The endless occupation of Iraq coupled with the deceptions that got us there has taken a deep toll on the psyche of the American people.

The American public, which now hears President Bush talk about a potential World War III in the event that Iran becomes a nuclear power, feels powerless to get anything done.

Americans thought they were doing the right thing when they elected a Democratic Congress in the hopes of shaking things up. That body—so far--is not veto-proof. That means until Republicans join Democrats in backing the will of the majority of American people, the quagmire of Iraq will continue to sap this nation’s soul. Both sides need to talk a lot more to each other.

Failure to approve a health insurance for 10M poor kids is the latest outrage. President Bush vetoed the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, saying it represents “socialized medicine.” He claims S-CHIP would extend coverage to families with annual incomes of $83K. That’s a good soundbyte, but is flat out wrong.

Congress today fell 13 votes short (273 to 156) of the needed two-thirds majority to override the Presidential veto. Forty-four House Republicans did vote for the measure. The S-Chip plan has already passed by a two-thirds margin in the Senate. It is now dead.

The lame-duck President appears energized in defying the wishes of his constituents. A CBS News poll (Oct. 17) shows that 81 percent of Americans are in favor of S-Chip. Almost three-in-four Americans (74 percent) would even pay more taxes to support it. Yet the will of the people is thwarted by a President with an approval rating of 30 percent who blames Congress for not getting things done.

A Reuters/Zogby poll (Oct. 17) found that the mood of the country has worsened for the second straight month. More than two-thirds (66 percent) believe the country is on the wrong track. Is there any wonder?

Pollster John Zogby said:
“The real question among Americans now is about how relevant this government is to them. They tell us they want action on healthcare, education, war and immigration, but they don’t believe they are going to get it.”


The President said at his Oct. 17 news conference that he uses his veto pen to “remain relevant.”

The Administration’s reluctance to serve the will of the American people is making this government irrelevant to millions.