Five Republican Governors Reject State-Run Health Exchanges

By | November 19, 2012

  • November 19, 2012 at 9:34 am
    LiveFree says:
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    I know we are all eternal optimists at heart but I really think somewher down the road shortly we are going to have states trying to succeed. Hell I can see a possible civil war 2. I really hope that doesn’t happen but States are getting angry at the federal govt and it looks like it will only get worse down the road.

    • November 19, 2012 at 10:11 am
      Nebraskan says:
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      I think every state wants to succeed.

      • November 19, 2012 at 1:19 pm
        Captain Planet says:
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        Yes, Nebraskan, I believe you are correct. I think most individuals want to succeed as well.

        • November 19, 2012 at 2:22 pm
          Ralph Kramden says:
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          Too bad most individuals and small business owners won’t be ABLE to succeed under Obama…

    • November 19, 2012 at 1:40 pm
      Anon says:
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      I think you meant secede….

    • November 20, 2012 at 9:57 am
      ComradeAnon says:
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      Let me guess. You believe in death panels, the apology tour, Obama was born in Kenya and everything else you see on Fox. So how long have you believed that Elvis is alive?

      • November 20, 2012 at 9:59 am
        Libby says:
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        They DO believe all that and more, Comrade. It’s comical and sad at the same time.

        • November 20, 2012 at 12:26 pm
          CT Agent says:
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          Don’t you tell me what I believe and what I don’t believe, Liberal Libby. You have no clue who I am or how I think, so don’t pretend that you do.

          • November 20, 2012 at 12:28 pm
            Libby says:
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            I can tell by your posts CT (with a couple of letters missing in between.)

          • November 20, 2012 at 1:31 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Wow..you really are an azzhole, Libby. I cannot believe you said that about me. Aren’t you always the one that’s crying foul when someone picks on you? Now, go ahead and whine because I called you a name..

          • November 20, 2012 at 2:43 pm
            Libby says:
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            Whatever, CT. You could never make me cry. I don’t take you seriously enough for that.

      • November 20, 2012 at 1:29 pm
        CT Agent says:
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        Comrade and Libby–you’re both so cynical that I believe you would tell a 5 year old that Santa Claus doesn’t exist…and then laugh about it when they start to cry.

        • November 20, 2012 at 1:44 pm
          Captain Planet says:
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          I don’t get it, what’s wrong with Cost Agent?

          • November 20, 2012 at 2:46 pm
            Libby says:
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            Or Cast Agent? Or Can’t Agent? Or Cert Agent? Wow, CT. You have a filthy mind.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:18 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            I don’t get it…what’s wrong with Captain Dick Head?

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:22 pm
            Libby says:
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            Because that’s not a C with 2 letters inbetween a T.

          • November 21, 2012 at 9:04 am
            CT Agent says:
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            Libby–do you wipe his a**, too?

          • November 21, 2012 at 9:12 am
            Libby says:
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            I wiped his art once. It was a little dusty.

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:20 pm
    spins22 says:
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    Sure, the gov’t can handle health insurance. Four words, National Flood Insurance Program!

    • November 19, 2012 at 2:00 pm
      GL GURU says:
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      Don’t Forgat Citizen’s in FL!
      Social Security?

    • November 20, 2012 at 9:55 am
      ComradeAnon says:
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      Medicare Has Controlled Costs Better Than Private Insurance. Medicare Has Lower Administrative Costs Than Private Plans. So-called “competition” in the private health care market has driven costs up.

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:21 pm
    Captain Planet says:
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    I think the title of this article should read, “5 Reject Republican Governors And State-Run Health Exchanges”.

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:31 pm
    Stephen Tallinghasternathy says:
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    These are the same people screaming for states’ rights. We want to control our individual state’s destiny, but because we are sore losers, we want the federal government to institute our state health exchanges.

    And those people who wish SECEDE from the United States are the same ones who two weeks ago were calling themselves true American Patriots.

    The disconnect is appalling and entertaining.

    • November 19, 2012 at 1:35 pm
      Captain Planet says:
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      Ding ding ding ding ding ding!

      Mainly, entertaining. Like watching Karl Rove on election night or Paul Ryan’s (the zombie-eyed granny starver’s) budget.

      • November 19, 2012 at 1:42 pm
        FFA says:
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        About as entertaining as watching you break your are patting OBama on the back.

    • November 19, 2012 at 2:10 pm
      Mike N says:
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      You metion the “same people screaming states’ rights” – which means, Constitutionally speaking, the federal government should be confined to the agreement entailed within the Cosntitution, which specifically enumerates the finite powers of the federal government. Then you complain because these governors refuse to give-in and, in effect, give up their Constitutionally guaranteed sovereignty.

      Then you have the gall to talk about someone else with a disconnect? What part of states’ rights do you not understand? Please, put the crack pipe down. With a logic flow you display here, is there any reason one can doubt Americans possess the stupidity necessary to vote Obama back in, regardless of his lies (won’t raise taxes – see Obamacare, will keep unemployment under 8%, “If you like your healthcare you can keep it”, will close Gitmo, etc.), or absolute failures (most of stimulus used to pay-off government unions, much of stimulus used to pay off crony campign donations, real unemployment at 11%+, etc.)?

      The democrat party. The party of:
      – slavery
      – the KKK
      – Jim Crow
      – Segregation
      – Racism
      – Blowing up little black girls at church
      – Bull Connor
      – Firehosing Peace Marchers
      – Poll Taxes
      – Socialism
      – The destruction of Social Security (voted to steal SS money and use it for the general fund)
      – The destruction of Medicare – Overprimised coverage in a sickening ploy to buy votes)
      – The destruction of Medicaid – by adding massive amounts of people to the program, while not increasing funding.

      Always remember, Martin Luther King (registered Republican) was assassinated by James Earl Ray (registered Democrat).

      We now see the party is finally showing their true roots and goals by simply trying to bankrupt the country. The party has always been about the destruction of capitalism and the American Dream. It looks as tbough they aren’t wasting the opportunity they now have to finish it all off.

      And, before anyone types “Bush tax cuts!”, or “tax the rich!”, please keep in mind, if Obama and the other leftists got their wish to raise taxes on the those making over $200,000, this would only pay for the govenment to operate for THREE DAYS. And, by all accounts, it would kill 700,000 jobs at the same time. This is the grand idea of the leftists. One has to be a first-rate moron to buy that.

      At the same time, if the income, wealth, and entire ppol of assets of the top 2% of income earners was stolen (even more so) by the federal government, IT WOULD NOT EVEN PAY FOR A SINGLE YEAR OF THE CURRENT DEFICIT, which was brought upon us when the leftists took the house and senate in 2008.

      Quite simply, leftists are a cancer, and the democrat party is the host body.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:17 pm
        David says:
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        All of the “Democrat Party” positions you refer to, were positions of the old Southern Dixiecrats…who whether you may be aware of or not are now members of the Republican Party.

        • November 19, 2012 at 2:21 pm
          Libby says:
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          Correction, Tea Party.

