March 17, 2010 11:04AM 

# Will Kucinich’s Vote Help ObamaCare? 

By [Michael F. Cannon](https://www.cato.org/people/michael-f-cannon) 

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![Media Name: Kucinich.jpg](/sites/cato.org/files/styles/pubs_2x/public/wp-content/uploads/Kucinich.jpg?itok=NbY_Bxz0) 

Whether Rep. Dennis Kucinich’s (D‑OH) “aye” vote will help pass ObamaCare depends on whether he asked for something in return.

[Jane Hamsher of FireDogLake reports](http://fdlaction.firedoglake.com/2010/03/16/fineman-reports-kucinich-to-vote-yes/), “Kucinich told Obama that he wants a full ERISA waver \[*sic*\] and a public option in exchange for his vote.” If he gets either of those things in the reconciliation “fixer” bill, then that will trigger a backlash. His “support” could undermine the whole process.

It really depends on what kind of a negotiator Kucinich is. If he’s a good negotiator, it hurts ObamaCare. If he’s a lousy negotiator, it helps.

##### Related Tags 

[General](https://www.cato.org/general), [Health Care](https://www.cato.org/health-care) 

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