Golden State pols join dog pile crushing President's veto of Medicare bill

In what amounted to a legislative dog pile on a lame-duck president, a vast majority of Congress today voted to override a veto by President Bush of a proposal to cut services to Medicare patients and to fees paid to practicing Medicare physicians.

In the House, the veto override passed by a vote of 383 to 41. In the Senate, the vote was a bullet-proof 70 to 26. 

Many of the Golden State's congressional pols joined in the fun.

"It's unfortunate that President Bush has decided once again to do a favor for his special interest friends in the insurance industry at the expense of seniors, the disabled and the caring health professionals who take care of them," said U.S. Rep. Lois Capps (D-Santa Barbara.)

And Congressman Pete Stark (D-Fremont), who most observers would agree is not exactly a golfing buddy of the President's, echoed his Central Coast colleague.

"Today's veto shows a callous disregard for America's retirees, people with disabilities, and for physicians and other key providers who serve Medicare patients.... I thank my colleagues in the House and Senate for voting to override the president's veto," Stark said in a statement.

The veteran Democrat added that Tuesday's action was an example of not only bi-partisanship but of excellent cooperation between the House and the Senate.

"I hope that is a harbinger of the future," Stark said.