The Congressional Black Caucus is blasting away at Blue Dog Democrats

[a kennedy]

The Congressional Black Caucus is blasting away at Blue Dog Democrats and other fiscal conservatives in their own party for making "spurious" claims about the high cost of the House health reform plan, POLITICO has learned.

The issue isn't about race, aides tell me. It's about the CBC, which represents some of the most progressive members in the House, expressing concern they are being taken for granted while party conservatives dominate ongoing negotiations.

The 42-member caucus, whose support is crucial for the passage of any plan, is worried that intense talks going on between the Dogs, White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel and House leaders will undermine efforts to provide quality coverage to the poor and working class.

Late Thursday, the CBC sent identically-worded letters to Pelosi and President Obama arguing against possible cuts to hospital reimbursements, funding for proposed programs dealing with minority health disparities and cash for childrens services, mental health and preventive care.

The letter, drafted by CBC Chairwoman Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) also warns Pelosi and Obama against weakening a "public option" plan through the use of a procedural trigger.

full article: <http://www.politico.com/blogs/glennthrush/0709/Black_Caucus_blasts_Blue_Dogs.html>

and I know it's politico.....but I thought this was informative.