American Morning
LIVE Blog: House Dems report increased threats
Editor's Note: Welcome to American Morning's LIVE Blog where you can discuss the "most news in the morning" with us each and every day. Join the live chat during the program by adding your comments below. It's your chance to share your thoughts on the day's headlines. Keep in mind, you have a better chance of having your comment get past our moderators if you follow our rules: 1) Keep it brief 2) No writing in ALL CAPS 3) Use your real name (first name only is fine) 4) No links 5) Watch your language (that includes $#&*).
[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/images/03/25/capitol.police.hcr.gi.art.jpg caption="Capitol police officers stand watch in front of the U.S. Capitol on March 21, 2010 in Washington, DC."]
(CNN) - Democratic congressional leaders Wednesday demanded Republicans join them in condemning a spate of threats and vandalism that has followed Sunday's vote on a sweeping overhaul of the U.S. health care system.
More than 10 Democrats have reported trouble since the weekend vote, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer told reporters. Windows have been smashed at Democratic offices in at least three states, and federal agents were investigating whether a cut gas line at the home of a Virginia congressman's brother was related to the lawmaker's yes vote.
Democracy "is not about violence," Hoyer said at a news conference with South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn, the No. 2 Democrat in the House of Representatives. FULL STORY
Other top stories:
California could legalize pot
It's an historic step forward for pot supporters – California could become the first state to legalize marijuana for non-medicinal purposes. The measure will be on the ballot this fall. Our Dan Simon is in Oakland talking to people on both sides of the issue.
Relaxing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'
Big changes are expected to the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. The Pentagon is set to announce this morning that the military will no longer investigate gays who are outed by third parties or complaints made anonymously. We'll get reaction from soldiers in the field.
Sound off: Join the conversation on today's top stories. What do you think about health care reform threats, relaxing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," or legalizing marijuana? Add your comments to the LIVE blog below and we'll read some of them on the show.
About this Show
Welcome to the American Morning blog where you can get daily news updates from American Morning's reporters and producers. Join us for "the most news in the morning," weekdays from 6-9 a.m. ET, only on CNN.
On Twitter
But it was ok and 'patriotic' when Bill Maher on HBO said that somebody should shoot George Bush............how hypocritical the left wing CNN is.
I am a Respiratory Therapist in Texas. All day every day hospitals are full of people dying from cigarretes and alcohol. Yet our government thinks it is o.k. to sell and tax a drug more addictive and deadly than heroin. Legalizing Marijuana would help with our countrys' debt and probably overall stress management for an ever incresingly hostile world. Never in its history has there been one single reported death from marijuana use !
I have been a Republican since being able to vote, though I didn't vote for GW. Today I am changing my affliation to Democrat. I have never seen such insance, hypocritical, unethical actions from the entire Conservative Right Wing nut cases in my life! I could not be more against EVERYTHING they represent! After watching the horrifying events of the past 10 years that OUR government did nothing to stop and actually aided, I am fed up!!! Obama is trying, though I don't know how much more he can take. Let's see since he took office (and I didn't' vote for him) new credit card regulation, energy efficiency laws, incentives and reform, a start for Healthcare Reform, and now an attempt to regulate the Financial Institutions. This is the direction that We The People need to be heading! Enough with the greed in this country.
If marijuana is to be legalized, two things have to happen. One, there has to be a test developed, and a law introduced, to address impaired driving due to marijuana. It should be treated as no different than impaired driving due to alcohol. The level of impairment is quite similar, and should be treated as such. Two, the sale of marijuana should be regulated in the same manner as other drugs. Sell it only through pharmacies.
we have a republican governor trying to get everyone high by trying to legalize marijuana, that by the way has a video on youtube smoking marijuana, and also have republicans fighting to kill healthcare reform!!!! what are republicans trying to do to America??????? they want to get everyone high n give them no healthcare!!!!!
In regards to marijuana for recreational use, I'll just say I wouldn't object to it. It's 'high' time we start seeing more progression in the legalization of marijuana. Being something that's going to help the economy more than hurt it, you would think there would be less objections. There are far worst things available for even those of 18 years of age.. ever heard of "spice"? It's legally sold to those seaking the feeling of THC without the consequences of local authoritiess lol
weight a minet did i not just see john mcain on tational tv say he
and his two face frinds up in the white house working on ways
to kill the bill on health at 3am this morning and why I think]
i heard him say sarah palen was going to meet with later on to get
set up on campaining this fall didnt she come out critizing all
the things that john mecain done to her durig the election boy
talking about two faced
Just a quick laugh-If you meet a driver who is smoking pot, he will most likely be almost in the ditch on his own side of the road as compared to a driver drinking alcohol who most likely will be all over the road.–I'm just sayin
Our country is the icon of the world, yet our people suffer and die. Our house reps have all control to help the rest of the world; when there are millions suffering in our own back yard. go outside and look around, then try listening to the poeple who put you there! after all isnt it for the poeple by the poeple. next time your child gets sick; just try to imagine those who can help there child and becouse they dont have insurance they cant do anything but watch there baby slip away. sad and this is america.
