Thurbert Baker’s answer to Sonny Perdue: Health care lawsuit a waste of money
Attorney General Thurbert Baker, a Democratic candidate for governor, has rejected Gov. Sonny Perdue’s demand that he join a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the new health care reform law.
Read the entire thing here. But this is the meat:
Based upon my understanding of the current Act, I am unaware of any constitutional infirmities and do not think it would be prudent, legally or fiscally, to pursue such litigation. I must therefore respectfully decline your request.
While I understand that the new law is the subject of ongoing debate here in Georgia and around the nation, I do not believe that Georgia has a viable legal claim against the United States. Considering our state’s current severe budgetary crisis, with vital services like education and law enforcement being cut deeply, I cannot justify a decision to initiate expensive and time-consuming litigation that I believe has no legal merit.
In short, this litigation is likely to fail and will consume significant amounts of taxpayers’ hard-earned money in the process.
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122 comments Add your comment
mp
March 24th, 2010
1:00 pm
Good for Baker. Finally showing some backbone after all these years of letting the Republicans get away with all sorts of malfeasance.& running GA into the ground.
Intown
March 24th, 2010
1:01 pm
feels good to flex those gonads doesn’t it Thurbert
TC
March 24th, 2010
1:13 pm
“…I am unaware of any constitutional infirmities…” well don’t count on MY vote for Gov in November!
Sharon Zirn
March 24th, 2010
1:14 pm
It was nice of the governor to ask Attorney General Baker. A gubernatorial formality.
interested
March 24th, 2010
1:14 pm
All you legal eagles at the ajc, please tell me where in the United States Constitution does it state “that a citizen can be forced to purchase a product (health insurance) when it is against their religious beliefs?” I thought we had a bill of rights?
Nick
March 24th, 2010
1:16 pm
Can state employees get rid of their furlough’s before we start suing over health care? Please?
Soda Cracker
March 24th, 2010
1:20 pm
Thurbert Baker is another classic example of how affirmative action is a failure.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
1:21 pm
Ahhh our attorney general, you can always count one one thing. Baker will always be on the otherside from Perdue. Isn’t politics grand.
Ticked off Mom
March 24th, 2010
1:31 pm
This is the biggest crock I’ve ever heard of. WE did not want this. The legal taxpayers of this state and this country did NOT want this bill to pass. Those who live off the taxes of others did…they shouldn’t even be allowed to vote since they don’t contribute anything except expenses. Obama has his own agenda and it is NOT to serve the people but to divide this country. So far he’s doing a bang up job. Can’t we vote him OUT of office before he completely destroys this country. Even the youth, who thought he was so great and voted him in, want him out now before he destroys their future. This is too much. We’ve had enough and don’t want to take it any more.
Williebkind
March 24th, 2010
1:33 pm
You are asking a democrat to protect the constitutional rights of its citizens when it is in direct conflict with their agenda to socialize America. Perdue, please reconsider being inclusive when considering the democrats.
The True REALIST
March 24th, 2010
1:38 pm
Ticked off Mom – You are such a joke. You and 500k man are so stupid that you cant even see the benefit of the Healthcare law. I hope you two stay in your trailers, eating your peanutbutter and banana sandwiches listening to “Sweet Home Alabama”. Let the rest of the country and world progress without you.
carpetbagger
March 24th, 2010
1:41 pm
Hey everyone, take this civics quiz
http://www.americancivicliteracy.org/resources/quiz.aspx
If a crazed right-winger like myself can get 30 out of 33, then a liberal genius like True Realist ought to ace it
Have fun with it.
The True REALIST
March 24th, 2010
1:43 pm
It’s amazing that when the “War on Terror” was shoved down our throats by the Bush Administration, it was expected that every American should bend over and take it. But when the Dems finally get something passed, the crazy conservatives want to question the constitutionality of the law, or question the citizenship of the president. Conservatives are really sore losers at every turn. Get onboard people! Or get left behind. For those who don’t like where the coountry is going, there is plenty of opportunities in Mexico.
whats next?
March 24th, 2010
1:44 pm
why not put somekind of budget bomb amendment into the health care law. If it excedes 200% of projected cost the law is null and void after 10 years and they have to try something else.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
1:45 pm
Realist-
How long is that nose you are looking down? BTW, who picked you to judge other people?
@interested
March 24th, 2010
1:46 pm
i do believe the Omish are excluded?
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
1:47 pm
Realist-
Remember election 2000? Who were the sore losers then? BTW, when are you libs including BO going to stop crying about Bush. Hint: he isn’t president any more.
Williebkind
March 24th, 2010
1:52 pm
Realist-
Obama is using the Bush’s policies on the war. I guess Bush was right after all…its hard to swallow is it not.
Haywood Jablome
March 24th, 2010
1:55 pm
He should sue Obama for being an illegal alien to!!!
bulldizuer99
March 24th, 2010
2:02 pm
realist…i got ur back you are right, most people don’t want the truth
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
2:03 pm
Carpetbagger-
Beat ya, 31 0f 33. Guessed on two and got them right, one I should have known and disagree with the answer to number 33. Thanks that was fun.
Trudy
March 24th, 2010
2:10 pm
Thank you, Mr. Baker! BRING HEALTHCARE REFORM TO GEORGIA!
whatever
March 24th, 2010
2:10 pm
@ Realist- Maybe you should just sit back in YOUR trailer and wait on your HANDOUT from my paycheck…….that is what YOUR kind is so thrilled about after all……..ANOTHER HANDOUT.
Used to be Disgusted
March 24th, 2010
2:12 pm
Why do republicans hate America? Why are they so unpatriotic?
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
2:16 pm
Disgusted-
I don’t think it’s republicans that tell the world how sorry they are for all the terrible things the U.S. has done. I believe that is BO, you know the guy, he’s the one that won’t be seen in public with this country’s best ally, Isreal.
I's likes it!
March 24th, 2010
2:16 pm
Way to go bruther Thurburt! Thank youz for gettin me some free health care! now if you can just git me sum mo’ money in my welfar chek I’s be real happy. I ain’t gonna hav to start payin no tax am I? Wait, I don’t evin work.