          • November 19, 2012 at 3:45 pm
            Mike N says:
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            Sorry, but Al Gore’s father was never a Republican. The racism and hate, which has always found a happy home in the democrat party, is now simply telling black people and minorities they are too stupid and inferior to make it on their own, without the largesse of the democrat party as bribe.

            Affirmative Action = “minorities are too dumb to get a job”
            Race-Based College Admissions = “Minorities are too stupid to get into college”

            The Republican Party simply believes all people, regardless of race, color, religion or background have the ability to succeeed.

            I love how, when confronted by their own past, leftist democrat party members try and pawn it off on someone else.

            But, here s alittle reality check: The democrat party, just 15 years ago, PLACED A GRAND WIZARD of THE KKK (or whatever the title. As a democrat, you should know. Please, share with the group) as their leader in the Senate. This sickening racist democrat (sorry, redundant) was placed 4th in line of presidential succession.

            While the Rspublicans were ending slavery, your party seceeded. While the Republicans tried to pass anti-lynching legislation, your party blocked it. While your party blocked Civil Rights Legislation (even with filibuster-proof majorities in the Senate and owning the House and presidency), the Republicans held their noses and voted against their COnstitutional roots of States’ Rights to pass the legislation and stop your party from killing, abusing, lynching and intimidating blacks.

            That’s the same reason your party targeted Clarence Thomas, demeaned his race, and tried to ruin him. That’s the reason your party called Condeleeza Rice a “house nigger”, “Aunt Tom” and “Condoleeza the Skeeza”. That’s the reason your party made commercials showing Rep Allen West, a black Republican, beating white women. That’s the reason Harry Reid said Obama “was clean and could talk properly (for a black man, at least, huh?).

            Your party has always been a racist cabal. Now it seems they just try and intimidate blacks into submission, rather than simply string them up.

            Sorry, not going to buy your garbage here. I know history, and am happy to go further and provide many, many more examples of the race hatred, modern history of abuse, and sickening plantation mentality your party serves up to blacks and other minorities.

            After all, the objective of the Republican Party is to allow free people to utilize their talents, develop them, and earn their way, as people of talent and value.

            Meanwhile, the objective of the demcorat party is to make blacks and minorities (and everyone else, too) dependent. That is done by telling blacks and minorities (through affirmative action and other sickening programs based solely on race) they are too stupid to stand alone and succeed, and they must rely on the taxes stolen from other families, doled out by the leftists, to survive.

            Republican Message: You are smart enough, have enough native talent, and can be a success, regardless of what stands in your way, or what type childhood you had.

            Democrat Message: You are too stupid (especially if a minority), lacking in talent, too deprived, and lacking in nativer intelligence to make it. We will bribe you with goodies to vote for us (you idiot!) because we think you are too dumb to understand the opportunities surrounding you, and not smart enough to figure out how the party is one of the major things hodling you back. You are not a real American if you are a minority. You are actually a hyphenated American (2nd class status).

            And, I hate to break it to you, but Al Gore Sr never became a Republican. Orvel Faubus never became a Republican. Bull Connor never became a Republican. LBJ (“We pass this civil rights legislation, and we’ll have these ni$$ers voting for us for 100 years!”)never became a Republican. Al Gore Jr., when he first employed the Willie Horton ads (which Bush Sr. also used) never became a Republican. Jimmy Carter, who campaigned at KKK meetings, never became a Republican. Sr. Ernest Hollings never became a Republican. Dick Gephart (who famously gave speeches to the MEtro South Citizens Council – a sick racist organization) never became a Republican. J. William Fulbright never became a Republican. Sam Ervin never became a Republican. Richard Russell never became a Republican. Huey Long never became a Republican.

            The list of democrat party members who opposed Civil Rights Legislation:

            Hill & Sparkman of alabama
            Fulbright & McClellan of Arkansas
            Holland & Smathers of Florida
            Russel & Talmadge of Georgia
            Ellender & Long of Louisiana
            Eastland & Stennis of Mississippi
            ervin & Jordan of North Carolina
            Johnston & Thurmand of South Carolina
            Al Gore Sr & Walters of Tennessee
            H. Byrd & Robertson of Virginia
            R. Byrd of West Virginia

            Of those 21 racists, only 1 became a Republican. That makes 1 for our side, and 20 for yours. And, without the Republican votes, Civil Rights Legislation would never have passed.

            Also, when considering Civil Rights Legislation, many bills were brought up over many years (until passd by Republicans – THE MINORITY IN BOTH HOUSES, mind you). Over those years, Republicans voted FOR the various bills 96% of the time. The democrat party, however, VOTED AGAINST THE BILLS 80% OF THE TIME!

            Much like Lady McBeth, your party will never be able to wash the stain of violent racism from your hands. Trying to pawn your violent history off on the party that actually freed the slaves, led the Civil War (for the RIGHT SIDE), and passed Civil Rights Legislation shows a contempt for history and an expectation your audience is plain too stupid to know the difference.

            The democrat party has been an anti-American, hate-filled crime syindicate now for over 200 years. A cancer in the American body.

      • November 19, 2012 at 3:16 pm
        D says:
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        Mr. N: When you have to resort to name calling, like calling Democrats a cancer, you have already lost your argument. All the typical right-wing hyperbole aside, Medicare Part D nearly destroys medicare. You are spouting off the Paul Ryan BS (which has no credibility) with your argument. Some of the provisions included in Obamacare specifically addresses Part D difficiencies. This includes extending the life of Medicare (as we currently know it) by another 8 years. That’s the opinion of Medicare’s Chief Actuary. How can you honestly bring up Medicare when you would never support such a thing if you were around in the late 60s when it was invented? Letting the Bush tax cuts expire would significantly improve the deficit and would not do any harm to the economy as there is no credible research that says reducing taxes for high earners does anything positive for the economy. Also, didn’t the economy tank AFTER the Bush tax cuts were enacted?

        • November 19, 2012 at 3:26 pm
          Libby says:
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          Mr. N is just a blow hard. Take everything he says with a grain of salt.

          When you start talking about the KKK, slavery, blowing up black children, and Jim Crow as being democratic ideas, it is clear to see he is a crackpot.

          • November 19, 2012 at 4:04 pm
            Mike N says:
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            Libby – It’s your history. Own it!

        • November 19, 2012 at 3:59 pm
          Mike N says:
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          No. The Bush tax cuts were implemented shorty after 9/11. The economy did not begin to crash until the democrat party gained majorities in both houses of congress in 2006. FUnny how that works, huh. Please, at least do your homework.

          Letting the Bush tax cuts expire would cost 700,000 jobs, and only bring in enough to cover the federal government’s sickening spending for about 3 days. But, when compared with 700,000 new taxpayers added to the rolls (and removed from receiving government handouts), that is a pittance.

          And, referring to the democrat party as a canceer is not name calling. It is merely an accurate analogy.

          BTW, your comments on Medicare are silly. Why? Ask your doctor. Obama and the leftists have cut doctor reimbursements. Doctors are currently dropping out of Medicare and Medicaid at a rate never before seen. The medical group my family belongs to is no longer taking Medicare of Medicaid patients. So, essentially, the claim of extension may be true. However, considering the elderly will find it harder and harder to locate doctors to serve them, this has been done on the backs of those most in need. The democrat party just completely screwed old people and Medicare patients. BTW, I hope your parents aren’t on a Medicare Advantage plan (which reduces costs). Obamacare just gave those the axe!

