Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

BNET TalkbackShare your ideas and expertise on this topic

Subscribe to this discussion via Email or RSS

•  
  1

  Mike_Kemp

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  OTOH, maybe all the PR will be positive in the long run. There are plenty of conservatives who are planning to visit the stores. Folks who are boycotting now... how many viable alternatives do they really have? How willing will they be to break their habits? My bet: most will return.
  
  Mike
  www.yourbusinessoftware.com

•  
  2

  pauldgpmp

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I applaud Mackey as a man who stands up for what he
  believes is RIGHT and not necessarily what is EXPEDIENT.
  
  I agree fully with his position on health care and have sent
  off his article in the WSJ to my elected officials.
  
  FWIW, I am a Libertarian and I too shop at Whole Foods.
  
  BR,
  Dr. PDG

•  
  3

  troyscheer@...

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I have not been a Whole Foods shopper in the past. Mackey just changed that. It's great to see someone who actually has a backbone and is willing to bring forth solutions. That's what a leader does.

•  
  4

  MSaintmomo

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  This is supposed to be America, home of free speech, not home of abuse by the White House.

•  
  5

  jjudah

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Bravo for the CEO.

•  
  6

  NURREDIN

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  He's just shown he's dumb as a rock. You don't alienate your
  core constituents by mouthing off politically. He ain't Buffet
  and he ain't George Soros. If he po's his base,I hope he's
  saved enough money for retirement. I don't care if you're a
  Democrat or a Republican, if you mouth off and your core
  customers don't like it,you're in trouble. His focus should be
  on what's best for the business and the shareholders,and
  leave his personal opinions at the ballot box. Wall Street
  doesn't care for dummies at the helm. He needs to keep his
  mouth shut,rake in the profits,and make donations to the
  politicians and causes he espouses. This was not a smart
  move. All those left-wing yuppies can get whatever he sells
  somewhere else,and he needs to remember that. The core
  Republicans in the red states ain't going to Whole
  Foods,they're going to Wal-Mart,which is where he'll be
  working if he doesn't shut up.

•  
  7

  drgenevieve

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I wholeheartedly agree that our healthcare system should be revamped in a way that does not cost us taxpayers trillions of dollars!!! Good for him for making a stand, and I agree that WF bottom line probably won't be harmed.
  
  However, I avoid the store whenever possible and use my small neighborhood health food store mainly because whole foods fired both my sister and her boyfriend for rather unfair reasons (if they are telling me remotely the truth). My sister had a LOT of seniority and noticed that there was a lot of turnover with the seasoned staff who had the greater benefits and salaries, and shortly thereafter her boyfriend stopped a shoplifter making a citizens arrest and was fired for breaking company policy against touching a customer.

•  
  8

  tramky

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  So lefties are blathering about boycotting because someone expressed an OPINON?! This is why left-wingers are NOT considered to be rational people by anyone. They are so engrossed in their own importance--and the superiortiy of THEIR ideas over anything else--that they have become nothing less than bigoted zealots.
  
  We saw this with California's Proposition 8, where the identities of campaign contributors in favor of Prop 8 (the same-sex marriage initiative) were identified, publicized, and attacked by left-wing gay rights zealots who think that pillage & burn is acceptable public disocurse. Even moderate gay rights activists were dismayed.
  
  And one other thing, it is NOT the case that Democratic politicians can do anything they want because, to quote the mental aberrant Nancy Pelosi, "We won." Not by a long shot.
  
  The Democratic majority in Congress and the Democrats who now run the White House and the Executive branch of the Federal government are NOT trusted by most Americans. Yes, they were elected to office, but it was understood that they were NOT ready for prime time, as Obama, Pelosi, Reid & a host of others have shown time & again.
  
  As for the so-called health care overhaul, Democrats push it alone at their GREAT peril! there is NO need for a government option in health care. Listen to the Republican proposals on health care--they have most of it right.
  
  And as far as I'm concerned, Democrats in Congress who did NOT hold town hall or other meetings with their constituents don't deserve to be reelected and should probably be recalled as quickly as possible & tossed out of office.

•  
  9

  verycold

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I am one of those conservatives that never shopped there and now I will. I applaud him for his voice. This is serious stuff. This will impact generations to come and he as a respected businessman and citizen has moral responsibility to speak up when moved to do so. I have already told many about this story and they too will now be customers when possible.
  
  As I recall, it was reported shortly after Paul Newman died that there were times he wanted to go against the liberal tide on certain issues, but feared that move would impact his businesses that charities depended on and thus he fell silent. I remember feeling so sad that my country that loves to tout transparency and tolerance would stop buying his products because they disagreed with ONE issue or just even a different POV.

•  
  10

  jjudah

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  For Heaven's sake Tobak it isn't flipping IBM back off the guy and by the way, the goal of any firm is to first maximize profit not shareholer value. Shareholder value is increased by maximizing profit not the other way around.

•  
  11

  toddx

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Mackey's article did anger some on the left, but I would suspect it had the opposite effect on some of his customer base (he probably changed some minds). Both the Obama administration and the most vocal opponents have taken offense at anyone proposing an alternative to the current approach.
  
  If the President and his supporters truly want reform, wouldn't they be open to alternate approaches?

•  
  12

  Michael DeShane Hinton

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Of course, he should have criticized Obamacare -- because it's a dumb idea, poorly conceived. As Mackey proves, the market solves problems better than a government mandate does. He used the market to give us better food. It's profitable because the people are not stupid! Entitlement programs are based on the suppostion that people are stupid. Obama insults me every time he opens his mouth. Mackey should run for public office to bring sanity back to the system.

•  
  13

  Campy1

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Mr. Mackey,
  
  Wish your store was in my town? I applaud you!
  
  The reaction you?re being ?treated? to is just another prime example of the extremely intolerant left. Someone doesn?t agree with you? How dare they! A single person?s opinion ?enrages? and they feel ?betrayed??
  
  Here?s true tolerance: May the offended feel free to shop elsewhere with more palatable politics; just wonder where that would be? They might as well give up their tech toys, Subarus and lattes too?
  
  Damn those evil capitalists! (SARC!)
  

•  
  14

  christopher.ree

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  customer for life

  I am going out of my way to go to his stores now. He has more leadership than most of our gutless wonders in Washington.

•  
  15

  17204

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Good for Mr Mackey. I'm an old 'Harry Truman Liberal' -- not a counterfeit like today's left-wingers. So I admire Mr Mackey's individualism and courage.
  
  I live in L.A. and I will now shop Whole Foods as much as I can -- if I can find a parking place.
  
  
  

•  
  16

  Courtesytravel@...

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Certainly, Mr Mackey and Whole Foods can make a good run for their dime. They are in a good position of turning this issue to their benefit.
  
  Whole Foods and Mr Mackey can play a very nice marketing game and end up making a good case to both supporters and detractors of the Obama Heath Plan. Perhaps the Obama Health Plan should be be to keep everyone healthy and not get sicker in the doctors offices and in the hospitals.
  
  Perhaps everybody, including the poor will do better, not supporting the proposed health plan.
  

•  
  17

  martykz

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Firstly, it is Mr. Obama or President Obama. A little respect, please. Secondly, The term Obama Care is a creation of the far right saboteurs who simply wish to scorch the earth, not do anything constructive. We have socialized medicine for the elderly - Medicare. And for veterans - the V.A. And socialized highways and bridges and police and firefighters and unemployment and workers' compensation. And tell me, who has run a better Cash for Clunkers program then the U.S. government?

•  
  18

  scubajeff

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  what a load of cow manure like is sold at wholefoods. Mackey tries to push the claim that his stores purvey whole foods, with no additives. What an absolute liar. Corn Syrup, Artifical sugars, synthesizers, propylene glycol, esters, etc. Go see for yourself.
  Mackey wants publicity for his stores- to make profit- as it clearly states on their websites. Money for their shareholders. The prev deceitful actions that resulted in convictions may be fading in peoples' minds, but the lies and the people are still the same.