Jessica
March 24th, 2010
2:19 pm
All you Obama haters are so hilarious! I always get a laugh because I can tell by reading your posts that you are so angry that a blood vessel is about to burst. Get used to it. This country is not the same. Your “good old boy” days are slowly coming to an end. Health care reform “is a &$#* big deal”.
NoPriceOnLiberty
March 24th, 2010
2:20 pm
AG Baker is selling the people of GA short by not joining this case. You think his Democratic primary in July has nothing to do with his decision? The Constitutional case is certainly strong enough to warrant pursuing. Only by challenging those who wish to erode our rights can we be certain of retaining them in the first place. If the AG doesn’t stand for that, what does he stand for?
Of course, don’t take my word for it. See what the Constitutional expert over at the Cato Institute has to say (most decidedly not a Republican mouthpiece):
http://www.cato-at-liberty.org/2010/03/24/the-states-respond-to-obamacare/
john
March 24th, 2010
2:21 pm
Blow hard you blowhards. Suck it up! Deal with it. HA!
Momto2
March 24th, 2010
2:22 pm
Either he’s getting thousands of phone calls or his phone has been taken off the hook…. that should say something about how Georgians feel about this….. I doubt they are calling asking him *not* to sue….
outrageous
March 24th, 2010
2:23 pm
@retiredsoldier, tickedoffmom,tc,interested and williebkind – All of you supposed taxpayers talking smack. I am a taxpayer and pay more taxes than your sorry behinds. I pay for my healthcare and that’s why I know my premiums have steadily gone up while my salary has not. I also know that the insurance companies have racked up billions of dollars in profits on the backs of denying health care for any reason they see fit. I had to pay more for my mammogram than ever before because of my now $500 bucks deductible. When my job ended back in 1996, I got sick and racked up a 30k hospital bill with no health insurance. I paid back every nickel under bankruptcy and believe it or not; I had no credit cards and wasn’t behind in my mortgage. I did what I had to because the hospitals and doctors harassed and threatened to sue me for payment. It took me five years to pay it all back. I want children to have healthcare. You people call yourselves pro-life but when the life is here you say I really meant pro-birth. You are insignificant diabolical bone pieces of humanity. You are all hypocrites. You say abortion kills babies. You are killing babies. You are worse than the abortion clinics. These children that have pre-existing conditions and can’t get healthcare are not on the public welfare rolls. These are children that have working parents and have been denied health care. You are morons and slime when you want children to die. Stop killing the babies. Perdue should be ashamed. He wants fishing museums, and wants to send teachers home (Georgia’s reading levels almost the lowest in the country). Georgia is in a fiscal crisis. This frivolous lawsuit will make government bigger and would cost taxpayers dearly. I thought you didn’t want government in your business. If you don’t like living in America leave. You have really made me physically sick with your hatred for Obama, your racist commentary all in the name of “you don’t want the government getting bigger.” Stop listening to the hatemongers, Gingrich, Hannity, Beck and Limbaugh. Fall on your knees and ask for forgiveness. God said he will protect children and fools. I guess you fall in one of those categories.
Momto2
March 24th, 2010
2:24 pm
Also the DEMOCRAT AG of Louisiana has filed a law suit…..So the AJC can go correct that article that says only Republican AG’s are suing….
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
2:27 pm
Jessica-
Can’t speak for others, I don’t hate BO. In fact I think it’s kinda cool the country elected a black president. I would have preferred a black conservative though.
I simply disagree with every single policy (except Afganistan). I think what BO and Congress is doing with harm our country. I just don’t drink his cookaid.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
2:32 pm
Out-
Wow, I think a chill pill is in order. I’m glad you know so much about me. I don’t recall the pleasure of meeting you. If you want to talk religion, ok this comes to mind. “Ye without sin cast the first stone.”
I hope you have a great day.
retiredds
March 24th, 2010
2:35 pm
I agree with Thurbert Baker on this. And it will be seen as a sound fiscal decision. So, having said that, those of you on this blog who want to pursue a suit, you pay for it out of your own pocket. I don’t want to waste my (tax) money on this.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
2:35 pm
Sorry Jessica, I meant to say coolaid.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
2:38 pm
Let’s see retire, if you agree with a lawsuit, the citizens should pay for it. If you don’t agree, the only those who do should pay for the lawsuit. Goodness, that works out pretty well for you retire!
Churchill's MOM
March 24th, 2010
2:38 pm
there are 13+ states already suing about this matter, how would it help Georgia for us to waste our money when another state is going to spend the money? By the way, Mr Baker is NOT the sharpest tool in the shed.
Lester
March 24th, 2010
2:44 pm
Arm yourselves with PickRick Drumsticks.
CrazyInGA
March 24th, 2010
2:46 pm
Thanks Mr. Baker, for letting the losers know that education is much more important. Sonny is definitely not the sharpest tool in the shed or state. The repugs aren’t the sharpest tools either, if they were, they would sit down and shut up. Someone has beaten you at your own game, take it like men, not punks.
CARPENTER57
March 24th, 2010
2:50 pm
THURBERT BAKER DID THE RIGHT THING. THERE IS NO NEED TO WASTE MONEY ON SOMETHING THAT CAN’T BE STOPPED WITH A LAWSUIT. THE INSURANCE COMPANIES HAVE GONE UNBRIDLED LONG ENOUGH, RAISING RATES 30%-100% AND DROPPING PEOPLE WHEN SICK. I DON’T UNDERSTAND THESE TEA BAGGERS. BTW, I THOUGHT REPUBLICANS HATED FRIVOLOUS LAWSUITS?
voice of america
March 24th, 2010
2:50 pm
We are the world
We are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving.
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives.
It’s true we make a better day
Just you and me.
When you’re down and out
And there seems no hope at all
But if you just believe
There’s no way we could fall
Well now now now let us realize
Ohhhh that a change can only come
When we stand together as one yeah yeah yeah yeahh
TC
March 24th, 2010
2:50 pm
I think it’s amazing that the liberal/socialist/dems of this state can type responses with both hands out for welfare!
Matilda
March 24th, 2010
2:53 pm
Outrageous at 2:23,
You might as well be trying to teach algebra to your dog. Their outrage is not *about* the facts of the issue, and when called on that fact, they resort to the blatherings of their alternate reality. Take a deep breath, Hon. Things got a little bit better this week, and we have to appreciate such blessings when they happen.