The violent reaction to the health care bill in my opinion is partially the responsibility of irresponsible opinion journalism. About half of all Americans apparently cannot sort the truth out of the broadcasts of right wing talk radio and television and their misrepresentation of the bill. The violence against democrats reminds me of sore losers in high school sports competitions. The GOP is all too happy to let this hate climate prevail as it is their interest and gives sway to their political power. I watched the freak show Glenn Beck for the first time yesterday and through his hurried speech gave a quick list of who we should hate. He had a photo lineup of the people destroying the constitution with the President at the top – with an urgency in his voice like something must be done soon. This is fueling the Crazies and the likes of Beck are ramping it up. The political right doesn't want President Obama to succeed at anything and the football game analogy is supported by the Tea Party Crazies, the irresponsible vitriol of Rush Limbaugh, and other destroyers. I support Beck and Limbaugh's right to free speech regardless of their slant but I've also boycotted the advertisers of Limbaughs programs for over 15 years. Now Beck.
When Bush used flase info to start a war with Iraq which saw this country spending billions, all of the republicians voted for the war without asking any question.Now the democrats want to spend bilions on our health and the repubilcians are screaming.I know who i will vote for and it is the party that put my health first verses a war with another country that gained us anything but a lot of dead young people.
It would be nice if the Americans that can afford health care would think of the millions that cannot.Being canadian and not having to worry about health care when I get up in the morning is comforting.
Contrary to what americans think,if I or any other canadian needs medical attention it is available immediately.
I believe this is a right that all of us should have.
I am a veteran, and I don't have a problem with homosexuals, whether they can marry or not or serving in the military. I suppose the only question that comes to mind with repealling don't ask don't tell is that it blurs the lines between the sexes a bit. What I mean is that when you live on a ship you live in "berthings" which is a big room with a bunch of males OR females living in a cramped space where you may or may not walk around in undergarments, it's basically a big locker room with coffin racks. So, I can see how some may feel uncomfortable in a berthing with a person that is attracted to the same sex. The navy doesn't put males and females in the same sleeping area for a reason so I guess this is the main issue with repealing don't ask don't tell.
I am a Parent and a volunteer coordinator of The Parent Program as well as a member of The Substance Awareness Group of Emerson funded by the Bergen County Municipal Alliance. both are drug and alcohol awareness programs. Our programs have seen a significant increase in drug and alcohol use in recent years. The recent legalization of marajuana in any form is only making it harder for us to protect and discourage our kids from using drugs. I have already encountered arguments from 7th graders on the statement of " How can you say Marijuana is bad for you if the government is making it legal and giving it to sick people". I see this only as a way for our kids use of drugs in general to further increase over time. TheParentProgram.spaces.live.com
Ask yourself THIS ....
If this health care plan is so great for ALL... why are the people that voted for it exempt from it?
Republican leadership publicly stated their goal to bring down the Obama administration by voting "no" on ANY piece of legislation supported or sponsored by Democrats. What the legislation concerns does not matter, the Republican leadership told their general membership. Therefore, the Republican legislative leadership is the primary reason that branch of our government is gridlocked even worse than usually.
If marijuana is legalized in California, then can a person be fired at their job for being on drugs. This isn't a simple yes you can smoke legally. It will take more time, money and law changes for it to work. Personally, I work with machines that can easily kill or tear off a limb. I don't want my co-worker impaired at all since that will endanger my life. No thanks.
Like I said the Republicans dont care about the small people. they want to keep us without insurance, no jobs and they think that makes them look good
NO – NO and again I say NO. Adding pot to the list of legal drugs will only compound the problems of drug abuse, driving under the influence and putting money into the hands of the wrong people.
Why not legalize all drugs and let the Republican type rage continue–it is symptomatic of a greater problem with American people that needs fixed faster than health care reform. Radical Islamics just have to wit 50 years because if things like this continue, the US will cease to exist.
I think the threats received by Democrats are absolutely stupid. WTF are people getting so angry and upset with this Health Care bill when it will help America progress? Everyone is entitled to equal, affordable health care! These perpetrators are nothing more than TERRORISTS because God forbid their ignorant, regressive political views are not prevailing in the Obama Administration. What's worse is these idiots are threatening the Democrat's innocent families!
And what does abortion have to do with this health care bill?? Government funds will not be used for elective procedures such as abortion, so drop the stupid abortion debate!
