Reform This

Due to the recent passage of President Obama's healthcare reform bill, my friends and I have been having open discussion of public policy. Today between classes I emailed the White House to express my opinion regarding the matter.

The fact that most disturbed me the contradiction between the support for this bill and President Obama's campaign promise of working with both parties to come to more compromise and establish policy that is best in the eyes of America. Here's why: Not a single Republican voted in favor of the bill and 35 Democrats voted against it. How is that America's voice? Can our best interests be determined by a majority faction? The Founders did not establish a direct democracy, but I doubt they intended on such a failure to listen to the American people. Already 9 states have brought a case against the passing of the bill claiming it is unconstitutional.

On a lighter note, there is a new vocabulary arising from this situation. There are two words:

1. Obama. As in "You totally Obama'd me." This refers to making a promise, especially one of compromise, and then turning your back on said promise. Perhaps you tell your friend that you will come to their party and don't show. That's Obama'ing.

2. Barack. As in "Are you Baracking me right now?" This refers to any time when someone is speaking you, particularly poignant if they are voicing an opinion, and you blatantly disregard what they say.

Anyway, try those out on your friends and see how it goes over.

As for me and my house, we will oppose this bill.