Draft Dr. Howard Dean for HHS! Health Care for All!

[McCamy Taylor]

Need I say more?



PS. White House contact info. Added later, because I was not smart enough to think of it myself. Thanks, LTH.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/

[IDemo]

1. First of many recs

[HowHasItComeToThis]

200. I REC AND SENT COMMENT ON THE WHITEHOUSE FORM

HOWARD DEAN IS A NATURAL

[JackRiddler]

216. My message calling for Dr. Dean AND universal single-payer health care

Please strike a blow for change in health care reform.

Please appoint Dr. Howard Dean as Secretary of Health and Human Services.

Let Dr. Dean lead the way to a universal, single-payer health care system. This is the standard in every other Western nation. In Germany, citizens pay less per capita, receive better health care and live longer, and doctors and nurses are well-provided for. We the People demand the same peace of mind.

[tekisui]

2. Paging Dr. Dean. Paging Dr. Dean.

[wryter2000]

3. K&R

I want my Howard Dean!

[Poll_Blind]

4. Oh hells yes I'll kick and rec THAT sentiment!

PB

[annabanana]

5. I'd support that!!

(calling all phone banks...)

[w4rma]

6. Honestly, Dean should get this job. There isn't anyone more qualified. (nt)

[Veritas_et_Aequitas]

7. This needs 50cc of K&R, stat!

[SmileyRose]

8. kand r

[NightWatcher]

9. kicking to the Cabinet

[mzmolly]

10. I bet he paid all of HIS taxes?

;)

[librechik]

11. totally agree--please do something else right, Obama!

[bdamomma]

12. Tom Daschle has withdrawn his name

oh boy let's draft Howard Dean if he wants the position.

[Le Taz Hot]

13. Yes!

How do we do this???? We need to lobby the WH directly and quick!

Contact information for the WH:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/

[bdamomma]

22. I just sent off an e-mail

ok guys let's see if we could this.

[Zenlitened]

14. People-Powered Howard!!!

:loveya:

[EFerrari]

15. Could we really try?

[bdamomma]

27. yes, if we really push this.

[Myrina]

16. yes, Yes, YES And HELL YES!!!!

:applause: :patriot: :applause: :patriot: :applause: :patriot: :applause: :patriot:

Dr. Dean was the best man for the job from the beginning!
Although he will ruin Prez. Obama's record of appointing people with all sorts of dirty laundry. ;)

[zazen]

17. K&R for the serious, sensible, progressive (and ever adorable) Dr. Dean

I have such a crush on him.

[bleever]

18. Yes please.

K&R.

[suffragette]

19. Draft Dr. Dean!

Lovely ring to that.

I'll join you in that endeavor.

[TahitiNut]

20. If and only if he's for Single -Payer and has paid his taxes.

:shrug:

[Riverman]

155. I Agree. What is his position on Single-Payer. Obama

needs to be moved off his view that we just need health insurance reform - otherwise known as insurance for all. NO, NO, NO! Get the insurance corporation out of the need for all people to have access to MEDICAL TREATMENT, no matter what! If Dean has that view then we must make an all out nationwide effort to get him appointed, NOW!

[bdamomma]

21. who would we have to contact to do this?

[progressoid]

30. I just sent a note to the whitehouse.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/

[mascarax]

145. Ack! Don't hit "enter" or you'll send

Well, even though I had characters left (was determined to use all to support about Dr. Dean), I hit enter and that was that. I'll do another one later.

Go, Howard! Go, us!
If we all call and email - and Thom Hartman promotes too - let's make this happen.

[Kindigger]

208. You too huh?

I did it twice before I learned LOL. I finally sent one without a salutation, paragraphs, or spacing.

[dixiegrrrrl]

99. WH phone number, to leave your Draft Dean comment:

202-456-1414

a real person answers, too.

try again later if busy.
It should take you to recordable message thingy.

[LeftHandPath]

23. Here here...

Someone who actually understands what it means to work hard.

[geardaddy]

24. K and R

[lostnfound]

25. k.r.

[StreetKnowledge]

26. K & R

Hard to argue. Welcome back to Washington, Dr. Dean. :)

[bdamomma]

28. call comment line too.

202 456 1111

line rings busy I hope this is good sign.

kick

[mascarax]

142. Recording - call back during business hours at 202 456 1111

I'll try tomorrow.
I'll go to the web site and email.
I was SO happy to see Daschle did the right thing and withdrew. Because I didn't think he should've been nominated in the first place. Dr. Dean should get this. If so, I think we'd have a real shot at actually getting somewhere with a healthcare program.

There is no doubt in my mind that Howard was huge (or, yes, "hugh") behind the 2006 and 2008 elections. The 50 state strategy works. He can make healthcare work.

Get over it, Rahm. We need Howard. (I like how I'm on first name basis with these guys!)

[Le Taz Hot]

29. Oh, hocky puck!

You're plenty smart! Thanks for posting this in the first place.

