VIDEO: First Read Minute: Looking down the road

NBC's Mark Murray and Domenico Montanaro talk about the next stages of the presidential race now four months before Election Day.

Video edited by NBC's Jordan Frasier.

Discuss this post

Comment author avatarRedSoxRuleExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Obama just looks so amateurish. Romney looks like a leader.

We need to vote out this hack. Obama isn't even qualified be a middle manager at a department store.

  • 10 votes
#1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:33 PM EDT

Leave it to a Red Sox fan to have no clue about picking a winner! The first black president....named Barrack Hussein Obama...beating a war hero...by large margins...and he's amateurish?!?! You're not even qualified to post entries on a Hannity blog, but why don't you just go there, you'll be happier.

  • 30 votes
#1.1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:39 PM EDT

Obama just looks so amateurish

Better get an eye appointment...

and find a better baseball team while you are at it.

  • 23 votes
#1.2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:40 PM EDT

I tend to agree with Montenaro that this is all beginning to sound like the Abbott/Costello routine of "who's on first". Unfortunately, this is not a stage and this is certainly not comedy. But the republicans continue to act as if they are a bad vaudeville act with their dancing around issues and singing the blues about what helps the average American.

But unfortunately, the republicans need to continue their spin in order to back Romney. "What he did was to help people. When Obama does the same, it hurts people". These people are unbelievable.

OBAMA/BIDEN 2012

  • 28 votes
#1.3 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:41 PM EDT

You guys sure are delusional. LOL

This administration hasn't kept any promises, accelerated the recession, raised taxes on the middle class, waged class warfare, spit on the constitution, and is covering up its role in the death of a border patrol agent.

Pretty sad that some lemmings still want to follow the Marxist down the path to oblivion.

  • 7 votes
#1.4 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:50 PM EDT

Red Sox,

RCP 6/25/2012: 11 Swing States Poll #'s (last 4 week Avg.)

Tied in 0, Obama leads in 9, Romney leads in 2.

Delegates: Obama = Solid 175 + Lean 46 + Swing 111 = 332 *

Delegates: Romney = Solid 131 + Lean 50 + Swing 25 = 206

Delegates: [332+206 = 538] Win = 270 *

Gallup daily National (07/02/12) = Obama 48, Romney 43

http://www1.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2012/president/2012_elections_electoral_college_map.html

  • 27 votes
#1.5 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:51 PM EDT

Uhhhhh.... Ahhhhhhhh...... Uhhhhhhhh..... Let me make this perfectly clear. I will not be raising taxes on the middle class, or anyone earning under $250,000 a year. Uhhhhhh.... Ahhhhhh.... Not one red cent will I raise taxes for anyone earning under that amount.... Uhhhhh.... Uhhhhhh..... I say that the penalty for not owning health insurance is definitely NOT a tax.....

STOP!!!!

Mr. Obama, how does it feel now that you've placed the highest tax increase in history on the middle class? It does you proud, I'm sure. Tell me Mr. Obama, when your tax cuts expire, and the American public gets hit with the Obamacare tax, will you be satisfied that you will have brought the economy of this nation to it's knees? One man doing so much damage to this great country.... And you think you stand a chance at re-election? How come you are on the phone while flying around in AF One begging people to contribute to your campaign? You didn't have AF One during the 08 election and from what I understand you were rolling in dough. Wazzup Mr. Prez? Losing it?

  • 9 votes
#1.6 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:51 PM EDT

RedSoxRule says - Obama just looks so amateurish. Romney looks like a leader.

Hey Guys - Do not argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.

Obama/Biden 2012

  • 26 votes
#1.7 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:54 PM EDT

Brian,

He promised to not increase income taxes

These are not income taxes – pledge stands

  • 27 votes
#1.8 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:57 PM EDT

Dennis, did you really just write that? LOL

You libbys have some serious issue with facts and truth. But hey, don't let that get in the way of your opinion. LMAO

  • 5 votes
#1.9 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:04 PM EDT

Poor ole RedSux. Not the smart one.

  • 18 votes
#1.10 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:05 PM EDT

RedSux and his right wing friends present no facts and truth. They just make it up as they go along. It's always the same garbage talking points.

When you look at President Obama you see a GREAT and strong President. However, when you look at Willard Romney you see a Nervous Nelly.

  • 19 votes
#1.11 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:12 PM EDT

Here are some of the new taxes you're going to have to pay to pay for Obamacare:

  • A 3.8% surtax on "investment income" when your adjusted gross income is more than $200,000 ($250,000 for joint-filers). What is "investment income?" Dividends, interest, rent, capital gains, annuities, house sales, partnerships, etc. Taxes on dividends will rise from 15% to 18.8%--if Congress extends the Bush tax cuts. If Congress does not extend the Bush tax cuts, taxes on dividends will rise from 15% to a shocking 43.8%. (WSJ)
  • A 0.9% surtax on Medicare taxes for those making $200,000 or more ($250,000 joint). You already pay Medicare tax of 1.45%, and your employer pays another 1.45% for you (unless you're self-employed, in which case you pay the whole 2.9% yourself). Next year, your Medicare bill will be 2.35%. (WSJ)
  • Flexible Spending Account contributions will be capped at $2,500. Currently, there is no tax-related limit on how much you can set aside pre-tax to pay for medical expenses. Next year, there will be. If you have been socking away, say, $10,000 in your FSA to pay medical bills, you'll have to cut that to $2,500. (ATR.org)
  • The itemized-deduction hurdle for medical expenses is going up to $10,000. Right now, any medical expenses over $7,500 per year are deductible. Next year, that hurdle will be $10,000. (ATR.org)
  • The penalty on non-medical withdrawals from Healthcare Savings Accounts is now 20% instead of 10%. That's twice the penalty that applies to annuities, IRAs, and other tax-free vehicles. (ATR.org)
  • A tax of 10% on indoor tanning services. This has been in place for two years, since the summer of 2010. (ATR.org)
  • A 40% tax on "Cadillac Health Care Plans" starting in 2018.Those whose employers pay for all or most of comprehensive healthcare plans (costing $10,200 for an individual or $27,500 for families) will have to pay a 40% tax on the amount their employer pays. The 2018 start date is said to have been a gift to unions, which often have comprehensive plans. (ATR.org)
  • A"Medicine Cabinet Tax" that eliminates the ability to pay for over-the-counter medicines from a pre-tax Flexible Spending Account. This started in January 2011. (ATR.org)
  • A "penalty" tax for those who don't buy health insurance. This will phase in from 2014-2016. It will range from $695 per person to about $4,700 per person, depending on your income. (More details here.)
  • A tax on medical devices costing more than $100. Starting in 2013, medical device manufacturers will have to pay a 2.3% excise tax on medical equipment. This is expected to raise the cost of medical procedures. (Breitbart.com)
  • 2 votes
#1.12 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:12 PM EDT

