Senator Joe Lieberman sure knows how to keep things interesting. Just when we thought the healthcare debate might be simmering down for a few moments, Senator Lieberman stands up and rocks the boat. But, honestly, did we expect anything different from him? I should hope not.
The internet is a buzz with how Lieberman shot down the Public Option to save the insurance companies and secure his position with them. Being that Lieberman isn’t running for any seats next year, many are saying that he is thinking for himself and his future and not the people of Connecticut. It’s no surprise that Connecticut houses some very large insurance companies.
The Huffington Post, who has completely sold out by turning their website into a billboard for POM fruit juice (even though they have always been on their way to selling out completely), mentioned today that Lieberman gets a lot more attention by claiming to be a Democrat but running his own game. Even though Lieberman may have won his seat as an Independent, he has always been a Democrat and has always done his best to rock the boat.
The funny thing about Lieberman is that he seems to be sort of an enigma to the internet rumor mill. While many say he is a Democrat still, with conservative views, others say he is an Independent, while others still say that he sides more with the Republicans than anyone else. Even I’m confused.
What isn’t confusing, however, is how Lieberman is siding with the private insurance companies on the Public Option debate, and how his promise of a filibuster may derail the entire healthcare reform process. According to Daily Kos, Independents favor the public option by 73%, which means either Lieberman is bluffing and soaking up the spotlight, or he’s going against everything and everyone for his own personal reasons.
And, according to a Wall Street Journal poll, approval ratings are going up for the Public Option across the board. This is something that is gaining steam with the people, and while Lieberman tries to convince the American people that a Public Option will cost them more money out of pocket, the American people are saying they want it in the final healthcare reform bill.
What do you think?