•  
  19

  doctor_rick

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Seems to me that food and medicine are both pretty high up there on the human needs chart. We know how well the market system works to satisfy the former, courtesy of men like John Mackey. The market would do just as well with the latter if we *let* it. We need less government involvement in health care, not more. WFMI may gain as much traffic from sympathizers as it will lose from the boycotters in its so-called core demographic. At the end of the day, everyone respects someone who stands up and speaks his truth, so I expect a neutral to mildly positive outcome of all this for WFMI and Mackey.

•  
  20

  despeer

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Yes, it was appropriate for him to have made comments, especially with offering his own ideas on ways to repair the health insurance problem. I applaud him and can only hope that there are more powerful and bright folks who will step up with opinions and ideas as well. Our very brightest usually aren't directly involved in politics, but maybe this mess will encourage more of them to step forward...we can only hope.
  
  Denise S

•  
  21

  bjdonkerbrook

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Accolades!, to personal courage to speak, even when it
  may not be PC...

•  
  22

  mcao42@...

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Brilliant move on the CEO's part. When liberals whine and
  boycott, conservatives do just the opposite just out of spite. A
  whole new wave of loyal shoppers will be introduced to the
  organic food in Mackey's stores!

•  
  23

  Campy1

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  martykz, do you mean King O?
  
  Tell me how long you've been in the Medicare or VA system?
  
  Enlighten me with your insight into the MSNBC (most liberal of MSM) article that just this evening states: Cash for Clunkers success limited by its flaws
  Bureaucracy, poor planning may mar the overall impression of the program
  http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32497875/ns/business-autos/
  
  Oh yeah... it's gonna get better when it comes to living, breathing human beings.

•  
  24

  pnkearns

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  All he did is explain what works for Whole Foods. He is to be commended, both for providing health care to his employees and providing an example to the nation.
  
  If people pollitically cannot handle the commendable actions of Whole Foods, they have shown themselves as spoiled children that are to be pitied, not coddled. Ignore the whining children in a time out and eventually they'll stop their silly tantrums. I'm amazed and saddened that such infintile people have been allowed to grow to adulthood without being taught some level of maturity and basic manners by their parents.

•  
  25

  JDarley

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Any PR is good PR as long as they spell your name right.
  
  Since a little more than half of the country (according to the latest polls) disagrees with ObamaCare, perhaps Mackey will attract a "Whole" new demographic. In any case, I applaud him for speaking his mind and proposing a different solution that he feels has merit.
  
  I'm a conservative and I shop at Whole Foods.

•  
  26

  mcao42@...

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  NURREDIN, your posts on Huffington are leftist, so why do you
  call yourself a conservative? Help me out here, I'm confused.

•  
  27

  Campy1

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  NURREDIN,
  At what point do you say 'Enough is enough.'?
  
  I'm all for my fellow man, as long as he/she is doing their VERY EQUAL share too.

•  
  28

  dsroth

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  Good for him...

  I applaud Mr. Mackey's actions on several grounds. Anyone, even those we don't agree with, should be able to voice their opinion. Period. That is what this country was founded on. Second, you have to welcome not only his civil resistance, but his suggestions of an alternative. Too many people don't like things and say so without offering any options. Congrats. Finally, he is right! For those that disagree and think the House is offering an elixer to cure all healthcare ills, are sadly mistaken. I offer the Post Office, Amtrak, Canadian and EU healthcare as examples of how government is not capable of actually running anything.
  
  Oh, and BTW, we have been reforming healthcare for the last 60 years to get where we are. Instead of just saying "it's broken" and offering a government-run socialist-based solution, look for the 'bright spots' of which there are way too many to count. I offer Grand Junction, CO as an example! I'll let you look up the details. It is very efficient, cost-effective and affords citizens with some of the best coverage in the country. And this did not require the US government to get involve.
  
  

•  
  29

  dsroth

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  Martykz

  You're kidding, right? Really? You are going to highlight the cash for clunkers program as a standard of government programs? Really - you are kidding, right??

•  
  30

  stockflyer

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Kudos to Mackey for standing up for what he believes. People need to be more responsible for their own lives.
  
  He is right, health care is not a right. You need to understand that you don't have a right when you must first take something from someone else to get it. That means when you take my effort (hours expended and transferred into $) to pay for your health care, you have taken my right to my own effort.
  
  (Any liberals who are reading this, please write me and give me some of your effort for a right given to me in the Constitution, pursuit of happiness. In fact just give me the value of a 100 hours of your effort for my rights.)

•  
  31

  venicementor

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  The people who chide Mackey and people like him who may
  not agree with the new administration and their cocamamie
  self righteous indignation, are hypocrites. They are those
  who say they believe in freedom of speech and yet
  constantly "look out" and bad mouth anyone who is not as
  PC as they are. It has become disgusting trait of todays
  "liberals". I have avoided Whole Foods as most people in my
  area are always "turning to the left" so that they are always
  going around in circles, as they trip over their Birkenstocks.
  So now that they are boycotting the place, looks like I'll
  become a customer. Hear hear!

•  
  32

  Blossom600

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I think perhaps that people are not shopping at Whole Foods based on what the CEO thinks or writes about. Isn't it about the product they deliver?

•  
  33

  binkybarnes

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  The U.S. health care and insurance system has a systemic pre-existing condition: greed. ANYBODY who believes it is reasonable and defensible for the most expensive health care system in the world to leave many millions without any coverage, allow massive medical bills to bankrupt even those with coverage, and deny coverage to those who are in need, is deluded. For the average American it is one of the worst systems in the western world, and will continue to get worse if changes aren't made. I have many friends in foreign countries and while they complain about their taxes, none wants our health-care system.
  We have great health technology in the U.S., but access is controlled by the most avaricious health insurance industry in the world whose real business is investing, not health.

•  
  34

  Blossom600

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I seriously doubt that people shop at Whole Foods based on the opinion, albeit a well-informed and well thought out one based in practice, of its CEO. Are they not shopping there based on the product and service the company delivers?

•  
  35

  arvanro@...

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  It's quite amusing, actually.
  
  That "core" opposes free markets on emotional grounds and denies that money ever has an incentive value.
  
  Yet when they are offended, they resort to boycotts, hoping to use the incentive value of money against the Whole Foods CEO.

•  
  36

  Campy1

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  dsroth,
  You're kind. Seriously.
  
  What I'm not getting is, how was it 'liberal' to be suspicious of 'big government', be it when the Constitution was written, or, during the 60s?but that it's now indicative of "conservative' and a mark of honor to be spoon-fed Soylent Green today?
  
  To get back on point, Mr. Mackey should have the freedom to voice his opinion. And indeed, customers have the right to vote with their pocketbook... this is not at argument.
  
  But the virulent attack on those who voice opinion, on EITHER side, is chilling at best, and, dare I say, totally UN-liberal.

•  
  37

  osweetlilredhead

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  HUGE MISTAKE!! It does NOT show leadership, it shows ignorance.

•  
  38

  ladaddy

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  Another CEO Bites the Dust

  Sorry to all you moronic conservatives, but... whoops, you lost the last two elections. And now you're paying for it. Just like Dennis Miller lost his comedic following, once he went to the 'dark side' and has disappeared, this fool will also disappear. Smart people who shop at his stores will knock him out of his current position. It might be slow and quiet, but he will go away. Boycotts don't work 'work', but in this case... they will. Just like most conservatives, he's not that smart and will pay the consequences.

•  
  39

  Campy1

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Gonna repeat:
  
  Here's true tolerance: May the offended feel free to shop elsewhere with more palatable politics; just wonder where that would be? They might as well give up their tech toys, Subarus and lattes too.
  
  Almost ANYthing you have tangible and concrete was likely produced (remember that word?) by?eeek!?a business person who actually did something.

•  
  40

  ronibe

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I always shop at Wholes Food but I will lay off of it now. There are alternatives such as Farmer Mkts that have fresher organic veggies. In Miami we also have Epicure.
  