This administration hasn't kept any promises, accelerated the recession, raised taxes on the middle class, waged class warfare, spit on the constitution, and is covering up its role in the death of a border patrol agent.

A string of lies does not a winning campaign make. Keep running that swiftboat, only the dumbest right-wing voters believes your usual Republican rhetoric of smears and misinformation.

  • 18 votes
#1.13 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:15 PM EDT

Red Sox,

Knowing that you do not look for factual data is why I posted the link.

If you can count and add it is there for you to evaluate and even includes the FOX and Rasmussen polls in the RCP average.

  • 25 votes
#1.14 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:15 PM EDT

Red Sox,

Hidden taxes and fees – just like Gov Romney in MA

  • 26 votes
#1.15 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:16 PM EDT

If Republicans have seriously wanted to take the White House 2012, they would not have picked Mitt the UnFitt as their nominee.

Everybody knows that, except Mitt the UnFitt.

  • 20 votes
#1.16 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:18 PM EDT

"A tax of 10% on indoor tanning services."

ooooh! That's going break Sarah Palin!

  • 22 votes
#1.17 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:22 PM EDT

Dennis, how about you deal with the facts I put in front of you rather than running around pointing fingers elsewhere.

So, just admit that Obama lied and there are plenty of new taxes. Many on the poor and middle class that can least afford them.

Well, you ready to come to the real world and admit to the facts?

I didn't think so. Facts and truth are not something libbys can't deal with.

LMAO

  • 4 votes
#1.18 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:30 PM EDT

Now what demographic groups would a lying, radical,criminal communist go after if he were trying to win an election in the United States? ,perhaps, just perhaps, the young,the naive,the ignorant,the greedy, the give us what You have cuz You got it and We want it crowd, labor unions,racist poverty pimps,self loathing racial apologist who voted for the man just to prove they were not racists!,the fifty percent of the country who are on public support, those who would completely ignore the horrendous things the man has done to this country,or those who just don't care because it's cool to support Obama, all the other dudes say so too, so it must be true!, and We Know becuz ......becuz.....It just is! and anyways he promises Us free stuff!, and and, ............ Red sox suck, Republicans suck! ha, ha, ha, ..... Did I miss anything? because I really can't find any Obama supporters who say They are voting for him for the good of the Country instead of just what they think is in it for them.

  • 1 vote
#1.19 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:43 PM EDT

Dennis - See that's the problem with you liberals.... semantics. You believe anything this man tells you while he is working slight of hand behind your backs.

Tell me Dennis - who is the agency responsible for collecting the Obamacare money? Why it's the little ole IRS. Define IRS Dennis... The most brutal, harshest collection agencies on this planet!

  • 5 votes
#1.20 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:43 PM EDT

Red Sox,

They are the exact same taxes, fees and penalties that were in the bill when it passed.

The Republicans complained two years ago and now it is just whining.

The SC ruling did not add any new taxes, fees or penalties that weren’t in the bill/law.

The tax (fine) is estimated to affect 3% or less of us. Last year in Mass they collected the fine on only 1% of their residents while covering 98% of their residents and no one is complaining about excessive taxes, fees or penalties.

  • 20 votes
#1.21 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:43 PM EDT

Brian,

This morning on the Daily Rundown …

Eric Fehrnstrom, chief spokesperson for Mitt Romney: The governor believes what we put in place in Massachusetts was a penalty and he disagrees with the court's ruling that the mandate was a tax.

Chuck Todd: But he agrees with the president that it is not — and he believes that you should not call the tax penalty a tax, you should call it a penalty or a fee or a fine?

Eric Fehrnstrom: That's correct. But the president also needs to be held accountable for his contradictory statements. He has described it variously as a penalty and as a tax. He needs to reconcile those two very different statements.

  • 17 votes
#1.22 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:46 PM EDT

It's easy for Job1 to claim that conservatives have no answers... because Job1 wouldn't recognize a legitimate answer if his life depended on it. It's that, or Job1 is just plain obtuse and refuses to acknowledge that Job1 is completely partisan and a hack.

  • 4 votes
#1.23 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:46 PM EDT

RedSoxRule,

The FSA has been a $2500 limit - I'm not sure where you got the $10,000 from - Maybe you are confusing it with the 10,000 Romney bucks?

You can't use it on Midol or Band-Aids anymore - that's the difference for you.

  • 15 votes
#1.24 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:47 PM EDT

"He promised to not increase income taxes."

"These are not income taxes - pledge stands."

Yea ... and what is the net difference between an income tax and an excise tax or any tax - direct and indirect?

New taxes on medical devices aren't passed on ... new taxes on drugs aren't passed on ... new taxes on insurance companies aren't passed on ..... just a working stiff with a great plan and you will pay taxes on that ....

Sheesh don't have it - they tax you. Have insurance that is too good - they tax you.

16,500 new IRS agents for those .... "nonexistent" taxes.

There are all kinds of hidden taxes .... sell your house .... there is a new tax for that too.

Do IRS agents care what kind of tax it is Dennis ... income tax vs. whatever tax?

Anyway, thanks for demonstrating the simple minded, the ones fooled .... those that don't realize the taxes they pay .... the Obama defenders and supporters.

  • 5 votes
#1.25 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:49 PM EDT

Sorry, but leaders don't flip flop all the time.

Mr Flip Flop Romney is better suited for the Waffle House than the White House.