As far as the possibility of legalizing Marijuana in CA... ABOUT TIME! This should be legalized nationwide, taxed and regulated by our own government! Why has everyone demonized a drug that is NOT physically addictive unlike alcohol, cigarettes, and also other illegal drugs. We need the revenue sooo bad, we need to free up our penal system so we can keep worse criminals in jail, and believe this would help keep pot out of the hands of minors MORE SO than if it remains illegal! Hey, maybe it will boost food sales also!
The don't ask don't tell policy is archaic and oppressive. Its almost comparable to segregation. A person's sexual orientation has nothing to do with their ability to defend his/her fellow servicemen & women or their ability for them to defend our country!!
Lets move on people! Change is inevitable and constructive! We ought to remain civil, legalize marijuana, and stop violating the rights of women through anti-abortion measures, as well as the rights for gays!
How do you kill a lab rat with marijuana? Take 25lbs of it and drop it on it. the only way is to squish it. For people who say that marijuana is so bad and is so harmful, no one cares if that pack of cigarettes is going to give you cancer or not, a pre existing condition condition that would lose your health care. Or If your going to go home and beat your wife and kids because your a binge. Life is hard enough as it is but can anyone tell me What came first, the marijuana or the seed ? Ill think marijuana Is bad when some can either go and make it like a pill or when some one dies from smoking too much.
Pure insanity deep hatred, of my way or the highway, they are the crazy people. Glenn Beck, Rush Limbough, Sarah Palin, and John Boaner, the republican party have gone off the deep end of hatred. Totally unexceptionable, How can this witch sarah post a blog like that and still walk free??? she is a criminal, This mess is un-American, their deed and decisions will come back and haunt them. They are lairs,. they are mad, they are insane, they are wrong. To threaten the men and women of congress is crazy. Sent them to jail, their madness makes me think they see only one way, their way. The tea party and the republicans are dead wrong. john mccain has lost it, it finally caught up with him, his loss last year is killing him. this is to crazy. Protect our leaders, and our men and women in congress.
When will Americans grow up? When will we as a country stop reacting to these issues with stupiidity and selfish self interest?
Use the Amsterdam model. NO pot head ever committed violence unless he/she ALSO had abused alcohol!!!!
Alcohol has caused more suffering and economic upheaval than any other substance in the history of mankind!
LEGALIZE IT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If the Republicans think that this Health Bill is so bad, let them give up their "Cadillac" plan that WE pay for, and let them and their families suffer as all Americans do with the current Insurance Company greed!
I'd like to see John McCain be refused treatment for his jowl cancer or Chaney deprived heart procedures because he had "reached his re-imbursement level" like the rest of us!!!!!!
Legalization of Marijuana for recreational use would relieve a great strain on the legal system. I have no firm figures to back this statement up, but I am certain that the case load of pending cases is very costly to the government as well as the incarceration expenses for those convicted of simple marijuana charges. Furthermore, the funds spent by law enforcement on investigation of marijuana cases. All money that can be spent on other public safety issues.
haven't the republicans learned any thing from the pres. win, that the hatred and radical actions don't fly with the rest of us "normal" ppl. I think the repblicans have incited these actions. main culprits Sarah Palin and John McCain L"condoned" these actions. Proud to be a Democrat!!!!
These tea party and extremist people are empowered because they think everyone agrees with them–all the news shows is them and congressmen keep saying that the American people don't want this health care bill–that is not the truth–many,many of us have been calling our congressmen and asking them to vote for this bill. How about reporting that. Let's make sure that the responsible, working folks who don't have time to go to rally's and blog all day get some print also.An expose' on what these people in the crowds shown on TV do for a living–how do they have time and money to do this-I don't–I have to go to work and take care of my family–who are these people-the news needs to show more of the other side.
Sarah Palin and her Republican cronies need to accept the fact that Democrats passed legislation with purpose. I don't think anyone claims it is perfect, but it can't be denied that it's a step in the right direction. What's truly appalling is the nearly criminal negligence of inciting and sanctioning threats and intimidation. When she says "RELOAD" I hope she means "REFRESH" as in; her memory and understanding of the word democracy. You lose, fair and square. Get over it. (Mark, Ontario, Canada)
Regarding the legalization of Marijuana:
Americans really need to get away from the rhetoric when it comes to Marijuana. We have been conditioned to believe it is wrong or controversial. We need to be rational about this. Cigarettes and Alcohol are legal and they are not 100% healthy particularly when not done in moderation. We allow drug companies to create hundreds or thousands of chemical compounds in labs with horrible side-effects to treat medical conditions, effect mood and depression, and kill pain. Yet, something given to us by NATURE (or God if you believe) and can be simply smoked or ingested after growing in the ground is treated like some kind of poison. The real poisons are the drug company drugs. I have worked in the regulation of drug companies in the past and trust me, they study these drugs for years and there are acceptable numbers of deaths and harmful side-effects. They then start marketing these drugs and make millions – and something like Marijuana would cut into those profits. The drug companies are the only ones who would suffer and it is in their best interest to keep this controversial and maintain stereotypes about this plant. I have never tried Marijuana and might not try it if it was legal, unless I needed it for medical reasons but I am rational enough to know it should be legal.
