why I'm watching tonight.
posted by OLechat at 7:27 PM on March 21, 2010


I wish I was in the pub with all y'all. This is exciting stuff, with possibly the same vibe as that I encountered when Obama was campaigning and the hotel I was in sponsored a freebie wine-and-cheese-and-debate evening, attended by dozens of young urban professionals who were electrified by the potential for change. (Yes, it was in San Fran.)

I so hope you guys get the beginnings of a workable universal healthcare system. It's going to make such a difference to your lives.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:27 PM on March 21, 2010


Yes, they're sending him novelty silver coins. Because that's a bad thing to get.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:27 PM on March 21, 2010


Holy crap, I thought she just said Obama died.
posted by dirigibleman at 7:28 PM on March 21, 2010


Why is she so damn proud of 200 Republican amendments polluting up the bill?
posted by graventy at 7:28 PM on March 21, 2010


Yank those 200 Repub amendments, Nancy. That's what happens when you don't play ball.
posted by palindromic at 7:29 PM on March 21, 2010


(Hee she laughs like Sol Tigh!)
posted by blue funk at 7:29 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


AYE AYE AYE
posted by Ouisch at 7:29 PM on March 21, 2010


Serious question: do I have time for a beer run?
posted by joe lisboa at 7:29 PM on March 21, 2010


She is so fucking calm. She is really incredible, isn't she? Boner was just snotty. I think by their reactions, you can tell which side will win.
posted by leftcoastbob at 7:30 PM on March 21, 2010


joe lisboa: This will go down as serious overreach on the part of the GOP and its allies, willful or otherwise. Once this bill passes and the world doesn't end and even gets marginally less shitty, their load will have been expended. You can't go all in on Godwin for a good half of the first Black president's term and LOSE. That's an all-in bluff. The fringe groups will stay loyal, no doubt, but if the economy doesn't tank than any and all GOP complaints from here on out will be dismissed as just that: empty, merely tactical complaints.

I think the GOP just kept thinking it was 1994 all over again. They were betting that Obama and the Dem leadership were stupid enough to have ignored the lessons of Clinton's failure to try to get hcr passed. And for a second there, it looked like they were right--the Dems were embarrassingly surprised by Scott Brown's victory.

But the Democrats seem to have pulled it out anyhow. Good for them. I hope the GOP has learned that Obama's not as stupid as they think he is.
posted by joedan at 7:30 PM on March 21, 2010


OLechat: "Lulu's Pink Converse -- don't know how old your daughter is, but I was 17 when I watched bill C-38 pass in Canada in 2005 (the gay marriage law) and it has stuck with me. Maybe that's why I'm watching tonight."

I told her that we will ask her grandparents about the moon landing, and what it meant to see that, and maybe she'll understand. She blew a raspberry at me, and demanded Nick Jr. Such is my life.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:30 PM on March 21, 2010


I would watch Yo Gabba Gabba if I could tear myself away.
posted by ersatzkat at 7:31 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh, Boehner, are you still here?
posted by palindromic at 7:31 PM on March 21, 2010


Boehener, stop it with your damn roll call. I'm not staying up all night to hear 400 ayes or nays.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:32 PM on March 21, 2010


I hope the GOP has learned that Obama's not as stupid as they think he is.

I hope not.

I'm a little weirded out by the voting-by-shouting behaviour. Don't they have buttons yet?
posted by five fresh fish at 7:32 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Shit! I turned off the live stream and walked away for awhile 'cause I couldn't stand listening to Boehner. But then, I missed Nancy !!!!! Damn!!!
posted by marsha56 at 7:32 PM on March 21, 2010


So this is *THE* important vote, right? The other two are the reconciliation ones?
posted by graventy at 7:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Oops. Guess they do. Hey, colour commentary! Awesome!
posted by five fresh fish at 7:33 PM on March 21, 2010


I'll be damned if Boehner isn't the perfect legislative approximation of EVERY 80s movie villain ever. "Sweep the roll-call vote, Johnny."
posted by joe lisboa at 7:33 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


ersatzkat: "I would watch Yo Gabba Gabba if I could tear myself away."

I looooove Yo Gabba Gabba. Sadly, it is not a favorite of my kids', so I have no excuse for recording it. Dora and Diego rule my house.

Maybe Dora and Diego should rule the House of Representatives. Rescue Pack and Map would fix everything!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:33 PM on March 21, 2010


I'ma go shower while they vote. I need to wash the Boehner out of my hair.
posted by Ouisch at 7:33 PM on March 21, 2010


I can't remember the last time I watched this much c-span.
posted by joedan at 7:34 PM on March 21, 2010


The vote should have music. Or at least a drum roll.
posted by octothorpe at 7:35 PM on March 21, 2010


Are we still doing the "excellent news for John McCain" thing?
posted by EarBucket at 7:36 PM on March 21, 2010


It's been five minutes. What can fifty D's be doing other than pressing the yea button?
posted by Schismatic at 7:36 PM on March 21, 2010


The Jeopardy theme would work here, I think.
posted by cmyk at 7:37 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Much to my shame, I am watching this thread rather than The Real Deal on TV because I get so incensed I think it's taking years off of my life. :/
posted by mynameisluka at 7:37 PM on March 21, 2010


What can fifty D's be doing other than pressing the yea button?

Better question: why haven't those 40 or so Republicans voted no already?
posted by graventy at 7:38 PM on March 21, 2010


I think the democrats who haven't voted yet are hoping that a hundred thousand politics junkies simultaneously having aneurysms will cement the argument for health care reform.
posted by Riki tiki at 7:38 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


The vote should have music. Or at least a drum roll.

Da.
posted by joe lisboa at 7:39 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Push the damn buttons already.
posted by octothorpe at 7:39 PM on March 21, 2010


Schismatic: "It's been five minutes. What can fifty D's be doing other than pressing the yea button?"

Peeing.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:40 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I've never been more excited by seeing numbers rise. CSPAN is totally the Farmville channel.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:40 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


octothorpe: "The vote should have music. Or at least a drum roll."

Bam.
posted by Rhaomi at 7:41 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


8 more votes to communism.
posted by graventy at 7:42 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Why/how does it take fifteen minutes to press a daggum button?
posted by piedmont at 7:42 PM on March 21, 2010


Who are the 29 nay-voting Dems?
posted by palindromic at 7:43 PM on March 21, 2010


"Rep. Obey" heh. Great name for a chairman

My mother called from Calif. to see if I was watching. She is concerned about her medicare supplemental coverage, because she believes this bill will mean her co-payment will rise from 0 to 20% of her hospital bill. The possibility of paying 20% of a $50,000 hospital bill is frightening to her.

She was also concerned about the lack of coverage for abortion. If the poor get pregnant and don't want to carry their child or their doctor decides that medically it would be in their best interest not to carry the child to term, this bill can't help them. My 72 year old mother (a life long Republican) believes the government should stay out of decisions concerning life, death, and sexuality.

Finally she is concerned about the medical bills of illegal immigrants. Nobody is going to turn bleeding or dying people away and prevent them from getting help but if the Federal government is unable to pay for it, who will foot the bill? The city? The county? The State?
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 7:43 PM on March 21, 2010




I am drinking white gummi bear martinis.

Dear God. Once this passes, I propose a martini reform bill.
posted by Astro Zombie at 7:44 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


There we go!
posted by Rory Marinich at 7:45 PM on March 21, 2010


216!!!
posted by nooneyouknow at 7:45 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


nice
posted by Ironmouth at 7:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Congrats, folks! We've crossed the finish starting line!
posted by Riki tiki at 7:45 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


And there we go. "White Minority" was the song iTunes chose to play at the time. Hell yeah!
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 7:45 PM on March 21, 2010


Yay!
posted by octothorpe at 7:45 PM on March 21, 2010


BAM! Thanks, guys...

(I knew I saved this Wasatch Devastator Double Bock for a reason. Never fucking tasted so good.)
posted by notsnot at 7:46 PM on March 21, 2010


I think this song applies here....
posted by cmyk at 7:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Yes. We. Did.
posted by EarBucket at 7:46 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Huzzah! And down goes the armagnac!
posted by Schismatic at 7:46 PM on March 21, 2010


YES! Step one on the road to a real healthcare system!

FOUR vacancies? That sounds like a lot.
posted by graventy at 7:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Congratulations, America. If I understand the chanting and applause I just heard on C-SPAN, your government has just taken a massive step forward to ensuring your future in this modern world.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:47 PM on March 21, 2010


"White Minority" was the song iTunes chose to play at the time. Hell yeah!

Isn't the last line of "White Minority" "we're all gonna die"?
posted by Pope Guilty at 7:47 PM on March 21, 2010


219!!!
posted by pointystick at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm saving the (domestic) champagne until I actually see Mr. Obama sign this thing into law.
posted by octothorpe at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


Holy shit it that just work?


KNOB CREEK TIME! THIS TIME FOR GLORY!
posted by The Whelk at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


Take that teabaggers!
posted by Monsters at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


Tea anyone?
posted by HumanComplex at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


WOOT!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


I am SO going to bed. Am not entering Martini Debate with Astro Zombie until much sober-er. Ciao. Yay, us.
posted by ersatzkat at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


This is not quite what I was looking for, but oddly...entrancing... much like the health care bill.

But hey, USA!
posted by palindromic at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm going out to get me some cancer. Who's with me?
posted by ColdChef at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Isn't the last line of "White Minority" "we're all gonna die"?

Heh, that it is.
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


219! ADOPTED!


HOOOORAY!
posted by The Whelk at 7:48 PM on March 21, 2010


How long until the president speaks?
posted by cashman at 7:49 PM on March 21, 2010


Elections have consequences.
posted by joe lisboa at 7:49 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


SOMEONE KISS ME I AM GLOWING
posted by The Whelk at 7:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


THE AYES HAVE IT
posted by The Whelk at 7:50 PM on March 21, 2010


Not one Republican crossover. Not even Cao. When this turns out well, and especially when history recognizes it as the foundation of an actual fully-working health care system, I hope we all fucking remember that fact.
posted by Riki tiki at 7:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [7 favorites]


It does freak me out that the vote is within a percent or two of being 50-50. How the hell can half your representatives be so out of touch with what's required of a modern government? How retarded, and I mean that in its original sense of "delayed." Why is the USA always the laggard? For a country that initially led the way, it makes no sense to me that it's now lagging so far, far behind.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


MEMBERS NEED TO TAKE THIER SEATS.