  • 15 votes
#1.26 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:55 PM EDT

What does owning a home have to do with Health Care?

  • 5 votes
#1.27 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:56 PM EDT

Bob-180,

According to the ACA law the IRS cannot, may not force collection of the ACA fine. They cannot, may not assess any fine or penalty for nonpayment of the ACA fine.

  • 15 votes
#1.28 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:59 PM EDT

Hey Dennis...hope everything up there is okay after those insane storms!! The interpretation that I saw concerning the collection of the tax was that they can sue you. Per Yahoo news:

The IRS will not have the power to charge you criminally or seize your assets if you refuse to pay. The IRS will only have the ability to sue you. And the most the IRS can collect from you if it wins the suit is 2X the amount you owe.

Not sure if I am misunderstanding.

  • 8 votes
#1.29 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:03 PM EDT

RedSux,

Of course the taxes should go up on 200,000 and more citizens. President Obama has been for this for a long time and that is nothing new.

Other sources you listed is information that you get from right wing rags such as Breitbart.com and ATR.org. It's all garbage that no one in their right mind believes.

  • 9 votes
#1.30 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:04 PM EDT

Dennis - I have one that trumps your sources...

Chief Justice Roberts - The penalty is a tax.

Sorry Dennis but all the pundits in the world cannot trump the Supreme Court Justice.

  • 4 votes
#1.31 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:09 PM EDT

the highest tax increase in history on the middle class

I have to say that is the biggest whopper of a lie every told by the radical right wing. Do you think people are that stupid?

Well, I guess many right wingers are.

  • 7 votes
#1.32 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:09 PM EDT

What does owning a home have to do with Health Care?

3.8% tax on profit over $250,000.

No problem with most people ... just a penalty on the rich that no one cares about.

But the real problem is the camel's nose in another tent.

Half of all companies are projected to start dropping their employees - simply cheaper to pay the tax. This dumps millions and millions into the exchanges - just a short matter of time until they come back and extend it to everyone to help pay for the deficit spending on health care.

Happens every time. (Remember the original income tax was on the rich only, too.)

Dennis -

They are hiring all those thousands of agents and they don't have the power to enforce the law?

Wow .... what another waste of money huh?

And btw - and who will make up that shortfall?

  • 4 votes
#1.33 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:09 PM EDT

Job1 - you are stupid if you don't think it's the highest tax on the middle class this country has ever seen. Keep on defending your man Obama... The only ones that will be supporting him are the liberals... and that's a sure loss every time.

  • 3 votes
#1.34 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:10 PM EDT

RedSoxRule

Obama just looks so amateurish. Romney looks like a leader.

We need to vote out this hack. Obama isn't even qualified be a middle manager at a department store.

i would rather have my leader of the free world ACT like a leader instead of LOOKING LIKE ONE.

a person that looks like one can't as in mitts case, can't stand on one thing from his past he has success with Heath care reform.

Obama's health care reform is a mirror of Romney care in Massachusetts, if Romney were a real leader instead of looking like one, he would never let the GOP back him in to blasting a achievement that is a model for Obama's health care.

also looking like a leader when he said Arizona's immigration law should be a model, until the high court struck it down then he backed off that.

looking like a leader does not make you better at it being a leader.

  • 10 votes
#1.35 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:12 PM EDT

The only ones that will be supporting him are the liberals... and that's a sure loss every time.

Oh, I can't wait for election day. Especially the day after when many of these right wingers will crawl back into their holes.

Obama - Biden 2012

  • 8 votes
#1.36 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:15 PM EDT

Well Bob 18 ####'s,, that property tax exemption is a giveaway anyway. So now they will tax an amount above the $250K profit? BFD. If someone is making that kind of profit they can afford a 3.8% tax.

BTW I responded to your other post, care to answer?

  • 8 votes
#1.37 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:16 PM EDT

It sounds so random, what is the correlation, am I missing something?

  • 1 vote
#1.38 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:18 PM EDT

Brian,

Roberts said it falls under the tax authority – he did not say the fine was a tax – I called it a tax 2 years ago as a reason for it being constitutional.

But the fine will only affect those that do not take the personal responsibility of making sure they are insured – an estimated 3% or less of us. In MA last year the number was 1%.

  • 14 votes
#1.39 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:23 PM EDT

Frank,

Not sure about your information/source. Mine were health
care experts and their understanding about the fine.

They defined it as having “no teeth.”

  • 12 votes
#1.40 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:28 PM EDT

Biggest tax increase ever?

Let's see, there's a word for someone who deliberately states something they know to be false...It'll come to me in a minute...

  • 10 votes
#1.41 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:33 PM EDT

It is cheaper to dump employees into the exchanges.

At which point, the state exchange is forced to pick them up and provide affordable care.

Long term, it saves both employee and employer money as well as centralizing the costs/benefits of healthcare.

Since the exchange will be adherant to the law, it will ensure that coverage is far more affordable than what individual employers provide, as well as become an all-encompassing state network. All hospitals will want to take those sweet, sweet exchange covered people(or risk going out of business for lack of patients), ensuring availability of healthcare as well.

No more 'health networks' as prescribed under standard Blue Shield PPO/HMO.

Cheaper health insurance.

None can be turned away for pre-existing conditions.

That's 3 bonuses, right there.

  • 8 votes
#1.42 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:36 PM EDT

Dennis...

Unfortunately, I can't post links. (How I'm still considered a "new user" I'll never know). It was in the Yahoo Finance section today. Basically the article said that the IRS cannot due the same things they can for non-payment of income tax, but can sue to recover up to twice the amount owed.

This is why you are one of my favorite posters Dennis...you always respond to people with questions for you. Much appreciated.

Edited to add:

Found this in FactCheck.org:

The law prohibits the IRS from seeking to put anybody in jail or seizing their property for simple refusal to pay the tax. The law says specifically that taxpayers “shall not be subject to any criminal prosecution or penalty” for failure to pay, and also that the IRS cannot file a tax lien (a legal claim against such things as homes, cars, wages and bank accounts) or a “levy” (seizure of property or bank accounts).