One of the main reasons for prohibition was the overwhelming evidence of what alcoholism does to families. Domestic violence, child neglect and abuse just to name a few. Marijuana in comparison has no such studies. It does not cause this type of behavior. Pot nas gotten a bad rap for a long time. Its about time for this legislation.
The conduct of the men and women making these calls is absolutely deplorable. They should be reminded that, just as they are free to have their own opinions and practice their own beliefs as Republican constituents, so are members of the party of the Democrats.
The vote on reforming health care was decided fairly and properly by the democratic process of this nation, and these callers should be ashamed of themselves for sinking to such a low.
Good Morning John and Kiran,
Were you both chubby babys?
Health Care hate shows America has a conscience problem, and church leadership should seek to shed light on the deeper malady of unrest. Is American hate attitudes towards one another due to the increased casualties of principles and values initiated by unjust laws rooted in the nature of acceptable malice, and war, based upon the lie of false intelligence, causing america's collective conscience to bear the overwhelming stressful burden of guilt debt created by past governmental emotional abuse towards its people and other sovereign nations. Doesn't the long term affects of tyrannies inhumane psychological abuse(Jefferson addressed issue in The Declaration Of Independence) produce insane terroristic behavior? The C.I.A. is a society of anti-american intelligence, rooted in malice, and the number 1 enemy of it's natural God Given Freedoms.
As usual the opposition to legalizing pot is being led by the police and the drug bueracracy who are only interested in their paychecks. This is the reason pot is illegal to begin with!
It's time to raise the tenor of the response back to the high level in which it should reside. Great political minds speak of ideas, not indulging in baser commentary about the players themselves. America should be reminded that we live in a Republic, not a Democracy. We do not have a referendum in which our personal wishes are paramount. We do not elect our representation to do our specific bidding. We elect them to use their best judgment and to ensure consideration of our needs and wishes in their decision-making. It is they, who reside in the halls of power who must decide what is attainable; what resides in the realm of possibility and not only what the population decrees. We must remember that if it were left solely to the wants of the populace, that all thirteen of the original Colonies would never have signed the Declaration of Independence and this country would never have been born.
How come the SEC, FBI and other Govenment agencies are not innvestigation the graft, OVER $ 8000,000 PER DAY, that was provided by the pharmmicudical companies to extent their patents to 12 years. This essentially ends GENERIC DRUGS
How about disclosing the cost of his Lordship Barack Obama's travel epenses while campaigning for thiis horrible piece of legislation
What about the FIVE HUNDRED BILLION DOLLARS in medicare cuts
Legalize it in every state, tax the sale of it in every state, and use the profits for healthcare, too easy. The majority of Americans are still hung up on something called religion and the bible does not mention Jesus puffing with his buddies, if it did then we would all be smoking it for religious reasons.
Shouldn't Sarah Palin be Arrested and Charged for Post on Her Website stating,"Reload!," with Gun Scope Targets for our Congressmen? I'm sure the Law would be kicking down doors of Average Citizens if we threatened the Government on Facebook/Twitter.
I was married to an alcoholic for many years and I have many friends who smoke pot medically and recreationally, I have never seen an issue with pot smoking as opposed to alcohol. Alcohol ruined my parents marriage, my marriage and many of my friends. I have never heard of one case of anyone's marriage going downhill because of pot....Please people get real Pot is the way California can really make some money. We legalize, then tax! Maybe California would actually not go bankrupt.
I believe that the legalistic definition of drugs represents a barrier to our understanding of drug legalization debate. In effect it closes off the debate on legalization. If the currently illegal drugs were legalized, would that mean that, overnight- according to this definition- they would automatically cease to be drugs?
Oh, so we have no trouble sending American military members to fight for Democracry and the rights of individuals in other People's countries; but our streets become Iraqi Red-zones when our opinion doesn't match the majority rule decisions? Are we just a violent People or can we remain civil. To the Republican officials who have incited violence..just by suggesting it, you are the law-makers; but law enforcement will take you down too! Don't let your hate turn you into law-breakers and Bernie Madoff cell-mates. To others, ask your supporters to keep a civil tone...please, before someone is hurt or killed at your hands or tongues!
