President Barack Obama made a hard sell to House Democrats to support a compromise health care bill, the details of which are finally taking shape. He applauded the work members of Congress have put into creating health care legislation, acknowledged the concessions progressives have been forced to accept, and thanked vulnerable members for casting tough votes during a difficult political year.
According to a Democratic aide, Obama told progressives–bruised over the loss of the public option, and the persistence of the excise–that they could have another crack at the bill in the future.
“This is not the last health care bill ever passed,” he said.
“Once we have a final bill, we can really talk about how it’s going to help all Americans,” Obama told the caucus. “This is something that will last. You’ll look back and say this is one of the most significant accomplishments you’ve ever made.”
At one point, Obama turned to members in vulnerable districts, including Reps. Tom Periello (D-VA) and Steve Driehaus (D-OH), to offer his appreciation and support.
“You’ve had to take tough votes. I understand it. I really appreciate it. The country is better off because of these tough votes you’ve taken. I want you to know I’m behind you 100 percent.”
Obama fielded questions from members across the caucus, and when members emerged they were overwhelmingly positive about the progress, particularly regarding a deal reached between unions and the White House over the extent to which reform will be paid for by taxing employer-provided health care benefits.
“We haven’t seen all the specifics but I think we’re very, very encouraged by it,” said Education and Labor Chairman George Miller (D-CA).
“The main thing is to get rid of the [Senate’s] excise tax, because the level in the Senate bill was just going to impact too many people,” noted Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), who strongly opposed the tax on so-called Cadillac insurance plans. “The most important thing was to eliminate the negative impact it was going to have on so many people.”
Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-CA) said “the President outlined how he is prepared to help us this coming year, to let America know what this Congress, working with this president has been able to achieve.”
Obama won’t just be spending the next year selling the bill to the country, though. He’ll also be contrasting the Democrats’ accomplishments on health care with the Republican record.
“I’m also going to contrast what the other side has done,” he told the caucus.