The law says that the IRS will collect the tax “in the same manner as an assessable penalty undersubchapter B of chapter 68” of the tax code. That part of the tax code provides for imposing an additional penalty “equal to the total amount of the tax evaded, or not collected.” It also requires written notices to the taxpayer, and provides for court proceedings.

So it may turn out that the IRS will be suing those who fail to pay the tax for double the amount. But so far, the IRS has not spelled out exactly how it will enforce the new penalty with the limited power the law gives it.

  • 5 votes
#1.43 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:40 PM EDT

Great link to an article on why small business have incentives to supply insurance under ACA.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/text/2018555200.html

  • 11 votes
#1.44 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:47 PM EDT

Frank,

Have you contacted Newsvine via “Report Bug” and asked them to restore you to advanced user?

This happens to some users once in a while. Somehow you may have been reverted to “New User”.

New users cannot post links for a month, maybe longer.

Thanks for the info ... like I said no teeth, just another collection agency but they can't take you to court.

I don't always respond but I try to when the question deserves a response.

  • 14 votes
#1.45 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:48 PM EDT

Thanks Dennis...will give it a shot. :-)

  • 8 votes
#1.46 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:49 PM EDT

Ah Bob lotsa numbers with his bullcrap lotsa IRS numbers (16,500 is the lie he keeps posting).

This wildly inaccurate claim started as an inflated, partisan assertion that 16,500 new IRS employees might be required to administer the new law. That devolved quickly into a claim, made by some Republican lawmakers, that 16,500 IRS "agents" would be required. Republican Rep. Ron Paul of Texas even claimed in a televised interview that all 16,500 would be carrying guns. None of those claims is true. http://www.factcheck.org/2010/03/irs-expansion/

  • 12 votes
#1.47 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:51 PM EDT

All the RWNJs have to do is look at other examples of penalties. For example, you pay taxes to the IRS. If you pay your taxes late, they will impose a penalty. Do you call the late fee a tax or a penalty? Of course it's not a tax--it's a penalty that only applies to those who pay their taxes late.

But let's say the ACA fee was in fact a tax? So f-n what? Like the tax on tanning salons, which is no different than a tax on cigarettes or alcohol. It's not compelling you to buy broccoli -- It's making folks responsible for poor health decisions that cost the rest of society.

What is enjoyable is watching Norquist and Americans for Tax Reform twist themselves into yet another pretzel. With the upcoming expiration of the Bush tax cuts, and the debt ceiling, Norquist is likely to be dethroned.

Rightwingers, the reason Teapublicans and their FOX Noise/Hate Radio mouthpiece are lying like crazy is because all this scares the sh!t out of them. When Americans realize the additional freedoms they have just been given, what will the GOP/TP run on? Bad smelling fumes...

  • 12 votes
#1.48 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:57 PM EDT

Frank,

YOUR Vineacity tree on your home page is missing
which means you have been reverted back to new user.

  • 6 votes
#1.49 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:01 PM EDT
Mrs.SpankyDeleted

During the debates the President could simply ask Romney to start with his home state (one of many) if he is so eager to Repeal the ACA.

After all, since the Commonwealth of Massachusetts had it first let’s see how those good citizens would respond to having it taken away.

I think we ALL know the answer.

It would be game. Set. Match.

Go home Mitt. You are out of your league.

  • 9 votes
#1.51 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:11 PM EDT

So, just admit that Obama lied and there are plenty of new taxes. Many on the poor and middle class that can least afford them.

Like the 10% tax on tanning services...that's gonna break the poor and middle class for sure.

Matter of fact RedSux...not a single tax you posted applies to me. Not one. I'm middle class. Think i'm upset because of this? Not really.

  • 8 votes
#1.52 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:42 PM EDT

Sorry, Mrs. Spanky: I never read what your layabout husband says. But, good luck finding him, if you really want him.

  • 9 votes
#1.53 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:01 PM EDT

Obama should sic Eric Holder on the Supreme Court and force them to say the mandate is not a tax! :)~

  • 2 votes
#1.54 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:38 PM EDT

RedSoxRule - Obama just looks so amateurish. Romney looks like a leader. Clearly your only taste is in your mouth - and even that's questionable. Romney looks like a kid playing dress up next to our President who looks every bit the world leaders. You're just jealous 'cause the GOP has NOTHING!

Brianb - supporting Obama in November will be Independents, Democrats and the few Republicans left with any intelligence. The rest of you will be supporting empty suit, empty head - Romney!

Obama/Biden 2012

  • 7 votes
#1.55 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:00 PM EDT

the highest tax increase in history on the middle class

How can you tell Conservative leaders are lying? Their mouths are moving.

Turns out this increase is barely even in the top 10;

So no, the Affordable Care Act isn’t the “biggest tax hike in history.” It’s not even the biggest tax hike in the past 60 years. Or 50 years. Or 30 years. Or 20 years.

But it does include a number of tax hikes. The individual mandate, however, isn’t one of the big ones. It’s only expected to raise $27 billion during the next decade. The largest tax increase in the law is on high earners, who will see their Medicare payroll taxes increase by 0.9 percentage point and who will also pay a slightly higher rate on investment income. That raises more than $200 billion. There’s also the tax on unusually expensive health insurance plans, which raises $30 billion in the first decade, and much more in the second.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/wp/2012/07/02/no-obamacare-isnt-the-largest-tax-increase-in-the-history-of-the-world-in-one-chart/

  • 7 votes
#1.56 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:23 PM EDT

Half of all companies are projected to start dropping their employees - simply cheaper to pay the tax.

More balderdash...if that's the case it would've been even cheaper for companies to just not carry health insurance in the first place. Yet most of us are covered by health insurance through our employers. If employers didn't drop insurance when doing so was more favorable why would they do it now?

  • 9 votes
#1.57 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:26 PM EDT

Yes, according to the knuckle draggers on the right,...employers no longer care about "...The Best and Brightest Talent..."

They just need what Norquist wants,...some "yes" man to rubber stamp their agenda.

Why on earth did Corporations EVER offer any benefits in the first place? Oh, that's right, those mean nasty Unions MADE them do it.

Welcome to Down is Up world, folks.