  I just can't wait to see the folks who claim they will shop Wholes Food....see their prices...We will see how long they last

•  
  41

  NURREDIN

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I'm a pragmatic Libertarian.Never said I was a democrat.I call
  'em as I see 'em whether the stupidity is caused by a
  Democrat or a Republican. I only care about about one
  thing,and that's keeping the money flowing in AMERICAN
  hands. If you do something dumb that alienates potential
  customers here or around the world,I say so. Wall Street has
  only one party, and that's the Benjamin party(as in Benjamin
  Franklin). Calvin Coolidge once said the "Business of America
  is Business", and if you do anything to deter us from
  maintaining our superior position(Like invading Iraq and
  turning it over to pro-Iranian Shiites (Bush) or refusing to
  turn over the Shah for trial and killing any chance of having a
  secular government in Iran (Carter),I say something about it.
  Both Democrats and Republicans are responsible for the mess
  we're in now. If Reagan hadn't helped Ben Laden and the
  Taliban fight the Soviets,there never would have been a
  9/11. He was too dumb to realize we were #2 on the hitlist.
  Carter let his religious beliefs get in the way of maintaining
  order in the middle east. He should have given up the Shah
  for trial. Eisenhower never should have overthrown a
  democratic government in Iran. When the Vietnamese wanted
  an election the French promised them,LBJ thought it was
  going to be pro-Soviet,so he made up an excuse to
  invade.There's enough stupidity in both parties to go
  around,and all the decisions alienated foreign customers from
  buying American products. We need a President that doesn't
  pi** off potential customers, and right now Obama is the
  best chance we have to get people buying American again.
  We can't maintain our military might without a viable middle
  class,and we need every person we can get to buy our
  products. The hateful rhetoric doesn't help. And neither does
  invading countries that haven't attacked us. We could have
  used that TRILLION dollars we spent invading Iraq, and we
  could sure use Saddam Hussein right now in fighting the
  Iranian attempts to go nuclear. Do you understand now?

•  
  42

  LdrshpMgmtGuru

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  This thread has clearly turned into a partisan sounding board rather than answering the question posed in the article. A few posters have made the point, but the question was whether it was a good BUSINESS decision for Mackey to jump in the fray as the CEO of a publicly traded company. The question was NOT what side of the aisle you sit on.
  
  IMO, I think it was poor form for him to speak out on this subject in the manner that he did. Were he simply offering some "helpful" suggestions to add to the debate rather than trying to critique, it would have been a (slightly) less stupid move. I still think it was inappropriate and unfair for him to potentially threaten the livelihood of his employees b/c he felt like shooting off at the mouth. I'm at the executive level in the public sector and have learned that I can't air my opinions as freely as others b/c I have a different level of responsibility and even my personal opinions carry more weight--no matter how much I try to separate them from my professional self.
  
  Last point: I would take caution in assuming that insuring hundreds of millions of people nationwide is as simple as ensuring a few thousand employees, any one of whom you could get rid of whenever you wanted to...

•  
  43

  mguymon

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Before anyone goes off and decides to boycott Whole Foods, keep in mind that the remedies that John Mackey is proposing--tort reform, making healthcare costs transparent, Medicare reform, insurance portability across state lines--are not left-wing or right-wing. They are simple, common sense solutions that hopefully most of us can agree on. So those that say that don't agree, are you saying that you are in support of more healthcare lawsuits, healthcare costs that are less transparent, letting Medicare continue to fall into an even deeper abyss, not allowing people to retain their healthcare coverage when they move to a new state? Hopefully, not.
  
  Mr. Mackey's proposal simply speaks to him being a clear-minded leader who is not afraid to speak his views. Gee, if we had more people like him in business and in Congress, perhaps we wouldn't be facing the challenges that we are.
  

•  
  44

  Avi Fertig

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  The great Bill Bernbach once said, "A principle isn't a principle until it costs you
  something."
  
  Mr. Mackay certainly took a principled stand, even if he doesn't have to worry about
  reversing stock prices or angry stockholders. He must know that as "outraged" as
  his customers claim to be, they won't forgo their favorite eco, organic smorgasbord
  over anything as recyclable as a principle.

•  
  45

  L10_Chris

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Should he have done something that could be a poor business decision no; however I think boycotting someone because they have an opposing view is ridiculous. It looks like from this post that for every who boycotts he probably picked up 2 new customers.

•  
  46

  CoServe

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Have to agree with "osweetlilredhead" the article demonstrates colossal ignorance.

•  
  47

  Philr

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Free Speech is still guaranteed in our country, the USA, isn't it? If so, why should "any" person -- CEO or Clerk -- be somehow shamed for speaking his opinion. And, for simply providing some alternatives to a major issue in this country that has no easy solution?
  
  When Bush was President, did the people who disagreed with his policies (who are probably a large segment who now agree with Obama's policies) go silently into the night without expressing their own ideas and potential solutions?
  
  No, they did just like people, like Mackey, are doing now. They offer their thoughts and ideas and opinions. Some do that task very well and actually provide sensible alternatives, and others are so filled with emotion that they cannot speak intelligently. They are likely similar to several in this thread, who may not have even read Mackey's article, but yet speaking their mind so freely.
  
  I encourage all of you on this thread to engage in the debate and to fully express yourself. But, maybe a useful tack to take (if that is a proper expression) would be to brainstorm along with Mackey, stick to the points he made and see if we can come up with something workable that maybe improves, maybe changes, maybe adds additional reforms, etc., and creates something of value -- rather than engaging in the same kind of "politics" or "political discussions" that so many of us seem to despise of those who are actually holding an office.
  
  Let's set the example for the folks in office and come up with solutions that beat the pants off the politicians. Let's show why we have been a great nation, by actually working together and not alienating each other like many other countries have done throughout history and are doing now.
  
  Wouldn't that be a better approach than engaging in so much of this verbal fighting that really leads to nothing of use?
  
  Idealistic? Sure.
  
  Worth doing? Absolutely.
  
  (You have a choice. You can shoot me down, or you can play a part in the solution. It sounds like a lot of you are way smarter than me and probably have some great ideas that can help out all of us in this nation, so I look forward to hearing some great solutions. What's your next move?)

•  
  48

  RodSchwartz

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Roy Williams famously observed, "The Risk of Insult Is the Price of Clarity."
  
  Bravo, John Mackey!
  
  How refreshing to see someone willing to take a clear stand based on clear-headed thinking, even though it may be unpopular with some of his core constituency.
  
  Thank God there are still a few "liberals" in this country who are unwilling to sacrifice neither principle nor truth on the altar of political correctness.
  
  Obviously, you have both brains and guts, sir.
  
  
  

•  
  49

  kandice.eames

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Bravo!!! I agree wiht his eight ideas, and will continue to be a loyal Whole Foods customer.

•  
  50

  tahlman

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I think he has the right to express himself and he has a great point. Freedom to choose is just like shopping for groceries. Hopefully, political views won't disturb shoppers from shopping there. It is simply an opinion!

•  
  51

  rabblebabble

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Whole Foods isn't just a haven for Liberals. As hard as it is for the Left to believe, those of us who want the government to keep its mitts off the healthcare it hasn't already grabbed also want wholesome, healthy food and food supplements. We also know a leader when we see one. Obama isn't. Mackey is.

•  
  52

  Fishdaddy

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Mr. Mackey, you have my vote! Great Americans speak up
  regardless of risk or insult. I for one love whole foods but I
  hate the two party (or is it three?) politics that has divided
  this country of ours down the middle. Long gone is the day
  where we just work hard to get the job done instead of
  taking advantage through trickery and tainted words. Our
  country forgot about taking care of their neighbor, sticking
  up for our rights instead they let their morals slide and let
  greed prevail. Corruption is the result. I support Americans
  that support the constitution as it exists to protect us from
  these things that you speak out against!
  
  The stock market is corrupt and rigged by our Federal Gov't
  so focus on what your store delivers and less on the whining
  shareholders. If Americans are willing to risk their money
  by investing in the stock market then you would want to
  believe that they should be more angry about the taxes they
  pay on income, death & estate and all the other trumped up
  spread the wealth ideas going around! Support the FAIRTAX
  and resolve the corruption!
  
