If stopping the health care bill was so important for Republicans?

Bunning's absence reflects the fact that Republicans didn't have their hearts in the vote. They worked so hard to spread so many falsehoods about health care reform (Death Panels, the Canadian system, our great health care system, etc.) that they had to make a show in front of their base (the tea-partiers). Don't they realize they are going to lose a lot of independents and centrists by being so childish? The Republicans have removed themselves from the legislative process already...so why show up to vote? Mitch McConnell scooted out of the Senate chamber, too (as soon as he voted)...real idealism there.

The important part was not to stop health care reform but to get right from day one. But the Democrats did not care if it was right just as long as they got it passed. So the American people get screwed once again.

The democrats had their 60 votes. No Republican voted for the bill. It wouldn't have mattered if none of them showed up. It still would have passed.

Guess what - they only count the votes FOR the measure.

If they're not there, they sure didn't help it pass.

Did they?

FAIL

You wouldn't expect them to give up their holiday plans and show up for work, now would you? Why do you hate America and Christmas?

Republicans gave up because they lack conviction and they don't really believe in what they are fighting for. They are weak and lost. It's pathetic.