Peace,
LTH

[mod mom]

31. Paging Dr Dean to HHS-stat!

[bdamomma]

32. White House comment line still rings busy.

[Missy Vixen]

51. Call the switchboard

They will put you into the comments queue.

How wonderful is THIS! Goooooo, Dr. Dean!

[rucognizant]

148. ANd e-mail crashed today!

W H e-mail that is, I guess a lot of people tried to contact.

[Gold Metal Flake]

33. Kay And Arrrr

[Gin]

35. Dean is the right person for this position

[BlueCaliDem]

93. Absolutely! He should've been Pres. Obama's FIRST choice. K&R! n/t

[Left Coast2020]

172. A commentator on NPR said Obama wanted someone

who could move legislation through the Senate quickly. Thats why they went to Dashel. But see classified ad post below.

[BlueCaliDem]

226. He couldn't even get Daschle through vetting! Although I'm sure Daschle has the connections

to get some form of universal health care through, I'm troubled by the reports about his cozy relationships with health care corporations that paid him exuberant amounts of money for speeches.

What I like about Gov. Dean is that he's incorruptible and he's a real Democrat, not some DLCer/BushDogDem.

He fought very, very hard (and made enemies among the Beltway Dems in the process) to push for the 50-state strategy that ultimately gave us more governors, more state reps, more U.S. reps, and DNC Obama the presidency against all odds.

He was the first Obama approached to learn more about that 50-state strategy, circumventing James Carville, Paul Begala AND Bill Clinton who was reportedly miffed about that, and although it might be a stretch to say Gov. Dean won Pres. Obama the WH, it was his strategy then Sen. Obama sought out and implemented otherwise I am almost 100%, he would've lost against the Clinton juggernaut.

[coffeenap]

34. done, kicked, and rec'd.

[mmonk]

36. Done.

[Blue_In_AK]

37. I just said that to my husband not five minutes ago.

Dr. Dean would be outstanding in this position. It would go a long way to soothe the feelings of progressives who have been feeling kind of shut out by this adminisatrion.

[LSK]

38. K&R

CONTACT US

President Obama is committed to creating the most open and accessible administration in American history. To send questions, comments, concerns, or well-wishes to the President or his staff, please use the form below:
Thank you.
You can also call or write to the President:

The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

Gifts & Items Sent to the White House

Items sent to the White House are often significantly delayed and can be irreparably harmed during the security screening process. Therefore, please do not send items of personal importance, such as family photographs, because items may not be returned.

For security reasons, please do not send consumable gifts -- such as food, flowers, and other perishable items -- to the White House. While President Obama, the First Lady, Vice President Biden, and Dr. Biden appreciate your thoughtfulness, they request that instead you look to your local community for opportunities to assist your neighbors in need.
Phone Numbers

Comments: 202-456-1111
Switchboard: 202-456-1414
FAX: [phone]
TTY/TDD

Comments: 202-456-6213
Visitors Office: 202-456-2121

[classof56]

50. Thom just mentioned this DU thread on his show. Yes! n/t

[mmonk]

80. He is smart.

[mopinko]

159. yes he did.

i know thom reads over here. he has mentioned us several times.

so, k&r for both dr dean, and thom hartmann

[bdamomma]

39. kick

[Usrename]

40. Dr. Dean

Yes!

[yodermon]

41. Unfortunately there are *Senate DEMS* who would filibuster this guy.

:(

[Blaze Diem]

45. Then they'll look like idiot Bush-bots. Dean's common sense approach will

make his bills undebatable. They will end up looking like fools in the eyes of
the America who LOVES Howard Dean.
America will respond so they all better get used to doing what we put them there to do.
Dean is a very smart man.

Seriously, I believe there is enough power & unity in our House & Senate and with our President that those who will oppose Dean for personal reasons will be diminished.

They will still have to answer to their constituents. And these people know Howard Dean is the one with their best interests in mind.

[Gold Metal Flake]

53. So?

Do not fear conflict.

[uponit7771]

59. They would look REALLY REALLY stupid

[Larkspur]

69. But Howard can say that he's paid his taxes and has no conflict of interests with the healthcare

industry.

Howard is an honest man and that's why the Repukes hate him.

[karynnj]

77. I doubt it - they will not filibuster any Obama choice

[jae1227]

133. Who?

Maybe some will not vote for him but I see no way Senate dems are going to filibuster a fellow Dem that helped to strengthen their majority.

[jannyk]

42. K &,R & emailed.

[marshall]

43. But vet him with a fine tooth comb before any announcement!

Please. We can't take anymore!

[MsLeopard]

44. Yes! K&R

Give it to the man who should have been nominated in the first place. Go Dr. Dean!

[foxfeet]

46. K&R

:kick:

[suzie]

47. Everyone around DU seems to feel that passing new legislation that deals

with health insurance is of primary importance for this administration.

Why then, is there this cry for a Democratic official who is a good guy, but has zero experience in dealing with the U.S. Congress?

[Blaze Diem]

54. Put an end to the era of crony politics. Dean puts the people of this Nation first.

He proved that he is capable, with the outcome of the last election.

