Sen. Chuck Schumer: Gunga Din for Baucus while public option flames out

Thanks a lot for nothing, Senator Schumer.

The Senate Finance Committe said “Nah, we don’t think so” to two amendments, one proposed by Sen. Jay (this guy rocks!) Rockefeller, and Sen. Charles Schumer. If that weren’t bad enough, Schumer proceeds to go on the teevee and become Max Baucus’ apologist.

In the face of questioning by Chris Matthews on Hardball, Schumer tap dances to the tune of “we’ll all love it once it gets out of committee”. Sure. That’s what Senators Baucus, Lincoln and Conrad whispered to me in a dream last night. They’re ersatz Democrats, ranking right up there with Joe Leiberman. Max Baucus only gets elected on the Democratic ticket so that the people of Montana can kid themselves into believing they really support a two party system.

Here’s Chuck Schumer’s contact and website. Email and tell him how special he isn’t.

And while you’re at it, contact Max Baucus, Blanche Lincoln and Kent Conrad and tell them what you think of faux Democrats.

Oh, and finally, tell Sen. Jay Rockefeller to keep fighting the good fight.

Breaking News: Rockefeller to introduce 'Public Option'

Citing the need a ‘public option’ to compete with private insurers as a necessary part of any health insurance reform proposal, Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.VA, has introduced an amendment to the Senate Finance Committee bill recently trotted out by Montana’s ever obedient Max Baucus. Baucus’s bill was roundly criticized by more progressive Democrats for leaving out the public option to appease moderate Democrats and Republicans. Baucus has been seen as a shill for such health insurance giants as Wellpoint.

“So, we want to introduce a non-profit health insurance company that doesn’t have to make money. Which can offer the same premiums at maybe 25 to 30% less cost. People don’t have to join it. Or, if they do, they can get out of it if they don’t like it. But, competition is everything”, Rockefeller told sources.

The Rockefeller amendment closely follows the intent of the House bill in regard to the inclusion of a public option and other details.

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