  If you are not real careful Big Government will figure out a
  way to devalue your stock and bankrupt your business! Then
  the long legged pimp mack daddy from Kenya will add your
  organic foods store as part of his growing diversified
  businesses as a new unit along with the banks, auto
  manufacturing, insurance companies, train service and
  freight delivery. To run it he'll appoint the FDA to stock the
  shelves with approved foods processed and inspected as
  safe for Americans to eat. We will all be forced to buy our
  groceries there which will be rationed to us under marshall
  law.
  
  May God keep us protect us from further harm and help us
  all to realize the blessing that we have as Americans under
  one God.

•  
  53

  alphagrl@...

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  The sheer number of posts to this blog is mind-bloggoling!
  
  Why hasn't anyone mentioned that our nation's health care is totally disfunctional and needs to be reformed? Why hasn't anyone mentioned the ranking of the US in world-wide health care for it's citizens. See Reuters article from Jan. 2008, "France Best US Worst in Preventable Death Ranking", http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSN07651650
  (for one).
  
  Get over it people. Obviously most of these posts have been written by Mackey level execs who have never seen suffering in their lives, have never been stuck with one particular insurance co. for life because of some odd pre-existing condition, have never experienced insurance co. abuse.
  
  Has everyone forgotten why Health Care Reform is on the table?
  Puhlease!!!! Breathe, while you still can.

•  
  54

  Bearjeep

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  While Americans as a whole need a radical change in diet; I doubt all of his workers get 40 hours a week and fully paid health care. Until this is available to all Americans, we have a problem when GREEDY, Gluttonous CEO's take advantage of workers and WTF their customers. Look at the insurance industry that makes a profit off not doing whatever is necessary to maintain a quality of live for each of their customers. It is simply wrong and needs to stop. Single Payer, Medicare for All, Everybody IN, Nobody Out. That is a civilized selfless national health care plan.

•  
  55

  Steve Tobak

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  To Summarize ...

  To summarize, if the majority response from this post is any indication of Whole Foods' demographic, then the company should actually benefit from Mackey's op-ed piece.
  
  Wouldn't that be nice.
  
  I guess we'll see ...
  
  Steve Tobak

•  
  56

  shanayres

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Just scanned old Mackey's piece. I was born and raised in the
  UK. Lived there till I was 30 years old and neither I nor
  anyone I knew or know, had their healthcare rationed. The
  only thing I ever had to wait for was elective plastic surgery
  (breast reduction). I've been living here for the last 27 years,
  always had health insurance, and I find the UK system to be
  far superior to the USA system both in quality and quantity.
  
  Maybe it's changed radically in the last 27 years, but then I
  think I'd have heard something to this effect, from my family
  and friends.

•  
  57

  Prof. J

  08/20/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  No one, I think, would challenge Mackey's right to state his opinions. And few, if they are truly honest about it, would argue that the current health care system in the U.S., which provides measurably poorer overall health than that of other competing nations while it swallows 16% of the GDP while those of the competition run only 7-8%, is not a problem.
  
  But, the issue is whether speaking out inthe WSJ was good business. And Whole Foods is not a typical profit-maximizing corporation. It has built a brand catering to a particular upper middle class group in the population by not only offering natural and organic food but by championing environmentalism and social responsibility as well as its role as a "socially responsible company." This includes substantial donations to community groups and charities beyond the norm. And, if one looks at both this effort and where the stores are located, the company clearly has catered to a customer base that both has supported Obama and has shopped, at least partly, based on its values.
  
  So, was it a good business decision to speak out? I would suggest that the jury is out but that I would bet against that being the case given both location and the current customer base.

•  
  58

  Manabozho

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  How better to broaden the base?

  Mr Mackey's statements seem to have overcome the resistance of a significant number of brand-skeptics who are politically center-to-right leaning, and are going to visit their nearest WF store, even if it's miles away. This may be the chain's next growth area. Once the center-to-right crowd gets used to the nice food, they'll be back for that, even tho their first visit was prompted by the WSJ piece.
  
  Existing customers gonna boycott? Do we really think that the elite foodies have much choice? Where will they go? We'll soon find out their true priorities, when the CEO's politics part company with their daily expectations of California-cuisine levels of quality and variety.

•  
  59

  RBSandoval

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Don't believe in his point of view. There are so many
  Americans that are not employed, underage or retired and do
  not fit his model. And those that are employed definitely do
  not work for progressive companies like Whole Foods that
  promote wellness. As a vegetarian health nut, I realize there
  are many Americans in the dark, many insurance providers
  scamming the system and many employers cutting corners.
  The victims of course are hard-working Americans.
  
  Besides, much of what is being proposed in Washington is
  Insurance Reform and not Medical Reform and much of what
  Mr. Mackey touched on was to address some type of reform.
  
  I'll continue to shop at Whole Foods. Someone has to pay for
  those great progressive employee benefits. Isn't that why
  they call it Whole Paycheck?

•  
  60

  smesser

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Bottom line; Mackey?s position is cogent. Obama is yet to get
  there.

•  
  61

  helpmeunderstand

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  He is my hero...I now search out his stores in my travels to spend money. BTW, his thoughts on healthcare reform were actually well thought out and could be implemented in the short term to benefit all. "Reform" is what we are looking for...not another government run entitlement program that is not well thought out. Oh yeah...cash for clunkers ends Monday because the program was "more successful" than they imagined. Translate that lack of foresight to heathcare and it spells d-i-s-a-s-t-e-r.

•  
  62

  Mike Shaffer

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Whole Food's ... hmmmm... I hope the products they offer are sold in North West Ohio. I will give them a lion's share of our food budget.
  
  Yes we have a problem, but government run anything has never been a solution. Are the people in media inherently more healthy than the rest of us? Why does the author who wrote this story "major in the minors". Why do any of us think that because the government is a behemoth that can and will spend our country right into certain financial disaster and ruin that we should all just sit by and let them? Wake up media. Wake up!
  
  Good job Mr. Mackey.

•  
  63

  Jay McClung

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  "Mouthing off"???

  To the writer who said that the CEO should not have been "Mouthing off" - He has the right, as you do, to exercise his First Ammendment right to free speech. His comments need to be brought into the public debate. GOOD FOR HIM for speaking out. As it stands, The health plan is designed to be huge power grab reaching into our personal lives in an unprecidented scale. There are alternatives that are not being considered, because they don't buy votes and increase the power of government. This plan is not about lowering cost or improving the health of our citizens any more than the "stimulus package" was about actually boosting the economy. Both bills are designed give the government more power over businesses and the lives of American citizens. I hope that we can all respect those who speak out and share their ideas. When we give up our rights to the government, you can bet that we will never get them back.

•  
  64

  sbollinger6

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Mackey has jumped on the "Tort Reform" band wagon. We can not replace litigation with nothing. There is a lot of malpractice out there. I used to know an anesthesiologist and the stories he told made your toes curl. He made it clear that the medical profession does not police it's own. If you want to get rid of malpractice litigation, suggest a replacement.
  
  Conservatives keep saying they want government out of their lives but "Tort Reform" is the government stepping in to interfere with an established legal right. "Tort Reform" is government interference, plain and simple.
  
  I am not a lawyer and I believe jury awards are out of control. Unfortunately, the only defense the public has against doctor malpractice is through the bloated legal system.

•  
  65

  theresasm

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Go to http://www2.wholefoodsmarket.com/blogs/jmackey/ to see John Mackey's reply to the article. You can read the unedited article. The journalist edited the article which through things a off balance for the public. When reading "any" article one should consider the source, both sides to the story, and not become reactionary.

•  
  66

  TomGrinley

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I would think that at this point, it should be quite clear that dissenting opinions are not welcomed by the Democrats. If you dare speak against the Annointed One you open yourself up to personal attacks. We are seeing a very scary war on dissenting opinions and they fight back with disclosures of your personal finances, past history, and even the medical history of your spouse. Seems like it might be safer for everyone to keep their mouth shut.

