The Hypocrisy Astounds and Abounds

Yesterday's press conference with Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer was not only an invitation only event, it required invitees to RSVP to be sure that no outsiders attended. Press conferences, by definition, are usually open to all comers. But this one, held on the steps of Congress, again by definition an area open to all citizens, was limited to those who agree with Pelosi and Hoyer.

In fact, protesters were walled off by a fence and some were arrested at "the people's House" because they begged to differ. So much for caring about the little people.

Pelosi claimed that this historic legislation, ". . .is fiscally sound, will not add one dime to the deficit, as it expands coverage, implements key insurance reforms and promotes prevention and wellness across the health system."

Even the perennially incorrect (on the low side) CBO has estimated that it will cost $1,055,000,000,000. And the key insurance reforms mean that sooner or later it will be government run health care. Promoting prevention covers up the fact that rationing is inevitable. Can she point to any government run health care or insurance system, like the Veterans' Hospitals, Medicare, or Medicaid that is not already bankrupt? How can this 1990 page monstrosity be any different?

Then to cap it all off, Steny Hoyer, said, "But befitting the importance of this legislation, the process of putting it together has been deliberative, transparent and open; the most deliberative, transparent and open process I have seen for any bill in my 29-year career."

Of course the Democrats have carefully excluded Republican suggestions and amendments. In fact, hardly anyone has even heard of the six healthcare reform bills the Republicans have offered.

Someone please remind me of how this press conference differed from one held by a totalitarian ruling elite.