With sweeping health care reform almost reality, another battle is about to begin to define what it means for a skeptical public.
Whether it is the Democratic definition that prevails or the Republican one, the outcome will havehuge consequences for the 2010 midterm elections, and ultimately forPresident Barack Obama’s chances of re-election in 2012.
Starting Monday, a coalition of progressive groups — from labor unions to health care advocates — will sink millions of dollars into television advertising and sponsor grassroots events in swing House districts thanking Democrats for passing the law and highlighting its importance for average Americans.
“We’re going to let our friends know we are going to be there for them,” said AFSCME President Gerald McEntee. “We expect in three months, the American people will understand the bill and they will be happy and satisfied with it.”
Health care stakeholders — including drug makers and insurance companies — are also weighing a second, post-passage public relations campaign that would educate the public about future insurance options and streamline the enrollment process, which is scheduled to begin in 2014.
Republicans scoff at the idea that the Democrats can quickly turn around public opinion, which most polls show runs against the reform package. And they are vowing to bring relentless attention on those who cast the “yea” votes for reform.
“I don’t think any American is going to forget this vote anytime soon,” House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) told POLITCO. - Politico Story
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