His plan was simple, but the undertaking was enormous. Yet he did it successfully and against great odds.

[suzie]

227. He did not prove that he was capable of undertaking getting the

legislation for a major change in national healthcare through the Congress.

Howard Dean seems like a terrific administrator and a very creative guy. BTW, I supported Howard Dean. He might have been a very good HHS head, if changing national healthcare weren't a priority.

However, dealing with legislation is a another ballpark, that requires a whole lot of other intricate details and some credibility with the individuals doing the legislating. Howard Dean didn't have that, Daschle did.

[Number23]

65. But wouldn't you consider being chairman of the DNC as having experience dealing with Congress?

I'm not too sure what to make of all of this.

My gut reaction is that Dean would be great as HHS Secretary. But I can't help but wonder if there was some reason that we are not all privy to that kept him from being considered for the job in the first place.

[MasonJar]

154. Obama chose Rahm over Dean. Rahm does not like Dean; they disagree

apparently on strategy. Dean's obviously was satisfactory since we won both times big under his guidance. Emmanuel will not let Dean in, so let's see if Obama isd really boss. Send the e-mail.

[suzie]

229. Blaming Emanuel for Dean not being HHS Secretary is simple naive.

That was 2006, when Emanuel and Dean duked it out. In political terms, that's eons ago. Politicians don't have the luxury of holding grudges forever, especially not when they're on the same team. And not when they have a different position--Rahm is no longer in charge of getting congresspeople elected, but in getting his president's agenda passed.

But, the 2008 primaries were a short time ago, and Dean's actions on behalf of Obama no doubt angered a good many Democrats in the House and Senate whose votes will be needed for passage of health care changes.

Obama seems to be most of all a pragmatic politician. The biggest wheeler-dealer, arm twister of all time, Lyndon Johnson, had to work his utmost to get Medicare and Medicaid passed. Why would Obama handicap himself with a HHS Secretary who has already angered a good many of the arms he needs to twist?

[suzie]

228. No, I would not.

Dealing with legislation means knowing who is a good drafter of legislation, who to trust on the committees, who to trust when they say they'll vote for this or that, what the long-term consequences of this amendment would be and how to explain that to a particular Congressperson.

I don't think that Howard Dean has that kind of knowledge of the Congress.

He might be a great HHS Secretary if one of the key differences on the domestic front between Obama and McCain hadn't been changing the national healthcare system.

What's possibly not being said is that a good many Democrats who were Hillary Clinton supporters are still angry at Dean. While one could argue about whether they should be, that may not be the best background for gaining the votes necessary to pass something that substantially changes the system.

[MasonJar]

153. The former DNC chairman didn't deal with Congress? Surely you jest!

[suzie]

230. The primary responsibility of the DNC chairman is getting legislation passed?

Surely you jest.

[DFW]

48. Howard already had other plans, BUT....................

This is THE one scenario where I dared hope he might still get the nod for HHS.

I just had dinner with him two nights ago, and this never even came up. In fact he
already started letting on to me what he had in mind to do with himself, and we have
to be prepared for the fact that the team that shut Howard out in the first place is
still very much intact.

This having been said, I still think Howard would take the HHS spot if offered. I might
be wrong, but he is the ultimate public servant, and if called, I think the chance to
serve the nation one last (?) time in an important capacity would be too great a temptation
for him to refuse. I hope so anyway. Yesterday, he left for the States while I left for Brussels, and we obviously haven't been in touch since this broke.

However, I do have his email and will get off a note to him tonight. We would all do
well to remember that this will not happen on Howard's initiative. It's the White House
that we have to bombard, starting like five minutes ago, with calls and email. Howard
won't call and ask for it. But WE are the public that public servants serve, and if we
can't at least say something about it, then who should? Rahmbo shmambo, HHS serves us,
and not Rahm's ego. It's time OUR White House got some shock and awe with a few hundred
thousand reminders that the middle word of "yes, we can" is the most important one.

In Geneva last Sunday, Howard said that the victory on November fourth wasn't his victory,
or even Obama's victory, but OUR victory. Let's remind some people in Washington of that
while we still have time to make a difference.

[Blaze Diem]

79. Nice Post DFW..Would you consider including the email to this thread in your correspondence with him

Let him see some of the force that stands directly behind him.
He is honored and respected, and here on DU we damn well know his worth in returning the American Government to its rightful owners.

We gather in strong numbers to petition our President Obama in selecting Dr. Howard Dean as Secretary of HHS.
We hope to see his confirmation become another positive reality that there is hope for the beaten down (but not done) American people.

Thank You
Blaze

[DFW]

86. I copy Howard regularly on DU threads

He reads them, too, although I haven't sent him any since the election, and during the time
immediately before that, he was just a little preoccupied with an election in progress.


However, I will copy him on this, sure, and I have already written to him pleading with him
to take the post if offered. That was about ten minutes ago, so I don't expect an answer any
time soon, and it's all "what if?" anyway unless he gets the call from the White House.
Howard was always on OUR (i.e. the public's) side, and I hold out hope that he would take
the post if offered it. I think the bigger obstacle is seeing him offered the post in the
first place.

