Familiar names among raised voices in coalition against US health reform

[babsbunny]

Familiar names among raised voices in coalition against US health reform

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/aug/14/healthcare-reform-opposition-republicans

A potent alliance of Republicans, church pastors, insurance companies and rightwing media commentators have forced Barack Obama on to the road to sell his ideas of health reform in America.

Obama flew to Montana in the west today to confront critics at a public meeting and is due to return to the fray again tomorrow in Colorado. Both states have a reputation for independence and outspoken individualism.

A network of anti-healthcare groups have put Obama's proposals in jeopardy with disruptive tactics at public meetings across the US and misrepresentation of his plan, in particular that he wants to encourage euthanasia. Some of the opposition has been orchestrated by the same groups and individuals that successfully blocked President Bill Clinton's health reform plan between 1992 and 1994, including commentators Bill Kristol and Betsy McCaughey. But the growth of the internet has expanded the ability of opponents to spread their message, multiply networks and target public meetings.