•  
  67

  Loraine Antrim

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Leadership at the CEO level should be above these type of tactics. I'm sure some PR staff thought this would be "cute" but in the end it will cost the company dearly. The role of the CEO is to lead and provide direction and strategy; it should not include hawking. Loraine Antrim

•  
  68

  voyer

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I applaud Mackey for speaking out and making good, constructive suggestions on an important topic. It speaks ill of the lefties who apparently shop at his stores that they cannot stand a bit of constructive dialogue about an important issue.
  
  I've never shopped at Whole Foods, but I might just start. Maybe I'll offset some of those silly left-wing "boycotters."
  
  John Voyer, Portland, Maine

•  
  69

  Mark Norato

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  What I think is getting lost in all the emotionalism and
  hyperbole at every level is a dialog and exchange of ideas on
  this vitally important topic. While you don?t have to agree
  with everything in Mackey?s article (I don?t), he was simply
  sharing strategies which have helped his organization control
  health care costs while expanding coverage to more
  employees.
  
  From this perspective, his suggestions are worthy of
  consideration as part of the broader set of solution
  possibilities.
  

•  
  70

  verycold

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  What I find fascinating is that the "angry left" doesn't even bother to actually address the points Mackey made. His many points just make good sense. You can argue emotionally about the entitlement of everybody to have access to health care, but that doesn't really address the problem.
  
  Today there will be protesters at the Austin and NY stores as I understand it. I have no problem with that because people should have the right to voice their opinions. However this group now is calling Mackey a bad man because he opposes this particular piece of legislation and thus according to this group keeping people from having access to insurance. They stand by that 45 million number which has been shown to encompass many different groups some refusing to buy insurance even though they can.
  
  The president was asked yesterday if the plan will include illegals. He said no, BUT that illegals will not be turned away from any medical facility. So exactly who will be paying for their care? He says it is compassion that should make us continue giving out free care to those that are illegally here. This is why we are bankrupt. Our desires, our actions never consider the financial realities that giving away health care except in hospitals that are funded expressly for that purpose with charitable donations is NOT SUSTAINABLE.
  
  We need to hear from more CEOs. We need to nurture an environment that allows all voices to be heard without shaming and wrath.

•  
  71

  river79

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Spot on Mr. Mackey! I too appreciate a CEO who isn't afraid to speak out. Afterall, the President invited feedback, ideas, and proposals for consideration in health care reform. Why wouldn't someone like Mackey with successful experience and credibility in a plan that works put in his two cents??

•  
  72

  mselliott

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  People are missing the point, if healthcare is an issue - are his points and ideas valid. That is one of the biggest problems right now is everyone is focusing on who said what and whether it is inline with their "sides" views. When we start assessing ideas for there thru merit and not who they came from or what hidden agenda's are associated with them - only then will we ever get to a point where we focus on solving problems together and truly have bi-partisan efforts.
  
  And by the way, I happen to think he has some great ideas regarding healthcare that should be reviewed, discussed, explored to determine if they could help.

•  
  73

  get8329

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I admire the man. He is a man who has consistently given back to the community for years.
  
  His entire salary goes to charity. He pays 90% of his employees healthcare costs.
  
  At least he understands how this will impact businesses. Unlike Obama he has actually run something more than just a campaign.
  
  Obama should be listening to him and others like him.

•  
  74

  plymouth

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Mackey heads up his essay with a good assessment of the
  impending problem with Thatcher's quote and a synopsis
  of the existing socialist programs facing doom. The failure
  of Great Society programs is starkly evident and we need
  to be making plans to dismantle these failed attempts at
  social engineering and return peoples' money and liberties
  to them so they can make the choices they are best equipped
  to make.
  
  Let's be clear, Whole Foods is NOT a philanthropy or
  hippie coop in northern Vermont. Whole Foods is a business and as accurately pointed out, as chief executive of a public company, Mackey?s fiduciary duty is to his shareholders.
  
  The job of the government is to govern per the instructions outlined by the U.S. Constitution. The spate of social programs foisted on the people of this nation since 1964 having but nothing to do with governance and everything to do with intrusive statism which Americans do not need.

•  
  75

  dhorine

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I think it's interesting that a lot of people are complaining about it, but sales haven't dropped. Personally, I know much more about Whole Foods today than I did a week ago. Maybe that's a good thing.

•  
  76

  jroley

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Thank you Mr. Mackey! I applaud his leadership and boldness. I do not think this will negatively affect Whole Foods. In fact, I think there are more conservatives in Whole Foods customer base than you might expect "Crunchy Cons".
  

•  
  77

  Michael DeShane Hinton

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  America was never more prosperous than during the Gilded Age, which occured after a great moral struggle in this country to right the worst economic wrong ever conceived by man -- black slavery. With the Abolitionist movement came a new kind of being -- the Christian businessman. These men became civic leaders after the war and America prospered on free market principles such as Mackey is promoting. The idea that liberals have a lock on social justice is cracked. It was the Republican Party that freed the slaves while the Democrats wanted to keep the wicked status quo. The Chicago thugs that make up the Obama administration have come out in full force this week -- some of them targetting Mackey and appearing here. Obama talks a religious game but he is wrong. We are each personally repsonsible for "keeping" our brothers and sisters -- which Mackey does, personally, by providing jobs, a good product, a compassionate work environment, and charitable giving. There are some us investors that specifically seek out moral companies like Mackey's. Business is not always about the bottom line. Kant said the question is not whether one is happy but whether one deserves to be happy. Money alone does not bring the best and deepest kind of happiness. Mackey is a good businessman because he is a good human being.

•  
  78

  DataDude1

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Wow, this thread has taken on a life of its own. First, I do believe we have a right to freedom of speech and should exercise it as Mackey chose to do. As a marketing person, however, it is scary when CEOs take a stand that is counter to the customer-base. I saw this happen when I worked for the Los Angeles Times. Only in time will we know if his remarks alienated enough shoppers to have an impact on sales.
  
  As for Whole Foods itself, or as I prefer to call it "Whole Paycheck" their profits are up because of the outrageous prices they charge. Their product mix and store locations are chosen specifically so they can maximize profit margin. This fact has nothing to do with political-orientation, but is simply a business strategy WF has adopted.
  
  So all you arm-chair conservatives, libertarians, and liberals alike, have a knosh and enjoy the weekend.

•  
  79

  KrisAnthony

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  First, I must say I am neither liberal or conservative...I am progressive. I believe there needs to be a lot of changes in this country and actual SOULUTIONS to our problems; not the back and forth political arguments, greed, and sole concer for profit maximization.
  
  I admire Mackey for speaking up about logical ways to help solve our health care issues. It is very close to the financial guru who came up with a rather solid plan on solving the mortgage crisis, even sent it off to government officials, yet the government paid $700B to bail out (in my opinion) the wrong people without any kind of actual REFORM for mortgages or toxic assets. I understand the "too big to fail" syndrome, and I work in finance; however, there comes a time when irresponsible people have to be held responsible...and help needs to be given to those who are responsible. If you keep bailing out the repeat offenders, they never learn.
  
  I find it absurd that people would threaten to not shop at WF because the CEO spoke up about something he believed in; it just proves to me yet again that too many people are concerned with their own agendas and have no inkling of what working together for common and beneficial goals is about.
  
  If more people would speak up, and stop being led like a flock of sheep; there might be actual change in the world. I understand we live in a profit driven society, but the bottom line has become more important than anything else. People in general need to shift their thinking and take real steps for change...and stop hiding behind left wings, right wings, self righteousness, and a general disdain for anyone different from themselves.
  
  People have lost sight of community, sharing, and helping one another...not for self gain and personal agendas, but because it is a good thing to do and is beneficial for everyone involved. We have also forgotten a lot about accountability; and I applaud Mackey for noting that we should also be responsible for our health. Yes, there are some things we cannot control in regards to health and disease, but there are plenty we can control.
  
  I could go on and on about this topic and others in general; however, the bottom line is that people need to wake up and realize what is truly important in life. I am not one to determine what is important in anyone's life but my own, but I am willing to go out on a limb and say that boycotting a store for a man willing to voice is opinion that is against your political agenda...is not one of the more important things in life....
  