I like rules, but I also like shirt-off twrilling fun.
posted by The Whelk at 7:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


STFU combover. All of you combovers.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:52 PM on March 21, 2010


God it feels good to be part of America as it joins the rest of the industrialized world in the mid-20th century!
posted by Astro Zombie at 7:52 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


The Whelk: "SOMEONE KISS ME I AM GLOWING"

MWAH!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:52 PM on March 21, 2010


OH SHUT! UP!
posted by The Whelk at 7:52 PM on March 21, 2010


What the shit is going on right now?
posted by palindromic at 7:53 PM on March 21, 2010


NOW I WANT A GAVEL CLICK CLICK SHUT UP!
posted by The Whelk at 7:53 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh, vaginas. I get it.
posted by palindromic at 7:53 PM on March 21, 2010


All I've got is the tail end of a bottle of Jim Beam, but that'll do. Cheers!
posted by evisceratordeath at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010


Sentenious twaerp.
posted by The Whelk at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010


A life is a life. Therefore, health care is bad. Thank you.
posted by joe lisboa at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Since when did Republicans hate executive orders so much? GWB made it cool, after all.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010


Unborn children are SO much more important than full-fledged human beings.
posted by Ouisch at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010


ALSO HE HAS STUPID HAIR
posted by The Whelk at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010


AWESOME SHOW GREAT JOB
posted by oinopaponton at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010


doesn't protect the lives of unborn children? one fucking thing at a time, bub. we're gonna work on protecting the lives of the born first, how bout that?
posted by toodleydoodley at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Looks like it's back to abortion and away from socialism scaremongering for the GOP. See you on the clinic picket line, fcuckers.
posted by Monsters at 7:54 PM on March 21, 2010


Why is Pelosi not in the chair? Its her big moment.....
posted by anastasiav at 7:55 PM on March 21, 2010


The Whelk: "NOW I WANT A GAVEL CLICK CLICK SHUT UP!"

I am the chair of a non-profit board. I will SO HAVE A GAVEL at our next meeting!
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 7:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Seriously-is EVERY FUCKING THING about abortion now??
posted by hollygoheavy at 7:55 PM on March 21, 2010


Dear Ladies, I am so sorry so much crap and noise is made about your bodies. Really, it's just crazy, It sucks, sorry I hate it too.
posted by The Whelk at 7:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"..since Roe v Wade" haha.

I've half a mind to go get someone pregnant and abort just out of spite.
posted by graventy at 7:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


If only they cared so much about the rights of the born.
posted by one more dead town's last parade at 7:56 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


Man, The Commonwealth of Fetussachusetts sure does have a heavy presence in the House this, ah, term.
posted by joe lisboa at 7:56 PM on March 21, 2010


OLD MEN KNOW WHAT'S BEST FOR ALL WOMEN
posted by The Whelk at 7:56 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


"The abortion rate will rise...."


What?

So, women now are choosing to have babies rather than abortions because babies are cheaper?????
posted by anastasiav at 7:56 PM on March 21, 2010


"The most massively pro-abortion legislation to come before Congress since Roe v. Wade"

Can we all agree that civics education reform be next on the to-do list? Jesus motherfucking Christ.
posted by Riki tiki at 7:56 PM on March 21, 2010 [11 favorites]


I'll pay for the abortions if I can get out of paying for bombs.
posted by ColdChef at 7:56 PM on March 21, 2010 [8 favorites]


Let's talk more about abortion because that's what this whole thing is about. We're worried that our tax dollars will pay for abortions--and don't give a flying fuck about the fetuses that have already been born.
posted by leftcoastbob at 7:56 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I poured myself a glass of Fighting Cock, and then these cocks started fighting again.
posted by eddydamascene at 7:56 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm on the board of a non-profit and the president definitely has a gavel. And needs to use it from time to time.
posted by octothorpe at 7:57 PM on March 21, 2010


five fresh fish: "How the hell can half your representatives be so out of touch with what's required of a modern government?"

Because, as the Gingrich quote above suggests, one of the two major parties has unanimously decided that obstruction for the sake of political expediency is more important than what's good for the country.
posted by Rhaomi at 7:57 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Does the House not have rules against lying, or is the gentleman from New Jersey just ignoring them?
posted by one more dead town's last parade at 7:57 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


ladies and gentlemen, abortions all around! and see what the boys in the back room will have.
posted by toodleydoodley at 7:57 PM on March 21, 2010


An abortion surtax??? WTF?
posted by leftcoastbob at 7:57 PM on March 21, 2010


THIS IS CRAZYPANTS
posted by The Whelk at 7:57 PM on March 21, 2010


KEEP YOUR BOEHNER OUT OF MY PRE-EXISTING VAGINA
posted by Ouisch at 7:57 PM on March 21, 2010 [18 favorites]


THE MAJORITY OF AMERICANS BELIEVE IN KEEPING ABORTION LEGAL. How out of touch are these fucking polititicans?

Oh, right.
posted by gaspode at 7:57 PM on March 21, 2010


Yes we fucking did.

Hells yeah!!!
posted by ohyouknow at 7:58 PM on March 21, 2010


This, my friends, is what a fetalocracy looks like.
posted by joe lisboa at 7:58 PM on March 21, 2010


WORST SPEAKER EVER COULD IT KILL YOU TO EMOTE?
posted by The Whelk at 7:58 PM on March 21, 2010


How many votes can they count on from the antilifers. They lost the vote and shoot right for the minority fringe single-issue wedge voters?
posted by Astro Zombie at 7:58 PM on March 21, 2010


So much for having a moment to savor the victory.
posted by anastasiav at 7:58 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I need to give him the full quote so you can all realize how damn dumb that was:

"the most massively pro-abortion legislation to come before congress since roe v wade"
posted by graventy at 7:59 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


If it's what it takes to shut those idiot anti-abortionists up is to fund abortion strictly through charity donation, I hereby commit twenty bucks Canadian a month to the American's cause. FFS. What a bunch of dead-end one-issue losers. Gods, I'll pay anything to shut those ignorant bastards up.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:59 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


I heard it, Graventy, but my mind told me I must have misheard it. Woah, that's stupid.
posted by mccarty.tim at 7:59 PM on March 21, 2010


Supak. Stupak. Stupak. Stupak. HEALTH CARE.
posted by joe lisboa at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010


Attacking with racism didin't work, so now they're going to attack with misogyny. Fuck them.
posted by casarkos at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


So many CRAZY EYES.
posted by The Whelk at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010


Holy shit! A sane Stupak! As I live and breathe.
posted by palindromic at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010


As much as I dislike Stupak, at least he calls them out on their bullshit.
posted by hollygoheavy at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010


THIS WHOLE DAMN COURT IS OUT OF ORDER
posted by The Whelk at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010


Points to Stupak and the Chair for this bit. Seriously.
posted by joe lisboa at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010


This, my friends, is what a fetalocracy looks like.

I parsed that as being 'government by (foreign) cheese'.
posted by mazola at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


GET NANCY IN THE GOD DAMN CHAIR.
posted by anastasiav at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


was that SHUHSING?
posted by The Whelk at 8:00 PM on March 21, 2010


What?! What caused the whole joint to gasp?!
posted by Monsters at 8:01 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Stupak is channeling his inner John C. Reilly.
posted by joe lisboa at 8:01 PM on March 21, 2010


This is such utter bullshit. It's not about protecting life at all. It's about owning women.
posted by cmyk at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Mr. Cellophane mr. ceeeellllophane
posted by The Whelk at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh, I see. It's about the Stupak amendment, so the bill can't be reconciled in the senate. It's a naked obstructionist ploy.

What a fucking surprise.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010


Stupak: "Mr. Speaker, tear down this amendment!"
posted by one more dead town's last parade at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010


What?! What caused the whole joint to gasp?!

Pelosi taunted the gallery by getting an abortion on the floor.
posted by ColdChef at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010 [14 favorites]


Holy fuck, did Stupak just save the bill?
posted by joedan at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010


Monsters, that was my gasp at the decency of Stupak's comments. You could hear it from Detroit.
posted by palindromic at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010


"to politicize life, not prioritize life."

Stupak, you might be an ass, but you just did a brave and mighty thing.
posted by anastasiav at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


The Republicans are getting mouthy. Somebody needs a time-out in the Quiet Corner.
posted by scalefree at 8:02 PM on March 21, 2010


octothorpe: "I'm on the board of a non-profit and the president definitely has a gavel. And needs to use it from time to time."

I think I might be too tempted to smite people, a la my earlier comments re: Jesse Jackson Jr.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 8:03 PM on March 21, 2010


OMG was that forreal Bart Stupak?
posted by toodleydoodley at 8:03 PM on March 21, 2010


As annoying as Stupak has been through this process, that was a pretty fine ending.
posted by Schismatic at 8:03 PM on March 21, 2010


Ukh it's soo frustrating being out of sync by a minute or so. Like subtitles:film ratio being out of whack. Argh!
posted by blue funk at 8:03 PM on March 21, 2010


where is Pelosi? Can't she come out and glare at someone and cut this short?
posted by The Whelk at 8:03 PM on March 21, 2010


Stupak was entirely right. "unborn children" are a cynical bargaining chip for the obstructionists.
posted by Ouisch at 8:04 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Stupak, you speechless-ified me.
posted by gaspode at 8:04 PM on March 21, 2010


This is is so much better than a Superbowl you guys
posted by The Whelk at 8:05 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Holy fuck, I thought I'd be able to turn this off, because it is so not anything to do with my life, but I am simply… I dunno, mortified? shocked? astounded? Is this thing heading to hard-ass civil unrest akin to that of the sixties?

Of course, maybe it's time that it came to that. Enough with this bullshit: it's time to determine the vision of the nation, and commit solidly to it. Let's live by our sword or die by our sword.
posted by five fresh fish at 8:05 PM on March 21, 2010


"to politicize life, not prioritize life."

Stupak, you might be an ass, but you just did a brave and mighty thing.


YES!
posted by Ironmouth at 8:05 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


C-SPAN is taking live calls; time to turn the sound off.
posted by anastasiav at 8:05 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh yeah this beats the Stuporbowl by a country mile.
posted by Ouisch at 8:05 PM on March 21, 2010


Caller on C-Span is totally incoherent
posted by The Whelk at 8:06 PM on March 21, 2010


Stupak was like the cavalry there. Except he was a cavalry that shot a gun at year for a year and then came and saved you at the last moment.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:06 PM on March 21, 2010


Try the Livestation version.
posted by acro at 8:07 PM on March 21, 2010


Stupak, you might be an ass, but you just did a brave and mighty thing.

I'm pleased too, but I'm leery of giving him too much credit. He knows damn well what the Hyde Amendment is and what it requires. He opted to use the health care spotlight to (a) reassure his rural Michigan base of his anti-choice bona fides and (b) seize and parlay a measure of political capital as an ostensibly national player of note. He did the right thing but in a grandstanding, reluctant, self-serving way. The cynic would say that he lived UP to his job description, but I for one am happy we got his vote but basically disgusted by the man and his methods. I could be wrong.
posted by joe lisboa at 8:07 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


THIS BILL IS AGAINST LIFE YOU GUYZ

IT IS AGAINST LIFE
posted by Ouisch at 8:07 PM on March 21, 2010


What?! What caused the whole joint to gasp?!

