GET USED TO THIS - AT 9:27 A.M. ET:  States and cities are starting to tally up the damage from the health "reform" bill about to be passed by the Senate.  There are winners and losers, depending on what deals were made at the last minute.  But when most Americans realize what's been done, there's got to be a backlash.  Governor Paterson of New York State, and Mayor Bloomberg of New York City give an assessment of the wreckage.  Expect this in your area soon:

The Senate health reform bill is packed with lumps of coal for New York's Christmas stocking.

Gov. Paterson, Mayor Bloomberg and other officials warned the Senate plan would:

- Force the city to close 100 health clinics.

- Blow a $1 billion hole in the state's budget.

- Threaten struggling hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities.

"It is really a disgrace and we've got to make sure that we fight before the bill is finally passed," Bloomberg fumed.

New York ended up on the short end as Senate brokers showered cash on states whose senators were among the last holdouts before Democratic leaders locked up the 60 needed votes.

New York's best hope now is emergency surgery to undo the shafting before the bill becomes final.

COMMENT:  That closing of 100 clinics will certainly improve health care for the uncovered.  Why didn't they think of that before? 

How are things in your region?  Are you looking forward to Obamacare?

Can't wait to get my card.  I understand it will get you a free roll of Tums.

December 22, 2009