•  
  80

  Dan Boos Top 100 Change Consultant

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  It's interesting how this article's premise is based on stereotyping Whole Foods customers. I live in an affluent community in Ohio and travel 60 miles to go to a whole foods store located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. As do many others from this community. I'm the president of a professional services firm so I and so many others do not fit into Tobak's stereotype of the Whole Food's customer. I'm neither republican or democrat in my politcal persuasion. I am right of center on most issues. Most likely, John Mackey has not hurt his company, but has likely helped it. The common and enlightened citizen is not a drone and does not adhere to a blueprint created by politcal parties or the media. Both entities have lost their way and their credibility with Americans. John Mackey is not only an exceptional and innovative CEO, he is a man who has a long history of caring for individuals and the community at-large. I would ask that people give good credence Mackey's ideas as they represent an independent, non-politcal and intelligent response to extremely serious and complex issue. Mackey should be applauded for his commitment to doing the right things for all concerned. I'm sure he has now become a target to be torn down by the media, but for the rest of us, he represents the best that the business world can offer to nation.

•  
  81

  DahlingBella

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I do not base where I shop on the comments of a CEO, but on the health benefits I find fit my lifestyle. I love Whole Foods and will continue to shop there because of quality of the products the store provides. Our country was founded on the right to free speach and those individuals demanding a boycott are exercising their right to voice their opinion while trying to squash those of that they oppose. What's next? Book burning? Hurrah to Mackey for speaking out. If we want to control health care costs, lets boycott McDonalds, Burger King and other fast food restaurants and their "value menues" and make eating healthy wholesome foods such as those carried by Whole Foods less expensive for the consumer.

•  
  82

  R. B.

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Whether I agree with him or not, I believe it took a lot of courage to take a stand and share his views...some of which are based on experience and successful management tactics at Whole Foods. I feel everyone is entitled to their opinion - whether in opposition to the health care plan Obama is pushing or in favor of it. I find it disturbing that there is so little tolerance for opposing views. While I do believe there are right and wrong answers to this problem, I feel that it is going to take a lot of information and idea gathering to find a win-win solution. Varying perspectives and multiple options have to be considered to truly solve the issue.
  
  Frankly, it is the hostile and violent reaction to a person expressing their opinion that concerns me much more than what that opinion might be. As long as that opinion is not expressed in hostile, demeaning language, everyone should be able to present their view. No one has all the answers and no one can see all the angles. I feel that intolerance is wrong, regardless of the topic of discussion. While we will never all agree on every point of any issue, we should all be able to work together to find the best solutions while respecting each individual's perspective and thoughts.

•  
  83

  Tom2E

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  OH NO God forbid someone, let alone the Whole Foods CEO "take on" Obamacare. How dare he!! Now lets think about the affects and lack of intelligent thinking of a boycott. Who's it going to hurt....the CEO? No, he's financially set. If the nearsighted boycott affects anyone it will be the everyday workers in the store. The boycott works and sales decrease so they layoff workers until they are needed again. So you mad at the CEO liberal shoppers go ahead and boycott and hurt the hourly wage Whole Foods stock person or cashier. My thoughts...I think its great he voiced his opinion. Why aren't we looking at his ideas rather than tar and feathering him? I for one will increase my shopping at WHole Foods because of the CEO.

•  
  84

  cindymerritt

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  One theme that permeates the health care debate is the opposition of the Obama administration to our right for free speech. Instead of respecting that right and opposing views for their potential value, as on other issues, Obama, and his administration seek to embolden their position by belittling those that disagree with them.
  
  The fact that this question was raised demonstrates a cultural shift in this country from asking the tough questions and taking the hard stances to trying not to alienate a certain customer base? Does the author of this article truly believe that Whole Foods' customers are concentrated on one side of the issue versus another? Find something else to worry about!

•  
  85

  dlenh

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I will now go out of my way to shop at Whole Foods. Thank you for standing up and saying what needs to be said.
  
  Bravo!

•  
  86

  Yooper Chick

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Just my opinion but... business is no place to espouse your political views. Either way you lean, you a going to alienate a portion of your customer base. Never place campaign signs in front of your store and never speak out on politics or religion unless you are prepared to lose customers. I guess you have to decide if you can afford to voice your opinions.

•  
  87

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  His "innovative" approach to healthcare? Why do you think most Whole Foods employees refer to their Mackey-sponsored healthcare as "Whole Check?"
  
  I'm continually told by my more right-leaning friends that everyone has the right to speak freely, they merely have to be willing to accept the repercussions of their statements. Well said.

•  
  88

  alorenz

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Here's the thing...the left wing is a funny bunch. Aren't we supposed to be supporting the concept that people should be able to think, feel, and believe whatever they want? The people who would boycott Whole Foods because of the opinion of their CEO on health care are what I call "Conservative Liberals" They are just as bad as the right-wing radicals. They are just as narrow-minded, and are also not fully ascribing to their own beliefs. It's just like the Ultra-Christians who call themselves pro-life, but are for the death penalty, are racist, and condemn anyone who is not like them. On the left, we have people who go on about free-thought, innovation, and creativity, but get pissed as hell if anyone thinks differently! Huh? I guess I'm much more liberal than them. I believe people are entitled to their opinions, and should be free to express them - and it has NOTHING to do with GROCERIES!!!

•  
  89

  Marktx

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  The question is why is the Liberal Progressives so intolerate to conservative thought. Are they not the ones who preach this .. of course it only applies to them.
  I don't see any out cry from conservatives for Buffet businesses for he supported Obama. OK Conservatives no more Dairy Queen.
  So today when I get hungry I will NOW drive by DQ and go directly to WHOLE FOODS

•  
  90

  megaxml

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  If we remain silent lest we offend someone, we might as well sit around watching reruns of "Leave It to Beaver". Honest discourse is a requirement of a vibrant society.

•  
  91

  npoli

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  PR spin on nothing... This does not alienate me! The two Obama
  Care and Whole Foods CEO 8 things support each other if
  anything! Go Mackey!! BNET find a a real story to write about--
  this is bottom-feeding

•  
  92

  hrbarbie

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Finally, someone with a voice is standing up and making a public announcement against Obama?s plan. I think the whole food employees need to realize that their jobs and the state of "entrepreneurism and free-trade" is in jeopardy if business owners and CEO's continue to be targeted and negatively impacted by Obama's plans. I wish more CEO's and recognized business leaders would take a stand to give us business owners and leaders a voice in this debate.
  
  At this point, I think Mackey should set up a whole foods internal blog for employees to debate internally about their views. Mackey can give them a forum to voice their opinions. It would be interesting to add a "poll" to have employees vote on their views.
  
  The employees at whole foods need to know the reality of the current costs of healthcare. Whole foods and others will be facing a 12-30% increase in premiums in 2010. As a follow up, I'd suggest Mackey's VP of HR communicate how expensive health care costs and the costs of employees to the business (it's probably 40% of the budget for salary, benefits, retirement, taxes, etc).
  

•  
  93

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I'd say you don't know much about liberalism, alorenz. We have a long LIBERAL tradition in this country of organizing ? constitutionally known as Freedom of Assembly -- against larger forces who we feel have done us wrong. A boycott against Whole Foods is as liberal as it gets.

•  
  94

  yogabeara

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Over the years, Mackey has strayed from the roots that established Whole Foods, and the Whole Foods stores have lost their charm. I was a long-time shopper and investor. No more. The neighborhood Sprouts Farmers Market has a much better atmosphere and better prices that Whole Foods.

•  
  95

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Are not conservatives the one who keep telling us speech is free, but the repercussions of said speech are not? Now who are the hypocrites?