          Democrat party message to old people: “Die already! You’re too expensive. NO DOCTORS FOR YOU!”

          • November 19, 2012 at 4:57 pm
            D says:
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            So, now you are talking death panels again? Actually that last part is not true about O-Care. My own Dr. cited the lack of the plan’s focus on denying expensive medical care to the elderly when in his words, “they are close to dying anyway”. That’s why he does not support the plan. He is correct in that elderly patients, even ones “close to death” cannot be denied expensive medical measures. It weighs heavily on the system. There are a number of medical professionals, including my own Dr., in favor of severe limits when treating old folks. Those same Drs. dislike Obamacare immensely.
            Mr. N, I am seeing some of your posts. You are quite an angry fellow. Maybe you should take a vacation. I’m afraid that you may hit one of your relatives with a fork when they disagree with you at your family Thanksgiving dinner.

      • November 19, 2012 at 4:07 pm
        JJB says:
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        Hi Mike, You must be drinking the Fox News, I mean the Fake News Kool-aid by the gallon. It must be nice to live in the Republican bubble where up-is-down and down-is-up.

        Where Republicans are the loyal defenders of;
        – Social Security
        – Medicare
        – Medicaid
        – Civil Rights
        – Social Justice

        Also, I think you forgot to include the Republican’s unwavering support of the;
        – Auto Industry bail out
        – Wall Street Reform
        – Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act
        – Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell
        – Workers rights to collective bargaining
        – EPA
        – Global Warming
        – Minimum Wage
        – Roe vs Wade
        – Public Education
        – Evolution
        – Science
        – Math

        Really? What’s next?

        Iraq had WMDs BUT they were smuggled out of the country by Senator Obama and his secret Kenyan militia just to make the Republicans look bad?

        Or, better yet, the wars in Afganistan and Iraq were fully paid for by the previous administration?

        Oh ya, and let’s not forget to mention that President Bush’s tax cuts were fully paid for too? And what, the sunset provision was added by the Democrats at the last minute and signed by President Bush before he had a chance to read the bill?

        Those pesky Democrats are always trying to make those peace loving Republicans look bad.

        • November 20, 2012 at 8:08 am
          Libby says:
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          Right on, JJB!

          • November 20, 2012 at 1:50 pm
            Captain Planet says:
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            Mike N is sippin’ on Fox News. Paid hacks. That’s right, with their “facts” on the funny and their money paid to hacks.

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:35 pm
    What??!!?? says:
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    Live Free–you have me really confused. Are you talking about states wanting to secede or Succeed???????????????????????????????

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:40 pm
    Matt Sterling says:
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    If states seceded from the Union, their citizens would lose ALL federal benefits, i.e. social security, Medicare, unemployment benefits, unless they initiated their own programs which would be costly and not cover a large enough pool of individuals. Just not going to happen unless they want a civil uproar from their own citizens. Up course there are enough stupid people in this country that think they can secede and still retain U.S. government benefits even though they would no longer be a U.S. Citizen.

    • November 21, 2012 at 11:46 am
      Libby says:
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      Personally, I think we’d be better off without Texas. They’ve brought us LBJ and the Bush family – both war-mongers. They’ve brought us a plethora of serial killers and the assasination of JFK. And don’t forget the Alamo.

      Adios, Tejas!

    • November 21, 2012 at 2:29 pm
      Captain Planet says:
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      They also think they get to keep the military bases.

      • November 21, 2012 at 2:39 pm
        Libby says:
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        Well, you know everything’s bigger in Texas. Especially the bullshitters. I think they’re just whistling Dixie!

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:42 pm
    Scott Romoser says:
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    My Health Insurance premium increased again this year (no surprise). My deductibles were increased thanks to the Affordable Care Act and qualified HSA expenses have been limited. In addition, the Federal government is spending $2 trillion of tax payer money (borrowed from China) as a consequence of the Affordable Care Act. What’s not to love?

    • November 19, 2012 at 1:52 pm
      Captain Planet says:
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      How much did it increase compared to previous years? Mine actually stayed flat for the first time…ever. And, we now have an option for a vision plan which we never had access to before.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:02 pm
        GL GURU says:
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        Mine stayed flat too. But the company absorbed it.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:18 pm
        Former Status Quo says:
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        was it truly flat – as your deductibles did not increase and there were no additional costs paid for by your employer?

        • November 19, 2012 at 2:30 pm
          Captain Planet says:
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          Yes, rates stayed flat and no increase in deductibles.

          • November 20, 2012 at 8:53 am
            Captain Planet says:
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            What are the thumb downs, are you all jealous or something? Or, do you all just like rate increases?

          • November 20, 2012 at 8:57 am
            Libby says:
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            I vote for jealous.

          • November 20, 2012 at 9:32 am
            CT Agent says:
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            I think you’ve gotten thumbed down because the people on this blog are tired of reading your denial and your skewing the truth.

          • November 20, 2012 at 9:43 am
            Libby says:
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            Truth is in the eye of the beholder, CT.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:44 pm
        PM says:
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        My insurance premium has doubled in the last three years and I’ve moved from low deductibel to the high deductible plan. My HSA deductions are more than my monthly premium in 2008.

        The fact is that those who don’t want to see that BO is ruining this country, will not. They can always blame someone else instead of take responsibility for their actions.

        Other readings without the IJ bias, show about 30 states that are not choosing the state option. No reason to develop and implement state paid workers and processes that are going to be run by the feds anyway. This is another way for BO to spend states money.

        The scary part is we’ll go over the fiscal economic cliff and still adopt this albatross of legislation giving 30 million new people government subsidies. Subsidies that will come from a government that is already $16 trillion in debt. Wake up! Its better to have a government that is not perfect, than one that tries to create a utopia for all and collapses. My kids and your kids are the ones whose life is being ruined.

    • November 19, 2012 at 4:58 pm
      D says:
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      YOur premium increased this year based on the current system. Obamacare has barely taken effect.

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:42 pm
    Libby says:
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    I don’t think just sitting on your hands doing nothing is going to help you get reelected…

    • November 19, 2012 at 2:28 pm
      Ralph Kramden says:
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      You’re right, Libby. Blatantly lying and deceiving the American people…Now THAT’S the stuff that gets you reelected.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:34 pm
        Libby says:
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        Well, it worked for Bush!

        • November 19, 2012 at 2:38 pm
          Ralph Kramden says:
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          That’s right. Everything that is going on today in the world..Libya..Isreal..global warming. All George Bush’s fault. Can you please tell me Libby, as a liberal, just what is it that has you all so mesmerized by Obama?? You liberals make it seem like he walks on water.

          • November 19, 2012 at 2:50 pm
            Libby says:
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            If I told you what I saw in him Ralph, I would get hundreds of responses telling me how I am a moron, idiot, stupid fool, etc.

            Suffice it to say I think he was the better candidate between the two.

