A triggered co-op in the Senate bill shouldn't be an alternative

As we all know, the action on health insurance reform has moved to the Senate. And, the initial indicators from Senate Democrats aren't good. They're already negotiating with themselves and the gimmick of the week is a triggered co-op proffered by Senator Tom Carper from Delaware. National Journal refers to it as a "Public Option Alternative." It's pretty much the most useless and counter-productive alternative.

McJoan, noting that this "combine[s] the two worst ideas," had an excellent breakdown:

A triggered co-op! A trigger that's never going to trigger to create a co-op that will never work. Seriously, this is their Plan B? Whatever happened to comprehensive healthcare reform? Whatever happened to providing affordable choices to all Americans? Which leads to this nugget:

The Democratic aide said staffers have tried to keep Carper’s alternative quiet due to concerns that publicity could draw attacks from liberal activists, which could complicate efforts to line up support from the full Democratic caucus.

Ya think? Yes, liberal activists will oppose this because it's utterly worthless.

And, Chris Bowers explains that this "triggered co-op" shouldn't be the alternative. Reconciliation should:

Since there are at least 51 votes for a public option in the Senate, and since reconciliation is still on the table, if we don't end up with a public option it won't be because we didn't have the votes.

Here's what worries me. Earlier today, Gallup reported that the GOP is ahead in its generic ballot poll for the first time. When things like that happen, the professional Democrats in DC flip out. Instead of getting stronger, Democrats cave. On the health insurance reform issue, we could see the Senate ram through a crappy bill. There will be tons of pressure from the conservatives Democrats and the White House to do that. Then, we go to conference. Remember, the President and other top White House officials have said repeatedly that the goal is to get to conference (he was clear about that on the conference call with bloggers on July 20.)

But, given the latest polling, there's a growing concern among some people following this very closely that the much weaker Senate bill will become the framework for a final bill. In conference, instead of fixing the bill (like we've been led to believe will happen), the players will make a few concessions to the House, then push hard for final passage of the weak bill in both bodies. The White House will claim victory and health care will be off the table. So, we have to be extra vigilant and hold our friends on the Hill accountable. They'll have to stiffen their spines and stick to their principles. The progressives do not have a great track record of standing strong and the White House knows that. We have the votes for real reform. But, it will take leadership and determination.