.... Isn't it possible to pass a bill for ONCE without added pork and earmarks? I realize that earmarks are what gets these people elected and places them into office, but you would think that something as important as this, would be able to slide through without the constant poltical grandstanding and game playing, wouldn't you?

One would think so, but I guess not... now the GOP is crying because they'll miss the vote - so they can go on a show & tell trip with Bush to CA to see the fires. Oh Brother!

More Grandstanding - Somebody needs to start doing their job in D.C. before it's too bloody late for us ALL.

Possible,but not probable. They are like spoiled children that can't stand being told no. It results in temper tantrums and breath holding or vote holding.

Don't confuse policy initiatives with spending restraint on the Hill. Both party's do it, earmarks that is.

Republicans set the record though, with astonishing speed in spending which accomplished this dubious goal in the year's 2000 - 2006, when Republicans spent like sailors on a drunken holiday, leading to today's budget deficits (tax cuts are part of the problem here too, well,, when they do not accompany budget cutting).

No, whats important is saying to constituents "we didn't get that through" and blame republicans so they can get re-elected.

This bill has some serious problems. For example parents w/ current coverage can drop the coverage and let the govt. pay for it. It will be a tremendous burden. If they modify to cover really needy w/o coverage than it will be a good bill...(i.e family under 40k income and nocoverage for the last 12 mos...etc)

What's the pork in the bill? I've read a number of times.

It's amazing, you ask a truly non partisan question and everyone seems to turn it into partisan debate.

I agree with you, Do what ever you can to pass important legislation that will provide health care coverage for many children who need it. If that means, leaving out earmarks, or altering the language slightly.

It is unlikely that Pelosi or Reid would allow this to happen because they would be afraid the President would get credit for the bill passing.

What earmarks were attached to this bill?....the complaints I heard had nothing to do with earmarks, just the people that would be covered. The Dems lowered the standards they had set and also added to the bill to make it hard for illegals to get the coverage. The Congress is to vote on the amended bill today. I hope the Republicans still vote no, showing that they are not at all interested in compromise.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071025/ap_on_go_co/children_s_health