[Raksha]

102. Good. I'm glad to know Dr. Dean will see this thread.

Then he'll know that if it's possible to have the post by acclamation, he's already got it!!! DU seems unanimous on that score, which is a miracle in itself.

Here's what I said in the last lines of my e-mail to the WH: And the hell with Rahm Emmanuel if he doesn't like it. There are a lot more of us than there are of him!

I want to make sure Dr. Dean sees THAT too!

[hootinholler]

183. Which is something I've always wondered...

How is it considering our esteemed President's background that Dr. Dean was not offered any post?

He was my first choice for HHS, but it's not like I'm highly paid to point out the obvious.

-Hoot

[DFW]

191. I don't think our esteemed president had much to do with it

Other than the fact that Daschle was an early supporter, I think Rahm Emanuel had a role in this.
Maybe Obama will listen to popular outcry this time, who knows?

[hootinholler]

234. I suspect you are correct...

Our esteemed President is busy, but he needs a voice like Dr. Dean's. The 50 state strategy was a bride (or groom) made in heaven for President Obama's election organization. His most excellent efforts should have been rewarded.

-Hoot

[DFW]

91. PS--it's done!

[Blaze Diem]

98. Thank You. All we can do is make it clear to President Obama that this

important selection should be none other than Dr Dean.
There is no one else to better serve nor one who deserves this more than he does.

We will do our part. Best we can.

[DFW]

100. Absolutely!!

In Geneva, Howard started talking about "President Obama," and then paused, and said something like "doesn't
THAT sound great?" We all smiled and applauded.

I know something else that sounds great, too: "Health and Human Services Secretary Howard Dean."

[suzie]

231. Would all of you rather have Dr. Dean than a substantial change

in the national healthcare system.

Is Dean, or any individual, that important?

[Raksha]

139. Thanks, DFW!!!

:toast:

[BrklynLiberal]

90. Superb Post. Deserves a thread of its own.

:applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause:

[vaberella]

124. Thanks for this post. When I get my answer to my question then I'll see if I'll filibuster.

I wouldn't mind Dean in any position since I know a good amount of his background. I'm just not familiar why he would be better for Dascle in this post other than the tax issue for Daschle.

[DFW]

126. Howard himself said Daschle was well qualified, never said he was better

It was Daschle who took himself out of the running, Howard had nothing at all to do with that.
He was fully prepared to have no role in this administration, still is, if things stay as they
are now. There are just a lot of us who wish he WERE in the running. This is not Howard talking.
This is us talking.

[vaberella]

140. Yes, I realize that.

I'm actually fully aware of that. I was just wondering on the comparative qualifications and many people on this board felt that Dean was better qualified and I'm not arguing against that. I just wanted to find out more information.

[Blaze Diem]

49. Beautiful Pic of Dean. Anyone have that Georgous Pic of him in College?

standing outside in the sunlight?

Hottie Hottie !!!!

C'mon Pres Obama, Breath some life into the boring old corrupt HHS.

I voted for YOU Pres Obama, Now I want Howard Dean in the HHS.
Thank You

[BrklynLiberal]

130. This one? He sure was a hottie.

[Blaze Diem]

187. Ooooooo Yes That's the One!! Makes me stop breathing..for a moment.

Is there anything NOT to love about this dear man?

:pals: :pals:

[Bozita]

52. Hartmann just mentioned this thread ...

... while talking to Bernice in Dearborn.

[BumRushDaShow]

55. Just do it.

[hamsterjill]

56. Heck yes!

Done!

[Mithreal]

57. K&R already contacted White House and Obama. nt

[DFW]

63. Thanks!

A million emails start with a single one. Remind Obama's team what "yes WE can" means.

[uponit7771]

58. Nough said

[Why Syzygy]

60. k.r.digg

[mother earth]

61. Absolutely! K & R

:woohoo:

[mojowork_n]

62. If he wants the job -- who'd be better qualified?

It's totally a great idea.


Edit:

Thanks for the white house link. Even with the 500 character limit (I selected the short, "no reply needed" pull-down option) it was sort of an interesting civics exercise. (One that validates that whole "democracy" concept, when you might actually have an administration willing to consider input from involved citizens.)

[Chicago1]

64. DRAFT HOWARD FOR HHS

Dr. Dean would be wonderful. I don't understadn why they didn't pick him earlier.


The Adults are Back in Charge!!!!


PROSECUTE BUSH AND CHENEY

[Raksha]

66. Done! I'd say, "this needs to go viral"

but that would be redundant. I can see that it already is going viral! It's my pleasure to help it along.

[vaberella]

125. That reminds me. Can't we send a comment to Maddow or Olbermann in support of Dean?

Maybe even Shuster might comment on it. He's uber liberal.