•  
  96

  ChanticoSkky77

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  Absolutely dead-on

  Having worked in healthcare for nearly 30 years for both physicians and hospitals, I know a bit more than the average Joe. The only "correction" I would make to this incredibly accurate and fair position is to adjust his suggestion about knowing the "costs." What the consumers DON'T know is what is PAID. I just spent 30 min explaining to a 22 -year old how the providers -- you know, the ones that actually PROVIDE the care -- get paid. To say he was shocked is an understatement. Yes, I think consumers should know that when the cardiovascular surgeon (who spends 12 years in training beyond when you opted out of the educational systemand hundreds of thousands of dollars getting that education) cracks open your chest, saves your life, and follows you for up to 90 days (at no additional charge), he gets a couple thousand dollars. NOT $30,000. And the hospital that cared for you for two weeks? The one with 24-hour staffing, equipment, meds, supplies, etc., etc. costs ? It got paid a flat daily fee, anywhere from $650 per day to $1600 per day. That's it. If you are a Medicare patient, it was a one-time flat fee of $3,000 or less, depending on your diagnosis. After reviewing those figures, now let's talk about both the fixed and variable costs of running an acute-care facility 24 hours per day.
  When you see your family physician for your physical? His reimbursement from United, AEtna, Blue Cross, etc. is about $78-$120. If he ran any blood tests, he was likely reimbursed between $0.50 and $4.50 for the test (I advise all physicians to get rid of lab and xray from their offices because reimbursement is pathetic and does not cover costs). Really.
  If you have a PPO plan, you likely paid anywhere from $15 to a total of $45 for your co pay and/or co-insurance (I am not including the deductible, which is figured on 10-30% of the reduced fees).
  If you are pregnant and have a baby, the NINE months of care (all office visits, etc.) AND the delivery of that gift of life provided to you by your OB-Gyn will be paid at a flat rate of $1400.
  To quote the SNL crew, again: Really.
  So, if you have a problem paying 20% of $1400, then I have a problem with you. If you resentful of paying 20% of a surgeon's reduced fee for saving your life, then I have a problem with you.
  
  While physicians are not happy about the continued reduction in what is actually paid, they do care about the patients and accept the realities of the market. The average primary care physician makes less than.... well, likely less than a good percentage of readers of this column.
  
  The only profit-makers are the insurance companies and, to that, I say: open the doors to competition
  
  
  

•  
  97

  troyscheer@...

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  @Drew61

  You truly don't get it, do you? From what I read in these posts, no one is being "hypocritical" as you say. People are merely pointing out how much "libs" love to wave the free speech flag, but when an opposing view is presented, look out. If people decide that they no longer choose to shop at Whole Foods because of Mackey's stance, good for them. That is their right. We "true conservatives" are more than happy to let all ideas be heard. Let the chips fall where they may. It just usually becomes evident that liberal ideas are great in theory and don't work in reality worth a damn.

•  
  98

  JohnCHO

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  If I read Mackey's piece right he is being responsible to his stock holders. To ask the government not to force a company down a road that leads to disaster and offer alternatives is nothing but responsible. Like Thatcher said "the only problem with socialism is that you soon run out of other peoples money!" Why not speak your piece and at least be able to say to your stockholders that you did what you could to avoid the disaster! Hat's off to John, we need a whole lot more like him.

•  
  99

  eleylaw

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  The CEO just went up a HUGE notch in my book. If he alienates and looses business from some of the lock-stepping left, it should easily be offset by the increased traffic from us Libertarians.
  
  eleyarms

•  
  100

  boricua67

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  He's an American first, then the CEO of Whole Foods. This "Obama care" affects all of us. It's nice to know that he hasn't let his position get to his head and he still cares about what is happening to the rest of us.
  I say yes, he did the right thing. Maybe now more CEO'S will speak up for the "little man".

•  
  101

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  @troyscheer

  So then Troy, safe to say you are now AGAINST a central tenet of modern conservatism, namely "personal responsibility," the acceptance of any repercussions that come with statements freely given?
  
  I'm assuming you were for personal responsibility before you were against it, but as you say, memories can run conveniently short.
  
  Let the man speak. And then allow others their own freedoms to act in accordance with their beliefs in response to that speech. It doesn't get more progressive than that.

•  
  102

  johnfio

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Of course Mackey shouldn't be boycotted for expressing his opinion. He has a right to do so. On the other hand, he should be boycotted because he's demonstrated that he's a CEO who lets his mouth get ahead of his brain and that's not good for business. His 8 ideas each have a grain of good sense, but Mackey failed to get all the facts about each one. Mandates on insurance companies have assured that health insurance covers mental health care, drug treatment and advanced cancer care, to name a few things. Before the mandates, insurance companies spent forty years avoiding such coverage. I don't know about you, but I'd rather some of the crazies who blog on this site get their daily medication than have them running around loose and unmedicated.
  This is just one example of Mackey's failure to gather facts. I have to assume he runs Whole Foods the same way, so I won't be buying his stock anytime soon.

•  
  103

  ryanprimate

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Challenging the status quo and having the guts to share
  innovative alternatives to improve our world is American
  and ought to be applauded-- unlike the Party of No that lies
  and sabotages for political gain.
  
  Mackey is a free-market guy. Go get his CD "Passion and
  Purpose" (sold at Whole Foods) to find out his view of
  conscious business and how the free market can be an
  instrument of good. His duty is not just to the shareholders-
  - this is an old school way of thinking and why our economy
  is lagging. Customers and employees come first.
  
  Those who boycott Whole Foods are of the same ilk as the
  Fox Newsies that boycotted everything French.
  
  

•  
  104

  paul@...

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Yes he should. The problem is that far too few very informed leaders are prepared to tell the truth in public because there is no longer debate with the left -It's their way or the highway. Democrats no longer believe in democracy nor do they believe in civil discourse, it's all point of view versus reality. Disagree and get screamed at.
  
  Mackay's commentary was polite, respectful and dead on. The Obama plan is badly flawed because it was designed that way deliberately; Obama wants a broken system that becomes a single payor system and he has said so publicly. How do you get what the people clearly do not want? First you break it, just like they have done to our economy. It's not fun having marxists running our country. Notice the absolute silence on taking Lawyers out of medicine? We could save a real half trillion a year right there. Great comments from Mackey and you should all be praising him instead of running from the left wing in fear (like they want!).

•  
  105

  sbowling913

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Steve, do you really believe Mackey "showed remarkable leadership" in this instance? Leadership to whom...the American people? His leadership responsibilities should be to his company and shareholders, not to the greater good. As you correctly indicated in the next paragraph, "Mackey?s fiduciary duty is to his shareholders" - this is where it should end. It is not a CEO's responsibility, nor is it in his best interest, to take a political stand on such a sensitive issue. It may serve his ego, and he may actually have an intelligent voice that should be heard on this issue, but it was quite possibly a very poor business decision - I suppose that remains to be seen.

•  
  106

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: paul@109

  One, who says Mackey's version of events, polite or not, are the "truth," and two, what makes you think the typical "marxist" rhetoric breaks any new ground?
  
  If anyone is using fear as a wedge, it's the insurance industries, their PR machines and the useful idiots in our society who again buy into the propaganda. Is it the left spreading nonsense about death panels? Is it the left supporting insurance company CEOs who get $300 million retirement packages because they were so successful at getting people dropped from coverage when they needed it most (after years of paying premiums) for some disclosure technicality? Is it the left trying to couch this issue as, not healthcare coverage for all, but as an assault on our freedoms and liberties, EXACTLY like the tobacco industry did 15 years ago?
  
  Mackey's motivations may be pure as Alaskan snow, but half his facts are wrong. If you're already pre-disposed to want to believe him, though, I suppose that won't matter much.

•  
  107

  sbenasso

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  While I don't agree with 100% of what he wrote, Mackey, as an American citizen, has an obvious right to express his opinion. (I happen to think he's wrong on the public option.) The notion that a CEO cannot express himself if there is the possibility of angering his shareholders and customers is ludicrous.
  
  If this were almost any other political issue, I would have said, "Who cares what this guy has to say? He's just a rich crank who gets a public voice because he's visible. Why is his opinion any more valid than the person who bagged my groceries today?" Given that he is a large employer, and makes decisions about what type of medical coverage he will offer his employees and how the costs will be shared, makes his opinion extremely valid. And with many of the ideas for health care reform being floated having the potential of increasing the burden on employers, I think it's extremely important for people like Mackey to take risks like this.

•  
  108

  max_paladin@...