Someone on the Republican side shouted "Babykiller" at Stupak.
posted by hollygoheavy at 8:07 PM on March 21, 2010


When do we get to see the list of the 34 alleged Dems who voted against, so we can get their opposition primary campaigns up and running?
posted by anastasiav at 8:07 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


at you, rather.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:08 PM on March 21, 2010


Current caller sounds hot.
posted by The Whelk at 8:08 PM on March 21, 2010


And there goes that astounding nonsense.
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 8:08 PM on March 21, 2010


Monsters: "What?! What caused the whole joint to gasp?!"

They're saying on CNN that somebody screamed "Baby killer!" at Stupak during his speech.
posted by Rhaomi at 8:08 PM on March 21, 2010


When do we get to see the list of the 34 alleged Dems who voted against, so we can get their opposition primary campaigns up and running?

Cosigned.
posted by Ouisch at 8:08 PM on March 21, 2010


CNN is saying that someone shouted "baby killer" at Rep. Stupak.
posted by goodnewsfortheinsane at 8:08 PM on March 21, 2010


Shit, guess my first-take is in the minority. I appreciate the counter-opinions though. Gonna rewatch his speech when I can and pay closer attention, sans interruptions.
posted by joe lisboa at 8:09 PM on March 21, 2010


I do not think I could be a public representative unless I get to outright mock and satirise the attitudes and words and idiocy of my opposition. I can only be a political troll.

Who is this batshit asswipe who managed to get in the first call? This is implementing inequality? What. The. Fuck?!?! {popping-eyes emoticon!!} Oh shit, and the second!

Goddamns, but the US is in such deep trouble if these people are actually anything more than about 10% of the population.
posted by five fresh fish at 8:09 PM on March 21, 2010


So can someone explain the "unconstitutional" argument to me?
posted by octothorpe at 8:10 PM on March 21, 2010


Numbers don't work dude
posted by The Whelk at 8:10 PM on March 21, 2010


So can someone explain the "unconstitutional" argument to me?

In a nutshell: Congress doesn't have the power to force you to buy anything.
posted by anastasiav at 8:11 PM on March 21, 2010




Barack Obama does not give a good goddamn when you sleep you 20 year old moron!
posted by Doublewhiskeycokenoice at 8:12 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


C-SPAN callers: the YouTube commenters of Basic Cable.
posted by joe lisboa at 8:12 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


Haha was that a drunken mefite on c-span?

acro if that was for me, it just directs me to download a (non-linux) player. S'ok I'll just go off the audio and then read :)
posted by blue funk at 8:12 PM on March 21, 2010


goodnewsfortheinsane: "CNN is saying that someone shouted "baby killer" at Rep. Stupak."

Stay classy, douchebags.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 8:12 PM on March 21, 2010


octothorpe: "So can someone explain the "unconstitutional" argument to me?"

As I understand it, since the Constitution says nothing about health insurance, the government does not have the authority to mandate it. It originates with the hardcore libertarians who think the government only has the power to do precisely what the Constitution mentions and nothing more.

Of course there are broad, flexible provisions like the General Welfare Clause and the Commerce Clause, but they simply ignore or interpret their way around those.
posted by Rhaomi at 8:13 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


Solution: marry a neurologist.
posted by joe lisboa at 8:13 PM on March 21, 2010


caller: "I'm uninsured by choice. yes, I'm 20 years old. I don't think the government should make you have something you don't think you need."

no, but you'll sure as hell show up at the public ER when ITHURTSITHURTSITHURTS!!!!!
posted by toodleydoodley at 8:14 PM on March 21, 2010 [20 favorites]


Saying that mandatory health insurance is unconstitutional is like saying that mandated car insurance is unconstitutional.

Like it or not, Americans, we are all in this together. We live in a society. We are, to some extent, responsible for each other. WE, IN FACT, ARE ALREADY PAYING FOR PEOPLE WHO CANNOT AFFORD TO PAY FOR HEALTH CARE, OR WHO GO BANKRUPT FROM MEDICAL EXPENSES.

It is irresponsible, on a SOCIETAL level, for people not to have health insurance.
posted by Ouisch at 8:14 PM on March 21, 2010 [9 favorites]


Holy shit, man.

So what happens with the tea partiers now? That incoherent CSPAN caller sounded terrified. How many of the tea partiers think we'll be facing martial law by morning?
posted by Monsters at 8:14 PM on March 21, 2010


5FF, you should check out some of
Rep. Weiner's material this week, he's been on fire.
posted by Sphinx at 8:16 PM on March 21, 2010


Is Obama going to speak tonight?
posted by eddydamascene at 8:17 PM on March 21, 2010


awesome. I'm gonna go out and go up to random doors in teabagger areas. I'll creep up, hammer really hard and yell, "Open up! Report for your death panel!"

then I'll hide in the bushes and giggle quietly.
posted by toodleydoodley at 8:17 PM on March 21, 2010 [31 favorites]


the list of the 34 alleged Dems who voted against, so we can get their opposition primary campaigns up and running?

To be fair, Pelosi will have selectively released a few who got in early and said "I'm a yes if you really need me, but being able to vote no will make winning my district easier in November."
On the other hand, I'm more comfortable with the parliamentary approach where if you're elected on a manifesto commitment, you vote for the damn thing and go down with it or else Malcolm Tucker will leave you crying in a corner.
posted by holgate at 8:18 PM on March 21, 2010 [4 favorites]


I've drunk an entire bottle of Lost River Winery's Rainshadow blend. It's made this all much more palatable (and also got me over my terror at posting on a busy discussion). Highly recommend.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 8:19 PM on March 21, 2010


i'm gonna fuck my boyrfiend while listening to rock n' roll in celebration.
posted by The Whelk at 8:19 PM on March 21, 2010 [10 favorites]


blue funk - it was - It's better quality video, but yes, the executable download and need for an account is annoying.
posted by acro at 8:20 PM on March 21, 2010


So you have a right to enjoy your life while you have it, but not to stay alive. This Kyle fellow makes me sad for UMichigan.
posted by Rory Marinich at 8:20 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


and then I'm going to NOT have an entire years worth of money RUINED cause I fell down some stairs.
posted by The Whelk at 8:20 PM on March 21, 2010


THE MOTION IS NOT ADOPTED - WOOT
posted by Ouisch at 8:21 PM on March 21, 2010


Bad news guys, the dogs I'm dogsitting are asleep, and I don't want to wake them. I can't reach the basement for my victory beers! I'll have to celebrate tomorrow. ;_;
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:21 PM on March 21, 2010


That's my rep - Go, Dingell, go!
posted by palindromic at 8:22 PM on March 21, 2010


SOCIALIST GAY SEX PARTY AT THE WHELKS PLACE.
posted by The Whelk at 8:22 PM on March 21, 2010 [13 favorites]


Well that didn't take long.

I updated my Facebook status mocking the "legislation-since-Roe-v-Wade" idiocy and within three minutes one of my wingnut high school classmates not only dismissed its logical problems but reiterated its point.

Twenty minutes after the statement was made, and he already believes to the point of advocacy that a bill that promotes and funds zero abortions is essentially the fetus holocaust.

Jesus fucking wept.
posted by Riki tiki at 8:23 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Oh god that is why I make a point of NEVER discussing politics on Facebook. And, in fact, never logging into Facebook except to play Bejeweled Blitz.
posted by Ouisch at 8:25 PM on March 21, 2010


oh, i'm so happy! i want to buy you all cheese fries.
posted by palomar at 8:25 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


See who voted how on this NYtimes infocharty thinger.
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:25 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Ya know -- I am pretty leftist. I am absolutely for single-payer health care. I was never pleased with all the compromise in the situation, and my biggest grip is mandates with no public option. I still have a sense of leeriness regarding that point.

But I've also read about the parts of the bill that are there to make it easier for people who want to get insurance to get it. And that's slowly changed my mind. You can thank my Obama loving moderate fiscal conservative friend for getting me to moderate my stance.

I'm curious what, exactly, got Kucinich to change his mind.

I'm not particularly happy. And it feels really dirty of me to gloat and rub this shit in the fucking Republitards faces, especially when I know this is a compromise that I'm not particularly happy to support, but will do so, somewhat grudgingly, because this process has been going on for way to fucking long, and if it takes mandates, and if it takes lots of subsidies, then so be it.

I hate it, because I *know* the games that are played by the bureaucracy made to deny people of benefits and such.

I've seen the pain people have to go through to fight to get the health care they need. I've seen the pain that fundamentalist conservatives like my mother put themselves through all because they oppose the "communist" single payer idea. The pain she struggled with having to spend so much of her money to support my sister (who is *still* fighting for disability years and years later *sigh*). And she refuses absolutely to understand that the difficulties she's dealing with is because of her very own political position. Because she has some outdated view of whatever the fuck Ronnie and the AMA told her in the 60s (note: I don't know if she ever actually attended on of those anti-medical reform parties that played those records of Ronnie scaring people about "socialized medicine") -- but you know -- the fact this is very similar to what Nixon proposed in the fucking 70s as a moderate compromise to ward off something even MORE liberal... Well fuck. If it's taken us 40 years (Jesus. Fucking. Christ. Wheels of Justice grind slow and them some, eh?)

If my "revolutionary" tendencies are forced to be moderated by the fucking ass-backwards society I live in, and I have to compromise to move even just a little bit forward? At this point, I guess that's the thing I have to do. Because I'm not gonna support a broken system.

Finally -- it just makes me so goddamned happy to fucking SPITE the fucking racist asshat teabaggers. FUCK THOSE FUCKERS. They want some fucking revolution, then bring it bitches. It's ON. I'm tired of your reactionary bullshit. Fuck OFF.

As much as I'm not happy about this bill, to me, it's a big fucking middle finger to them, and I couldn't be more pleased to see this. And as much as I say I hate Republicans. The fact that not ONE not a fucking single goddamned ONE out of the hundreds that supposedly represent their members could even try to support this as some sort of understanding that we need to fix this bullshit system... Well that says it all, and between this and Bush and McCain's ridiculous "sellout" of his supposedly moderate principles. Well -- unless something happens in my lifetime like the Dixiecrat shift, I will *never* *ever* *ever* fucking vote Republican in my lifetime EVER again. I don't care how "sensible" they try to appear. This fucking shows they are a bunch of lunatic asswipe cowards who cowtow to fearmongering and ideology and political gamesmanship over moderation and working for their fucking constituents.

I hated Republicans before, and this just adds more ammunition.

/RANT
posted by symbioid at 8:26 PM on March 21, 2010 [24 favorites]


SOCIALIST GAY SEX PARTY AT THE WHELKS PLACE.
posted by The Whelk at 11:22 PM on March 21 [3 favorites -] Favorite added! [!]


abortions for all the guests, or I ain't comin'
posted by toodleydoodley at 8:26 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


I wanted a celebratory shot of bourbon but am all migrainous and will have to have a celebratory midrin instead. Bah.
posted by dilettante at 8:27 PM on March 21, 2010


Is Obama going to speak tonight?