  • 9 votes
#1.58 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:33 PM EDT

Brianb - you talking about partisan hacks is almost funny - look in the mirror for the face of a partisan hack! You right wingers are sure great at making up lies and calling names. Not good for much else!

Obama/Biden 2012

  • 6 votes
#1.59 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 7:08 PM EDT

John B, Des Moines, IA -- I believe there are regulations depending on the size of a company, but I gotta check... If I recall, this will really help small business as they can opt out of the health insurance burden and at the same time their employees can get individual coverage through the Exchange. If so, one can see the lie that ACA will be a job killer, not to mention increasing jobs in the health care industry.

  • 6 votes
#1.60 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 7:28 PM EDT

Gotta go, but a cursory reading indicates employers with 200 full-time employees or more will need to provide coverage or pay a penalty fee. Smaller businesses, on the other hand will get tax credits for providing coverage if they choose to do so.

So the large companies that can afford to provide benefits will be encouraged to continue offering those benefits, and small businesses will not be hurt if they can't afford to do so. Clearly ACA is not a job killer, and many employees can indeed keep their existing plans--or likewise shop on the Exchange for a better plan if they choose.

If someone understands and can explain this better, feel free...

  • 5 votes
#1.61 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 8:11 PM EDT
Reply

Yep, that is going to be a tough one for Mittens in the debate!

Can't be spun as a win for Mittens in anyway since he did it first! Mittens was for it before he was against it. He looks so amateurish. President Obama is a true leader.

Poor Mittens. And here he promised Annie that if the horse they "own" didn't win the dressage event in the Olympics....she could be First Lady!

Thanks for the report Mark and Domenico.

  • 18 votes
Reply#2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:37 PM EDT

Looking down the road...I see President Obama winning his re-election and Romney sinking into obsurity, only to be mentioned on Jeopardy 2062.

Category: Political Failures

question: Candidate on whom most money was spent in US history, who still failed to win election. answer: who is Mitt Romney?

  • 16 votes
#3 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:47 PM EDT

Oh, Ames! You crack me up!

Did you see this little jewel over at Politico today?

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0712/78068.html

"...you can't just go with some ideological mantra for each substantive issue..." - Jonathon Krohn, former darling of the CPAC convention

Once the brain washing subsides and kids FOCUS on their education,...seems they can SNAP out of the 'Conservatism' brand!

I know I did!

  • 18 votes
#3.1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 1:50 PM EDT

Oh you sweet, sweet, dear delusional liberals. I know you aren't paying attention to current events. I know you are just living life one day at a time while walking in the cool breeze and drinking Obama Kool Aid by the glassful. It must be wonderful for you to totally ignore the sinking ship Obama is on while dreaming about blissful days of liberal control where all is homogenized and nothing is sour.

Might I offer a bit of advice? Arise from your slumber. Take a look around at what is happening to your candidate. He is getting creamed. While you think the Obamacare win with the SC was a win for Obama, it might be advisable to look a little deeper. When you consider that almost 60% of Americans don't want Obamacare and the Supreme Court declared it a tax... how does that now fare for your president? With Romney stating that he will work hard to repeal it... I'd say that those not wanting the bill will definitely swing his way. Rubio? Hey... what about that Hispanic vote? Now that the executive order is signed, Obama has lost his appeal to Hispanics... Rubio will by far attract more than Obama can even imagine. It's starting to look bleak for the Obama Camp... the tell is Obama himself begging for money from Air Force One....

Looks like the only way Obama will avoid the inevitable is by declaring Marshall Law and stopping the elections in November.

  • 7 votes
#3.2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:06 PM EDT

Well, isn't that a hoot! Our friend Brian posits that his President will STOP the election to declare Marshall Law!

Do you REALLY think, Brian, that the President will implement a large influx of aid to Europe?

Sometimes the ignorance from the right wing is so very entertaining!

  • 18 votes
#3.3 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:23 PM EDT

Ooga-booga-booga. Obama's gonna getcha. Thankfully, BB has the ever reliable Keyes to support his claim.

http://www.prisonplanet.com/alan-keys-government-will-stage-terror-declare-martial-law.html

Of course, for boring/interesting reading on the outlandish kooky-Keyes, this is also a fun read.

http://alternativetulsa.blogspot.com/2009/02/rightwing-nut-case-of-day-alan-keyes.html

  • 13 votes
#3.4 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:26 PM EDT

Poor Misunderstood and Maligned GlaskoSmithKline Personhood. Only $3 BILLION dollars and a guilty plea on misdemeanor criminal charges (what? like being in America illegally? That's ALSO only a misdemeanor),...

Largest Healthcare FRAUD EVER! man, I just wonder how THAT might effect Healthcare Costs? I know deep down GSK always wanted to do the right thing. What they lacked was the capacity, right?

BWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Another win under Obama's Promises Kept column - you know, to ferret out waste and prosecute those offenders. I guess this is a war on the Corporations to the tighty righties, eh?

  • 16 votes
#3.5 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:53 PM EDT

Oh my Gawd - Corporate Fraud? Who would have guessed the highly ethical over regulated corporate world could be capable of such a thing.

Thanks for the post Clara - priceless (or in the case of GSK - pricey).

http://www.imperialvalleynews.com/index.php/news/latest-news/944-glaxosmithkline-to-plead-guilty-and-pay-3-billion-to-resolve-fraud-allegations

  • 12 votes
#3.6 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:05 PM EDT

Looks like the only way Obama will avoid the inevitable is by declaring Marshall Law and stopping the elections in November.

More statements such as above is the right wing trying to dumb down America!

  • 9 votes
#3.7 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:00 PM EDT

The oh so righteous left deeming to believe in their benevolent leader to no end. You know, the same leader that had to throw up an executive privileged mandate to prevent the Fast and Furious documents from reaching the eyes of the house committee. Now tell me, if this were a republican using executive privilege for similar purposes, how loud would the catcalls be coming from the left? I can just imagine the shrieking going down the streets of every city in America. The run at the stores for ear protection would be immense.

But since it's the so very hallowed and magnanimous Obama, every liberal in the land calls those seeking justice, crazy. Liberals.... living in a Topsy turvey world of make believe.