Legalize Pot ? Let me just say this, You Don't Get STONED you get STUPID ! And i think this country already has enough stupid people
no civilizationation in 2500 years have won a "DRUG WAR" and that goes for China too. Prohibition does not work and the black market is the only winners as was shown in the 1920's. Imagine where our economy could be if the Billions of dollars spent on the drug war was spent on Drug Education and the left over could be redirected to something better like paying to increase to poor education systmen or even better, pay down the deficit; not to mention the tax revenue. Prohibition DOES NOT WORK; ONLY EDUCATION has a chance to change people minds about drug consumption.
Legalizing marajuana in this country would put a big dent in the Mexican cartels' income, as well as recognize that we have many more deaths in this country from alcohol than from marajuana. Then perhaps, we could gain better control over our border with Mexico, which is definitely a security issue.
the Republicans should be worried about the next election, Do they really think people want the outrage this country doing,it does not make them look good not in my eyes.And that SaraPalin will get hers one day
Is California like AIG, ie: too big to fail? Would it be prudent to break California into two or three states instead of one?
Marijuana should be legalized. The money that is spent to police marijuana could be used to close State and Federal budget deficits. The possible money that could be gained for the States and Feds in the form of Tax could again close their budget deficits. If the DEA didn't have to worry about marijuana, they could focus their efforts on drugs that actually kill people, like methamphetamine. The amount of prescription drugs that are out there is ridiculous. Cigarettes are legal. Alcohol is legal. Prescription drugs, cigarettes and alcohol kill more people individually than marijuana will ever kill, but they are both legal. Don't know how marijuana will help with our nations over eating challenges though.
Seems to me that these guys didn't listen to their own constituents. I doubt it's actual republicans making the threats, more likely it's the congressional folks own constituents.
If Alcohol is allowed, why not Pot? My Mom drank until she passed out nightly, she would say super hateful things while drinking and would not really parent me. When I smoke pot, I play with my kids, I go out of my way to say sweet and fun things to my kids and I am a very active involved parent. So tell me again why my Mom didn't have to worry about being prosecuted, but yet I do?
Pot Legalization in California:
It is about time, just like cigarettes and Alcohol both of them are harmful thus Pot if it is argued to be harmful then it lives the choice with individual to chose to use it or dont use it. In my opinion in long run pot use will reduce in due time if it is legalized.
Every day, I thank God that John McCain and Sarah Palin are not in the White House. His constant grin in response to anti-Democrat violence and her incendiary, anti-American postings are examples of why they should not ever be in a position of power.
We are going backwards! Republicans, step up and really condemn the actions against your fellow congress men and women.
Weed out the radicals from the Tea Party movement who are using it to cover up other motives they may be harboring. We don't need to fight a war here at home. We have enough to contend with in the Middle East.
If California legalizes pot, will it be legal to ship it across state lines?
honestly the healthcare for anyone should be awarded the day they are born. People in opposition to the healthcare reform are very out of touch with their feelings. Its about time.
Marijuana should be legalized for two reasons.
1> alcohol and smoking has been proven to be detrimental to the health of you body and others. Smoking causes cancer BUT is legal and sold on every corner of america. Alcohol destroys brains cells, kidneys, and liver but is available everywhere.
So why not marijuana which hasnt been proven to do anything detrimental to the body.
2> we can stop cutting down trees for paper products and use hemp paper. The hemp is a weed and grows soooooo much faster than trees...
should have been legal a long time ago but the papermill and associated lumber companies have kept it illegal.
1) How bizarre that Stupak is ANTI abortion and held up passage of the health care bill until they agreed to take out any funding for abortions, and now all the republicans and right to,lifer's HATE him?!? That seems completely strange and twisted, to me.. personally I would have insisted on full funding for abortions and right to personal choice in a world already overcrowded and rapidly growing, where we're already running out of both space and resources... but ... whatEVER....
2) i still regard Marijuana as essentially a 'drug" and certainly a gateway drug to other harder substances. I dislike the trend to see it at as some sort of panacea and also the notion of basically "idolizing' it and worshiping it as many seem to. i hear ads for head shops and bongs and there are blatant advertisements where doctors charge a large amount of money to give someone certification I've seen what appeared to be totally healthy 15 and 16 year olds going in and out of dispensaries – i thought it was 'supposed' to be only as a last resort as an alternative for those for whom nothing else worked, but these things are sprouting up like mushrooms after a rainstorm, and you can't tell ME that normal NSAID' and painkillers REALLY didn't work for ALL those people..,. I don't mind a legitimate use or need, but I seriously dislike being conned and lied to.
3) a Soldier in an interview said something about being made to feel "uncomfortable". Since WHEN has being in the military EVER been about being comfortable?!? if you wanted comfort then you certainly shouldn't have signed up for the military. Also – does it EVER occur to other people how uncomfortable GAY people must feel having to put up with and be around the dominant culture? How do you think WOMEN feel, being constantly ogled, leered at, felt up and talked about? Grow up, get over it, act mature and stop being such a wuss, lol Accept reality.