          • November 19, 2012 at 2:55 pm
            Ralph Kramden says:
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            Just like a liberal, Libby. You’re asked a direct question, and you give an indirect answer. If you were so proud to have voted for him, then you should be just as proud of telling us why and what makes him so irresistable to you.

          • November 19, 2012 at 3:02 pm
            Libby says:
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            I already have in other posts, Ralphie. Pay attention. I don’t need to justify my vote to you or anyone else. Now run along and pick on someone else for awhile. Like you co-workers.

          • November 19, 2012 at 3:10 pm
            Ralph Kramden says:
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            I must’ve missed those posts Libby, because they aren’t on this particular blog. I am a busy man and haven’t read/posted on here in a long time so I apparently missed your reasoning as to why you think Obama walks on water and why you are mesmerized by him. Maybe you can copy and paste some of your past posts explaining this. I’m sure I’m not the only one that would get a kick out of reading them.

          • November 19, 2012 at 3:21 pm
            Libby says:
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            Sorry, Ralphie. Don’t have time to hunt and paste for your amusement. I thought you were asking me a serious question. I see you are like all the others on here, just full of spite and mean-spiritedness. I won’t make that mistake again.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:40 pm
        Jon says:
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        Isn’t that pretty much every politician?

        • November 19, 2012 at 2:49 pm
          Ralph Kramden says:
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          Not sure I understand your question, Jon. Isn’t what pretty much every politician?

          • November 19, 2012 at 2:51 pm
            Libby says:
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            Every politician – lying and deceiving.

          • November 19, 2012 at 2:55 pm
            Ralph Kramden says:
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            Libby…really. I think Jon can answer for himself. Go do some work, will you?

          • November 19, 2012 at 2:59 pm
            Libby says:
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            Really, Ralph, paley boy. I’m getting tired of the condenscending tone. I could say the same to you. Why don’t you do some work?

          • November 19, 2012 at 3:00 pm
            Libby says:
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            And I was just trying to help YOU out, since you apparantly struggle with the English language.

          • November 19, 2012 at 3:04 pm
            Ralph Kramden says:
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            If I needed your help Libby, I’d have asked you for it. I can fight my own battles, thank you very much.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:51 pm
        companyman says:
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        Ralph.. NO, if that got you RE-elected (lying and deceiving) then the Republicans would have won the election with Mittens..

        • November 19, 2012 at 2:57 pm
          Ralph Kramden says:
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          Yeah because Obama’s lying and deceiving about Benghazi and hiding the truth until after the election wasn’t part of what got him elected. He and his entire party are a bunch of scum bags.

          • November 19, 2012 at 3:27 pm
            companyman says:
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            If you think Benghazi was the tipping point for the election and would have made the difference you are sadly mistaken..even that wouldn’t have been enough to overcome the republicans ken doll candidate. While we can debate all day, the election was not won on fiscal issues or foreign policy but social issues.

          • November 19, 2012 at 3:34 pm
            Libby says:
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            I second that.

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:48 pm
    Captain Planet says:
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    I think if Draetish gets in the conversation, we might learn about the pheasants wanting bird seed from The US.

  • November 19, 2012 at 1:54 pm
    Sarah says:
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    Nothing is free and this is going be the largest tax increase in history for the middle class!

    • November 19, 2012 at 2:09 pm
      FFA says:
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      Low Class and Upper Class too.
      Mine jumped 10% this month.

  • November 19, 2012 at 2:07 pm
    GL GURU says:
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    Part of Obamacare is funded by a 15% surcharge on medical device companies. In the past week or so there have been numerous announcements of layoffs for these companies including Stryker, Boston Scientific and St Jude Medical to name a few. regardless if you are fo r or against, these are jobs going overseas or ending because of the increase cost of doing business.

    • November 19, 2012 at 2:12 pm
      FFA says:
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      I let one full timer go to cover this tax. Its the biggest job killer there ever was.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:24 pm
        Libby says:
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        What tax, FFA? With only a few employees, your company isn’t subject to the Obamacare tax.

        • November 19, 2012 at 2:48 pm
          Ralph Kramden says:
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          Libby. Sweetie…Read your post. You start it by asking “What tax” and end it by saying “……. subject to the Obamacare tax.” So, are you saying it is a tax or it isn’t? Which, btw, it is.

          • November 19, 2012 at 2:52 pm
            Libby says:
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            Yes, it’s a tax, but FFA is not subject to it. So, I asked him which tax required him to lay off another person. He said it was the Obamacare tax. I don’t think he knows what he’s talking about.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:59 pm
        FFA says:
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        Sorry, meant the hugh increase in my affordable health insurance.

        • November 19, 2012 at 3:14 pm
          Captain Planet says:
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          Heffner, Grant, or Jass?

  • November 19, 2012 at 2:18 pm
    Nan says:
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    What if we lower the salaries of the Governors to what their average citizen makes then tell them to go out on the open market and buy quality, affordable health insurance for THEIR families. If they were faced with the same reality and restrictions they would understand why the exchanges are important. A worker can opt out of an employer plan and buy coverage through the exchange if it costs less or is better for their family. My newest employee (single mom with 3 kids and dead beat husband working under the table) can not afford our plan with the $1000 per person deductible. Kids often need medical care and they deserve to be treated. She would never be able to tap into the coverage by the time the deductible is appied. The insurance companies are rubbing their hands together waiting for the new customers…win win.

  • November 19, 2012 at 2:29 pm
    FFA says:
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    Not just the govenors. OBama himself as well as congress should lead by example and be on this Obama Care too. Anything else would be an admission of its not that good.

    How about you Liby & Cap, you going on it? Want a job killer tellig you what health care you can or cant have?

    • November 19, 2012 at 2:31 pm
      Libby says:
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      My employer has already said there are no changes in store over the foreseeable future, so I’m all set. Companies are not forced to change their plan if they are offering one. And you will have a choice of plans through the exchange.

      Study up, FFA. It’s time you learned the facts.

      • November 19, 2012 at 2:44 pm
        FFA says:
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        So, why is OBama himself not participating? How about Congress?
        Why is he not leading by example? Its good enough for his name but not for his family.

        And here is one fact – tens of thousands of people are going to be un/under employed because of this.

      • November 19, 2012 at 3:00 pm
        FFA says:
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        renewal before 1/1/2013. Lucky you. Get on emore year of what you got.

  • November 19, 2012 at 2:37 pm
    perplexed says:
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    Captain and Libby, Is there anything we can do to get you to stop commenting on this blog? You don’t contribute anything worth reading. If you’re working for someone else I’d be interested to know if you spend countless hours adding your mindless dribble to the posts.

    • November 19, 2012 at 2:48 pm
      Libby says:
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      I, for one, think Captain contributes alot worth reading. You, on the other hand, not so much.

      If you want a place with only one-sided opinions, stick to FoxNews. Otherwise, feel free to skip our posts or thumb us down until they are hidden. That’s your right.

    • November 19, 2012 at 3:18 pm
      D says:
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      Then don’t read what they have to say.

  • November 19, 2012 at 3:08 pm
    Captain Planet says:
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    From my HR:

    While the average health care cost for 2013 are trending around 7.5%, ___ is pleased 2013 rates for the medical plan the will remain the same and we are adding additional tier categories to better define plan participants. We will be offering five “2013 ___ Annual Benefits” webinars to explain upcoming changes.

