by April Fulton
Good morning.
Break it up, boys, break it up /istockphoto.com
Max Baucus, Democrat from Montana and chairman of the Senate Finance Committee overseeing the health care overhaul this year, seems to have gone a little bit mob boss this week in his quest to control the debate.
Roll Call reports that his top aides met with prominent Democratic lobbyists, warning them not to meet with Republicans on health care matters or it would be viewed as a "hostile act."
Yikes. Wonder if they were packing.
Baucus told reporters he was unaware of the threats.
Speaking of lobbyists, USA Today reports that insurers and drug companies spent 41 percent more to lobby Congress this year than last -- a cool estimated $35 million, at a time when other interest groups' spending is declining. That's a whole lot of dough to buy a seat at the table.
Meanwhile, Baucus and others are starting to take notice of a new moderate Democratic proposal to create health care insurance co-ops in place of the heavily criticized public plan option, while President Obama takes his case right to the people.
NPR's Mara Liasson has more on Obama's town hall travels on Morning Edition today.
Can I Get Fries With That?
Another part of the health care overhaul we haven't heard too much about until now is a possible a push to encourage people to take up a healthier diet and exercise. Since the Obamas are clearly devoted to exercise, gardening, and installing people in their cabinet with like-minded priorities, it wouldn't be a stretch.
Earlier this week, Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced a deal with Republicans and the restaurant industry that would require dining establishments with more than 20 locations to include calories on the menu, although some critics are skeptical and say these numbers can be easily manipulated.
Meanwhile, Morning Edition host Steve Inskeep talks food politics with the director of a new film aimed at taking Americans behind-the-scenes on where our food comes from.
categories: Health Overhaul, Latest headlines, Personal Health
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