Top Dem denounces health-care protests

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate’s most powerful Democrat on Thursday scolded health-care protesters dogging his party’s lawmakers at local meetings, arguing that some critics on the political right have run out of ideas — and ditched their civic manners.

Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada accused the protesters of trying to “sabotage” the democratic process.

A small group of lawmakers blocked out the fevered rhetoric and vowed to keep pursuing an elusive bipartisan deal on a broad remaking of the health-care system. With encouragement from President Barack Obama and business leaders, the group reported progress on financing an overhaul. But as polls show Obama’s approach losing favor with voters — particularly independents — Democrats are talking more openly about the possibility of moving legislation without Republican support.

Energized conservative activists said they’ll keep up their fight against Obama’s effort. The president wants to use the government’s clout to subsidize coverage for millions now uninsured, regulate insurance companies more closely and attempt to slow the rise of medical costs. The protesters’ shouts and chants, captured on amateur video, went viral on the Internet.

The Republican Party says it’s not behind the protests, but Reid scoffed at the notion that the protesters reflect grass-roots sentiment. He held up a piece of artificial turf during a session with reporters.

“These are nothing more than destructive efforts to interrupt a debate that we should have, and are having,” Reid said. “They are doing this because they don’t have any better ideas.”

Republicans answered back.

“All the polls show there is serious concern, if not outright opposition, to the president’s health-care plan,” said Antonia Ferrier, spokeswoman for House Republican Leader John Boehner of Ohio.