    Some of the key points to be covered in the webinar meetings include:
    Short Term Disability will be paid by the Company for all eligible employees
    New Voluntary benefits for Accident and Critical Illness will be offered
    New Vision Insurance will be offered
    New Health Advocate – helps navigate through the Health Care System
    New spousal requirement for the base plan only
    Plans will have four tiers (Base, High Deductible and Dental)
    o Employee
    o Employee + Dependents
    o Employee + Spouse
    o Family
    New smoking surcharge of 20% of premium on all medical tiers and plans
    Access to CIGNA Quit Smoking Today Program- on-line or telephonic coaching and support
    Pharmacy coverage is moving from Cigna to CVS Caremark
    ___ will increase Company contribution to employees Health Savings Account if you are enrolled in the HDHP
    Medical Flexible Spending accounts will have a $2,500 maximum (IRS Guideline)

    Seriously, the best healthcare benefit message I have ever received. Oh, and, we aren’t firing anyone, either.

    • November 19, 2012 at 3:19 pm
      Libby says:
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      Where do I apply?

      • November 19, 2012 at 3:57 pm
        Captain Planet says:
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        We just announced a web developer position today.

        • November 19, 2012 at 4:03 pm
          Libby says:
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          Rats! I’m just a plain, old commercial insurance broker…

          • November 20, 2012 at 3:38 pm
            Libby says:
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            Now 11 people don’t like old insurance brokers. Is it age discrimination or you just don’t like insurance agents? Because last I checked this was a blog for Insurance Professionals. Really, people, your Libby hate is really showing now.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:20 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            You brought that hate on yourself, Libby. Maybe Cap’t Planet can console you.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:23 pm
            Libby says:
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            Again, whatever, CT. You don’t know me. So hate away! You’re not getting really high marks either, chicky.

        • November 20, 2012 at 8:56 am
          Captain Planet says:
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          There are at least 5 job-haters out here. They only like to talk about jobs being lost, not created. Way to go Republicants!

          • November 20, 2012 at 8:57 am
            Captain Planet says:
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            Seriously, 5 people thumbed down a job being created. What is wrong with you thumber-downers?

          • November 20, 2012 at 11:47 am
            FFA says:
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            I got to agree with you Cap. No one should ever thumb down a job – even if its just one.

          • November 20, 2012 at 11:51 am
            Libby says:
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            You can’t even take these people seriously. They’re all a bunch of thumb suckers.

          • November 20, 2012 at 1:27 pm
            Courageous Cat says:
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            It’s not a Republican thing, Captain…it’s a “we just don’t like you” thing.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:09 pm
            Captain Planet says:
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            Don’t like me and don’t even know me – should call you Coward Cat.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:21 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Whatever. Just don’t call me. Period.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:24 pm
            Libby says:
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            Who did? Certainly not me.

          • November 21, 2012 at 9:09 am
            CT Agent says:
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            Cappie DH–Don’t forget we hate the elderly and the sick, as well.

          • November 21, 2012 at 12:26 pm
            Captain Planet says:
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            CT, with your commentary over the past couple of days, I believe you can simply stop at, “I hate.”

            I don’t think The Right hates the sick and elderly, I just don’t think they are willing to do enough to help them. Correction, I know they are not willing to approve of the Heritage Foundation’s Right Wing response to Hillarycare, as endorsed by Bob Dole, when a Democrat, who happens to be brown, submits it as healthcare reform; which was a major platform he ran on and was elected to do. Certainly has something to do with Mitch McConnell’s only goal of making President Obama a one term President, which he completely failed to do. 4 you, 4 me, 4 We The People…4 more!

          • November 21, 2012 at 2:55 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Wait a sec, Cap…you forgot to mention the war on women. Where the hell that ever started, I will never know.

          • November 21, 2012 at 2:58 pm
            Libby says:
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            I realize you are a little challenged, CT. So I will do your research for you:

            “War on Women” is a political catchphrase in United States politics, used to describe Republican Party initiatives in federal and state legislatures that are seen as restricting women’s rights, especially with regard to reproductive rights.[1][2][3][4] Some sources have used the phrase to criticize conservative positions.[5][6][7] Additional uses refer to legislative initiatives regarding the following: access to reproductive health services, particularly birth control and abortion services; how violence against women is prosecuted; how rape is defined for purposes of public funding of abortion for rape victims;[8][9][10] how workplace discrimination against women is treated; and litigation concerning equal pay for women.[11][12][13][14] The term is often used when targeting policies that reduce or eliminate taxpayer funding for women’s health organizations, like Planned Parenthood.[15] Other areas of concern include public funding and mandatory employer insurance coverage of such matters as contraception and sterilization.

            While the term is not new and has been used in other contexts,[16][17][18] it became common in American political discourse after the 2010 congressional elections.[19][20][21] Use accelerated rapidly in 2012 as both liberal and conservative news outlets began to discuss the concept.”

            That’s how the hell it started.

    • November 19, 2012 at 5:09 pm
      BS says:
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      Seriously people???

      FFA comments about having to let someone go to pay for the tax as proof that Obamacare is horrible, and you thumbs-up the comment. Yet when Captain Planet comments about how good his insurance is this year as proof of Obamacare not being horrible, you thumbs-down the comment???

      What the hel1 is wrong with you people? Are you really THAT desperate for proof that Obama is as awful as you think he is, that you’re HOPING for and PLEASED when bad things to happen to the country???

      You don’t have to like the man or agree with his policies, but seriously, don’t root for him and the country to fail just so you can say “told you so.”

      You want to blame anyone for destroying our country, just look in the mirror. Because it’s that kind of mentality that’s ripping this country apart, not some healthcare bill.

      • November 20, 2012 at 8:11 am
        Libby says:
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        Right on, BS!

        • November 20, 2012 at 1:25 pm
          CT Agent says:
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          You’re right on one account, Libby…it IS BS!!!

          • November 20, 2012 at 1:55 pm
            Captain Planet says:
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            CT Agent – it’s the truth. You can choose to believe it, like believing in God I guess. But, you not believing it doesn’t negate the fact my health insurance didn’t see a rate increase this year and actually became a better plan overall to boot.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:28 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Captain DH, instead of you trying to continually cram your liberal agenda down everyone’s throats (excepts Lbby’s…she seems to like it), why don’t YOU try believing the truth? We-Repubs/Dems-will NEVER see eye to eye on this because liberalism is a mental disorder, and conservativism is not. Maybe if you would look at certain things that your party condones..the number one issue for me is abortion. I do not believe in it, yet I get chastised for that and your party seems to have no problem with me having to pay for it even if it is used as a form of birth control. That is one of the many things that I despise about this administration. They are arrogant thugs with an agenda…a dangerous agenda.

      • November 20, 2012 at 1:37 pm
        CT Agent says:
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        And, the mentality of the country leans left, so you are correct in your analysis that this mentality is ripping the country apart.

        • November 20, 2012 at 3:26 pm
          BS says:
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          That’s your response? Not, “I’m not hoping that the country fails and that people suffer just to prove I was right about Obama?” Just “Blame the lefties?”

