I wrote a constituent email to Congresswoman Betsey Markey regarding her cowardly vote on health reform. Below is her attempt to justify her position.
Yes, I understand that staff writes these form letters and there isn't much substance to them. (I know, I used to write them myself a long time ago).
What kills me about the letter is that she says this isn't about the "idea of health reform." Really? I think it’s about finding a solution to the horrible mess that is our health system.
I recognize that she is in a competitive district, but does she believe that alienating her base will result in huge gains with Republicans? She has been a huge disappointment.
Dear Angry Constituent,
Thank you for contacting me about the health care reform legislation that passed the U.S. House of Representatives on November 7th. As your representative, I strongly (Don't care or...) value and need your input so that I can best represent (Health Insurance companies, not) the people of Colorado's Fourth Congressional District.
After carefully reviewing this legislation and hearing from thousands of Coloradans across my district, I (chickened out because I have no spine)could not support this bill. This was not an easy decision to make, because I know only too well that America's health care system is in dire need of reform. (So why didn't you do anything?)
This bill provides new coverage for millions of Americans, but it simply does not do enough to cut the health care costs (but I still didn't do anything or offer anything to change that) that are crushing our businesses and families. It's critical that we control rising health care costs, increase quality and value within our health care system (by doing nothing), and improve access to health care (by doing nothing) and affordable health insurance coverage (by doing nothing).
Some people had asked me to vote with my party on this bill and to disregard the reservations that I have. I know that this bill is supported by many of my own supporters (whom I spit in their face)in the 4th District and many organizations around the nation. Before I vote, it is my duty to every person in the district (I was scared by the Tea Baggers, no really they are very scary to me)I represent to consider the multitude of issues involved. Sometimes, as with this bill, I know that my vote will be controversial (not controversial, just pathetic). However, I cannot let that dissuade me from doing what I know is right for the nation and right for the 4th District of Colorado.
This was not a vote on the idea of health care reform(no...it actually was a vote on health care reform, not just the idea); it was a vote on one specific bill. I remain optimistic that with the House and Senate working together with the Administration, we can achieve a bill that meets the goals of affordability and coverage,(that I will vote against because I'm chickenshit) improved access, and is also fiscally sustainable in the long-term.
Please feel free to visit my website (http://www.betsymarkey.house.gov) where you can share your ideas with me, learn about the services I can provide to you, and sign up for my periodic email updates on what I am doing to help Colorado's Fourth District.
Sincerely,
Betsy (CHICKENSHIT)Markey
Member of Congress