Obama sellout to Big PhRMA

So it is confirmed from a leaked internal memo that Obama made a HUGE concession to Big PhRMA. This SUCKS, and goes completely against why I voted for Obama.

The deal, as outlined in the memo:

Commitment of up to $80 billion, but not more than $80 billion.

1. Agree to increase of Medicaid rebate from 15.1 - 23.1% ($34 billion)

2. Agree to get FOBs done (but no agreement on details -- express disagreement on data exclusivity which both sides say does not affect the score of the legislation.) ($9 billion)

3. Sell drugs to patients in the donut hole at 50% discount ($25 billion)
This totals $68 billion

4. Companies will be assessed a tax or fee that will score at $12 billion. There was no agreement as to how or on what this tax/fee will be based.

Total: $80 billion

In exchange for these items, the White House agreed to:

1. Oppose importation

2. Oppose rebates in Medicare Part D

3. Oppose repeal of non-interference

4. Oppose opening Medicare Part B

This makes me so mad...Why would the Administration do this, then go on the road saying that costs are crazy. The costs are SO HUGE, that $80 billion in "promised" savings is a drop in the bucket. It's worthless. Its like Bill Bavasi is running things (Mariners' in-joke). I hope this seriously damages the White House in such a way that they cancel this stupid deal and get some backbone. But now, how can they be trusted? This is really bad news.

Michael Brenner is also thinking along these lines.
Drew Westen is also pulling the wool from his eyes.