          Thanks for proving my point.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:29 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Well, yeah. You’re the dick heads who are ruining the country..I’m not going to blame my party.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:42 pm
            BS says:
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            Once again proving my point.

            Not once did I say blame the right. I said blame the mentality of those who want to see people suffer so the other party loses. Not so the country prospers – just so the other party loses. And there are people on both sides who do that.

            But you keep on throwing insults. It’s totally bringing me around to your way of thinking.

          • November 21, 2012 at 8:13 am
            Libby says:
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            Way to make friends and influence people “Insert Letters Here” Agent.

          • November 21, 2012 at 9:11 am
            CT Agent says:
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            Libby–GFY.

          • November 21, 2012 at 9:15 am
            Libby says:
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            Very nice, potty mouth.

          • November 21, 2012 at 2:57 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Then, how’s this? GFY, azzhole.

          • November 21, 2012 at 3:25 pm
            Libby says:
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            Now I lay me down to sleep,
            I pray the Lord my soul to keep.

            If I should die before I wake,
            I pray the Lord rids CT of her hate.

  • November 19, 2012 at 3:19 pm
    D says:
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    Nothing like trying to score political points on the backs of uninsured people to look good to a shrinking base. Maybe we should just do an Emergency Room exchange as that is where the majority of uninsured people go when they are sick?

  • November 19, 2012 at 5:11 pm
    Denny says:
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    How do you all feel about having the IRS administer the healthcare system which includes all of your health records becoming part of their records? Does anyone out there think this is more than a bit scary? Say, for instance, that your taxes are delinquent, can the IRS hold that over your head and deny you healthcare? Say, again for instance, that your spousal or child support is overdue, can that also stop healthcare? Say, once again, that your college loans are delinquent, what happens – no healthcare? Now, if the IRS, has your healthrecords do they not become a central source for employers to check the financial and health status for current employees and future hires? If, say, you are diagnosed be-polar and you keep it secret from your employer, can the employer find out about it and alter your status at your place of employment so that it does not become an ADA case?

    Healthcare for all sounds so warm & fuzzy but in actuality it can be used to destroy those who now, perhaps naively, support it. Its a great soundbite for the current generation who would know nothing of the news at all if it were not for soundbites……but when long term fiscal ramifications are pondered [something that appears to be a practice left in the past] its more cold & thorny than warm & fuzzy.

    • November 20, 2012 at 8:13 am
      Libby says:
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      Wow. Read much science fiction, Denny? Conspiracy theories and Big Brother? You ought to write a novel.

  • November 19, 2012 at 5:15 pm
    draetish says:
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    The Democrats have always used the minorities and poor to obtain votes and support their “give me” way. Republicans support the honest hard working Americans. If any politician said “hey I’ll give you insurance as long as your employed”, they would never get elected. If the Republican Party said they would bring back jobs to America and revamp the welfare system, they would have lost. The majority of Society is lazy and thinks everyone owes them something, therefore Obama won. Hey Planet be sure you spell check me so you will have someone to laugh at for a mis-spelled word (how childish). For the record, I’m not a he.

    • November 20, 2012 at 8:14 am
      Libby says:
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      Captain did not call you on your spelling. Someone else did. We were just having fun with words. You were welcome to join in, but your feeling were hurt instead. You’re the childish one.

      • November 20, 2012 at 9:25 am
        Captain Planet says:
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        Actually, Libby, I did crack a “Tombstone” Doc Holliday joke. But, it’s just that…a joke. Draetish, we should have been laughing with you. Both Libby and I laugh at ourselves out here. In fact, I think we might be the only ones who do. Everyone else takes everything so damn seriously all the time. You are blogging, so the skin has grow an extra few layers thick. I honestly didn’t mean anything by it, was just playing on the whole “pheasants” thing. I’m sure you’re a good person and whereas you think a majority of society is lazy, I’d say you have a jaded view because I just don’t see that at all. Where do you live, Key West? Those people aren’t lazy, they’re just wealthy drunks and vacationers. Also, because I have to nit-pick, I’ll correct your grammar:

        If any politician said, “Hey, I’ll give you insurance as long as you’re employed,” he/she would never get elected.

        Just trying to help!

        • November 20, 2012 at 9:28 am
          Libby says:
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          I’ll be your huckleberry.

    • November 20, 2012 at 9:38 am
      CT Agent says:
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      draetish!! I am not a he, either, and Libby had a totally hard time believing that! She said I couldn’t be a woman because I didn’t say the kind of things that women say…WHAT??!!?

  • November 19, 2012 at 8:56 pm
    Sargent Major says:
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    After looking through the conversation I would say I agree with spins 22 and GL Guru in that the federal government is a lousy administrator and could not manage a one car funeral. Failures-

    *The federal thieves that steal from Social Security to fund other general fund projects and other entitlements. They are stealing from a pension fund. I know people who have went to jail for a long time doing that.

    * FEMA- And they said Bush did a bad Job with Hurricane Katrina

    *Citizens Ins in Fla. So under reserved that if this insurance company stood independent, it would be taken over by regulators.

    *Medicaid- The Feds allow more fraud with Mediciad than any mob related business.

    *The Post Office- Just this week reported a $15.5 Billion dollar loss of which $11.1 billion is related to money needed to fund federal pension plan obligations and free healthcare for life when they retire. This is what we called BROKE!

    *Federal funding for Green energy companies- Soylndra among others

    So I have no faith that the federal government can operate a brand new healthcare program, come within the budget forecast and do all the wonderful things that Obama is promising. No way. This is a joke.

  • November 19, 2012 at 9:05 pm
    Sargent Major says:
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    As far as Obamacare and health costs going up now- Companies are funding for future obamacare obligations. If the federal government can collect taxes and other “fees” now without providing benefits then why can’t companies charge more now to offset what is coming? Here are a couple examples:

    1.) Caterpillar a couple of years ago put up a $400 million dollar reserve to pay for future expected costs of Obamacare.

    2.) Stryker Corporation, a Kalamazoo Michigan based company that makes medical device equipment, just laid off 1170 employees siting the 2.3% tax on medical device equipment makers and the need to offset those costs.

    So much for job creation.

    • November 20, 2012 at 9:40 am
      K'zooKonnection says:
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      You think Stryker’s layoffs–despite its stated scapegoating– might have something to do with any of the following:
      > a slew of costly acquisitions over the past decade or so
      >citations by the Feds for lack of compliance
      >a recent recall of defective devices
      You think?

      Get ready: Obamacare is a big and easy target. Every time a big corporation has to cut costs to maintain its profits, they can cite AHCA rather than any of its own failures.

      • November 20, 2012 at 9:55 am
        Libby says:
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        Don’t confuse Sarge with the facts Kalamazoo! He’s from Detroit.

  • November 19, 2012 at 9:39 pm
    Sargent Major says:
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    That should have said, “If the federal government can collect taxes and other “fees” now without providing benefits then why can’t companies cut costs or charge more for product now to offset what is coming?” Sorry about that

    • November 20, 2012 at 8:18 am
      Libby says:
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      Who says they can’t?