[DrZeeLit]

67. Love all the: Paging Dr. Dean. Dr. Dean to the white telephone. Paging Dr. Dean. Pickup, Dr. Dean!

Ever since the election was over, I've not only wondered, but been seriously PISSED that they (read: Rahm E.) had something in for Dr. Dean -- who, btw, with his 50 state strategy, won the election for them.

Well, screw Rahm Emanuel.

Howard Dean is from Vermont (my state!).
He's squeaky clean.
He's earnest, fair, and a very hard worker.

All the children in Vermont have health care -- the program started by Dr. Dean -- the Doctor Dinosaur plan. (which our current useless Repub Gov is trying to cut)....

Dean IS all about Health Care.

Please President Obama -- LISTEN UP!!!

[Left Coast2020]

176. Agreed! However, we need to find a way to get Obama's attention.

Since he is the new Commander in Chief, he needs to know he should get our input and listen to us from time to time--not Rahn. What do the people want? Dr. Dean for HHS! Rahn is an ass from what I've heard in the past. Part of the DLC gang?

[DrZeeLit]

180. Yep. It's classic. DLC vs DNC. Sheesh. Can't we all get along????

DRAFT DEAN!!!

[Dangerously Amused]

68. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!!!!!

[Peregrine Took]

70. Done. Its a disgrace that Howard wasn't appointed first. n/t

[Peregrine Took]

71. If he doesn't appointment Howard Dean NOW its a tremendous slap in the face

to all progressives and (not that anyone cares) I will officially be DONE with Obama. Frankly, he was never my first choice anyway.

[Renew Deal]

72. Give it to Dean. He works hard. He's a doctor and he's scandal free.

:bounce:

[Pryderi]

73. Done! K&R #86

[Pithlet]

74. K&R

:kick:

[go west young man]

75. Oh yeah!

Dr.Dean all the way!

[trickyguy]

76. K&R for Dr. Dean. He's the man who inspired me to be involved in the first place.

If it hadn't been for Howard Dean's charisma and smarts I wouldn't have been an active

Democrat like I am today. He deserves a position of honor. And we need him badly.

:toast:

[derby378]

78. Me, too

Has anyone from the White House called him yet?

[Vincardog]

81. YA got that right K & R

[Blaze Diem]

82. 'Error: You've already recommended that thread.' Ok but here's a KICK anyway.

Are you listening President Obama?
Do you hear us NOW?

[Pharaoh]

83. Boy Barack's going to get

a lot of DU links like the one I just sent him / K&R

[Blaze Diem]

101. Beautiful isn't he? Honored, admired, & brilliant.

And on our side.
President Obama has only one choice, clearly.

[libodem]

84. I'm wild over Dr. Dean

the man speaks for me and that's not just a slogan I heard him speak, here in Boise, took a million pictures, that turned out looking like ants on the moon. His applause lines were right-on time after time. He speaks like I think. He is so smart and well informed He knows what's up. Man, he did a good job running the Party. I can't say enough good about him. He should be working us. It can't do anything but increase the over all, premium quality and IQ, of the running of the government.

[Upfront]

85. Get it right! Howard Dean!

Now! If not, bad, bad, mis-take!

[BrklynLiberal]

87. I humbly and enthusiastically suggested Dr. Dean for the post of HHS Secty.

[LaPera]

88. Dean would be a great choice, he would certainly fight for a real & workable

single payer health care plan. (NOT SOME WATERED DOWN INSURANCE COMPANY SPONSORED REPUBLICAN BULLSHIT).

WE WANT AND NEED UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE, NOW!

[TheUnspeakable]

89. Done-k&r

[nightrain]

92. Dean would be an excellent choice. I emailed the WH.

Has Dean indicated interest in the position at DHHS?

[Soylent Brice]

94. submitted my response to him

i guess my request fell undeer the option "other"

DRAFT HOWARD DEAN FOR HHS!!!!!!!!!!!

[garybeck]

95. done k, r

[GreenTea]

96. Howard Dean would be excellent, he would make a big difference.

[bluestateboomer]

97. K&R!!

[myomy]

103. Dr. Dean

Thanks, just emailed and called.

[EFerrari]

104. Anyone sent the idea out to their networks?

:hi:

[PassingFair]

117. I called Bill Press yesterday morning and suggested it....

I don't know WHY he lets me talk,
as he always cuts me off without
discussion, forcing me to VOMIT
out my take on things.....

:hi:

[EFerrari]

128. LOL! Good for you, PassingFair!

:hi:

[WillYourVoteBCounted]

105. Yes, yes!

Thanks for posting this. Kicked and recommended.

[valerief]

106. ABSOLUTELY!!!!

[WillYourVoteBCounted]

107. Yes, yes!

Thanks for posting this. Kicked and recommended.

[mistertrickster]

108. K'd, R'd and message sent! nt.

[cal04]

109. K&R

Just sent a message. We need a petition like we had when it was for the DNC chair
thanks for the link

[FailureToCommunicate]

110. Dean for HHS? YEEEhaawwwwww!

[PassingFair]

111. This would be the EASIEST and least PAINFUL way of appeasing PROGRESSIVES in the party.

Politically astute to place Dean, if Obama
cares ANYTHING about the progressive base
that NOMINATED him.