Legalizing pot does bring the reality of of being charged with a DWS (driving while stoned). The moneys raised will seem to have to be spent with mobile drug testing, AND what influence, manipulation will the drug cartels have? Appears to be another war coming at a different level??? Risk evaluation isn't a pretty picture.
Many of the people performing these acts are crazy radicals, but they are egged on by people like Rush Limbaugh and John Boehner with their divisive words. If I had listened to them only, I would think this bill was the kryponite of our country. Preaching lies and negative rhetoric will always cause some people on the fringes of society to perform these unspeakable acts. Threatening congressman and their families is not the way to protest, you must protest like all Americans do, at the ballot box.
Calling your elected representatives names is one thing, but to threaten them or their families is nothing short of terrorism and should be treated as such.
I am embarrased at the level of hatred in this country. Europe has had this coverage for years. We are fast becoming a backward country. If these people had their way they would take us straight back to slavery, no working women and no life choice. People come to this country for our forward thinking, education and people's kindness. This behavior is embarrassing.
I work for a surgeon. If we do not regulate these private payors, people will not have to worry about their own health coverage because there will be no doctors to treat them. Right now all private carriers can change their payment as well as coverage policies with little or no notice. As long as they publish on their web site they feel everyone has been notified. Yet malpractice fees increase every year. It is becomming more difficult for a private physician to keep his doors open. Add to that the strain on the small local ER rooms overwhelmed by people who come in at midnight for a headache ! Most of them uninsured. Don't be fooled. We are ALL paying for those people in our own health coverage.
What happen to the law when my Grandparents came to this country. They had to have a sponsor who would house and feed them until they were able to get jobs. Not so long ago. 1900's
I still think we should use Medicare as the model. All physicians are used to that contract and have built thier business models around that federal carrier.
I agree with Parello (sp) that Boehner's comment was disgusting, I was shocked that Boehner would actually make that sly, smug statement trying not to antagonize any of his followers (including the violent ones) while lefthandedly admitting that they shouldn't be violent. I was repulsed by Boehner's statement. Does he think a cut gas line is a minor event?
America lets wake up its not about the decision. I feel its about the decision maker. If it would have been Predsident Bush or Reagan it would have never been so much hostility. I pray that we will wake up and stop the war against ourselves and learn how to agree to disagree.
Lets learn to pray for each other than to break windows and spit on each other so we can move on in peace.
Lets not look at the color of the person, but at the heart.
we are Americans not animals. In God we trust.
President , Staff and family I pray that God will before you and his protection around you all. Thank you
when was the last time you heard of someone dying because of marijuana? now, when was the last time you heard of someone dying because they couldn't afford or be accepted for health insurance?
Social Security: There is a solution to the problem of Social Security not bringing in enough money. Remove the cap on earnings which are subject to social security tax. DUH.
how is new health care reform going to effect someone who olny makes 1200.00$ a month.
The Story that Jim Acosta just did on the LI railroad is the most distorted view of healthcare! If you live in the NYC area, as I do, you know that the majority of working men and woman on Long Island are NOT the middle class. Next time CNN, go to Queens or areas in Brooklyn where real middle class workers who earn less than 100K are living, working, and have a real middle class opinion on health care reform!
CNN needs to change it's headline. Health care didn't trigger hate. These people have hate in their hearts long before this. You need to call a duck a duck- this is racism and american terrorism. Why don't you talk about how some of these people are connected with the same groups that bred Wako and McVay and YES the GOP is stoking the fire of hate. What do you call waving the banners of the haters-
Why not legalize pot? It can't be any worse than some of the meds taken today for certain diseases.
For medical reasons I think anyone should have access to pot if they want to use it.
It's long overdue that Americans demand sane drug policy from our government. When I think of the billions we've wasted in the more than 70 years marijuana has been illegal it makes me sick. We haven't slowed down the drug trade, and use rates are up. This is a failed policy and I would rather see them tax it's trade than continue to tax me for a policy that is more harmful than the drug itself ever could be.
If I had my way, these people who are perpetrating the threats and acts of violence in the wake of the health care vote would all be declared domestic terrorists and treated as such. These are the same people who were the "bullies" in school; thinking that if they push people around and beat people up they would get their way. I'd be very interested to find out how these peoples' activities compare to the fallout after civil rights was passed...
It is time to send a clear message to members of congress who throw tantrums when they don't get it their way and instigate violence that they are not above the law. They need to be prosecuted and put in jail just like anybody else.