  • 2 votes
#3.8 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:20 PM EDT

...prevent the Fast and Furious documents from reaching the eyes of the house committee.

The documents requested WERE offered up to the committee. Issa refused. Witch hunt anyone?

Must be a bummer for the conservatives now that their supposed F-F whistle blower has been exposed as a crybaby.

  • 11 votes
#3.9 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:35 PM EDT

Anyone else believe that brianb and Ben are the same person?

So how did that "Marshall Plan" work out for you Brian?

  • 11 votes
#3.10 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:02 PM EDT

Anyone else believe that brianb and Ben are the same person?

@NDD - nah. One one is a conspiracy theory freak, the other is a right wing talking point freak.

16,500 IRS Agents - right wing talking point

Obama stops 2012 elections using Marshall Law - conspiracy theory

  • 8 votes
#3.11 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:10 PM EDT

Suppose you are right RedDev: but they were sounding an awful lot alike today.

  • 4 votes
#3.12 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:19 PM EDT

RedDev, If the documents were refused by Issa, then why did the House hold Holder in contempt? Are every member of the House that voted for his contempt charges wrong? The information was out there for all of them to see. Why did a group of democrats vote to hold him in contempt? The liberal democrat walk out was nothing but a huge display of partisan crap! The American people see right through this charade the democrats pulled. If you think the democrats have a chance in November, then you will be gravely disappointed when the republicans take the white house, retain the house and capture the senate. You are missing the magnitude of the will of those not liberal by a mile! Think 2010, a very embarrassing year for the democrats and it will be repeated this year but only much worse.

    #3.13 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:55 PM EDT

    Amy - we can only hope that with his defeat in November Romney will finally get the clue - no one wants him!

    • 5 votes
    #3.14 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:01 PM EDT

    It's called an NRA hit job - when the NRA issued a direct threat against the democrats voting against the contempt charge, those that folded displayed their true spineless colors, the same spineless colors shown by the entire GOP/TP. Talk about a huge display of partisan crap. Thankfully, most democrats aren't bought and paid for by the NRA.

    • 8 votes
    #3.15 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:05 PM EDT

    OMG,...this little jewel somehow went by unnoticed; but bookends perfectly the OTHER GSK shenanigans, eh?

    http://www.nj.com/business/index.ssf/2012/06/us_supreme_court_rules_against.html

    • 5 votes
    #3.16 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:35 PM EDT

    I dunno BriBri, why did the Newtie Show spend $200M to prove that a married man will lie to hide an affair back in the 1990s?

    • 7 votes
    #3.17 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:39 PM EDT

    John .. apparently, BriBri has already read and mysteriously debunked this investigative piece that clearly shows Issa is out of his league.

    http://features.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2012/06/27/fast-and-furious-truth/

    The saddest part is that Issa has all but ensured more border agent and Mexican national murders. While BriBri salutes that POS politician, I say hold Issa in contempt of the American Public, and responsible for every murder tied to gun running through Arizona since he began his witch hunt.

    From 2010, when Congress began investigating, to 2011, gun seizures by Group VII and the ATF's three other groups in Phoenix dropped by more than 90%.

    • 10 votes
    #3.18 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:51 PM EDT
    Reply

    Ok folks. Lets look at eh whole

      Reply#4 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:04 PM EDT

      Huh?

      • 4 votes
      #4.1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:19 PM EDT

      Sorry, the little Green men took the rest of my post.

        #4.2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:39 PM EDT

        Jody - no loss there!

        • 1 vote
        #4.3 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:03 PM EDT
        Reply

        Thanks for the the link, Clara! So glad to hear Young Mr. Krohn has evolved in his political thinking. Sounds like, the more information he got, the more liberal he became - same thing happens to me when I read The New Yorker!

        • 9 votes
        Reply#5 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:06 PM EDT

        Interesting link Clara. I also evolved in my political thought. I was way more conservative when I was younger. College was a huge eye-opener! That is why the TPGOP is against public education for the masses!

        "We have met the enemy and he is us!" Pogo by Walt Kelly

        • 1 vote
        #5.1 - Tue Jul 3, 2012 9:56 AM EDT
        Reply

        What's the big deal about taxes anyway? They're necessary to run the country. All of our salaries are based on the assumption that a certain percentage will go to the government. Bunch of whining by a bunch of selfish people...

        • 14 votes
        #6 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:09 PM EDT

        That's what I keep saying! The orignal Tea Party Patriots weren't protesting paying taxes, they were protesting taxation without representation. Greece got into trouble because tax evasion was their national past-time.

        • 14 votes
        #6.1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:27 PM EDT

        Rick-346915

        Hi rick, what is a fair tax to you. 20, 30, 40, 50, or 60? I hear from a Canadian here where I work that his two little girls have free HC, but he pays about 60% of his check.

        I wonder if you would complaint if you had to pay above 30%. Nobody gets a free ride, Rick.

        • 3 votes
        #6.2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:30 PM EDT

        News flash Concerned: Canada is a democracy. If the Canadians didn't like their healthcare system, they would vote to change it.

        • 12 votes
        #6.3 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:39 PM EDT

        60% eh???????? Apparently, some prefer to spread rumors, lies and myths vs. facts.

        http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Income_taxes_in_Canada#Provincial_and_territorial_personal_income_taxes

        Canadian federal marginal tax rates of taxable income

        2012 (est.)
        0% $0 – $10,822
        15% $10,823 - $42,706
        22% $42,707 - $85,413
        26% $85,414 - $132,405
        29% over $132,406

        • 13 votes
        #6.4 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 2:44 PM EDT

        Clara and RedDev......thanks for those links.

        As soon as I saw that post on Canadian taxes knew it was wrong, thanks for the details. Isn't is amazing how willing some people are to accept lies, myths and rumors on any topic as long as it suits their mindset.