  • November 20, 2012 at 9:10 am
    draetish says:
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    Libby says:
    Captain did not call you on your spelling. Someone else did. We were just having fun with words. You were welcome to join in, but your feeling were hurt instead. You’re the childish one.

    Oh Libby, bite me! You cannot say anything about the comment I made except that?

    Here’s one for you…
    The election is over, the talking is done.
    My party lost, your party won.

    So let us be friends, let arguments pass.
    I’ll hug my elephant, you kiss your ass.
    Have a great day

    • November 20, 2012 at 9:25 am
      Libby says:
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      Nanny, nanny, boo, boo to you too!

      • November 20, 2012 at 9:32 am
        Captain Planet says:
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        That may be the draetish poem I’ve ever read! But, it could be improved:

        The election is over, the talking is done.
        Your party lost, my party won.

        So let us be friends, let arguments pass.
        You hug my elephant before I tap dat ass!

  • November 20, 2012 at 9:58 am
    ComradeAnon says:
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    This shows how stoopid republicans are. They are moving the country another step closer to single payer health insurance.

    • November 20, 2012 at 10:20 am
      CT Agent says:
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      Umm…ComradeAnon…I think you’re referring to the wrong party there…that just goes to show how stooooopit YOUR party is.

      • November 20, 2012 at 10:28 am
        Libby says:
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        By refusing to set up state exchanges, states are forcing the Feds to step in. One step closer to single payer health insurance.

        That shows how much Republicans pay attention.

    • November 20, 2012 at 11:03 am
      Expert Novice says:
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      What always puzzles me is why Democrats want to put Republicans in charge of everyone’s healthcare. You probably don’t understand what I’m talking about so let me explain. The federal government has these things called elections, and occasionally the people who you say are stupid, evil, and corrupt win these elections. You might like the guy who is in office right now, but eventually someone you consider to be the worst president, speaker of the house, or senate majority leader in history will get elected and then congratulations to you–you have given that person more control over your healthcare. And there’s nothing you can do about it because (in the case of congress) that politican was elected by the voters of some other state and they have no reason to listen to your concerns.

      You Democrats all believe Bush singlehandedly crashed the economy, right? Picture what he would have done if Obamacare or single payer healthcare was the law of the land during his presidency. The consolidation of power in Washington is what gives these politicans the ability to cause all of these problems in the first place. Arguing that your guy is better doesn’t matter–you can’t have a country become totally dependent on one man or one party because such things never stay in power forever. The goal shouldn’t be to put your favorite politicians in office and then give them as much power as possible–the goal should be to maintain a sustainable system that is limited enough so the whole country doesn’t crash every time an idiot takes over. That goes for Republicans, too–their politicians aren’t really for smaller government either.

      • November 20, 2012 at 1:17 pm
        Captain Planet says:
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        No, Reagan almost single-handedly ruined today’s economy (this is what 30+ years of trickle-down can do for us). Bush didn’t help matters, though. They are both a couple of Johnny Knoxvilles.

      • November 20, 2012 at 1:21 pm
        Ron says:
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        Democrats do not believe that Bush singlehandely crashed the economy any more than Republicans believe that Obama is singlehandely destroying this great nation.
        Neither is true.

        • November 20, 2012 at 1:39 pm
          CT Agent says:
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          Ron…speak for yourself, please. I am a Republican and I do happen to believe that Obama is single-handedly destroying this great nation.

          • November 20, 2012 at 2:54 pm
            Libby says:
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            Of course you do.

          • November 20, 2012 at 3:13 pm
            K'zooKonnection says:
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            How so? Maybe you could be specific about how you think a president who inherited an economy on the brink of collapse and two wars we couldn’t pay for b/c that really fiscally responsible guy before him thought wartime was also the time to cut taxes (anybody else scratching your head about HIS math?), how that president, who saved the auto industry, how it is that he single-handedly destroyed the economy?

            And do you think you could supply some facts? Those are helpful when making outrageous assertions.

            So Bush, who inherited a surplus and left us in fiscal ruins (see above) did not contribute to our current situation? Really???

          • November 20, 2012 at 3:32 pm
            Libby says:
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            K’zoo – CT Agent is usually short on facts. Long on hot wind and vitriole.

          • November 20, 2012 at 4:17 pm
            Ron says:
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            CT Agent,
            I will work under the assumption that you believe in the Constitution and that the Foundings Fathers were brilliant in how they created this great nation. Both of which I agree.
            Please explain how they structured the Constitution in a way that would allow one incompetent person to destroy it all singlehandedly?
            As you go into your “Obama is the most unconstitutional President ever” rant, answer this question: If that is the case, when can we expect the impeachment proceedings form the Republican controlled House of Represenatives? They have passed 30 plus bills attempting to repeal The Affordable Care Act with no hope of passing the Senate, why not impeachment?

          • November 21, 2012 at 9:12 am
            CT Agent says:
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            Again, Libby. GFY.

          • November 21, 2012 at 9:17 am
            Libby says:
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            You must be a miserable person to be around CT. You are so full of hate. I feel sorry for you.

          • November 21, 2012 at 2:59 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Vitriole!! A lefties favorite word!

          • November 21, 2012 at 3:00 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Don’t feel sorry for me, Libby. Just GFY.

          • November 21, 2012 at 3:24 pm
            Libby says:
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            Probably because we experience it from the right so often. Do you even know what it means?

          • November 21, 2012 at 3:28 pm
            Libby says:
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            I DO feel sorry for you, CT. You are clearly living a miserable, hate-filled life and more than likely are alone and lonely. Do you need a place for Thanksgiving dinner? If so, you are welcome at our table. I wish only the best for you and that you will be able to one day live a loving and joyous life. Amen.

          • November 21, 2012 at 4:23 pm
            Ron says:
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            Hey CT Agent, where’s my response?

          • November 23, 2012 at 8:32 am
            Libby says:
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            CT, you’ve been called out by both Ron & K’zoo and all you can say is “GFY Libby???” Really?

    • November 20, 2012 at 11:19 am
      Don't Call Me Shirley says:
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      “Hey, stoopid!”

      – Alice Cooper

      • November 20, 2012 at 11:21 am
        Libby says:
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        Captain, is that you in drag?

        • November 20, 2012 at 11:37 am
          Don't Call Me Shirley says:
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          Nope (although I am a dude). The name is from the often-used phrase in the movie “Airplane”. Never done the drag thing, though I was in a metal band many, many years ago.

          • November 20, 2012 at 11:39 am
            Libby says:
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            I am familiar with the movie. I speak jive, too. Being in a heavy metal band is about as close to drag without actually going there. Gotta love that head-bangin’ music! Rock on.

  • November 20, 2012 at 10:58 am
    draetish says:
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    Republicans are paying attention alright, but you can’t win against cheaters and liars. Obama bought votes from minorities and uneducated people following his message (which by the way they don’t even know what it is) and neither does his followers on this forum. Never once has anyone that supports Obama can answer why?

    • November 20, 2012 at 11:01 am
      Libby says:
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      That is funny, Draetish. I said the same thing in 2000 and 2004. I guess what goes around, comes around.