He is expected to, from the East Room.
posted by goodnewsfortheinsane at 8:27 PM on March 21, 2010


I've blocked all my Facebook friends who keep posting "KILL THE BILL" nonsense.
posted by octothorpe at 8:28 PM on March 21, 2010


A friend just made her FB status something like: If you're going to bitch about passing health care reform, just unfriend me now and save me the trouble of unfriending you.

I've just hidden all my HS friends and most of my biological family from my feed. Makes life much more pleasant.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 8:29 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


Oh god that is why I make a point of NEVER discussing politics on Facebook.

You know, Ouisch, I didn't used to. But I've had enough of this absurdity. If people make political statements on Facebook, they had better be prepared to defend them. I've been interacting with the-socialism-is-falling Facebookers all day. The right to free speech doesn't imply a right to speak without criticism. Evil triumphs when good men do nothing, and all that.
posted by Monsters at 8:30 PM on March 21, 2010 [5 favorites]


[Gumby voice]
THIS BILL IS AGAINST LIFE YOU GUYZ IT IS AGAINST LIFE. It occurs to me that ideally the US would have mandated a ten- or twenty-year trial effort, at the end of which all citizens would finally get the right to choose to participate in the government universal healthcare system or "go it alone" with private insurance.

If you chose not to, you would forfeit all access to the government-sponsored care; it is a hard-ass punishment of the most inhumane type but, you know, perhaps that is really what it takes: a stark black-and-white choice where people die as a consequence of their decisions.

I am confident that at the end of the trial so many citizens would choose to remain in the government plan that the losers would, in fact, be few enough that the cruelty of letting those idiots die as a consequence of their choice would result in an overall greater success for the nation as a whole. Call it the sacrifice of the few for the benefit of the many: they serve as an example of why health insurance is not the same as healthcare.

I so do not understand why there are so many people who do not know that other countries have it better. Why is there this huge resistance to learning from other's mistakes? How on earth can our governments not have the drive to excel?

I'm one of those smug and satisfied Canadians who, all in all, figures his government has done pretty well to him and by him: I've paid a fair buck into the system, but there have been enough shit episodes in my life that I've got about as much back out of it — and even if I didn't, the lack of hassle during those shit episodes was well worth the price I paid: I might literally not be alive if I'd faced more challenges in getting the assistance I needed to get healthy and productive once again.

But even as a smug Canuck, I know there are flaws and problems in our system, and I want them fixed. I want our government to look at what other countries are doing, and to plan to do better. And with the exception of our current government, I think we've generally been on the right sort of track.

Maybe this is the difference between progressive and conservative. How did the USA end up so conservative? What's the fear of change all about? Where does the fear of bettering everyone come from?

Maybe this is the difference between living in a cold climate, and living in a warmer one. The stereotypical American Conservative approach to society dies of hypothermia in the True North. It takes the efforts of a community to survive; it's nigh impossible to successfully go it alone.

I need to drink more. This stupidity as the House wraps up is so damn depressing. More than half of those people are malicious, conniving bastards. They have no vision for a successful future. Fuck.
posted by five fresh fish at 8:30 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Thanks anyway acro. Was just getting caught up. Just as involving a minute behind, really!
posted by blue funk at 8:30 PM on March 21, 2010




Oh man, I just had unprotected sex with a monkey and it was as good as I remembered.

Thank you, health care reform!
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:31 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


Western PA filter (and re octothorpe's comment). The NYTimes thing says Altmire voted yes?
posted by tss at 8:32 PM on March 21, 2010


passed the last bit imma start smoking again
posted by hackly_fracture at 8:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Another pass! Cheers!
posted by Rory Marinich at 8:32 PM on March 21, 2010


YES! It's official (as it's going to get until Obama signs it)!
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:32 PM on March 21, 2010


217 baby. 217.
posted by Ouisch at 8:32 PM on March 21, 2010


Reconciliation bill passes in the House. Now it goes to the Senate.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:32 PM on March 21, 2010


So can someone explain the "unconstitutional" argument to me?

One of Georgetown University's finest takes a stab in today's WaPo.
posted by phearlez at 8:33 PM on March 21, 2010


mccarty.tim: "See who voted how on this NYtimes infocharty thinger."

Why does this say 224 when the actual vote was 219? Why didn't Pelosi vote? Am I dumb and looking at the wrong bill?
posted by graventy at 8:33 PM on March 21, 2010


Obama is supposed to speak at 11:45pm.
posted by fluffy battle kitten at 8:33 PM on March 21, 2010


Bachmann: They've passed health care in the House!

House GOP: Kill it! Kill it! Kill it! Kill it! Kill it! Kill it! ... Kill it! Kill it! Kill it!

Bachmann: Only the Senate can kill it! We have to rile it up!

House GOP: Try shocking it!

Fox News: America is being socialized! Stuff costs more than it used to! We have a black president!
posted by Rhaomi at 8:33 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Oh Christ, I forgot that it had to go back to the Senate. This is the longest damn vote in the history of votes. There will be, I'm sure, some shenanigans in the Senate re: the Stupak language and abortion.

The next person who tells me this was "rammed through" is going to get a sharp stick in the eye.
posted by anastasiav at 8:35 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


According to ESPN, when the bill passed in the House, Obama and Rahm Emmanuel high fived, and people who witnessed it were reported to have spontaneous multiple orgasms.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:35 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Nevermind re Altmire: NYTimes fixed it.
posted by tss at 8:35 PM on March 21, 2010


When is the Senate vote? Please tell me it's not tonight.
posted by Ouisch at 8:36 PM on March 21, 2010


I only saw one negative comment from someone I know on Facebook:

"I am feeling very ashamed of my government right now. At least there's November to look forward to."

I just edited it a bit and posted the same thing as my update:

"I am feeling very proud of my government right now. At least there's not giving into the fringe to look forward to."

I've not yet checked to see what her response is, because I am settling in to a "Pretty Baby" cocktail (vodka, creme de cacao, and cream, with some grenadine to make it a festive pink).
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 8:36 PM on March 21, 2010


Got a tweet from the President: http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
posted by anastasiav at 8:37 PM on March 21, 2010


Does nobody drink adult drinks anymore. Fuck it. Despite my hernia, I'm having a manhattan.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:38 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


tss: "Western PA filter (and re octothorpe's comment). The NYTimes thing says Altmire voted yes?"

House.gov says that he voted no.
posted by octothorpe at 8:38 PM on March 21, 2010


anastasiav: "Oh Christ, I forgot that it had to go back to the Senate. This is the longest damn vote in the history of votes. "

I could be wrong, but I don't think it does. An amended version returns to the Senate, for an attempted reconciliation. However, since they also passed the full bill that the Senate has already passed, that goes straight to the President tomorrow morning for some fancy signing. I think.
posted by graventy at 8:38 PM on March 21, 2010


"THA BILL IS MUTHAFUCKIN PASSED" - Nancy Pelosi
posted by Ouisch at 8:39 PM on March 21, 2010


Hernia? I mean ulcer.

Self-diagnosed.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:39 PM on March 21, 2010


According to ESPN, when the bill passed in the House, Obama and Rahm Emmanuel high fived, and people who witnessed it were reported to have spontaneous multiple orgasms.

Gives a new meaning to O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.
posted by one more dead town's last parade at 8:39 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I'm having a manhattan.

Rough dirty straight or?
posted by The Whelk at 8:40 PM on March 21, 2010


AZ, are you implying that my chocolate ice cream-stout float is not an ADULT drink?

/straw slurping
posted by Ouisch at 8:40 PM on March 21, 2010


Obama should be speaking from the Oval Office, IMHO. Big moments deserve the Resolute Desk.
posted by Rhaomi at 8:40 PM on March 21, 2010


and of course, the type of bitters.
posted by The Whelk at 8:40 PM on March 21, 2010


And now it's on to the really important vote, on a resolution honoring the 65th anniversary of Iwo Jima.
posted by scalefree at 8:40 PM on March 21, 2010


Oh boy, more calls from college republicans who know better than the rest of us.
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:40 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Does nobody drink adult drinks anymore.

Trying to pay for my own health insurance has kept me too broke to afford a grown-up bar. (innocent look)
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 8:40 PM on March 21, 2010


Rough dirty straight or?

One of the each of them.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:41 PM on March 21, 2010


Herina would be odd, unless Manhattans make you lift heavy objects.


Do Manhattans make you lift heavy objects?
posted by The Whelk at 8:41 PM on March 21, 2010


As a former New Orleanean, Peychauds is always my bitters of choice.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:41 PM on March 21, 2010


I could never be the CSPAN phone moderator guy, because there's no way in hell I could keep a straight face listening to that crap. OTOH, he looks like he's concentrating really hard to prevent a fart from escaping, so maybe that's how you do it.
posted by dirigibleman at 8:42 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


I strongly support you folk who use this opportunity to confront people about their bigotry and sexism and their "fuck you got mine"ness.
posted by five fresh fish at 8:42 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Do Manhattans make you lift heavy objects?

Depends on the money.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:42 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Straight Manhattans fuck you up, turn you round and then do a cheeky smile after you drukenly kiss them at the end of a long music-art-party crashing binge. Fuckers.
posted by The Whelk at 8:43 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


monkey, rather. Crap. The rye is already kicking in.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:43 PM on March 21, 2010


Will someone please explain to me all this "the will of the people has been ignored" BS? I thought it seemed pretty clear - slightly more people want this than don't. I can't see that there are millions more Americans that hated this bill than wanted it & that this was "rammed" down our throats. What gives?
posted by pointystick at 8:43 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Astro Zombie: "Does nobody drink adult drinks anymore. Fuck it. Despite my hernia, I'm having a manhattan."

I'm drinking WHITE WINE - in honor of all the LIBERUL ELITIST COMMIES who did this SOCIALIST BIZNESS today.