NoPriceOnLiberty
March 24th, 2010
2:53 pm
Churchill’s Mom….Please see repeal of Prohibition. It was through the combined effort of individuals and the states that Congress was forced to enact the 21st Amendment.
Hazel
March 24th, 2010
2:57 pm
All you legal eagles at the ajc, please tell me where in the United States Constitution does it state “that a citizen can be forced to purchase a product (health insurance) when it is against their religious beliefs?” I thought we had a bill of rights?
Where does it say I can’t buy beer on Sunday?
UPSET Retired Teacher
March 24th, 2010
2:59 pm
Thank you, Outrageous! You said exactly what was on my mind. NO, MOST AMERICANS are not against the Health Care Reform Bill. NO, MOST AMERICANS are not upset. These are simply those who are angry because this is now the time for change! GET OVER YOURSELVES! I have worked so hard all my life and now, because I chose to serve my country as a (low income) teacher, I cannot afford to purchase all of my medications each month. The insurance co-pays are too high. I worked all my life and I have retired after teaching for 30+ years. I am sure that some of these people who are displaying such awful behavior and comments are some of my former students. I am really upset at the number of educated people that are displaying their ignorance that we now have! SHAME ON YOU! SHAME ON YOU for being so mean and cruel…And, NO, I don’t want your money to purchase my meds or my insurance! SHAME ON YOU!
pete
March 24th, 2010
2:59 pm
You folks are sooooooooo stupid! If you take a look at Mitch Romney’s plan, It is the same as Obama’s. It was modeled after Ronmney’s plan.he is a big Republican. They are not complaining about health are, just the things that are attached. Please do your homework and read you racis hill billies! He made it mandatory to get health insurance in Massachusettes. Also, they get fined if they don’t have it. Did you hear about Bostonians crying and complaining? No, they are smart people and will continue to enjoy their cheap insurance. Wake up you silly racist southerners and get wiith the program. Stop making this a Black and White issue.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
2:59 pm
Mom-
The main reason to join the suit is the court might expediate the hearing. The cost isn’t much, just write a brief. I doubt they will spend 50k.
Hazel
March 24th, 2010
3:02 pm
NoPriceOnLiberty
Of course, don’t take my word for it. See what the Constitutional expert over at the Cato Institute has to say (most decidedly not a Republican mouthpiece):
From their website:
Sponsorship is one way you can defend, in a concrete way, America’s heritage of individual liberty, free markets, and constitutionally limited government.
Not Republican at all!
Churchill's MOM
March 24th, 2010
3:05 pm
RetiredSoldier 2:59 pm
Yesterday you couldn’t afford to run against that big spender Johnny Isakson, now you are willing to throw away $50,000.00 of our tax money. Waste is waste let the other states with better attorneys carry the burden.
TC
March 24th, 2010
3:12 pm
UPSET Retired Teacher:
Thank you for your service educating our children. That being said…no one forced you to be a (low income) teacher. You chose that course for your life. Providing free health care isn’t part of the Constitution. I work very hard to provide for my family, and providing health care is part of it. I agree that it is VERY expensive, but it is not the governments job to provide it for me. The people that this bill is intended to help already have health care in the form of medicaid/medicare/etc. It is just a way to grow the federal government, and will go down in history as one of the most expensive entitlement programs. You say you don’t want my money to pay for your medication, etc…but that is exactly what is going to happen. So your welcome in advance.
retiredds
March 24th, 2010
3:13 pm
500k, I think you or someone like you posted your misinformed blog elsewhere. I am one of the low life Obama supporters you must be speaking to. However, I need to correct a few errors in your account: I am almost retired (two more months) after working for the last 50 years. I began work at age 18. I have owned four houses during that time. My current home is free and clear when I reached 65 as that was part of my long term financial plan. I have two modest pensions from the global corporations I worked for and I am collecting Social Security which I paid into over 47 years of working for a living. I don’t recall anyone bailing me out of anything although my dad did help me (about $1,500) come up with a down payment for my first house. On all my real estate I used fixed rate mortgages, one at 11.75% in the early 80’s, as I don’t like floating rate debt. I always kept my mortgage debt to less than 25% of my net income. I have put two kids through college. I paid their tuition and they paid for any expenses over that, i.e. rent, food, etc. I wanted them to be financially invested in their education. I contribute about 15% of my income to various charities that my wife and I choose to support. I am a Boy Scout leader even though my son aged out almost 3 years ago. My liabilities today are less than 3% of my net income. When I reach 70 that debt will be -0- by design. My investments have done very well (I sold a lot when the market hit 13,500 after peaking above 14,000 and reentered the market made many purchases when it began its rise last March and April around the 6800 level. My stocks are much less a percentage of my investment portfolio now by design and age. They represent only 25% of my investments. I have always had a balanced portfolio of stocks, bonds, insurance, and savings (always keep 1 year’s amount of living expenses in savings just in case).
Well, I’ve opined enough. I am positive I haven’t persuaded you that any Obama supporters are nothing but, as you say, ” You are poor because you make bad decisions in life, are too lazy to work hard, and too sorry to get a good education.” As someone replied to you it might have been instructive if you had met a few Obama supporters before you created the prototype in your mind. Oh, I forgot to address your last one, I usually formally sign correspondence with my educational achievement: PhD.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
3:15 pm
Pete-
No for the rest of the story. There are a number of people complaining about the Mass program, but more importantly is this. The cost estimates were very very wrong and is about to put Mass under financially.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
3:16 pm
Mom-
Well I guess I just lost your vote. Spending money for a good purpose is ok by me.
NoPriceOnLiberty
March 24th, 2010
3:17 pm
Pete, I hate to burst your bubble but Massachusetts has the most expensive family premiums in the country. Don’t believe me? Please turn to the Boston Globe:
http://www.boston.com/news/health/articles/2009/08/22/bay_state_health_insurance_premiums_highest_in_country/
NoPriceOnLiberty
March 24th, 2010
3:22 pm
Hazel, I almost don’t know where to begin….”individual liberty, free markets, and constitutionally limited government” So, freedom is a Republican value? I honestly thought that was applicable to all Americans. If not freedom, what do you value?