    • November 20, 2012 at 1:00 pm
      K'zooKonnection says:
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      I assume you are asserting (wrongly) that no one who supports Obamacare can say why. How’s this: I support it b/c I believe the right to healthcare is fundamental (life, liberty. . . You know, all that), and I don’t want to pay the HIGHER costs of ER care for the uninsured (which we all pay now). I don’t believe anyone should be denied insurance b/c of a pre-existing condition or b/c he or she loses a job (or has one in which the employer can’t or won’t provide it). My husband and I have been treated for illness, accident, and emergency in England, Germany, and Canada–not only not a nightmare, but prompt, courteous, excellent care, either free or at very low cost to us (bot US citizens). Obamacare would make simple health maintenance much easier for the poor and thus increase their chances of not letting health problems go until it is too late. Enough for you? I could go on.

      • November 20, 2012 at 1:28 pm
        K'zooKonnection says:
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        I meant Austria, not Germany–we’ve had extended stays in both countries, but never needed healthcare in Germany.

  • November 20, 2012 at 10:58 am
    CB says:
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    I wish we could just stop all this partisan nonsense. There are good and bad people affiliated with both parties. What we need is less partisan bickering and division and more public officials working to fix our country!!!! It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out we can’t afford to keep going down the current road much longer – that’s just facts, not Republican or Democrat speak.

    • November 20, 2012 at 12:09 pm
      FFA says:
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      Well said. No longer do the parties pull togeather for the greater good of all. All you really need is high school economics to get to the conclusion that we as a nation are headed for darker days. Glad I have my plan B lined up if I do get taxxed out of business. Cheap housing. Good hunting land in the imediate area. Plenty of room to spread out and grow my own food.

  • November 20, 2012 at 6:19 pm
    Sargent Major says:
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    Dear K’zoo Konnection I don’t know your situation or your relationship to Stryker but as far as I am concerned it has been a fine stock and a fine company. I own the stock and have made money off of it. The Wall Street analysts like it also. Why?

    * It is one of, if not the largest medical equipment manufacturer in the US

    * It has provided consistent growth year over year inspite of the economy. This is due to a larger aging population which makes this a great segment to own

    *It has provided consistent dividends to shareholders.

    * The acquisitions you speak of have been complimentary to its core business and has been seen as good acquisitions. I don’t know how the transitions were handled but I assume some of the purchasing value came because they were able to save expenses and merge departmental functions which causes some job eliminations.

    * The earnings per share has been strong year over year.

    * It has a PE of 14 where the S&P 500 is 17.7

    13 analysts rate the stock a buy and 13 analysts rate it a hold. I think the hold call is a good one due to the stock price trading near its 52 week high, the market is still a little volatile and I think it might still see some pull back, maybe. So count me as a fan of Stryker and it is a Micigan company!

    As for you libby? once again you jump to conclusions and make a “Stoopid” comment

    • November 21, 2012 at 8:29 am
      Libby says:
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      Which “stoopid” comment are you referring to, Sarge? You think every comment I make is stupid, so you’ll have to be a little more specific.

      • November 21, 2012 at 9:14 am
        CT Agent says:
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        Stupid is as stupid does, Libby.

        • November 21, 2012 at 9:26 am
          Libby says:
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          Sometimes, I guess there just aren’t enough rocks for you, CT. I feel sorry for you. But keep throwing them.

          • November 21, 2012 at 3:01 pm
            CT Agent says:
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            Wow, Libby. Where do you get your prophetic sayings from? Or, should I say pathetic?

          • November 21, 2012 at 3:22 pm
            Libby says:
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            From Forrest Gump, same as you.

  • November 20, 2012 at 7:06 pm
    Sargent Major says:
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    Ron said- “If that is the case, when can we expect the impeachment proceedings form the Republican controlled House of Represenatives?”.

    I would say that would be a waste of time. Bill Clinton was impeached but was able to stay his second term as Nincompoop in Charge. He was impeached and after that event he still had Monica Lewinski under the desk. In fact Bill Clinton is the only President other than Andrew Johnson (Lincoln’s successor) to be impeached. Johnson was removed from office. So what makes anyone think Obozo would be removed given a divided Congress/Senate

    So Ron if you can figure out how to pull it off, I am all for it!

    • November 20, 2012 at 7:22 pm
      Ron says:
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      If impeachment is a waste of time when Obama is doing things that are unconstitutional, what do you call all of the bills the House passed to repeal and/or defund The Affdordable Care Act with a divided Congress? That was my point.
      Quick civics lesson,The Senate is part of Congress, not Congress. You’ll find that in The Constitution.
      By the way, the only part of The Affdordable Care Act that was up for consideration as unconstitutional was a Republican idea.

    • November 21, 2012 at 10:20 am
      BS says:
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      “Johnson was removed from office.”

      That’s not true. He was acquitted by one vote and finished his term. He didn’t run for a second term, but he was not ‘removed’ from office.

  • November 21, 2012 at 11:57 am
    FFA says:
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    OBamas latest idea to reduce the deficit – Sell a state to Opra and call it Oprahoma.
    (David Letterman)

    • November 21, 2012 at 12:05 pm
      Libby says:
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      He can start with Texas.

    • November 21, 2012 at 12:28 pm
      Captain Planet says:
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      That’s pretty funny. Heck, I bet she could afford one.

      • November 21, 2012 at 1:14 pm
        FFA says:
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        She can afford to live in the Hancock Center. Had a peek at the Condo Policy that she lives in. $800K for the year. Would have made my day (Year)! Chicago money needs to stay in Chicago was the off the record reason that I did not stand a chance. Was also told – off the record – I was not Minority.

        • November 21, 2012 at 2:34 pm
          Captain Planet says:
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          FFA – you should have done the “Soul Man” thing – C. Thomas Howell vehicle. Totally a B-comedy, but worth a rental if you aren’t familiar with it.

  • November 21, 2012 at 1:27 pm
    Johnny Law says:
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    This comment is to Libby. I’m third generation Texan and live in Austin. We have probably the lowest unemployment rate, with people moving here in droves in search of work. There is a lot of tax revenue coming from these parts. How do suggest replacing it when you separate.

  • November 23, 2012 at 1:49 pm
    Libby says:
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    So three guys are sitting at the bar when Jesus walks in. The first man is blind. Jesus touches him and now he can see! The second man is deaf. Jesus touches him and not he can hear! The third man jumps up and says “Back off, Jesus. I’m on disability!”

  • November 30, 2012 at 10:56 am
    FedUp says:
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    This intellectual farce you call “comments,” is controlled by just a few people. I sincerely hope that none of these people are actually executives making decisions about healthcare insurance for anyone in this country. I see no signs here of informed opinions,or problem solving– just a bunch of name-calling, biased, politically motivated hostiles, who hide behind their alias the way people drive by waving the middle finger on the highway. I am both a consumer, and a group insurance manager. I take the lives of my constituents seriously and I want to help them. What do you useless people actually do? Have you any constructive solutions? I don’t feel that this site should be debased by the level of the language used here!

    • November 30, 2012 at 1:16 pm
      Libby says:
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      Lighten up. It’s a blog.



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