How Vital, This Public Option?

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) — who apparently woke up this morning and said to himself, “Today, I’m going to make some news” — told reporters Tuesday that health reform legislation could pass the lower chamber without a public option, according to reports. But that sentiment puts Democratic leaders at odds on the issue.

Indeed, Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said last week that “a bill without a strong public option will not pass the House.” And Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) told MSNBC Tuesday that he doesn’t think he could wrangle the 218 votes needed to pass the bill without a public option in some form.

You’d think that, after a month’s break to gather thoughts and solidify strategy, Democratic leaders would be on the same page when it comes to these things. Guess you’d be wrong.