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
3:24 pm
Retire-
Now that we know you are a PhD it makes sense you voted Obama. Terminal degree holders are much more likely to vote democratic.
ACC 12 Booster
March 24th, 2010
3:26 pm
The new healthcare law SHOULD definitely be challenged on the basis that it forces individuals (the public) to buy a product/service from private companies. One does not necessarily have to be a law scholar to figure out that the constitutionality of that mandate is highly questionable.
Maccadave
March 24th, 2010
3:27 pm
A waste of money? Sounds like the only thing we are wasting money on is your salary. Thurbert, you don’t see it as unconstitutional? Did you get your law degree from Express Lube and Law Degree? The only way it is constitutional is if you are in the Soviet Union. You were elected, and took an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States, not the one of your choice. It was pretty much specific in the oath.
As long as you have been in office, maybe you forgot that. You will sure remember it when you are run out of office after losing the next election. Sounds like a crock of partisan garbage to me.
Be honest, is it a race thing? Healthcare is SOCIALISM. The last time I check the USA was a REPUBLIC that is based on representation. The majority is not being represented, we are being railroaded into having more of our money go for entitlements while we shoulder the burden of higher insurance rates in the near future.
In the words of Joe Biden, “This is F#%&*@g big!!!” With the stroke of 21 pens, our president, (dictator) has single handedly set the Constitution on fire in the name of what? Making a name for himself? What an arrogant self serving opportunist is he, Pelosi and Reid. Do you really want to associate yourself with that Thurbert? If so, more power to you. I hope you enjoy having socialized medicine taking care of you when your stint as AG comes to an end after the next election.
Virginia
March 24th, 2010
3:33 pm
Outrageous & Matilda: you are both my new heroes!! You stated it perfectly, it’s all about hate, sour grapes because they’re not on top anymore, and race. Nothing more. And yet, change HAS come to America and I’m loving every minute of it!! You Haters – Deal with it, y’all.
POed
March 24th, 2010
3:37 pm
Good for Perdue,
The constitutionality of the recently passed “healthcare” bill in Washington, D.C. is seriously in question.
(AKA ObamaCare).
In the first place, I presumed that our state Attorney General would automatically do it since it is blatantly unconstitutional to require me to buy something.
I mean, EVEN Washington State is doing it.
Silly me.
What is wrong with him?
Like many Americans, I have been following this debate closely.
Perhaps more than most.
I am well aware of the accounting tricks, cuts to Medicare and the real purpose behind passing it.
Passing that bill was about power, not improving my health.
In the second place, the fact that this bill requires to additional hiring of 12000 to 17000 IRS agents at a cost of 5 to 10 billion dollars tells me all I need to know about the bill.
David Fry
March 24th, 2010
3:39 pm
Baker just lost the election!
mike
March 24th, 2010
3:40 pm
Reagan was in favor of making Social Security benefits voluntary..America deeply depend on it….where would we be if he had.
Bush was in favor of partial privatization of social security which would have been under a punzi scheme…hum…Let Obama bump his head ,we dont have to vote for him in 2012…But name calling and spitting on Congress men was going to far…spit on a cop and watch what happen….No wonder other countries dont respect us anymore..We
dont respect our selves…What ever happen to Unitied we stand,divided
we fall…Thats why we are falling…Just like Rome and other super powers
Maccadave
March 24th, 2010
3:40 pm
Virginia, Outradeous and Matilda, Let me ask you one question? Are you willing to allow the government to run your lives? If so, enjoy the loss of freedom. They say ignorance is bliss, not when your freedom is being taken away because of the stupid desire to remain ignorant. This isn’t a question of people having sour grapes because the “republicans aren’t in control.” It is concern over whether or not we are going to wake up in the USA or the USSA. Get your heads on straight and quit giving Obama Carte Blanche with your income, and your lives. He should be impeached for not honoring the Oath of Office to protect the Constitution on the United States of America.
Maccadave
March 24th, 2010
3:42 pm
Mike,
Hazel
March 24th, 2010
3:43 pm
Cato is hardly a disinterested player. They have historically sided with the Republican views of government. Cato may not be a mouthpiece, but, they hew much more to the GOP talking points of the day than the dreaded Liberal Media does to the Democrats.
Freedom is, like patriotism, a human value. Dems don’t usually claim to have the exclusive use of the word. “True Americans” doesn’t show up in their communications.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
3:44 pm
Virginia-
Don’t paint all with one brush. I don’t hate Obama, I disagree with his policies. Sour grapes? Ya’ll wrote the sour grapes book after the 200 election. Race, not for me, look at what I posted at 2:27.
The deal is libs are snobs, they think anyone who disagrees with them is somehow inferior. Well like Retire, I’m fairly well educated, been around the world and have a defined belief system. I’m not stupid/dumb/racist/hater. Get over it, people disagree with you.
Maccadave
March 24th, 2010
3:45 pm
That is Ponzi, Mike. You also mention Social Security, Reagan was right on that one. First of all, it is a failure. This nationalized healthcare system will see the same demise faster than Social Security is. The feds do not know how to balance a budget. All they do is tax borrow and spend, needing more money from We The People to pay the millions and millions in interest. Please, stay away from the polls if you don’t understand that. Save your nation by not voting.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
3:47 pm
The CATO institute is liberterian, so the driving force is limited gov and max freedom. That is conservative in some things and liberal in other.
Thurbert...Try Google
March 24th, 2010
3:52 pm
I thought I would help the AG out. Here is some reading material he can use to understand why the health insurance mandate is outside the reach of the commerce clause and a violation of our individual liberties.
http://www.heritage.org/Research/Reports/2009/12/Why-the-Personal-Mandate-to-Buy-Health-Insurance-Is-Unprecedented-and-Unconstitutional
He won’t take the fed to court because the court ruled in favor of the Mass/RomneyCare individual mandate? Hey Thurbert, I’m not a big shot lawyer like you but even I know that the FEDERAL government is limited by the enumerated powers under Section 1 article 8 (and 9) of the constitution. Therefore, just because the STATE government can mandate everyone to have insurance, that is completely separate from what the FED can do.