Also, because I have to get up tomorrow morning, and the amount of vodka I'd have needed to get through the evening would have left me incapacitated.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 8:43 PM on March 21, 2010


We should all wear black suits and visit retirement homes to talk to them about their end of life decisions. For the lulz.
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:43 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


I am constantly being surprised at the idiots who keep calling into CSPAN. Although I did enjoy the guy a few votes ago who said something like "Next up he'll be telling us when we can sleep!"
posted by graventy at 8:45 PM on March 21, 2010


I think I am going to save my sanity now, and turn off the C-SPAN call-in segment.
posted by five fresh fish at 8:45 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


WHISKEY WILL MAKES PURE!
posted by The Whelk at 8:45 PM on March 21, 2010


What the hell?
posted by EarBucket at 8:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Pearl needs her meds. She mixed talking points from both sides.
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:46 PM on March 21, 2010


I can tell if callers are for or against the bill by the sounds of their voice alone. People that sound like normal people are either for it or they're on the line. People that sound like wackos or like contemptuous jackasses speaking to children are against the bill.
posted by Rory Marinich at 8:46 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


Old lovely head od frink company who likes to get drunk a lot and said I 'm not gay I just like making outwith guys oh I do believe you cause you're always too gone to do anything but man, now would be a great time for you to appear. I could use some forgetful drunken snogging.
posted by The Whelk at 8:46 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


One of the Republicans is resigning his seat in protest. THAT'LL SHOW 'EM!
posted by EarBucket at 8:46 PM on March 21, 2010


Here comes the President. My President.
posted by anastasiav at 8:47 PM on March 21, 2010 [2 favorites]


You don't want to hear an old lady near tears about the socialist takeover of her medicare? I'm not kidding by the way.
posted by Monsters at 8:47 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


oh hello keyboard wy are you rushing towards me oANCASUFCYU7FGTRUOIJNajROIU3T9O
posted by The Whelk at 8:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


pointystick: "Will someone please explain to me all this "the will of the people has been ignored" BS? I thought it seemed pretty clear - slightly more people want this than don't. I can't see that there are millions more Americans that hated this bill than wanted it & that this was "rammed" down our throats. What gives?"

Well, you see, recent polls indicate that 55% of Americans oppose this bill. And polls are never wrong, even though this particular poll doesn't say if Americans would prefer a stronger healthcare bill or no bill or really give any actual idea of what Americans think on the issue still, STILL it is obviously a message direct from the American people that the Republicans are of course completely right.
posted by graventy at 8:48 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


This man's accent is its own parody.
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:48 PM on March 21, 2010


I like my drinks like I like my men...rough, dirty AND straight.

Okay now I'm just getting gross.
posted by Ouisch at 8:49 PM on March 21, 2010


Nathan Deal of Georgia is the resigning member.
posted by EarBucket at 8:49 PM on March 21, 2010


waitwaitwait who resigned?
posted by toodleydoodley at 8:49 PM on March 21, 2010


Obama speaking here: http://www.whitehouse.gov/live/president-obama-speaks-house-vote

Don't know why C-SPAN isn't showing it.
posted by anastasiav at 8:50 PM on March 21, 2010


I think he was just retiring.
posted by graventy at 8:50 PM on March 21, 2010


Obama just sent me an email, you guise!

But then... who is giving a speech in the East Room right now?!
posted by Rhaomi at 8:50 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I like my beer like I like my women: Stout.
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:51 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


C-Span is showing it here.
posted by Astro Zombie at 8:51 PM on March 21, 2010


Shut up guys the president is trying to talk.
posted by eddydamascene at 8:52 PM on March 21, 2010


my internet is breaking worse than when Michael Jackson died
posted by oinopaponton at 8:52 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


I liked the caller who was all "why should us hard workers pay for lazy people's insurance?" and then admitted that he was on his parent's insurance.
posted by octothorpe at 8:52 PM on March 21, 2010 [12 favorites]


A friend who posts "KILL THE BILL" is a friend who, if you get fucked-over by one of life's random shitty events, doesn't give a fuck for you. And if you figure that's an okay sort of thing, then you need to really have a hard think about what a "friend" is, and why we have a large society, and just what it means to be part of the human race.
posted by five fresh fish at 8:52 PM on March 21, 2010 [6 favorites]


Biden's tie is askew.
posted by anastasiav at 8:55 PM on March 21, 2010


Obama and Biden just bro'd their way past that podium.
posted by Rory Marinich at 8:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"Well, I gotta eat some beans, and we'll take some more phone calls."
posted by dirigibleman at 8:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Herina would be odd

Even more odd would be masa herina. Worst. Burritos. EVER.
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 8:55 PM on March 21, 2010


Nathan Deal is leaving Congress because he's running for Governor of Georgia. Still, it's a good start.
posted by toxic at 9:00 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Biden looked like he got woken up from a sound sleep, and dressed in the SUV on the way to the White House. I'm OK with that.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 9:00 PM on March 21, 2010


Good start for everyone but us here in Georgia, toxic. Hard to see how someone can be worse than Gov. Perdue, but I'm sure Sen. Deal has plans.
posted by catlet at 9:03 PM on March 21, 2010


Argh! Where to see Obama? I've got a Pelosi on my C-SPAN.
posted by five fresh fish at 9:04 PM on March 21, 2010


I'm waiting for Obama to tell me when I can sleep.
posted by mazola at 9:04 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


Whoops, Rep. Deal. I'm a little giddy - I have pre-existing conditions, after all, and all this reform is making me swoon.
posted by catlet at 9:04 PM on March 21, 2010


Apparently Nancy is contagious. Good thing the healthcare bill was passed.
posted by five fresh fish at 9:10 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


"He reached out to the Republicans, and they said No. We had to do it ourselves."

Let this be a lesson to you.
posted by Ouisch at 9:18 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


What is going on? I'm getting fired from one job tomorrow... uh... today. I guess... or what?
posted by fuq at 9:22 PM on March 21, 2010


I like how the other thread is the heart of debate and argument and here we're just drunkenly cheering our teams are.

I love you, thread. I would buy you flowers if I wasn't broke.
posted by Rory Marinich at 9:31 PM on March 21, 2010 [3 favorites]


Yea, this thread is much more fun. There are some serious spoil-sports in the other one.
posted by octothorpe at 9:39 PM on March 21, 2010


Does nobody drink adult drinks anymore. Fuck it.

Sally: Martini, please. Gin, not vodka.
Sally's Friend: Gin? Why would you order gin in a martini?
Sally: [Stunned silence.]
posted by sallybrown at 9:55 PM on March 21, 2010 [7 favorites]


sallybrown: "Does nobody drink adult drinks anymore. Fuck it.

Sally: Martini, please. Gin, not vodka.
Sally's Friend: Gin? Why would you order gin in a martini?
Sally: [Stunned silence.]
"

Aw, I can't drink gin (bad associations with awful step-parent unit). Do I get credit for vodka martinis as a grown-up drink?
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 10:05 PM on March 21, 2010 [1 favorite]


The crowd goes wild!

But seriously, I expect someone to have designed a uniform for our Obamacare Death Squads by dawn tomorrow.
posted by Artw at 10:12 PM on March 21, 2010


Do I get credit for vodka martinis as a grown-up drink?

No. Anything with Vodka in it doesn't count as a grown-up drink as a rule.
posted by Talez at 11:51 PM on March 21, 2010


Speaking of drinking and drugs, I hear that Rush Limbaugh is leaving the country over this. He obviously won't be heading to Canada or Cuba. Dominican Republic, maybe?
posted by five fresh fish at 12:07 AM on March 22, 2010


I'd just like to say, that after reading a ton of Tea Party related information right now, I've come to the conclusion that they have the right idea but don't go far enough.

To that end, I'm announcing here the formation of my own movement, The Thirteen Original Colonies movement.

We need to go back to the way The Constitution was intended to be used back in the days of the founding fathers. When they wrote it, they didn't intend for it to apply to 50 states - just 13.

Planks:

1) Return the Louisiana Purchase to France. There are dozens of reasons to do this, but the main one is because noted progressive founding father Thomas Jefferson was behind this MASSIVE EXPANSION of the U.S. government. Its a massive expansion because more territory = more to govern. Yet another reason he shouldn't be included in any textbooks.

2) Return Texas to Mexico. This solves Texas' illegal immigration issues by making all current illegal Mexican immigrants legal Mexican citizens again.

3) Let's not stop there. California, New Mexico and all of those states that were once part of Mexico are can return to Mexico again. Bonus: California economy President Fox' problem.

4) Alaska back to Russia. You can see Russia from Alaska. You can't see the contiguous 48 states from Alaska. It makes sense for Alaska to belong to a country that can see it.

5) Hawaii isn't a state anyways. Acknowledging this will prove conclusively that Obama was born in a FOREIGN NATION. We simply acknowledge that the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom was illegal and redress this problem by returning Hawaii to its rightful rulers and RETROACTIVELY deny citizenship to anyone born there. McCain will be President within the hour, then he will die of old age and President Palin will be firmly in place.

6) Kick Canada's ass. This is in retaliation for the War of 1812. We've been far too cozy with them since they burned DC. Plus, something needs to be done to protect their citizens from their Socialist health care system. If we wound enough of their citizens in war, it will overburden their system and lead to them having to privatize.

7) Reintroduce Slavery. It was good enough for the Founding Fathers, it should be good enough for us.

8) Bring back the Whigs. Just sayin'.

9) Eliminate all post-Constitution technology. The Constitution (which is infallible and perfect) wasn't designed for interchangable parts, cars and computer chips. The Amish have the right idea, except for that love your neighbor shit.

10) Rescind all post- Constitution Amendments. They got it right the first time with the Constitution. All those Amendments (like the Bill of Rights) are the results of Washington playing politics to undermine the Constitution.

Anyhow, I think you'll see that this is the only logical thing we can do to make sure that America is saved from itself.

I'll be posting further replies to Metafilter in an approved 13th Original Colonist manner, specifically by writing them on a piece of bark and nailing them to a tree near town hall.
posted by Joey Michaels at 12:09 AM on March 22, 2010 [32 favorites]


The making of a great President.
posted by joedan at 12:13 AM on March 22, 2010


5) Hawaii isn't a state anyways. Acknowledging this will prove conclusively that Obama was born in a FOREIGN NATION. We simply acknowledge that the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom was illegal and redress this problem by returning Hawaii to its rightful rulers and RETROACTIVELY deny citizenship to anyone born there. McCain will be President within the hour, then he will die of old age and President Palin will be firmly in place.

Genius.
posted by rodgerd at 12:28 AM on March 22, 2010


Talez: "Do I get credit for vodka martinis as a grown-up drink?

No. Anything with Vodka in it doesn't count as a grown-up drink as a rule.
"

Jesus. What the hell do I have to drink, then? I can handle anything but gin and tequila. See my earlier explanation for why I can't drink gin, and tequila ... well, tequila gets me knocked up.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 12:32 AM on March 22, 2010


Lulu, let me introduce you to a crazy little thing called... whiskey.
posted by Pope Guilty at 12:34 AM on March 22, 2010 [1 favorite]


whelk: Old lovely head od frink company who likes to get drunk a lot and said I 'm not gay I just like making outwith guys oh I do believe you cause you're always too gone to do anything but man, now would be a great time for you to appear. I could use some forgetful drunken snogging.

We need to get drunk together for some off-the-record storytelling, m'dear. I'll bring a whiteboard and some dry-erase markers in case illustrations or diagrams are needed.

Also, I'm totally going to start a series of parties here in Chicago called GAY SOCIALIST SEX PARTY and it will committed to all three of those adjectives.
posted by LMGM at 12:44 AM on March 22, 2010


Jesus. What the hell do I have to drink, then? I can handle anything but gin and tequila. See my earlier explanation for why I can't drink gin, and tequila ... well, tequila gets me knocked up.

