Poll shows Public Option gaining support

[Mark F]

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33388085/ns/health-more_health_news
(Click for the entire article)


As Democratic congressional leaders and White House officials work to shape health care bills that will go to the House and Senate floors, a new Washington Post-ABC News poll shows that support for a government-run health plan to compete with private insurers has rebounded from its summertime lows and now wins clear majority support from the public.

Americans remain sharply divided about both the overall health care package and President Obama's leadership on the issue, reflecting the intense partisan battle that has raged for months over the administration's top legislative priority. But majorities now back two key and controversial provisions: both the so-called public option and a new mandate requiring all Americans to carry health insurance.

Independents and senior citizens, two groups crucial to the debate, have warmed to the idea of a public insurance option, and are particularly supportive if it were administered by the states and limited to those without access to affordable private insurance, as stipulated in some versions of the legislation.

[cynthia Hunter]

Let's see, 42% for* 54%against, nope dont think so.(Ras. poll)

[Daniel Blattenbauer]

Hopefully the final bill WILL include the public option. Otherwise the few health insurance companies will be able to continue taking advantage of the monopoly and rake in record profits for the next decade as in the past. Since the Dems have complete control I think they should pass what the majority wants, just as GW passed his tax breaks for his rich friends using reconciliation.

[Madhatterat60]

Today, another 17,000 people lost health care insurance. Tomorrow...another 17,000. Those "demoncraps" who have decided a "Public Option" isn't in the best interest of the country had better look over their shoulders come PRIMARY time. I'll work very, very hard to see they're replaced by a True Democrat.

Oh...and here's one for you, Cyn...

A new Washington Post-ABC poll shows that support for a government-run health-care plan to compete with private insurers has rebounded from its summertime lows and wins clear majority support from the public." A rift remains among Americans on the overall shape of the plans. "But sizable majorities back two key and controversial provisions: both the so-called public option and a new mandate that would require all Americans to carry health insurance." Washington Post, 10/21

[Daniel Blattenbauer]

I agree. Just do not know why the Dems are afraid to pass this legislation without the one Republican who "may" vote with them. Bush did not give a damn if no Dems voted for his huge tax breaks for the rich. What is more important? Giving the rich tax breaks or the common people some decent health care? If they do not pass something with a public option I think the Dems deserve to lose power. Not that I would want to see some more "Bush policies" that harmed our nation so greatly.

[The time of man]

Daniel Blattenbauer "Bush did not give a damn if no Dems voted for his huge tax breaks for the rich. What is more important? Giving the rich tax breaks or the common people some decent health care?" I agree with you 100%

[Just-a-Writer]

As long as the Crazy Conservatives keep their heads in the sand about this mess taking years to culminate, they'll keep trying to put a drinking buddy in office.

But I figured the public option would gather more steam after the insurance companies faux report stating that premiums would go up with the bill that just passed the Finance Committee. That was basically telling everybody (pretty blatantly too, imo) that they didn't like it so they were going to jack us. People saw/heard that and said, "Hell no!"