Also, you won’t challenge the FED because of the state budget deficit? Have you thought of what will happen to the debt if the state has to take on even more spending mandated under this law? Have you been in touch with the AG’s from Florida and SC? Maybe they can better educate you on the merits of there law suit. In case you have forgotten, you are the AG for the State of Georgia. I don’t think Eric Holder needs you to so his job for him.
whats next?
March 24th, 2010
3:59 pm
this is just the start; VAT, cap and trade, are coming and I hope everyone is ready; DEFICIT spending, lol. America is going to hit the skids just like USSR, Greece, and other socialist models
Just sayin
March 24th, 2010
4:01 pm
http://www.cnn.com/2010/OPINION/03/24/jost.health.bill.challenges/index.html?hpt=T2
A True Patriot
March 24th, 2010
4:01 pm
Well, maybe he’s got something else lined up after his term expires…..he’s gonna need it.
REPUBLICANS ARE SORRY
March 24th, 2010
4:03 pm
I wish Obama WOULD round up all these right wing wackos in internment camps, or better yet,
a lifetime in Guantanamo, NO PHONE CALLS, NO LAWYERS, nothing but hard labor….something their lazy, whiney asses couldn’t handle…as evidenced by their spending all day, every day posting their hate….saying things they are TOO COWARDLY to say to anyones’ face.
ACC 12 Booster
March 24th, 2010
4:03 pm
Maccadave:
“Be honest, is it a race thing? Healthcare is SOCIALISM. The last time I check the USA was a REPUBLIC that is based on representation. The majority is not being represented, we are being railroaded into having more of our money go for entitlements while we shoulder the burden of higher insurance rates in the near future.”
Very good points, Maccadave about the new healthcare law creating a Soviet-style forced mandates that seize private wealth and forces all individuals (who make over $30,000/yr) to buy a product/service from a private company. The American public may like some features of the law like not letting insurance companies, many of whom are rolling in record profits while most Americans are wallowing in record low incomes, arbitrarily drop and exclude adults and children who have pre-existing conditions. Many Americans also look to like the feature that lets parents keep children on their insurance until age 26. Those features look to be a step in the right direction.
What most Americans don’t like, however, is the Soviet-style mandate that forces all Americans to buy health insurance from companies who have no intention of lowering their rates anytime soon while raising their taxes across the board in the midst of a crippling economic downturn, two mandates that are to be enforced by the IRS. I highly object to being forced by the IRS to buy health insurance, a product that will remain sky-high for the forseeable future, no doubt. That force of law applied against individuals at the hands of the IRS, no less, which already has too much power to abuse against private individuals is just too much of an extension of government power. That kind of increase in government power doesn’t just reek of Socialism, it smacks of MARXISM, period.
Just that kind of extension of government power alone overrides whatever positives the bill may have and makes the law very bad legislation that needs to be overturned. Forcing all individuals (who make over $30,000/yr) to buy a private product and using the force of law to seize private wealth to vastly expand the size and power of government is EXTREMELY HIGHLY OBJECTIONABLE and a definite deal breaker for most Americans.
Ed
March 24th, 2010
4:04 pm
Are you aware that the Obama administration is going to continue working towards increasing the federal governments role in our lives. They have stated that the Federal Government “knows what’s best” for all Americans. Health Care is first, then will come a crackdown on individual rights. You will be required to buy a certain brand of car, use mandated energy items, and so on. Believe me, it’s coming. Is this socialism?
dgroy
March 24th, 2010
4:05 pm
Virginia, you probably drive an Escalade, right?
mike
March 24th, 2010
4:06 pm
Since Social Security is a failure…hum…to the wealthy maybe….but other who don`t think the way its not….again sir divided we fall….Everyone cant be a Dr.,Lawyer,Banker,etc…someone has to be the workers of our success…Just the way it is…Heck if they are happy
and got money to spend ,i`m happy more money for me…
More Fees
March 24th, 2010
4:09 pm
I can’t wait to see all the new State taxes and fees we’re going to get to pay to cover all the new Medicare enrollees! I know what we can do… let’s raise corporate taxes. I bet companies will be lining up to set up shop in Georgia so they can help pay all those new taxes. And of course, raising the tax rate won’t prevent companies from hiring new employees, right? And they would never think of shrinking there labor force. Heck, who needs jobs anyhow. I bet we can raise enough taxes so everyone can kick back and play Xbox all day. Industry loves taxes, so I’m sure they would never think about moving there business to Brazil, China, Ireland or India to try to save a few bucks.
Just think, 10 years from now we’ll be thinking back to the “good ole days” when unemployment was only 10%
Matilda
March 24th, 2010
4:10 pm
Maccadave, I was upset when our constitutional protections from government were eroded under the Patriot Act. Were you? I am bothered that my gay friends don’t have the same right to a marriage license that I can get with a man (no matter what the “bad idea” level of such a union.) I am bothered that Congressmen want to come between me and my doctor on issues of my uterus. I am upset that my friend could not grow her own medicine while she was dying of cancer, after she had to divest herself of everything she worked for for 25 years in order to get treatment because she could not afford her insurance premiums while sick. Yes, I DO value freedom, and I don’t think requiring profitable insurance companies to stop treating Americans like hunks in the litter box to be scooped away is in any way taking away my freedom. In fact, I look forward to being self-employed someday when I can buy insurance outside my little gray corporate cubicle to which I’m now tethered, in the interest of being a responsible provider maintaining insurance for my family. Thakns for asking!!
Re: Rebublicans are Sorry
March 24th, 2010
4:15 pm
“I wish Obama WOULD round up all these right wing wackos in internment camps, or better yet,
a lifetime in Guantanamo, NO PHONE CALLS, NO LAWYERS, nothing but hard labor….something their lazy, whiney asses couldn’t handle…as evidenced by their spending all day, every day posting their hate….saying things they are TOO COWARDLY to say to anyones’ face.”
Just more proof that Social Liberals hate the Constitution almost as much as they hate freedom and liberty.
mike
March 24th, 2010
4:22 pm
Maccadave….where would we be if we`d sought other avenue`s before
it got to this?but now it the Dem..fault.What happen after the gas shortage back in 70`s?? One party (not calling any names)shot down a plans to look for alternative ways for fuel
…its people like you that really hurt this country,i got mine you have to get yours attitude….one day sooner or later you will find the real truth….I`m glad i can`t make adjustments to live happy in this life..