Consider the Mint Julep. A fine drink with a grand tradition, and yet properly made is sweet enough for even the girliest of palates (like mine).
posted by kafziel at 12:51 AM on March 22, 2010 [2 favorites]


I don't like mint or things that leave green bits in my teeth. My husband has been trying to convert me to bourbon, on the idea that it'll be OK to buy exceedingly expensive bourbon if we're both drinking it. I've resisted so far, but perhaps I'll have to consider it, if vodka isn't tough enough for this crowd.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 1:03 AM on March 22, 2010


If it's any help, vodka is my drink of choice- preferably mixed with pineapple or cranberry juice, but even on its own. Vodka only has a bad reputation because its lack of a strong flavor makes it ideal for mixing, causing it to be associated with "girly" drinks. As a friend of mine once said: "I have neither the time nor the money for bad-tasting beverages."
posted by Pope Guilty at 1:20 AM on March 22, 2010


be. it will be committed to all three adjectives. I better head to bed.
posted by LMGM at 1:26 AM on March 22, 2010


I am the chair of a non-profit board. I will SO HAVE A GAVEL at our next meeting!

I'm on the board of a non-profit and the president definitely has a gavel. And needs to use it from time to time.


Oh man, that never actually occurred to me. I just use my shoe, Kruschev-style.
posted by elizardbits at 3:29 AM on March 22, 2010


Whisky is for landlubbers. Drink rum!
posted by Faint of Butt at 4:05 AM on March 22, 2010


Oh freepers, you're just killing me! This is the top post:

Now, is it time to take the birth certificateissue seriously?
Mon Mar 22 05:05:06 2010 · by paythefiddler · 2 replies · 18+ views
this would be a direct way to kill the bill

Yes! That will TOTALLY work! And then we can build a robot that flies and finds girlfriends for us!!1!
posted by biddeford at 5:22 AM on March 22, 2010 [11 favorites]


Also, I'm totally going to start a series of parties here in Chicago called GAY SOCIALIST SEX PARTY and it will committed to all three of those adjectives.


EACH ORGASM ACCORDING TO NEED.
posted by The Whelk at 5:32 AM on March 22, 2010 [3 favorites]


Speaking of drinking and drugs, I hear that Rush Limbaugh is leaving the country over this.

Oh my God! Just when I thought it couldn't possibly get any better!....
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:04 AM on March 22, 2010


Do I get credit for vodka martinis as a grown-up drink?

Off-brand kool-aid with everclear in it served out of a 30-gallon trash can is a grown-up drink, right?
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 6:26 AM on March 22, 2010 [1 favorite]


Do I get credit for vodka martinis as a grown-up drink?

Off-brand kool-aid with everclear in it served out of a 30-gallon trash can is a grown-up drink, right?
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 9:26 AM on March 22 [+] [!]


we went to school together, didn't we?
posted by toodleydoodley at 6:48 AM on March 22, 2010 [3 favorites]


Apparently the DCCC is collecting signatures for a bon-voyage card for Rush Limbaugh.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 7:05 AM on March 22, 2010 [3 favorites]


Ugh, jungle juice is NASTY. And mysogynist, as women at keggers deserve much better than medical ethanol mixed with koolade. Isn't vodka cheaper and better tasting anyway?
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:16 AM on March 22, 2010


The repeal is imminent. Freepers are sending toast in the mail, and no congressperson can argue with that!
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:35 AM on March 22, 2010


Okay I'm calling it, the Freepers are officially a dadaist political movement.
posted by The Whelk at 8:39 AM on March 22, 2010 [10 favorites]


If you can imagine Cary Grant ordering it, it's an adult drink.

If you can imagine Carrie Bradshaw ordering it, it's not.
posted by shakespeherian at 9:25 AM on March 22, 2010 [8 favorites]


Obligatory Onion Link: Republicans, Dadaists Declare War On Art
posted by strangely stunted trees at 9:45 AM on March 22, 2010 [1 favorite]


The repeal is imminent. Freepers are sending toast in the mail, and no congressperson can argue with that!
posted by mccarty.tim at 11:35 AM on March 22 [+] [!]


aw, why can't they send French toast? more germane, and delicious too!

plus the butter and syrup would totally fuck up all the machine readers, the pandering to which has simply ruined the street-naming schema in NoFL. NE 177th Ave indeed. what's wrong with Old Rag Hound Road, other than the machines can't read it?
posted by toodleydoodley at 10:00 AM on March 22, 2010


Protester calls Rep. Ciro Rodriguez a "wetback," another calls his home and tells a family member to "go back to Mexico."
posted by EarBucket at 10:05 AM on March 22, 2010


we went to school together, didn't we?

We all went to school together! We called them fog cutters.
posted by rtha at 10:18 AM on March 22, 2010


EarBucket: "They're calling Stupak Judas.

If they mailed bags of rock salt to Olympia Snowe, are they going to be sending Stupak's office pieces of silver?
"

Well, shit, then when the secession happens, he can go to Idaho or Georgia or S. Carolina and use all that newfound wealth to own them!
posted by symbioid at 10:18 AM on March 22, 2010 [1 favorite]


Oh, sure, I drop off the radar for a couple of days, and the tea baggers go crazy, HCR passes, and Mefi goes and has an epic thread without me.

Typical.

I'm never leaving my computer again.
posted by quin at 2:05 PM on March 22, 2010


Well, luckily for Rush, he has the money to move to another country and take care of any residency issues. Oddly, not too many others have the resources to do that.

So he'd leave behind a system that's now a bit better for us, and use his considerable wealth to keep ahead of the proles.

How deeply noble, another patriot is born.

Irony makes me feel dirty.
posted by Sportbilly at 6:27 PM on March 22, 2010


"NOVEMBER... THE DEMISE OF THE "DEMOCRATIC" REGIME THAT IS NOW IN PLACE!LET'S BE THE AMERICANS THAT HAVE LEFT ITS MARK ON HISTORY. LETS STAND UP AND TAKE CONTOLL OF WHAT SHOULD OUR EXISTANCE. LET'S BE "FREE" ONCE MORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

That's a direct quote from a Facebook 'friend' of mine. I'm not even kidding - 14 exclamation points. I haven't actually seen or spoken to this guy in, shit, 20 years. Maybe 15 years ago he was literally crushed between a reversing tractor trailer truck and the loading dock where he was working part time, and very nearly killed. I don't know the details of his health care situation, but I can't imagine it was very good. I would be astonished if he wasn't receiving government assistance.

If THAT fucking guy can be so venomously anti-HRC, so much so that he actually tries to conjure up some sort of rousing speech from the third reel of the Lee Marvin movie playing in his brain, what the hell kind of chance do we have for this to do any good in the long run? I'm seriously troubled here.

To be fair, he was always kind of a prick.
posted by dirtdirt at 8:39 PM on March 22, 2010 [2 favorites]


Last Thursday [Rep. Slaughter] received a chilling recorded message at her campaign office. “Assassinate is the word they used…toward the children of lawmakers who voted yes."

(Also see the picture of the note attached to the brick through through Slaughter's office window: “Exremism [sic] in defense of liberty is no vice”.)
posted by EarBucket at 5:12 AM on March 23, 2010 [1 favorite]


A tea party organizer angry over Rep. Tom Perriello’s (D-Va.) vote in favor of health care reform published what he thought was the freshman member’s home address on a blog, in case any readers “want to drop by” and provide a “personal touch” to their views.

Rather than giving out Perriello’s address however, the tea party activist instead mistakenly printed the home address of the congressman’s brother. Perriello’s brother and wife have four children under the age of eight.
posted by EarBucket at 7:51 AM on March 23, 2010


Authorities say the Tucson, Ariz., congressional office of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords was vandalized a few hours after the House vote overhauling the nation's health care system.

Someone either kicked or shot out a glass door and side window of the office early Monday, but it did not appear that anyone entered the office. Authorities are looking into whether a pellet gun was used.
posted by EarBucket at 7:59 AM on March 23, 2010


The FBI is certainly going to be kept busy locking up the nuts. And, hey, once they have a criminal record, they're no longer allowed to vote, right?
posted by five fresh fish at 8:34 AM on March 23, 2010 [1 favorite]


The FBI is certainly going to be kept busy locking up the nuts. And, hey, once they have a criminal record, they're no longer allowed to vote, right?

Actually, these days most states allow felons to vote once they've served their time. An awful lot of people don't know that, though--I can't tell you how many found out from me while I was canvassing in '08.
posted by EarBucket at 8:37 AM on March 23, 2010


five fresh fish: "And, hey, once they have a criminal record, they're no longer allowed to vote, right?"

That's only true in 12 states. It's a pretty persistent myth though in other places; we kept hitting that when I was working voter registration for the Obama campaign.
posted by octothorpe at 8:43 AM on March 23, 2010


Or what EarBucket said.
posted by octothorpe at 8:44 AM on March 23, 2010


EarBucket: A tea party organizer angry over Rep. Tom Perriello’s (D-Va.) vote in favor of health care reform published what he thought was the freshman member’s home address on a blog, in case any readers “want to drop by” and provide a “personal touch” to their views.

Rather than giving out Perriello’s address however, the tea party activist instead mistakenly printed the home address of the congressman’s brother. Perriello’s brother and wife have four children under the age of eight.


Almost sounds like those Castle Laws are going to bite some right-wingers in the ass…
posted by paisley henosis at 8:58 AM on March 23, 2010 [2 favorites]


From Earbucket's link:

Troxel [who put up the link] , a 2005 graduate of Liberty University, added “I was a journalism major in college, so I have every reason to believe my research is accurate.”

*falls down laughing*
posted by rtha at 9:13 AM on March 23, 2010


On the heels of health care, a new Harris poll reveals Republican attitudes about Obama: Two-thirds think he's a socialist, 57 percent a Muslim—and 24 percent say "he may be the Antichrist."
posted by EarBucket at 9:41 AM on March 23, 2010


24 percent say "he may be the Antichrist."

To be fair, a year ago most Democrats thought he could walk on water.
posted by Pollomacho at 9:52 AM on March 23, 2010


Dude I am already down here laffing I can't fall down any more than I already am

maybe this is where I start crying?
posted by rtha at 9:52 AM on March 23, 2010


Meanwhile, Rep. Gohmert of Texas wants to repeal the 17th Amendment, returning the selection of senators to state legislatures. I suspect that as political messages go, "You should have less representation in Washington!" isn't going to be a winner.
posted by EarBucket at 10:57 AM on March 23, 2010


Tea partiers told to 'drop by' Perriello's home.
A tea party organizer angry over Rep. Thomas Perriello’s (D-Va.) vote in favor of health care reform published what he thought was the freshman member’s home address on a blog, in case any readers “want to drop by” and provide a “personal touch” to their views.