Aside from the fact that he's the best person
for the job...




He'll tackle the insurance companies and make
everything palatable for the hospitals and
doctors and nurses, while he's at it.

[Tommy_Carcetti]

112. No thanks.

I pretty much soured on Dean after his lack of leadership regarding the Florida primary issue. Yes, it was eventually resolved to everyone's satisfaction, but he let it fester way too long. Ever since then, I just am not all that enthusastic about the man.

[Blaze Diem]

116. party pooper.

:popcorn:

Respectfully, you are entitled to your opinion and have reasons why you feel as you do.

[mnhtnbb]

113. YES YES YES!!!!!!! Please, Mr. President, can we have Dr. Dean head HHS?

[BuelahWitch]

114. I'm always on board for the good Dr.!

We need Howard Dean!

[Duer 157099]

115. KnR n/t

[Shardik]

118. Here's the link to the White House Contact page with Email form.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/

Let's fill up their mailbox!

I'd give out his blackberry addy, but he asked me not too. :sarcasm:

[texastoast]

119. Kick n/t

[Catchawave]

120. K&R for what should have been the first HHS choice !

....or Surgeon General. :toast:

[David Zephyr]

121. David Zephyr has a stong K&R for this thread.

K&R.

[HamdenRice]

122. Completely Agree!!!!!!!! krnt

[vaberella]

123. May I ask, hoping not to sound ridiculous, why is Howard Dean the man for the job?

I'm not up to date as to what was going on...and if anyone compare Daschle's failure besides his obvious tax issues.

[edc]

127. Are You Mad?

Making Howard Dean head of HHS would be like putting Paul Krugman at Treasury or Dennis Kucinch at State. :crazy:

[EFerrari]

129. Lol!

Welcome to DU, edc. :)

[quaker bill]

131. We already know what Dr. Dean

has been doing for the last 4 years. I can't imagine that he could have been other than squeaky clean during his 4 years at DNC. If there were any dirt at all the repugs or his internal adversaries would have already used it. It should be clear to anyone at this point that he knows how to get things done. I only hope he is willing to take the job.

[chollybocker]

132. Howard Dean for Prez in 2016

[democrank]

134. Dr. Dean should have been Obama`s first choice for HHS but

Howard is really too good for Washington. He has always been a man of the people. That`s what DLCers hate about him....too much principle, not enough corporation.

[FloridaJudy]

135. Done. K&R. eom

[glinda]

136. I am for Howard for anything but can he succeed in getting us Health Care????

I LOVE HIM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :applause: :woohoo: :applause: :woohoo: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya:

[vanboggie]

137. K&R and thanks

My note recommending Dr. Dean as Secretary has been sent. Thanks for pushing me to action.

[catrose]

138. Kick. Rec. Etc.

Yes, Dean! Do the right thing (however belatedly), Mr. Prez.

[mecherosegarden]

141. Agree! K&R. N/T

[ColbertWatcher]

143. Best. Idea. Yet! k+r, n/t

[CAcyclist]

144. WooHoo! nt

[eridani]

146. There are at least two Facebook groups advocating Dean

Please join them.

[tavalon]

147. Dr. Dean

You've been there, you know how screwed up it is. Save us, Dr. Dean, you're the only one!

[Ilsa]

149. I'm in. Dean for HHS Sec is brilliant. nt

[wildflowergardener]

150. Good Idea

I just emailed in support of this idea.

[MasonJar]

151. Please e-mail the Obama administration. Without Dean the Democratic

Party would still be in the hinterlands of politics. Obama and his cohorts need to know that we know it and care. Without Dean there would be no President Obama. I was furious that he did not even ask Dean to the swearing in of the new DNC chairman. Now there is irony of the first order. I blame not only Rahm, but also Barack, who is his own man. Dean deserves a place in the Cabinet and he would be superior. Who would choose Gupta and Daschle over Dean? The whole scenario is mindboggling and infuriating. I apologize for the rant, but the treatment of Dean after he saved our party just makes me livid. It seems he is being paid back for not supporting Obama in the primaries. What DNC Chair would do that? Dean has been excluded while obnoxious GOPers get top positions. Bah Humbug!

[Barbara2423]

152. If Dean can get a Black Man elected President of the USA

he is certainly the person to bring reform to health care. He has my vote.

[Blaze Diem]

189. Summed it all up pretty well there. No small undertaking indeed, but Dean made it seem

easy. How much more qualified does he have to be?

[BigBearJohn]

156. Thanks for the link. I wrote a long letter to our President, asking he select Dr. Dean.

[Wizard777]

157. Great Idea! I like the idea of having an actual medical doctor in charge of HHS.

Besides he's an Einstein. It shows. He was a genius as Chairman of the DNC. I think he will do as well if not better at HHS.

[Not Sure]

158. Kicked, rec'd and message sent

Just be careful with that White House message box. Return equals send. :+

[vaberella]

160. Tweety just nominated Howard Dean on his show tonight!

Link discussing it here: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x8164828

[Eric Condon]

161. We're going to Washington DC to take back the HHS!

Yeeeeargh!

