[MMM]

Originally Posted by Sangetsu

So, Caterpillar's cost increases "only" 20%. Exactly what was Caterpillar's profit margin last year? If it was anything like GM, Chyrsler, or other large companies, they can scarcely afford a 20% increase in insurance costs.

My point is that the number $100,000,000 is meaningless out of context.

I can scarcely afford my 20% increase as well.

Originally Posted by Sangetsu

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I didn't get my information from the FOX/AP poll, I got it from Gallup.

68% incumbents - Google Search

Can you please show your source that says 68% of voters intend to vote out their incumbent elected officials?

Originally Posted by Sangetsu

Who says Obama' approval rating is 53%? Gallup says 48%, Pew says 46%, Rasmussen says 43%, NBC says 48%. With all polls taken into account, Obama's approval rating is 47.2%, and his disapproval rating is 47.8%

It was from the AP about 10 days ago...which is ancient history, I am sure.

Interesting how Republicans lauded the previous present for not leading by polls but by his own values, and then they now criticize the present president for not leading by (their) polls.

Originally Posted by Sangetsu

And, which party holds the majority in both houses of Congress? Who is really doing nothing? Until a few months ago Obama's party and a decisive advantage in the senate and house, and still no legislation was passed.

And which party set up a system where majority does NOT rule? Why is 60 the magic number instead of 50?

GOP Filibuster Record: Republicans Using Obstruction Tool With Astonishing Frequency

The democrats do not hold an actual majority any longer. These are all things you know, so I really don't need to tell you, but this is for those that may not understand why a Democrat president and a Democratic congress appear to not be able to get anything done. Majority and Minority are not as simple as some would have think.

Originally Posted by Sangetsu

Before saying about how 45.000 people in America die each year without insurance, consider that anyone and everyone in America can demand treatment regardless of their ability to pay or insurance status, at any hospital, at any time. Illegal aliens with drug resistant tuberculosis are being treated free of charge (at about $1,000,000 per year, how many illegal aliens get free treatment at UK, Canada, or Japan hospitals?).

And consider how those without insurance do not go to the doctor when they are uncomfortable and their issue is treatable, but wait until they are in extreme pain, and go when their condition is untreatable and die.

The access to free coverage in the US by illegals (or by visitors) has nothing to do with your debate...but are you advocating taking health care and not paying for it? Certainly lots of people do that every day. It doesn't help the health care system, as in the end WE all end up paying for it. Wouldn't it be better to have a system where all Americans could get affordable treatment for preventable problems instead of going to the ER when their problem becomes deadly?

Originally Posted by Sangetsu

Many people in Japan die each year because "free" medical care demands that services are limited.

I would like to hear more about this. Please quote your sources.

Originally Posted by Sangetsu

A time will come in the when Japan can no longer afford to pay for it's social programs, what then?

Another interesting prospect. Please give links.