Rather than giving out Perriello’s address however, the tea party activist mistakenly printed the home address of the congressman’s brother. Perriello’s brother and wife have four children under the age of 8.
posted by scalefree at 11:01 AM on March 23, 2010


To all modern Sons of Liberty: THIS is your time. Break their windows. Break them NOW.
When the law becomes a deadly tool of tyranny, it is no longer a good thing to be obedient and "law-abiding." It is, in fact, suicidal.

Yet, given the federal mandarins' willful ignorance of our very existence and conviction that we have no opinions that they are bound to respect, is there anything that can be done to prevent civil war?

Yes, there is.

We can emulate the Sons of Liberty of old.

We can break their windows.
posted by scalefree at 11:45 AM on March 23, 2010


Why were there people not all out protesting mandatory car insurance or social security all this time?

I, for one, look forward to the repeal of mandatory auto insurance.
posted by GuyZero at 12:07 PM on March 23, 2010 [1 favorite]


To all modern Sons of Liberty: THIS is your time. Break their windows. Break them NOW.

For what it's worth, I just reported that site to Blogger for threatening violence. That's some scary stuff there.
posted by octothorpe at 12:12 PM on March 23, 2010 [1 favorite]


To all modern Sons of Liberty: THIS is your time. Break their windows. Break them NOW.

And if the history of casual hypocrisy has taught me anything, much like Glenn Beck getting paid by those cash for gold companies as sponsors and then whipping up his audience into a gold trading frenzy, this window breaking revolutionary will turn out to be a glazier or something similar.
posted by quin at 12:24 PM on March 23, 2010


Rather than giving out Perriello’s address however, the tea party activist mistakenly printed the home address of the congressman’s brother. Perriello’s brother and wife have four children under the age of 8.

My grandfather was a middle manager in the coal mines of the Ohio River valley. One time during a strike the union sent out a goon squad to his house. They saw a shadow behind a curtain in the big front picture window and shot at it with a rifle. Thing is, they had the wrong house. The shadow was the neighbor's toddler who survived being shot in the head, blind and with the intelligence of a toddler for the next thirty or fourty years.
posted by Pollomacho at 12:28 PM on March 23, 2010 [3 favorites]


Thing is, they had the wrong house. The shadow was the neighbor's toddler who survived being shot in the head, blind and with the intelligence of a toddler for the next thirty or fourty years.

How does one find justice for an act like that? Even if they people responsible are caught and go to jail? That's just stupefying.
posted by Skygazer at 12:43 PM on March 23, 2010


That's only true in 12 states. It's a pretty persistent myth though in other places; we kept hitting that when I was working voter registration for the Obama campaign.
posted by octothorpe at 11:43 AM on March 23 [+] [!]


*only* 12 states is just under a fourth of all states. the bill being considered now would also include mandatory notification to felons who have satisfactorily completed their rehabilitation that their rights have been restored.
posted by toodleydoodley at 1:06 PM on March 23, 2010


Whisky is for landlubbers. Drink rum!

*Looks at glass looks at screen* Drinks whiskey.
posted by nola at 1:30 PM on March 23, 2010


quin: Apparently he's on Social Security Disability. Also, it turns out he's actually a peacemaker:
Now I did not call for the vandalization of the windows of congresscritters, only local Demoncrat party HQs. But I can certainly understand why someone would.

I am trying to prevent civil war and communal killing, not start it, by warning those who do not understand the unintended consequences of THEIR actions.
If only we'd surrender, there wouldn't need to be a war.
posted by scalefree at 1:53 PM on March 23, 2010


To all modern Sons of Liberty: THIS is your time. Break their windows. Break them NOW.

A modern day Kristallnacht.
posted by ericb at 2:02 PM on March 23, 2010


Poll shows rapid increase in public support for health reform
"Polls aren't always right, but the Gallup Poll is generally one of the nation's most respected. And a new Gallup Poll released this afternoon finds an immediate and dramatic shift in public opinion toward the newly enacted health-reform law."
posted by ericb at 2:04 PM on March 23, 2010 [1 favorite]


Someone tried to say that in the comments on the blog, ericb. It was explained that this is completely unlike KristallNacht, because that was the agents of the government working against a righteous minority, and this is a righteous minority working against the agents of the government.
posted by jacalata at 2:04 PM on March 23, 2010


octothorpe: "To all modern Sons of Liberty: THIS is your time. Break their windows. Break them NOW.

For what it's worth, I just reported that site to Blogger for threatening violence. That's some scary stuff there.
"

For what it's worth, I reported it as well.

I thought I was going to have a relatively relaxed fall. Guess that's out the window, now that I'll be volunteering for as many campaigns as possible, to support those who voted for HCR and are facing reelection.

As I said to someone on FB yesterday who told me to join a flotilla to Cuba with all my other socialist friends: Hell, no. This is my country, too, and if I've stuck it out this long, I'm not about to go anywhere now that it's getting GOOD.

Fight's on, you shitpiles. Let's go.
posted by Lulu's Pink Converse at 2:13 PM on March 23, 2010 [3 favorites]


It's totally different; they were bad guys & we're good guys. Both smashing the windows of our enemies in the night to create a knot of fear & terror in our enemy's hearts.
posted by scalefree at 2:16 PM on March 23, 2010 [1 favorite]




For what it's worth, I just reported that site to Blogger for threatening violence. That's some scary stuff there."

I just contacted the FBI which is already investigating the five reported incidents mentioned above.
"Vandals hit at least five Dem offices nationwide, threaten to ‘assassinate’ children of pro-reform lawmakers."
If so inclined, you, too, can do so here.
posted by ericb at 2:30 PM on March 23, 2010


I'd already read news reports that said the FBI is investigating when I first posted, so I figured it was superfluous.
posted by scalefree at 2:32 PM on March 23, 2010


I'd already read news reports that said the FBI is investigating when I first posted...

Are they already investigating the blog postings at 'Sipsey Street Irregulars?' If so, great.
posted by ericb at 2:36 PM on March 23, 2010


OIC ... authorities are indeed on them already.
posted by ericb at 2:38 PM on March 23, 2010




scalefree : Both smashing the windows of our enemies in the night to create a knot of fear & terror in our enemy's hearts.

If only there were a term for a group of people who use insurgent, asymmetric tactics to spread an agenda of terror to those that they ideologically oppose.

Then we'd know what to call them.
posted by quin at 2:46 PM on March 23, 2010 [13 favorites]


In related news: Nebraska’s Attorney General Suing To Stop Reform Is Clueless About Existing Federal Law.

I went to high school with that blithering dickweed. Wished I would have punched him then when I could get away with it for what he's doing to my state these days. Dude was a clueless sycophant partyboi wannabe and not much has changed since. Well, other than his priggish conversion I guess. He was even a Young Democrat in college. Absolutely no consistency other than his desire to be liked and win popularity contests.

Jesus, I hate that guy.
posted by Fezboy! at 2:55 PM on March 23, 2010 [1 favorite]


Hank celebrates the passage of health care reform by discussing the weridest diseases he could discover.
posted by nickyskye at 6:03 PM on March 23, 2010


Peace-maker.
posted by scalefree at 6:07 PM on March 23, 2010


And of course the ultimate accessory for a violent extremist with delusions of grandeur, a manifesto. Ladies & gentlemen of MetaFilter, I present to you The Window War by Mike Vanderboegh.
posted by scalefree at 6:42 PM on March 23, 2010


Thing is, they had the wrong house. The shadow was the neighbor's toddler who survived being shot in the head, blind and with the intelligence of a toddler for the next thirty or fourty years.

This story makes me physically ill. What a horrific thing to happen, especially to a child. Here's hoping everyone gets through this safely.
posted by naoko at 6:45 PM on March 23, 2010


Rachel Maddow is reporting on Mike Vanderboegh right now.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 8:06 PM on March 23, 2010


James Cameron on Glenn Beck: "Glenn Beck is a fucking asshole."
posted by Artw at 12:22 AM on March 24, 2010


The FBI is investigating an incident at Periello's brother's house.
posted by EarBucket at 9:05 AM on March 24, 2010


Call your congress critters and tell them that you expect them to go on public record denouncing the violence and threats in no uncertain terms - particularly if they are republican. Don't ask - demand. Republicans need their feet held to the fire on this one.

I used to feel so superfluous when everyone was saying "call your congressperson" - but now that we have new Senator Brown here in Mass, I can participate, too!
posted by madamjujujive at 10:45 AM on March 24, 2010 [2 favorites]


Severed gas line found at home of Perriello brother. The FBI and local fire marshals are investigating.
posted by EarBucket at 12:00 PM on March 24, 2010




Reps. Hoyer and Clyburn just gave a press conference regarding the many threats that have been made over the past 72-hours. Capitol Police will provide protection to those Members of Congress who seek it. The FBI is investigating. Hoyer said that he hopes that Rep. Boehner and other Republicans will come out publicly against the threats.
posted by ericb at 12:05 PM on March 24, 2010


!?!
posted by The Whelk at 12:08 PM on March 24, 2010


Threatening Messages Left for Bart Stupak Due To His Health Care Vote

Can you imagine getting messages like that on your home answering machine? Really scary stuff. I hope the news media gives this a lot of coverage ... people need to be made aware of these psychos.
posted by madamjujujive at 12:28 PM on March 24, 2010


Reps. Hoyer and Clyburn just gave a press conference...

Video.
posted by ericb at 1:09 PM on March 24, 2010


I found this easy way to donate specifically to some of the Democrats who voted for healthcare despite being in R districts: http://www.actblue.com/page/wevegotyourback2
posted by jacalata at 2:22 PM on March 24, 2010


This Think Progress post talks about Mike Troxel who posted Periello's address. Check out the video from one of his supporters about 7 paragraphs down. Yikes.
posted by madamjujujive at 2:43 PM on March 24, 2010


What the fuck, America.

I'm glad that the mainstream media is finally exposing the Tea Party for what it is: an uneducated, violent, ultranationalist, white supremacist mob. And I hope the FBI and Secret Service are bringing their A-games.
posted by oinopaponton at 3:16 PM on March 24, 2010


The way those loons publicise their intentions of violence on the web, I expect even a C-game would do the trick. What a bunch of dipshits.
posted by five fresh fish at 3:47 PM on March 24, 2010


I just sent an email (I know, I should call-- it's after business hours on the East Coast) to Scott Brown's office urging him to make a stand against Tea Party violence. If your state has a friendly (or not so friendly) Republican representing your state in Washington and you want to do the same, you can find contact information for Senators here and Reps here.
posted by oinopaponton at 3:56 PM on March 24, 2010 [3 favorites]


oinopaponton, me too.
posted by theredpen at 4:45 PM on March 24, 2010 [2 favorites]


[one armed man] "And that is why you don't let right-wing nuts into you party!"
posted by five fresh fish at 7:20 PM on March 24, 2010 [3 favorites]


Humbug.
posted by five fresh fish at 7:24 PM on March 24, 2010


Patrick Kennedy leaves note for Ted on gravesite: "Dad, the unfinished business is done."
posted by nickyskye at 4:49 AM on March 25, 2010 [1 favorite]


five fresh fish: "The way those loons publicise their intentions of violence on the web, I expect even a C-game would do the trick. What a bunch of dipshits."