(I'm not just kidding around, I actually e-mailed the White House voicing my support for Dean as well.)

[ooglymoogly]

162. Obama needs to give his base something or he wont have a base for long.

So far his win because of us seems to benefit the pugs more than the Dems. Howard Deserves to be payed back for his diligence in making this guy president. Rahm certainly had nothing to do with it nor did any of the pugs he is giving away the store to.

[ReadTomPaine]

163. K&R

[MissDeeds]

164. Dr. Dean was my first choice

K&R

:kick:

[Mister Ed]

165. Yes!

Best idea in a long time. I wrote President Obama and asked him to please consider Dr. Dean.

:patriot:

[Pryderi]

166. Did you join the FAcEbOOk group?

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=65001140420

[Liberty Belle]

204. Thanks! I just invited a dozen local DFAers I found on Facebook!

[Historic NY]

167. K&R, message sent to POTUS.

[Texano78704]

168. Done and done

Let's hear it for Doctor Howard Dean.

[Ticonderoga]

169. I'm all in................n/t

[Jefferson23]

170. Yes for Dean, would be a wonderful choice!

[Left Coast2020]

171. WANTED: QUALIFIED LEADER FOR NATIONAL HHS POSITION

The Health and Human Services office (HHS) has a rare opening for a qualified individual to lead this department. Issues that selected candidate would work on fall into the arena of Health Care and related issues. Candidate should be a bright individual who can make quick and reasonable decisions in a high-pressure environment. Position requires that selected candidate have ability to occasionally address media and make public statements regarding Health policy.

Requirements: Master Degree in Medicine. 5-plus years in an administrative role supervising more than 100 people. Solid computer skills. Good public speaking abilities, knowledgeable of medical terminology. Must have an ability to travel. Knowledgeable of services offered by health professionals. Must be able to work overtime when required. Before starting position, you will be required to provide testimony before the Health and Human Services Committee in the Senate--upon which time you would be confirmed to your position. If you feel you are the qualified candidate for this position, and your name is Dr. Howard Dean, please RUSH your resume to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington D.C. 20025. Attention President Obama. Or by e-mail to http://www.whitehouse.gov. No phone calls will be accepted.

[Glenda]

173. I just sent the email

:kick:

[AnnieBW]

174. Done!

Is there a Facebook page for this?

Edit:

Actually, there are two.

[midnight]

175. I'm vote no. 216 and you do not have to say anymore. It is obvious.

Dr. Dean is the one we need to have as our HHS. President Obama ask this wonderful man if he would please do us all the pleasure of leading this department. Thanks.

[OhioChick]

177. K&R

:kick:

[liberalla]

178. K & R!

[davidwparker]

179. I used the link to express myself. Go DEAN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[tbyg52]

181. K,R,&done. nt

[WillYourVoteBCounted]

182. this name being floated: Sen. Barbara A. MIkulski

I'm a Dean fan, so don't shoot

Will Obama Pick Mikulski To Replace Daschle?

Unconfirmed rumors began seeping out of Capitol Hill late today that Maryland Sen. Barbara A. MIkulski is under consideration for the suddenly vacant position of Secretary of Health and Human Services.

A spokeswoman for Mikulski did not immediately return email and cellphone messages, which only added to the mystery. The White House had no comment, but it does not typically respond to reports about prospective appointments unless they are about to be made public.

...
Mikulski, who is up for re-election in 2010, has already begun raising funds for a re-election bid, though she has not formally announced her intention to run. She was first elected to the Senate in 1986.

She would turn 80 in the final year of her next term, if she were to be re-elected, which she almost certainly would if she ran. Mikulski regularly ranks as the most popular elected official in the state and no serious Republican candidate is likely to take her on.

(via)

http://www.juddlegum.com/blog/2009/02/will-obama-pick-mikulski-to-replace-daschle/

[BlueMTexpat]

184. Absolutely!

:bounce: :kick: :woohoo: :applause:

[Hippo_Tron]

185. Where is the evidence that Dean supports a very different solution to health care than Daschle?

According to what I've seen he's just as centrist on health care as Obama, Clinton, Daschle, etc.

http://www.ontheissues.org/2004/Howard_Dean_Health_Care.htm

[KT2000]

186. Yes please!!

I just attended the funeral of a friend who was "laid off" her job at a church because she had advanced cancer and could not work consistently. That meant she lost her health insurance.
What a disgrace.
Dr. Howard Dean gets it!

[FlyingSquirrel]

188. Lemme just add the 250th Rec

:thumbsup:

[mntleo2]

190. Great Idea!

I wrote to the president and said that if he is able to appoint Republicans, perhaps he would consider appointing a doctor who is a good Democrat, who has also governed and ran a health care system for an entire state.

Hope it helps!

Cat In Seattle

[Cowpunk]

192. Howard Dean is Squeaky Clean

..and pre-vetted. They did their worst against him, and he's still around.

