Rhetoric

Yeah, that's exactly how it looks right now, from Steve Benen:

I continue to think these are not exactly effective negotiating techniques. Republicans say, "We want explicit language in the bill that would restrict coverage for illegal immigrants." The White House responds, "You got it. What are you willing to concede in return?" To which the GOP answers, "Nothing."

Likewise, Republicans say, "We want explicit language in the bill that would prohibit funding for abortion." The White House responds, "No problem at all. What are you willing to concede in return?" To which the GOP answers, "Nothing."

My hunch is, the White House wants to make it as politically awkward as possible for Republicans to oppose the bill. The president wants to be able to tell the public that he offered the GOP a reform bill with tort reform, no funding for abortion, no coverage for undocumented immigrants, no deficit increases, no tax increases on the middle class, no "death panels" or "death books," and quite possibly no public option -- and the congressional minority stll rejected the legislation.

For all I know, this would be an effective rhetorical/political strategy for the White House, and the public would be disgusted by Republican obstinacy. But no one should have any doubts as to whether these concessions will actually garner GOP votes. They won't -- Republicans don't support health care reform.