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The Spectacle Blog
Tom Daschle's decision to withdraw his nomination as HHS Secretary over a failure to pay taxes no doubt raises further questions about the Obama administration's vetting procedures. But the most important aspect of this story is how much of a blow it deals to President Obama's push for health-care reform. As I noted yesterday, Daschle figured to play a prominent role in the effort, not just in terms of crafting a proposal, but in getting it through Congress. He was tapped because of his passion for health care and his vast legislative experience. It will be interesting to see who Obama chooses to replace Daschle, but either way, the administration will now have to completely rethink it's health-care strategy.
UPDATE: "It really sets us back a step," Sen. Dick Durbin said, according to the AP. "Because he was such a talent. I mean he understood Congress, serving in the House and Senate he certainly had the confidence of the president."
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WendyG| 2.3.09 @ 2:03PM
>>>But the most important aspect of this story is how much of a blow it deals to President Obama's push for health-care reform.
To say nothing of tax reform, and the notion of raising taxes. Really, this has blown Obama's cover to quite a significant degree. Rhetoric means nothing, if ACTIONS don't back it up. Watching Morning Joe today, I found out just how much Daschle's appointment was a payback for his support of Obama. Back-scratching as it were. That's change you can believe in? Plus it takes some of the shine off Obama's political machine overall.
And what a gift to the GOP! This is why I haven't been as depressed as some of my GOP friends are. Because I know - that times wounds all heels. ;) You just have to be patient.
Crusader| 2.3.09 @ 2:12PM
I'm wondering when the law of "be careful what you wish for" is going to kick in. I prefer to take a wait and see approach and see who the obamanator nominates in Daschle's place.
Anyway, I always ask this about ol' Tom--What is up with those red Sally Jesse Rapael glasses?
J David| 2.3.09 @ 2:16PM
The Puffster was "encouraged" to his thoughtful action of withdrawn himself from consideration, no doubt. The 'Bamster has more conscientiousness of his culpability than the vile, soulless, pragmatic, amoral, self-worship RINO scum that confirmed his tax-cheat Treasury Sec.
When people steal, or kill, or commit whatever crimes, people are used to hearing about it, and shrug. Betrayal is a trespass that people remember, and loath with a special fervor. RINOs are betrayers.
The Rev| 2.3.09 @ 2:56PM
Seems like once again, another "Most ethical administration" has proven more hot air than substance!
Alan Brooks| 2.3.09 @ 3:10PM
IRS likes Obama nominees--
after being nominated they pay their taxes plus interest.
edward del colle| 2.3.09 @ 3:31PM
please guys, let's not kid ourselves. the direction of this mealy mouthed pol was to extend subsidies to larger sections of the population. the monies in this initial bill to subsidize COBRA and extend eligibility to SCHIP are outrageous! you should say so. he was a very partisan pol when he majority leader in the tank for that sociopath clinton, and has never advocated competiton for health care or coverage. he is for extending a vote controlling bureaucracy. he and this entire cabinet is at minimum, "the apotheosis of the second rate".
bill glass| 2.3.09 @ 4:14PM
He was probably regretting the pay cut he was going to be taking...that plus the anal exam he was receiving probably made the decision pretty easy.
ruth| 2.3.09 @ 4:29PM
Not ready for prime time. Obama's a joke. I just hope our national security is being handled more competently.
Jim Leads| 2.4.09 @ 2:05AM
Nice of Turban- Durbin to chime in on Daschle's problems to remind us all why we should have voted for someone else last November.
Change we can believe in!!!!
WendyG| 2.4.09 @ 10:42AM
The most amusing spin I heard yesterday was that Daschle withdrew because was too noble to fight for himself, that getting in the mix of politics just isn't his style - never was. Really?? Even when he was majority leader in the Senate??
Pols or former pols who accept cars, drivers and such perks the likes of which most of us will never see, are rarely wilting flowers.