Government or know Government…
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
4:25 pm
Mike, with all due respect your last post didn’t make sense.
David
March 24th, 2010
4:26 pm
This thing was passed in the middle of the night on a Sunday. That’s got a nasty feel to it.
It was passed knowing that it was flawed- on the basis of a promise to fix it later. You should vote on a good bill-not one that needs to be fixed.
The House passes the Senate bill that was passed on the basis of some very questionable dealmaking for votes. You know, everyone knows, this isn’t right.
This things got a stink about it.
ACC 12 Booster
March 24th, 2010
4:26 pm
Ed
March 24th, 2010
4:04 pm
Are you aware that the Obama administration is going to continue working towards increasing the federal governments role in our lives. They have stated that the Federal Government “knows what’s best” for all Americans. Health Care is first, then will come a crackdown on individual rights. You will be required to buy a certain brand of car, use mandated energy items, and so on. Believe me, it’s coming. Is this socialism?
Ed, No, this isn’t socialism, it’s Soviet-style MARXISM. I disagree with you that this type of Marxism is coming because the Democrats are going to get massacred in the 2010 midterm elections. The election of Scott Brown to Ted Kennedy’s Senate seat demonstrates that NO Democrat House or Senate seat is safe. There will be hell to pay for this type of blatant overreach of government power that ignores America’s history as a nation with a strong Libertarian tradition. The outrageous cost of healthcare is definitely a critical issue that must be addressed, but this is definitely NOT the way to do it. Just the mere suggestion that the IRS be given an increase in the already tremendous power it has to lock people up for not buying overpriced health insurance should be a political no-no.
Matilda?????
March 24th, 2010
4:32 pm
“Yes, I DO value freedom, and I don’t think requiring profitable insurance companies to stop treating Americans like hunks in the litter box to be scooped away is in any way taking away my freedom.”
But what about the freedoms of business owners? You can’t say you’re for individual liberty and not support the liberty of others. Contrary to conventional wisdom, insurance companies don’t make “huge profits”. The industry as a whole only had a 3.4% profit margin last year. The highest (United) had a 4.2% margin. To put that into perspective, that is a smalled return than your local grocery store, utility company, cable provider, or DOCTORS.
http://www.usnews.com/money/blogs/flowchart/2009/08/25/why-health-insurers-make-lousy-villains.html
Health insurance providers aren’t the reason prices are so high. Our employer based system removes any real competition. In fact, since you’re employer, not you, picks the plan, there are probably alot of services included that you don’t want or need, but have to pay for because that’s the only option and drives up cost.
Prescription coverage and medical equipment costs drive up the price too. My wife purchased a thumb brace from her ortho the other day. Over $100, with our co-pay being $45. I later went onto Amazon and found the same brace for $35, and that’s out of pocket, not making a claim on my insurance. Same thing when my mom got a wheelchair through her insurance. The co-pay was $500… found the same thing on Amazon for about $250. This new bill does nothing to change medical costs, all it does is create a new subsidy and expand Medicare, which for the first time last year took in less money that it paid out.
retiredds
March 24th, 2010
4:33 pm
Hey Retired Soldier: on my voting record here’s the history. 1960, first time voter: Kennedy; 1964, Johnson; 1968, Nixon; 1972, Nixon; 1976, Ford; 1980, Reagan; 1984, Mondale; 1988, George H.W. Bush; 1992, Bush; 1996, Clinton; 2000, Gore; 2004, Kerry; 2008, Obama. The tally: 7 times Democratic, 6 times Republican. I was seriously pondering McCain until he selected Sarah Palin as his VP running mate. Don’t know what that says except to say I prefer to look at the person running for president and his running mate, their party platform, and other issues. I have moved left of center since Clinton. I did not like anything George Bush had to offer and think his presidency was a disaster for the country.
Now these are just my opinions and I do not expect all of you to jump out of your chairs and shout, “right on” nor do I want people like 500k profiling me.
Churchill's MOM
March 24th, 2010
4:36 pm
RetiredSoldier 3:16 pm
No, you are still better than Johnny the Socialist, just promise me you will stay from Saxby.
mike
March 24th, 2010
4:38 pm
My bad…i just like to post and laugh at my self…
its fun….as you can tell i`m a happy guy with a happy life…
NoPriceOnLiberty
March 24th, 2010
4:51 pm
Matilda,
I’m in agreement with you on the Patriot Act and gay marriage. However, and prepare for your skin to crawl, you are no different than a Republican. To the detriment of freedom, Democrats and Republicans both confuse “liberty” with “liberty of which I approve”. Only the former adheres to the Constitution. Sorry bout that.
BTW, props to Matilda????…..you hit the nail on the head.
ACC 12 Booster
March 24th, 2010
4:53 pm
This may be a little bit too much on the cynical side, but it looks like Attorney General Thurbert Baker passed up a GOLDEN POLITICAL OPPORTUNITY to gain lots of new supporters in his so-called campaign for governor across the political spectrum from far right to moderate left in not joining the joint lawsuit to challenge the constitutionality of the new healthcare bill. Looks like AG Baker doesn’t quite have the sharpest political instincts as we can all see. If Baker would have done a little political grandstanding and jumped on the bandwagon to file suit and derail this bill he could have had a legitimate shot at upsetting Barnes, who has alot of baggage and high negatives, in the Democrat Primary and raising enough money to have a fighting chance in the General Election in the fall since the Republican side seems to be becoming increasingly unsettled. It’s not everyday a golden opportunity like this falls into a politican’s lap. If you’re not going to take advantage of opportunities and breaks like this then why even bother to run for Governor. If Baker were to have jumped on board this political ship and knew how to milk it, he could have saw the rise of a political star. Oh, well. Baker’s political loss is somebody else’s political gain somewhere else across the Georgia political spectrum. Too bad that Baker wasn’t smart enough to play TO Georgia voters instead of playing FOR the national Democrat Party which looks to be headed for an iceberg.
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
4:53 pm
Retire-
Not jumping up and down, controlled and cool. That is a extremely interesting voting pattern and very unusual (he says with his political science hat on). You would certainly be one that defies prediction.
