There was one feel-good moment in the Senate today when Teddy Kennedy returned to the floor for the first time since he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Kennedy’s appearance was greeted by a two-minute standing ovation (Think Progress has video). Kennedy then cast the vote to override the president’s veto on the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act of 2008.
Overall, I’m basically disgusted with the leadership of the Democratic Party. I can’t recall anything stupider happening than this FISA capitulation. I’ll get over it. But I don’t feel like saying anything nice about any of these clowns today. Yet, the Kennedy thing was a nice moment. And seeing Republicans override their boss’s veto is something to note on an otherwise dismal day.
Hoo-ray for Ted! But seriously, remind me once again why I’m supposed to be excited about voting for Obama in Nov.
Today is not the day to discuss excitement about an Obama presidency. I am actually excited about his presidency for a whole host of reasons. But why would I fluff Obama after he punked out on the most critical vote of the year?
Why indeed?
“I am actually excited about his presidency for a whole host of reasons.”
You are?
I want some of what you’re smoking.
I don’t think they voted to override Bush’s veto, just to pass what goes to him for his signature. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them vote to sustain a veto, though maybe Bush won’t make them do it.
yeah, you’re right. I’m tired. This bill failed to pass a filibuster a little while ago because Kennedy was sick and couldn’t vote. I remembered that and formed a false story in my head about today’s head. In the end, though, it finally passed with a veto-proof majority.
So, if something passes with a Veto Proof majority, and the president decides to veto it anyway, does it matter? Do they actually have to re-vote on it? Or will the fact that it passed with that majority make it impossible to veto?
the president can veto it. They generally don’t bother.
I would have liked to be a mouse in the corner when Obama and his staff were formulating their position on FISA. I’m still scratching my head and wondering how they managed to screw this up so badly.
If Obama thinks the FISA bill is a decent piece of legislation worthy of his support, then I have a big problem with the clarity of his thinking and his judgement. And if Obama voted with the GOP and the telecoms for craven political reasons, then I have an even bigger issue with him.
I don’t see a happy ending here. Sure, he’s still way better than McCain and his base is willing to cut him a little slack, but Obama’s rollover on this issue sets up a situation where he is going to catch holy hell if he fumbles again. He would be in a much stronger position had he stuck to his guns and done the right thing.
eagleye, why are the Republicans caving in to our next President, Obama? Why are they giving HIM all these powers?
You write:
And THEN you write:
Here is your problem.
When are you going to wake the fuck up?
How many Fitzmasses will it take?
Unbelievable.
AG
“Stupider” isn’t the word to describe the FISA vote. “Capitulation” is closer to correct. But as long as people don’t understand the dynamics of power in the U.S. you won’t even understand who the Dems are capitulating to. And then you sit there, scratching your heads or getting angry. It’s not the Dems who are stupid.
Funny statement over at DKos: judging by Bush’s approval ratings, by November the only people who support him will BE the Democrats in Congress.