The problem being that these are the ones stupid enough to broadcast it publicly. How many more are actually being intelligent enough to shut up? Hopefully not a lot, but it doesn't take a lot.
posted by symbioid at 7:58 AM on March 25, 2010


Holy shit. Cantor just made a statement saying that talking about these threats is fanning the flames and encouraging more violence. Blame the victim.

Their line is essentially "ho-hum - threats are commonplace. It has nothing to do with us. We get threats too."

The freepers and right wing sites are nonplussed, and saying that these incidents are all "false flags" and that we should expect a "Reischtag fire" type event staged by the administration to justify a military clamp down and an attempt to silence them, Beck & Limbaugh. Lots of talk about guns, the oath keepers, being ready, and wishing they could be free to say what they really meant. Here's a sampling:

What do the outlaw bastards expect? Christmas Cookies and milk? Those progressive rats have awakened a sleeping giant that will not rest until they are out of office.

Hey Demoncrats! If you’re going to poke at the hornets’ nest, don’t be surprised when you get stung.

It is war. No doubt about it. Sew the wind. Reap the whirlwind. They had EVERY chance to pull back from the abyss. Now they are going to have to face the irate American People, their bosses, and it is not going to be nice. Rather unpleasant I would say. They should have thought of that.

If they don’t lay off the marxism, they ain’t seen nothing yet.

Rats you reap what you sow and this is going to get much worse.

posted by madamjujujive at 9:33 AM on March 25, 2010 [1 favorite]


No, no, see, THEY are always the true victims.
posted by Artw at 9:39 AM on March 25, 2010


Lots of talk about guns, the oath keepers, being ready, and wishing they could be free to say what they really meant.

Here's a good recent article on the Oath Keepers, in case anyone missed it:

Oath Keepers and the Age of Treason: Glenn Beck loves them. Tea Partiers court them. Congressmen listen to them. Meet the fast-growing "patriot" group that's recruiting soldiers to resist the Obama administration.
posted by homunculus at 10:32 AM on March 25, 2010 [2 favorites]


God I wish someone would fucking just GIVE US COMMUNISM already for like 2 years, then back to now, and see if these assholes would call our system Marxism/Socialism or whatever. Really, just ... I mean, this is communism?

But I just saw the other night -- they have a new little story in their head... How they're tying this into the Commie thing. They're now making the claim that Communists had a plot to first make a country bankrupt and then take over. So the health care reform is gonna make america bankrupt and THEN the commies will come in and take the guns.

Funny thing though -- never heard this line until recently. I got Bo Gritz literature in 92, watched some of his vids, read some books on the NWO. I read off and on again about the various conspiracies by these people. Have not heard this one until last night. Maybe it's been floating around, but methinks it's a nice little justification for them on why, exactly, the commie revolution hasn't happened already.
posted by symbioid at 10:50 AM on March 25, 2010


Those guys who have such a lust for war should, perhaps, try experiencing one before they get all caught up in fantasies of armed resistance and defending the homestead. A day or two of actual armed conflict would likely sort them out pretty quick, I think.
posted by jokeefe at 12:46 PM on March 25, 2010


A day or two of actual armed conflict would likely sort them out pretty quick, I think.

Unfortunately, I think they said the same thing when they sent the Grand Army of the Potomac to Manassas.
posted by Pollomacho at 12:48 PM on March 25, 2010




Ya know -- I used to like Chavez. Then he started doing some of the things they said he would do regarding censorship. And I, being libertarian in my outlook, started to really dislike him.

But if this is the kind of shit he has to deal with in his country? I can kind of empathize with the desire to do so.

I still think it's wrong to censor it, but I can at least get a better idea now of just why he might want to fucking shut those fuckers up.
posted by symbioid at 1:54 PM on March 25, 2010


No, pretty sure Chavez is actually a cock. Still, I've never had George Bush launch a coup against me.
posted by Artw at 2:30 PM on March 25, 2010 [1 favorite]


You're right Artw, I got caught up in Chavez's 21st socialism rhetoric (socialism from below) and saw some encouraging signs (and the blinders had me, of course, ignoring the warning signs *sigh* guess that means I'm human after all).
posted by symbioid at 2:44 PM on March 25, 2010


all this is done because they are concerned about federal spending?

I'd be kind of interested in a running tally of the cost to the government for all of these small 9and not so small) acts of chicken-shit terror.
posted by edgeways at 2:57 PM on March 25, 2010


They are concerned about federal spending ON SOMEONE ELSE. If it's spent on them then it's money well spent.
posted by Artw at 4:36 PM on March 25, 2010 [1 favorite]


Package with white powder sent to Rep. Weiner along with a letter telling the congressman to drop dead. Although the powder was pronounced harmless
The NYPD, the FBI and other emergency management officials responded as a precaution, spokesmen for the agencies say. Weiner's Kew Gardens office will be closed pending the completion of the investigation.
So not just a little prank-- the FBI and the NYPD could have been doing other, more constructive things with their time, but instead they had to waste it on some fool's idea of a joke. I hope the person is caught and forced to pay for everyone's time.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 4:53 PM on March 25, 2010


Frum and the American Enterprise Institute have parted ways.
posted by box at 5:58 PM on March 25, 2010


Tea Party Blogger Hints That Pelosi’s Life Is In Danger, Warns Of ‘A Thousand Little WacKo’s’.

FYI - I think it's spelled with a K.
posted by Pollomacho at 10:12 AM on March 26, 2010 [3 favorites]


Frum and the American Enterprise Institute have parted ways.

More on the Frum split.
posted by Pollomacho at 10:19 AM on March 26, 2010


The HuffPo Frum split article has some interesting updates.
posted by box at 10:31 AM on March 26, 2010


Michael Steele: I'm a cow on the tracks. ROFLMAO.
posted by five fresh fish at 10:46 AM on March 26, 2010 [4 favorites]


I guess Steele doesn't know that many trains have cow-catchers at the front of their locomotives to sweep any obstacles from the tracks (as portrayed in the video). Mr. Steele you're going get swept away.
posted by ericb at 11:24 AM on March 26, 2010


This was in the local news today. Nashville TN.

People are cracked.
posted by nola at 11:28 AM on March 26, 2010 [1 favorite]




Gingrich to Dems: 'Stop hitting yourself, stop hitting yourself'
posted by quin at 1:30 PM on March 26, 2010 [9 favorites]


It would be weird to work in the same building as people who tacitly condone threats and acts of violence towards your person and family.
posted by Think_Long at 1:42 PM on March 26, 2010


no quin, what he actually said was "Stop making people hit you!"
posted by jacalata at 4:33 PM on March 26, 2010 [1 favorite]




You know, calling their most recent gathering "the Tea Party Woodstock" makes sense. This is like the 60s for people who didn't live it the first time around. They've got a purpose, a sort-of vision of a better society (one that doesn't really stand up to scrutiny or the practicalities of life), they get to travel around to festivals, they've gained a sense of self-righteous importance, they wave sacred texts around that they haven't properly read, and they are hypocrites who would actually be quite sorry if the society they are calling for was to come into being and they lost their Social Security cheques and other middle-class trappings.
posted by jokeefe at 12:31 PM on March 28, 2010 [7 favorites]


One minor difference between the original Woodstock & this weekend's event: about 493,000 more people attended the former than the latter.
posted by scalefree at 8:03 PM on March 28, 2010


Tea is reported to contain no brown acid.
posted by Artw at 8:05 PM on March 28, 2010


That's a relief, because I heard it wasn't specifically too good.
posted by flabdablet at 8:29 PM on March 28, 2010


Hey, this thread is still open! HURF DURF TEABAGGERS SUCK
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:32 AM on April 8, 2010


Yer all hyped up on Stained Glass cake.
posted by The Whelk at 6:34 AM on April 8, 2010 [1 favorite]


What is Stained Glass cake?

Oh well, who cares? I want to talk about something else.

How awesome is the "Marriage Ref"? You can choose from a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is "pretty awesome" and 10 is "Return of Jesus awesome". This is important people, so really think about your answer.
posted by Think_Long at 7:51 AM on April 8, 2010


WARNING THIS THINK_LONG IS FROM THE MIRROR UNIVERSE.
posted by The Whelk at 8:08 AM on April 8, 2010


*grows goatee*

*dons skimpy uniform*
posted by Think_Long at 9:03 AM on April 8, 2010


War, racism, anti-socialists. These tea-bagger types are the perfect antidote to this crypto-communo-fascist Starfleet.
posted by Think_Long at 9:04 AM on April 8, 2010


Our mission, to find and destroy strange new worlds, to seek out and enslave new civilizations, to boldly lay waste where war has never touched.
posted by The Bizzaro Whelk at 9:09 AM on April 8, 2010


Armed with our trusted unicorders, we can detect all good things so we may destroy them.

Live short, and fail.
posted by Think_Long at 9:13 AM on April 8, 2010 [1 favorite]


Wonderful! Let us go down to the planet and learn no socially progressive moral whatsoever. Come Data! Foolish man, he believes he is a machine and strives to remove his horrible emotions!
posted by The Bizzaro Whelk at 9:25 AM on April 8, 2010 [1 favorite]


Don't forget Riker, the handsome and clean-shaven man who ironically gets no action from the ladies.
posted by Think_Long at 12:59 PM on April 8, 2010




Sarah Palin and the Tea-Partiers will be in Boston (home of the original December 16, 1773 protest) tomorrow.

Newly-elected Senator Scott Brown (whom the Tea Party movement takes credit for electing) will not be joining them on Boston Common.

Other featured guests and speakers include "SNL cast member Victoria Jackson and some guy who had a small role on Home Improvement."
posted by ericb at 2:39 PM on April 13, 2010


Oops. Source for "Jackson and some guy" being at the event.
posted by ericb at 2:44 PM on April 13, 2010


I was reading headlines today that claim that that [expletive] Palin has made more than $10M in less than a year.

She has made more money than most of you will earn in a lifetime. By acting as if she were a politician.

WTF.
posted by five fresh fish at 8:18 PM on April 13, 2010 [1 favorite]


FFF: You might be interested in reading this. It turns out her contract for speaking at a Cal. State University also included first class airfare for 2 from Alaska plus a luxury suite and two single rooms at a deluxe hotel. Quitting her job as Governor has paid off very well. The good news is I can't see her giving up all this to run for President.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 6:32 AM on April 14, 2010


Are there any decent twitter feeds documenting what it's like on the Common this morning?
posted by oinopaponton at 7:05 AM on April 14, 2010


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