I was not a big Bush fan either, to much spending and not enough veto’s. But sadly we are in the comparison business and the thought of Gore or Kerry as president sent shivers down my spine.
My continuing concern besides the huge power grab by the feds is how the heck we ever pay off our debt. Shouldn’t we expect our government to be as prudent with their finances as you have obviously been?
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
4:57 pm
Ok Mom, I am going to gear up to run against Saxby in 2014. Let me make offical “I retired soldier of sound mind and questionable body to announce today my intentions to be a candidate in the republican primary for U.S. Senator in 2014.”
How was that Mom?
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
4:59 pm
do that is
Churchill's MOM
March 24th, 2010
5:03 pm
RetiredSoldier 4:57 pm
You have my vote, now if we can just get a real Republican to run against Johnny Isakson.
Dem4ever
March 24th, 2010
5:05 pm
> 500k man
March 24th, 2010
1:11 pm
Attention low life Obama supporters. You are poor because you make bad decisions in life, are too lazy to work hard, and too sorry to get a good education. Then you expect people like me to bail you out. Nobody owes you anything. It’s not my fault that you are too lazy to work hard to achieve success. The politicians play you for a fool. They promise you handouts but the truth is you’ll still be poor even after you get the handouts. Meanwhile they laugh all the way to the bank as you clowns keep voting them back into office. Face it, poor people stink. Now go back to your trailer or ghetto dwelling and wait on your next welfare check.
==========================
You ain’t that Rich, there are many who are DEMOCRATS and have
Much Much more $$$$$ than you do!!!!Not all Dems are poor you
retard.
Been Around-Done That
March 24th, 2010
5:05 pm
Fortunately for the citizens, Thurbert Baker will not be Attorney General after the November election. And he won’t be Governor either. Once in a while an election has an up-side. Bye Thurbert!
RetiredSoldier
March 24th, 2010
5:07 pm
Alright I have one vote, well two votes, I do plan to vote for myself. My campaign office is open and you can phone in your campaign contributions to BR-549. Yes that’s right I’m located in Junior Samples old used car lot. Ya’ll come and visit, ya hear.
NoPriceOnLiberty
March 24th, 2010
5:11 pm
Hazel, follow up on your comment “Freedom is, like patriotism, a human value. Dems don’t usually claim to have the exclusive use of the word. “True Americans” doesn’t show up in their communications.”
Quote from your boy, Steny Hoyer, ““Other than the people in this room, do you think any American is going to make a distinction (regarding the procedure used)?” he asked. “That is a rhetorical question … the fact of the matter is I don’t think any American — any real American — is going to make a distinction between” the two procedures.”
Not “True American” but “real American” is close enough.
Matilda
March 24th, 2010
5:12 pm
NoPrice, good gravy, there’s no need to INSULT me!! I’m actually a moderate, favoring fiscal responsibility, a reasonable — not excessive — safety net for our infirmed and less intelligent, and social freedom from religious tyranny that keeps creeping into our laws. This HC bill wasn’t exactly what I imagined or hoped, but it’s step toward solving a REAL problem of millions of Americans that was not solved by any previous effort. Do y’all think blackmail and extortion should be legal? It’s illegal because it takes shameful advantage of someone when they’re down. Tsk, tsk.
Bottom line: Blame Blue Cross, Aetna, and Kaiser. If they hadn’t put excessive profits before the responsible execution of their stated business, this “movement” for reform NEVER would have had the momentum or votes to pass. There were many factors driving reform (not the least of which is that our Congress is in bed with lobbyists and this bill is good for big pharm AND insurance), but it was the continued mistreatment of [voting American] customers that put it over the top. Period. They brought this on themselves, and btw, the bill ensures they’ll continue to make money, so I find no reason for sympathy. As for the “I don’t wanna buy it!” crowd, they’re endorsing freeloaders like the uninsured now whose costs are covered by the rest of us. Again, no sympathy.
retiredds
March 24th, 2010
5:54 pm
Retired Soldier: I am on the same page as you when it comes to the deficit. And, yes, I do worry. Not for me because of my age, but the future generations. I have lobbied, to no avail, with our Congressional and Senatorial representatives for many years for a Constitutional Amendment to balance the Federal budget, for real. There would, obviously, have to be some conditions that it could be violated but only for a very short period of time and that to do it would require a 75% vote of both chambers to pass. There is no reason that an economy that is as vibrant and dynamic as ours can’t be run on a sound financial and fiscal basis. And the first step would be to put into place a program to reduce the deficit to zero. Yes, zero. BUT to get there would require: bipartisanship to get a good bill passed into law (can’t happen in the current atmosphere); that it be agreed it is a long term goal of 15-20 years (like the space program – a solid commitment to achieve the goal, not just words), it will take a tremendous education program for the American public because it can only be done by a combination of selective and intelligent (maybe an oxymoron here) tax increases (called revenue) and simultaneous spending cuts (and yes it could affect the most hallowed of programs called entitlements). This would be the equivalent of the enactment of a war on the deficit.
When the budget is balanced it would be imperative to run many years of surpluses to pay down the debt and commensurately reduce the interest expenses on the debt. Just think of that, no US debt!!! And here is an interesting thought: if there was no government debt there would be no government debt obligations. Then countries like China would have to invest dollars earned on their goods sold to the US in stocks, real estate, land and other tangible items. I could go into the national security gains from this but I have taken up too much space already.
Oh well, I can dream. I need to leave my post.
Have a great evening.
Used to be Disgusted
March 24th, 2010
6:09 pm
I don’t understand why republicans hate America. Obama won, and he promised change. Yes, we did.
Why don’t you all try being patriotic and supporting our president?
RetiredExec
March 24th, 2010
6:30 pm
My Medicare is a good return-on-investment, and it’s hassle-free. For-profit health insurance policies have been quite the opposite and those CEO bonuses have been obscene. By the way, I didn’t understand the comment above about religious beliefs and buying insurance. My religious belief prevents me from playing games of chance, but insurance is OK. Are you Amish? I think they get exempted. Anyhow, when I buy insurance I want to be in the biggest pool to spread the risk as widely as possible AND for bulk discounts.
The Truth
March 24th, 2010
6:56 pm
Good job putting yourself before your state, Baker. You’d rather sacrifice the welfare of Georgia’s citizens to “look good” for your party than actually follow the wishes of the majority.