[Sunnyshine]

193. Bring us the Doctor! My oh my, he happens to be a great Guvenah too!

Howard Dean,MD :fistbump: Yes We Need!

[intheflow]

194. Oh, heck ya!

I'll rec that! :kick:

[Kaleko]

195. My first choice for the post.

[tan guera]

196. Go, Howard!

Now how do we sneak him past Rahm?

[JFKfanforever]

203. I trust Howard Dean...

Almost as much as I DIStrust Rahmbo.

[Lucian]

197. Hell yeah! K&R!

[CountDmoney]

198. No brainer go for howard! n/t

[Iwillnevergiveup]

199. Rec #264

Am late to the party, but sent off a note to the White House. Yes, yes, yes for Howard Dean.
Talk about squeaky clean.

[Left Coast2020]

201. This thread is off the charts!!!!!

Amazing. :fistbump:

I wonder what the person will think when they open their In-Box in the morning? Does the President open the e-mail? Hmmmmm?

[ClayZ]

202. K and R

[tom_paine]

205. K & R

[Hubert Flottz]

206. Looks like it will be Bill Frist...

Wouldn't want to hurt the GOP's tender feelings by putting a democrat with a good record on the job.

[girl_interrupted]

207. K&R

[olegramps]

214. Enough of this of this bipartisanship crap.

The Republicans are the sworn enemy of everything that I hold important. They are dedicated to the destruction of the Middle Class and the every piece of FDR's New Deal legislation that created the Middle Class. I for one don't support the inclusion of any Republican in the Cabinet. Daschel's nomination was another disaster.

[yy4me]

209. Just sent off my comments. Can you imagine how good it

would be to have someone in this position who would have the spine and intelligence to put our health care situation in order?

Lets hope someone is making a list of our support and actually showing it to President Obama.

[WillyT]

210. Oh Yeah !!!

:bounce::kick::bounce:

[Joanne98]

211. Done. Thanks. This is a great idea!

[olegramps]

212. What a absolutely ridiculous suggestion!!!

It is asinine to suggest that a person with actual medical knowledge should head up HHS.

These types of positions are to be reserved as payola for political favors that really count. Daschel was far more qualified to deal with slim-bag drug peddlers. He knows that side of the business inside and out. Daschel will not suffer from this little set back.

He will be back out on the street making millions with his buddy Dole. Good ole Dole. No man was more appropriately named. He has been on the dole for his entire life. He was another of those God fearing Republicans that dumped his first wife.

[mdmc]

213. kick

[leftcoastie]

215. Two words:

Howard Dean!

[snappyturtle]

217. K&R

:kick: :kick: :kick:

[avalon.bear]

218. Doubts ...

Unfortunately, Dean does not play well with others.

That could be a serious handicap with an issue as sensitive as health care
reform.

[Blaze Diem]

221. Its OTHERS that don't play well with Dr Dean

(as I see it)
Dr Dean will not sell-out the American people for crony back scratching.

That's why they don't want him and that's precisely why America needs this bright capable man to head up /clean up the Dept of HHS.
HHS is there for the people, yet has been exploited to the point of total corruption by kick backs, pay backs, and arm twisting by corporate and political entities who treat greed as 'business as usual'.

Howard Dean is more instinctively aware of what the public is in need of and how to fulfill it, than 90% of those employed in our government.

I do believe this.

[Laurab]

219. A big K and R! nt

[helderheid]

220. REC 300!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Blaze Diem]

223. You should get prize for rec #300..Make a wish...lol

:donut:

[helderheid]

224. Oooh! I will, thanks !! :D

[lenegal]

222. Absolutely Heck yes

Kicked and R

[iamthebandfanman]

225. hes qualified.

and thats all that anybody should be looking at when picking a cabinet.

the man has had a lifetime of experience in the health industy pretty much and he knows what its like for all of us out here who go without any health insurance.

i can guarentee Dr Dean would help and would succeed at finding a solution to the health woes of this country.

his health issues and war issues were the reason i wanted him back in 2004.

[KoKo]

232. I just e-mailed WH.GOV. Said we need physicians to sign onto any new health

insurance programs and what better person that Dr. Howard Dean who practiced medicine and his wife still practices. I mentioned the Childrens Insurance Program he got through the Vermont legislature.

[KoKo]

233. kick

[OneMadVoter]

235. Two Petitions

Look, if we are going to push for the appointment of Howard Dean, we need to collectively make our voices heard. Here are two online petitions:


http://www.petitiononline.com/sec4hhs/


http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/governor-dean-for-secretary-of-health-and-human-services

Sign them when you find the time !! B-) B-) B-)

[knixphan]

236. K!

[iamthebandfanman]

237. kick !@ n/t

[JackRiddler]

238. A kick per day for the Doctor to stay!

[JackRiddler]

239. kick

[JackRiddler]

240. kick

[JackRiddler]

241. kick

[JFKfanforever]

242. A kick for Dr Dean!

[Fire1]

243. I agree, k&r