I find it sad but not surprising that Dems are being threatened after passing healthcare reform. The so called 'right to lifers' contridict themselves by not supporting the rights of all Americans to have access to healthcare.
The Constitution provided the right to bear arms so we could protect ourselves from an oppressive, irresponsible and ineffective government. As far as I am concerned it wouldn't bother me if the time is here to use these arms and rid us of all of them.
I have one question-Why don't people like rush Limbaugh get "charged with making terroristic threats" when he calls for those who voted for the healthcare reform to be "wiped out" not voted out . CNN chowed a clip of RUSH's take (HATE) Radio show where he said that "wipe them out" in reference to the healthcare vote.
legalize, I smoked pot every day for the past 15 years and I am an active 32 year old. I run everyday, ride/race mountian bike cross country, own a business, own a house and have 3 awesome kids. I don't smoke cigerettes, I don't drink alcohol, I don't even fill prescriptions for the harder drugs my dentist or doctor prescribes. But I watch the news and see all the D.W.I accidents and the deaths related to alcohol, cigerettes and the other "legal" drugs I wonder how our great country that was founded by people who grew and used marijauna could let it go so long as "bad'
It has nothing to do with raising a billion dollars off cannabis. its the simple fact that cannabis has medicinal value and should not be a schedule 1 drug.
This morning, I watched your discussion with the female doctor regarding childhood obesity, let us be real childhood obesity is a direct result of disparity, poverty, and inequality. It is obvious that when a child lives in the household averaged income is likely of less than $35,000; for this family the main food is, food that is loaded with fat such as macaroni and cheese. Let us focus on the real facts of life. This is a big picture that deserves a real solution and that is to eliminate disparity and not criticizing the pregnant woman and her unborn baby.
Pot is easier for kids to get than alcohol and cigarettes because of it's unregulation. It's time for lawmakers to open their eyes. It's safer than alcohol and all negative arguments are the results of prohibition
John first off pointing out a spelling mistake like that was WRONG.
But to my point. Legalize it everywhere. TAX like cigs. I have had chronic pain and sure wish they would legalize at least for medical use in NC. But what I know about pot, biggest problem is eating too much icecream and lack of motovation. But I sure know some drunks that have killed many just getting home.
Didn't we pull ourselves out of the Great Depression by lifting prohibition and taxing alcohol? The difference is alcohol often kills people, and marijuana does not.
We are ashamed of the way the Republicans have tried to stifle Health Care Reform and the reconciliation bill, solely focused on creating lies to support their future political careers. Ashamed...ashamed...ashamed. We would never vote for any replublican running for office again.
Clearly there is something displaced and just flat out wrong about most tea party members. The idea that they just get to threaten others because the vote didn't go the way they wanted is childish, and not AT ALL professional. I know we Dems whined and complained during the Bush travesty but we never gave out the address of friends and family. Crazy nut jobs.
Yes, yes, yes!!! Pot should've been legalized years ago for medical, AND recreational use, just the same as tobacco and alcohol, both of which have been proved to be vastly more dangerous. It's only because pot doesn't have the powerful lobby in Washington. Period. That, along with spineless self-serving politicians who won't touch the subject for fear of possibly not being re-elected. Perhaps in the wake of the disgraceful Bush/Cheney/Rove/Rumsfeld regime, our financial ruin has forced those in power to finally consider legalization as an obvious (harmless) means of raising much-needed revenues.
I'd love to attend Oaksterdam University!
Vote Yes on The Cannabis Act of 2010!!!!!!!
Man or wamen gay or stright should be able to serve our country afterall this is their country too. This country should be glad gays want to ,serve the country,i don't understand why ,we need them they don't need the fight that they get just to try and serve this country. In all honesty i wouldn,t want to serve
Legal marijuana makes economic sense because of the taxes the state could impose on its sale. Socially, responsible Americans can handle legal marijuana as they can handle alcohol and other legal drugs
Those who use or threaten to use violence in the name of politics are terrorists.
There is no difference between the way Al Queda tries to influence US Forerign policy and the way that these anti-healthcare militants are trying to influence US Domestic Policy.
Anyone that makes threats to bodily harm should be prosecuted. If you want change, then go to the ballot box.
Why has"nt anyone speculated about possible involvement of the health insurance conglomerates, in covertly sponsoring some the hate intimidation being used against congress people. Billions of dollars are involved in this reform. I'm sure there is some underground stimulation from thes companies.
about time people take action, i for one am on the peoples side, acction needs to be taken, your words do not matter. Dont be like congress, talk is cheap, actions last forever
Legalize it! Great points have already been made regarding the benefits of taxing marijuana, along with all the other standard talking points on this subject. Those opposed are ultimately afraid of what they don't understand, if they took the time to educate themselves, they too, would also see the enormity of benefits from decriminalization.