If you don’t do the right thing for the citizens of Georgia now how can we expect you to as Governor. Rest assured, we’ll never have the chance to find out. I hope you have a fallback career because you will never be Governor.
“Showing backbone?” Are you joking? Showing backbone would have been standing up for the wishes of the majority of Georgia citizens against this out-of-control administration. “Sucking up to his masters,” more adequately describes his neglect for Georgia’s well-being.
Georgia Redneck
March 24th, 2010
8:35 pm
If you voted for obama I dont blame you for foolishly falling prey to yet another presidential promise.. If you however still think the president is doing a good job your a fool for life and cant be helped.. I firmly believe what Rush said today about democrats being so engulfed in winning that they would rather win and destroy the country than prosper as a people. What dems dont understand is Repulicans/Conservatives are morally descent people with strong family values who believe in the puritan work ethic. For those of you who do not understand what that means, it means we are God fearing, hard working people who do not want the government in every facet of our lives.. Do we want people to lose everything they have because of healthcare bills? No, we believe the people should take care of the people and not rely on the government to take care of us like children. Older persons foolishly bought in to the sham of the government taking care of the people who could not take care of themselves some time ago. It is known as medicare and medicaid. Even the lowly educated persons should be able to tell you how well those programs work. If your not familiar with Ronald Reagan’s famous quote on government run healthcare enlighten yourself and look it up.
Used to be Disgusted
March 24th, 2010
10:29 pm
Georgia Redneck,
If you quote Rush Limbaugh, everyone will think you are a brain-dead moron. Are you?
Why do you hate America and democracy?
Georgia Politics Set to Explode Over Obamacare | CentristNet
March 25th, 2010
2:29 am
[...] has also pointed to the money that would be expended by an Obamacare suit, money Baker claims would be wasted. It appears that “every GOP [...]
John
March 25th, 2010
9:13 am
Yep. Last year’s sudden rediscovery on the right of a quaint old document called the Constitution has been good for many laughs. That they haven’t had time to read it yet is not surprising, either.
Y’all get back to me after you scrutinize the Patriot Act and our ongoing wars against countries that didn’t attack us–then we’ll discuss the unimaginable crime of a few more poor people visiting doctors.
Steve
March 25th, 2010
11:18 am
Sonny perdunce is such an idiot. I cant wait to vote against him in November.
SWG
March 25th, 2010
1:47 pm
Over the past several years, Georgia has removed over $3 billion from the public education budget to fund the misplaced priorities of our Republican leaders. Thank you Mr Baker!
Mike Daniels
March 25th, 2010
2:08 pm
Dumb bunny he is! If the lawsuit to stop OBAMAcare will strain out budget, what the hell will OBAMAcare do to it??? We have every legal right in the world to sue- the federal govr’ment has imposed this “healthcare bill with no means of finacially paying for it- that is unconstitutional! you cant tell a state to participate in something and not provide the means to pay for it… idiot if you ask me.
Proud Conservative
March 25th, 2010
10:07 pm
If a liberal Democrat speaks and no one is there to hear it, is he still a moron?
Rodgers
March 26th, 2010
9:44 am
Commerce clause: “[The Congress shall have power] To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian tribes;”
Regulation is not the act of taking control of behavior but the guiding actions of a market or people through law to prevent abuse by a single or group of entities.
“X. The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.”
The power to govern does not filter down from the federal government down to the people. It is granted by the people up to the states. And up to the federal government by the people and states.
David Clark
March 26th, 2010
10:38 am
I support AG Baker’s position.
Winterhead
March 26th, 2010
2:01 pm
I have a health savings account. Its my choice of how I live my life. Now someone in Washington who is smarter than me, will put my choice out of business and force me to buy the plan they tell me to. Did Thurbert read the constitutions that he swore to support and defend. He’s a slave to the Democratic Party.
BecauseIread
March 29th, 2010
9:49 am
I encourage all people to read the bill for yourself before aligning with your party. It does NOT state that you are forced to get healthcare. It states that if you can afford to get healthcare and are actively refusing to do so, you will be fined. There are exceptions to the fine, including(but not exclusive) inability to afford the plan and religious beliefs. VERY tired of people putting out false information for the sake of their party. Newsflash, they could careless about the outcome b/c they can afford the best care the country has to offer. And as long as they can convince people of false information, they will. Please read it for yourself. Kudos to Baker for not allowing Georgia to appear to be a backwards and illiterate state.
Georgia’s Attorney General Disputes Cuccinelli’s Claim That Frivolous Health Care Suit Won’t Cost Taxpayers | No Bull. news service.
April 1st, 2010
12:01 pm
[...] significant costs associated with staff time and resources, which is a major part of the reason why he refused Gov. Sonny Perdue’s (R) request to also sue the federal government: BAKER: It’s impossible to have a lawsuit where there are [...]
Bernard
April 1st, 2010
5:16 pm
Kudos to Thurbert Baker for his candor and his courage. Lawyers are ethically required to exercise independent judgment on behalf of their clients. Lawyers do not sue just because a client wants them to sue. Suing the feds over health care would be a waste of time and money. Mr. Baker gave his best legal advice to Gov. Perdue on the issue. The state has more compelling problems than to waste time bringing a lawsuit that will certainly be expensive and is likely to fail. The resolution to impeach Mr. Baker is an embarrassment to the State of Georgia. Those who introduced the resolution in the legislature should be ashamed of themselves.
Theresa
April 2nd, 2010
10:38 pm
Thurbert Baker, Attorney General for ACORN!!!!!!!!!
He is a loser
patriot
April 5th, 2010
11:53 pm
It’s really hard to believe the number of people who are willing to allow the government to run their lives.
To those of you that make comments like, “stop making this a black and white issue” or “why do republicans hate America”, do some research and read the bill. You’ve been lied to by the democrats!
patriot
April 6th, 2010
12:00 am
To BecauseIread…Just you tell me why the government should be able to fine someone for refusing to have insurance.
I am tired of people who believe that it is okay for the government to tell Americans what they can and can not purchase. I know what is best for me and my family not the feds.
This is no different than Hitler telling the Germans what was best for them.