Dear Steven,
"We need to defeat these bastards. We need to wipe them out." Not my words. Rush Limbaugh's words.
Democrats extend health care to 32 million people, and how do Republicans react? Their eyes get all crazy-like. They throw fits. They vow repeal. And they will track down every Democratic member of Congress like bloodhounds on the chase.
Look, we didn't fight all these years for health care reform to see it dismantled by a radio blowhard, a bunch of regressive Republicans and an angry mob of right wingers. But their rhetoric will only grow more dangerous and threaten President Obama's accomplishments and future agenda. So when that FEC deadline comes Wednesday at midnight, we as Democrats need to show our post-healthcare strength.
On the Senate floor, Judd Gregg compared health care reform to not only a "huge asteroid," but a huge asteroid that will "land on our children's heads." Rep. John Boehner ranted at the top of his lungs until his face turned beet red. Glenn Beck cried. And "tyranny" and "socialism" are hot new topics on Twitter. I've gotta ask: What is WRONG with these people?
I haven't heard such claptrap from the Republicans since they said President Clinton's economic plan would be "a one-way ticket to a recession." They were wrong about Clintonomics, which balanced the budget while creating 23 million new jobs and lifting millions out of poverty. And they're just as wrong about Obamacare, which at its heart just means a family doctor for every family.
And if you think it couldn't possibly get any worse, just wait. The lies will only get more airplay now that corporations can spend unlimited money for candidates. Special interests are already spending more than $800,000 per day to kill President Obama's agenda. This number will only grow.
It might be laughable - if it weren't so dangerous. This election will determine the future of everything we've accomplished. Do we stand with President Obama and his progressive vision? Or do we let crazy conservatives destroy everything?
Here's the only acceptable answer: We fight.
Republicans want to drag this country kicking and screaming into the 19th century. It's up to you and me to make sure it doesn't happen.
Sincerely,
Paul Begala