        • 12 votes
        #6.5 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:36 PM EDT

        Redevs,

        1. You libs blasted me because I once used Wikipedia as a reference. So why are you using it now.

        2. Did you forget that in Canada 80% of the gas is tax only.

        3. Did you forget that they also pay 15% to 18% sales tax.

        4. This person also told me that the wait to see Doctor is much longer than here in the US.

        5. Can you tell me what is concidered a Cadillac Health Insurance one what portion of that will be considered a tax?

        There is nothing that the Government can give you without increasing Tax.

        • 2 votes
        #6.6 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:53 PM EDT

        Gingerbread Mamma - my favorite fact posted by a certain concerned citizen is that according to her sister, who frequents Miami nightclubs almost every night, most of those late-night revelers are voting for Romney. Apparently, the Miami nightclub crowd is the newest, hippest, hottest, and trendiest replacement to the esteemed and former right-wing preferred Rasmussen poll.

        As to those Canadian rates, I'd say they have it fairly good. If you add up all our taxes and income spent on medical care, something tells me they come out way ahead of the game.

        • 10 votes
        #6.7 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:08 PM EDT

        As to those Canadian rates, I'd say they have it fairly good.

        Where is our favorite Canadian friend Ideo when we need him?

        according to her sister, who frequents Miami nightclubs almost every night, most of those late-night revelers are voting for Romney

        Coke whores for Willard? Who would of guessed... lol

        • 10 votes
        #6.8 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:23 PM EDT

        Coke whores for Willard? Who would of guessed... lol

        Silly girl Feisty - coke is so passe .. these days it's E (Ecstasy). Either way, it appears you have to be 'high' to vote for Romney. That would explain why he has the Meth-belt states and Utah, the prescription abuse state, in his back pocket.

        • 9 votes
        #6.9 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:31 PM EDT

        to: Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL who writes me, even when "it" says she ignores me.

        As to those Canadian rates, I'd say they have it fairly good.

        Where is our favorite Canadian friend Ideo when we need him?

        according to her sister, who frequents Miami nightclubs almost every night, most of those late-night revelers are voting for Romney

        Coke whores for Willard? Who would of guessed

        Hey, to my favorite liberalbest friend. I was under the impression that you were ignoring me, however now that i have your attention let me tell you a couple of things sister Beisty.

        1. You just insulted my sister.

        2. You probably watch to much T.V and have seen Miami Vice too many times.

        3. You just insulted the Spanish community and let's not forget women.

        4. You are the most repugnant, racist, Elites, liberal that I ever encounter.

        5. You are either stupid or an idiot to think that this Obama Health Care is Free. there are no free lunches sister. We all pay taxes, unless you are one of those that do not pay taxes or you are taking all you can from the Government.

        6. Please read the ACA, I bet you will not be able to understand what the hell it says. Do not read the summarized version or the Liberal talking points.

        Please read the dammed frecking thing you idiot. That goes for REDDEVS and his missing Cigar. Red I hope you did not sit on it, did you? LOL I have much thicker skin that what you have.

        • 5 votes
        #6.10 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:59 PM EDT

        Why, Feisty, I believe you struck a nerve with Concern.

        Again:

        Concern, quit complaining about how you are treated here. Fix your OWN behavior.

        And of course the ACA isn't free, you (can't say moron, won't say moron, will THINK it) rwnj; the point is to get people buy insurance, thereby helping to contain costs.

        • 11 votes
        #6.11 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:06 PM EDT

        I can't believe I have to pay tax on my current health insurance because it is considered a "cadillac plan". Oh well, I'm sure the money will be put to good use, I always trust my government! /sarcasm

        • 3 votes
        #6.12 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:11 PM EDT

        Some of us work pay taxes unlike some people so we have the right to bitch.

        Get a job!!

        • 1 vote
        #6.13 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:16 PM EDT

        That goes for REDDEVS and his missing Cigar. Red I hope you did not sit on it, did you?

        Nah - after you went all Monica on it .. I threw that skanky thing away.

        • 6 votes
        #6.14 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:22 PM EDT

        She's a 'sensitive' sort, isn't she?

        Recently saw a sticker on a very fancy car in Miami I AM NOT A REPUBLICAN.

        Saw several Obama/Biden and only one for Romney.....that might have been one of those crazy Cubans.

        • 8 votes
        #6.15 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:34 PM EDT

        Red dev - think you may want to check that stat. Did it add in the "Provincial" tax? Last I looked (last week) total was in the low to mid forties up to 50% (Nova Scotia). Ahhh yes. I see you left those out.

          #6.16 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:04 PM EDT

          If the tax rates shown above for Canada are expressed in Canadian dollars, multiply them by about 65% to get to the US wages and tax burden.

          So a 26% tax rate against $85k Canadian is about a 26% tax rate against $50k US.

            #6.17 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:05 PM EDT

            So Concern citizen is admitting her sister is a nightly drunk who can't remember where she parked her car but will vote for Mitt? Well now, there's an endorsement if I ever heard one. And, probably the best one Mitt has coming!

            Like she's read the ACA! If she did, who explained the big words to her - you know - the ones over 4 letters?

            Obama/Biden 2012

            • 4 votes
            #6.18 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:07 PM EDT

            Did it add in the "Provincial" tax.

            No, it did not, just like most don't add US State taxes to US Federal taxes.

            • 5 votes
            #6.19 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:15 PM EDT

            Thanks for pointing out that in order to get apples to apples you'd have to compute taxes PLUS HEALTH CARE COSTS. That would include the portion of health insurance paid by our employers, BTW. At current rates that would be whatever we pay as taxes PLUS over $13,000 per family, plus the out of pockets, deductibles, etc.

            • 2 votes
            #6.20 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:44 PM EDT

            Well in the state in which I live, it is a max of 7.75%. The Canadian Provinces are responsible for many of their own costs and get "some" from the federal. So if we are going to give total taxes for social programs, let's include everything.

              #6.21 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 7:10 PM EDT

              total was in the low to mid forties up to 50% (Nova Scotia).

              All you have proven is that tax rates in the U.S. either rival or exceed those of Canada, and they have medical insurance to boot. I stand by my claim that the Canadians have the better deal and it is doubtful they are taxed at 60%. What was your point?