"If you don't like my fire, then don't come around, cause I'm gonna burn one down. My choice is what I choose to do, and if I'm causing no harm it shouldn't bother you. Your choice is who you choose to be, and if you're causin' no harm then you're alright by me. Herb's the gift from the Earth, and what's from the Earth is of the greatest worth. So before you knock it, try it first, you'll see it's a blessing and not a curse. Yes, I'm gonna burn one down". – B.H.
Dems are concerned about themselves and their famalies safety... Because of threats of violence and the like.
The same Republicans that used language (jammed, crammed, tolerated pictures of Obama as Hilter, or the Joker, then screemed that our freedoms are g...one, called anyone that thinks a commie, did everything to incite, enflame, to enrage, and to provoke the townfolk... are now they are saying settle down? Now they are decrying violence? Really?
When you play with stupid people (easy to get thier votes though) and tell them lies like this they really believe you and grab pitch forks and torches. (see Huttos)
Of course we know the truth... but folks that dont read, folks that have a blind ideology, folks that believe fairy tails (should we list them?) are folks that buy what you sell them and it is hate and the exhaust of hate is violence. So Boehner urges reason and composure now? Do as I say not as I do?
Republican House members actually encouraged protestors in the gallery. Signs referencing that if a Brown won't stop IT a browning will... And racial slurs and spitting on Franks? And we are surprised NOW that there is vilolence from the people who aren't allowed to think until the bumper sticker ink dries?
Senator Boehner, thank you for your composure and getting this under control. You are a rock...
When bullies cant win by intimidation they then resort to violence. Rush Limbaugh is calling for civil war. Hold onto your guns.
I don't know why people are getting violent about the healthcare bill. If they really care about how things are being handled, then they will get involved in their local government and remain peaceful. Getting violent breaks everything down and makes them a hypocrite.
As far as marijuana goes, they need to tax it and legalize it the same as liquor with the same restrictions. It could be the cash crop that would save America.
What are we coming to? Our country is going backwards!!!
The Republicans need to step up and really condemn the actions going on.
STOP THE MADNESS!!!.
Is the Tea Party movememt a cover for a subversive movement against minorities (and not just Black Americans), or the rise of something more sinister? .... it is scary!
I would love to know how someone who is all upset with cigarette smoke can then be engaged in marijuana smoking.
Vincente Fox tried legalizing drugs in Mexico to stop the cartels, but the US stopped him. So they just decriminalized personal use, which still supports the cartels revenue. California had over 1000 dispensaries, then the Feds closed down over 930 so they didn't cut in on the illegal sales. Seems our government is the biggest drug cartel and will due anything for price support.
Come on...! This doesn't happen over coffee. Where's the Supreme Court when you need them. This isn't a congressional issue to be decided by a democracy or "Al Capone" when to end prohibition. We're a Republic, for which it stands, and we need the courts to step up. Same as with the gay issue!
I think we have a lot more trouble in this country than we would like to admit. Just think, throughout most of this country, it is still quite cold outdoors...wait until the weather gets pleasant. Its starting to look like its no longer about Health Care, Financial, Insurance, etc. reform that is needed. Its looks like Government Reform needs to take priority over all else. Its the WAY Government is conducting itself. If we, the rational, reasonable and analytical loose control, we loose all. We need to take a "real hard look" at our government and see clearly what's going on. We need then to find a way to get the government back on track.
John Roberts just ruined the best hair in TV...........his! why did he do this???
To those who have posted comments that Marijuana will raise heath care cost due to medical problems caused by MJ...
No medical issues are associated from Marijuana...
I can though give you a list of people who have died because insurance companies have dropped people from health care, transplant list, cancer treatment, due to MJ being found in their blood work...
You complain about abortion, Obama killing grandma, etc, yet everyday people are dying from the prohibition law...
You complain about how much health care will cost Americans yet you care little about the billions spent to keep it illegal, fund prisions and deaths caused by the law...
There is NO science to support the prohibition and mounds of science to support legalization...
i think Sarah palin should be put in jail for what she put on the website because it a threat.
C Heinz,
Yes, Democrats are currently in the majority. Republicans also were for the first 6 years of the Bush Presidency. However, that did not stop Democrats and liberal special interest groups from obstructing the Republican agenda. The media didn't seem to mind obstructionism or tell us that "elections have consequences" when it was Democrats in the minority.
Regarding the violence in response to health care refore, these are the most basic principals that help found this country. Nobody wants violence or threats leveled against them, but this shows beyond the shadow of a doubt the frustration that people are feeling with their lives and their politicians. If the patriots felt the same way as some of these crying liberals, we'd be stopping this debate for a spot of tea. Wake up and listen to your people instead of riding the doomed "Obama band wagon".