              • 6 votes
              #6.22 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 7:38 PM EDT
              Reply

              The longer this bill stays law, people will start to see the benefits of it. The more people see its good the less the right will have to knock it. republicans said the same things about Social Security. I don't see many of them turning down their Social Security benefits. I also don't see many turning down their Medicare. Mark my words once people start to see and receive this bill benefits it will be here to stay. Thats why the republicans/tea baggers will sell there soul to the devil to see this go away. By the way pick your devil is it the koch bros, grover norquist, rush, turdbrain rove, damn there are to many devils on the right to list!

              • 7 votes
              Reply#7 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 3:53 PM EDT

              actually the big problem is that there is no way to pay for it except adding taxes, and there's no jobs to create revenue for taxes, and obama isn't capable of creating private sector jobs, but he is capable and willing to scare the crap out of business enough so they won't create the jobs needed to pay for social programs.

              • 1 vote
              #7.1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:40 PM EDT

              the republican/tea baggers are the only ones trying to scare people. Just look at anyone of them than read their words. That scares the hell out of me. Read the paul ryan budget a classic horror story.

              • 4 votes
              #7.2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:57 PM EDT
              Reply

              If the election were held today the following would occur:

              For now, the new projected election out come totals are:

              Projected Winner Obama 293

              Projected Loser Romney 244

              • 6 votes
              Reply#8 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:03 PM EDT

              Let me see if i have this straight....Obama steals Romney's plan to create Obamacare....Obama steals Rubio's plan for immigration...huh, and the left wing of the left wing thinks he's a god becuase he's adopted Republican ideas??

              Too bad he's not still at Harvard, we could get him for plagarism.

              This November, vote for Republicans..."our ideas are so good even democrats steal them!"

              • 7 votes
              Reply#9 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:12 PM EDT

              mlkboneunderwear Just think in bush2 stole mitts health plan instead of starting 2 wars he would be a hero today.

              Please give me some facts on how The President stole rubio's plan.

              • 4 votes
              #9.1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:19 PM EDT

              wasn't it just a week ago the left wing of the left wing were running around gloating how they aced Rubio out?

                #9.2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:35 PM EDT

                mlkboneundrwear - and yet the GOP now hates both plans. Can you tell me what that says about Republicans? Can we say "hypocrites" and "obstructionists"?

                Obama/Biden 2012

                • 4 votes
                #9.3 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 6:09 PM EDT

                Keep seeking, you may find it.

                  #9.4 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 7:14 PM EDT
                  Reply

                  When is a TAX not a TAX? When talking to the liberals and the Obama Administration. When is a TAX, as determined by the Supreme Court, only a PENALTY? When talking to the liberals and the Obama Administration. The Law of the Land now calls the damn MANDATE a TAX, what is so hard to understand about that? The Obama Administration and liberal Democrats do not want to be painted as passing a TAX increase. Mass. can call it a MANDATE because no court has struck down the reading or meaning of the law in Mass as it pertains to the Mass. Law.

                  This decision by Chief Justice Roberts has created more controversy than it cleared up. The proper role for the Court should have been to overturn the law and inform the Congress that the MANDATE would have to be changed to a TAX which the Congress, and only the Congress, has a right to raise taxes.

                  • 2 votes
                  Reply#10 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:26 PM EDT

                  All the Supreme Court did was state the feds have the right to tax for anything they believe is in the public good, and it's up to us citizens to vote out the dogs who do.

                    #10.1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:37 PM EDT

                    People who think they know more about the law than the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court crack me up!

                    • 4 votes
                    #10.2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:53 PM EDT

                    If the Government has their hands in your wallet, its a tax.

                      #10.3 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:57 PM EDT

                      I wish all you righties would understand if you get insurance you don't get taxed. Its also sad to think you righties feel that if a person has no insurance is a deadbeat. Or that person is a leach on the system. So much for your fellow man. Yea I know you got god on your side and thats makes ok.

                      • 3 votes
                      #10.4 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 7:47 PM EDT
                      Reply

                      We are another week closer to electing a better leader. It is encouraging to learn more young people are leaning towards more conservative values. We've had a deficit of leadership in the White House since the election of 2008. Which has led to massive deficits of money. I think everyone was afraid Obama would encourage more people to go on public assistance programs. Now through Obama's massive expansion of free health care we now have 10's of millions more people on public assistance. We all know how hard it is to get someone off the government nipple once they latch on. Let's get America back on the right track in 2012!

                      • 3 votes
                      Reply#11 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 4:56 PM EDT

                      Yeah, let's get people off the government teat and get them back to leaching off their fellow citizens by refusing to take personal responsibility for their health care and dumping it on emergency rooms!

                      • 3 votes
                      #11.1 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:08 PM EDT

                      Come on John, You are not stupid enough to think Obama handing 10's of millions of additional Americans a medicaid card is them "taking personal responsibility" for their health care are you???? Fortunatley in 2012 many Americans are taking a far more educated approach to the election than they did in 2008.

                      • 1 vote
                      #11.2 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:31 PM EDT
                      Reply

                      Wake up people the US Gov.Rup or Dems do not care if you have a house,do not care if you have insurance,do not care if you die hell they dont care if your kids die. They only care about Power and your tax dollars.Take care of your selfs the hell with the Gov.

                        Reply#12 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 5:05 PM EDT

                        Obama could actually fit in on the White house staff.

                        Picture him in a powder blue tuxedo jacket, serving sweet tea to a REAL President in the Rose garden. That's where he could fit in.

                        • 1 vote
                        Reply#13 - Mon Jul 2, 2012 9:33 PM EDT

                        Guys, it is time to end this Is it a penalty? Is it a tax? debate! This is NOT a debate Democrats want to get into. Pelosi set the stage for the answer Democrats need to give: It's BOTH! It is a penalty tax on freeloaders. That's the soundbite. Don't try to explain it any more. And the difference between Dems and Repubs on the issue is that Repubs are okay with small businesses and the middle class having to pay more because of freeloaders.

                        • 1 vote
                        Reply#14 - Tue Jul 3, 2012 11:29 AM EDT
                        You're in Easy Mode. If you prefer, you can use XHTML Mode instead.
                        As a new user, you may notice a few temporary content restrictions. Click here for more info.