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Leaders lead. Sheep quietly stand by. The greatest problem in our country is a lack of leaders, who are willing to stand upon their bliefs.
  
  I may not always agree with a leader, but lead he must.
  
  Thank you for your courage of conviction.
  
  BTW, I just became a customer.

•  
  109

  Bill Dixon

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  So, because he is the CEO of a public company he only has
  a fiduciary responsibility to his shareholders? This limited
  thinking by business bloggers and columnists is what has
  gotten us into the financial mess we are in, that is, don't
  offer leadership regardless of how much it is needed
  because it may cause negative reactions on the street or by
  consumers. We used to call that "sell out". Today we
  disguise it with business jargon and call it fiduciary
  responsibility. I salute Mackey and will visit his store more
  often because of his comments. Bill Dixon, Dixon and
  Associates, Birmingham, Alabama

•  
  110

  larryswinford

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Is the only free speech the politically-correct speech? (Wouldn't the Founding Fathers love the answer to this question)

•  
  111

  patjden@...

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Wow, there seems to be a lot of hard core conservatives and libertarians on BNET. As a raging liberal I support President Obama's humane efforts to provide healthcare to the uninsured, and I am deeply ashamed of the people in this country who don't feel that this is a priority.
  
  I also agree that once the conservatives who are going to start shopping at Whole Foods see the prices they will be back at the local chain store faster than you can say "I've got mine, you get your own".

•  
  112

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Many here seem to think that Mackey's right to free speech has somehow been abridged. How? I read his comments. Everyone else here evidently has. He can speak to the WSJ again anytime he wants. Again, where was his speech squelched?

•  
  113

  Kenneth Friedman

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Finally!! - someone speaks for improving our wonderful
  healthcare system (albeit expensive & imperfect) rather than
  trying to break it & substitute a utopian system already proven
  defective in concept, application & cost. I have never shopped
  in Whole Foods or Wild Oats, but I surely will now!!

•  
  114

  sbenasso

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Drew61,
  The comments you're hearing here are in regard to the media reaction to Mackey's comments, and customer's decisions to boycott. While boycotting is certainly protected by free speech, many of us find it ironic that these same people are choosing to exercise their right in reaction to Mackey's free speech choice. The other part that we are surprised by, is that some feel Mackey, as CEO of a publicly traded company, is acting irresponsibly by voicing his opinion. Personally, I'm glad so many people are outraged by that position.

•  
  115

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  sbenasso

  While the irony may be worth noting, I also find it ironic that people who generally advocate paying the price for one's actions as the best part of personal responsibility now find the very concept so distasteful. So much for consistency of principles.
  
  As for Mackey voicing his opinion, I have no problems there, as I've already stated. Just don't expect other people to limit their own freedoms in response to the exercising of his own.

•  
  116

  lpuyat

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  More power to Mr. Mackey. I shop at Whole Foods occasionally. Whole Foods has won me over. And while I'm at it, maybe I should invest in WFMI... Those who choose to boycott Whole Foods, let them buy food elsewhere. Just as they have the freedom to choose where to purchase their groceries, Mr. Mackey has the freedom to express his views in a op-ed piece (precisely why such articles are called "Opinion-Editorial" pieces).

•  
  117

  rukkidnme

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  For all of you who are out claiming that he is slamming the
  presidents plan seems as if you never read the article. He is
  strongly for reform and only is against a single payor. All of
  you so called liberals who need to look at his record. He pays
  100% of his employees benefits. He supports local farmers
  and contributes 100$ of his salary to charity. Look at the
  mans character before you chastise someone for something
  you disagree with.
  I will purposely find a whole foods and shop there because he
  is a man on character and supports his employees and the
  community (sounds like a liberal idea to me).

•  
  118

  Birne Wiley

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I greatly admire him for "telling it like it is". Far too many in
  politics and corporate America are sacrificing principle for so
  called "correctness". There is no Whole Foods store in our
  area but if there were they would certainly get a good part of
  my business. May his tribe increase!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

•  
  119

  dwyermj

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I take my hat off to Mr. Mackey. He had the guts to speak his convictions regardless of customer base. It's time Americans start speaking the truth and not fear the far left, political brown coats! I will now increase my trips to our local (60 miles round trip) Whole Foods Store. I support his statements and his organic cahonas!

•  
  120

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  We don't have a Whole Foods in my area either, but if we did, I wouldn't step foot in it.
  
  I never did much see the sense of buying trucked-in, mass-produced organic foods (talk about your ironies) when food raised by small local farmers, available though locally-owned cooperatives, is readily available.
  
  I'm not too worried anyway -- when a conservative sees the price of organic, he or she will make their one bold Whole Foods statement and be back buying Oscar Meyer weenies at Sav-A-Lot by the end of the week!

•  
  121

  geejaye

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Conservatives have already stated, through their actions, that it is just fine to boycott companies if you don't like what they stand for. A 5 second Google search brought up the following:
  
  * Major retailers have been boycotted just for wishing their customers "Happy Holidays"
  * Focus on the Family closed all of its Wells Fargo accounts due to Wells Fargo's contributions to a gay rights group
  * American Girl was boycotted due to its donations to the "I Can" wristband to Girls Inc., a nonprofit advocacy group that empowers girls to reach their full potential
  * Ford Motor Co and Procter & Gamble were boycotted just for advertising on shows like "Will & Grace"
  * Kraft, Walgreens and Harris Bank were threatened with boycotts for their contributions to the 2006 Gay Games
  
  Of course Mr. Mackey has every right to his opinion. He also represents Whole Foods, so his opinions will reflect on the atmosphere of Whole Foods. When the article's title includes the word "Obamacare", a derogatory term created by the conservatives, you tend to lose left-leaning individuals immediately.
  
  As the above list suggests, people will vote with their feet, and there ARE other places to go: your local co-ops, farmers markets and, of course, Trader Joe's. But, conservatives, welcome to Whole Foods. Increasing your intake of organic foods while reducing potentially dangerous products such as high fructose corn syrup and MSG will ultimately lower our health care costs overall.

•  
  122

  CMMER

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Oh, what a fun read this has been. Back top the topic:
  
  It is my opinion that the CEO should not be obligated to keep his opinions to himself. He should however, work to ensure that they are not framed in an incendiary manner. This article, and this entire story line, would be so much more beneficial to our long term viability as an economic power had it been framed as suggestions for those who are debating this issue.
  
  It seems in the US that we have just learned the "wedge" technique and we use it with abandon.
  

•  
  123

  stevecnow

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  The American economy is in a position where more CEOs are going to have to start speaking up even if, in the near term, it may appear that they are not playing to their customer base. So I would argue that Mackey was actualy furthering his fiduciary duty is to his shareholders - in the long run.
  
  As a consultant who works with top executives of large public companies, I can tell you they are universally concerned with the direction of the health care situation.

•  
  124

  rockymtnrick

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I appreciate the pragmatic statements from Mackey. Except the last one, which uses the government to collect charitable contributions; I think there are enough places to donate already without using Uncle Sam as a pass-through. The changes to law that frees the flow of money and unshackles the medical industry could do a lot. Of course, individuals taking responsibility for themselves could do more.
  
  It won?t change my grocery spending habits (and I do shop WF from time to time). I won?t change my stock buying habits; I don?t own grocery stores.
  
  But I do believe this: Congress (both parties) and Big-O are wrong. The Constitution does not support government-supplied health care or ownership of banks and industry. The debt Congress has created already has little chance of being paid in our lifetimes. Adding more entitlements will simply burden our children?s children?s children, and cannot be sustained. Do your job, Congress; read the Constitution; stop buying votes with your theft and corruption.
  

•  
  125

  Blossom600

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  After reading a few more of these, I think that a business executive that has a business model that has successfully worked for them, is doing a great service to enter the debate: It serves to cut through the emotional and political debate and offer up true solutions. I wish I had a Whole Foods where I live because I love their product! I could care less what the political leaning of its executives is! I am in the health care industry and we too have kept our clients' costs down to single digits over the last 9 years. There are solutions out there that work and we need to know about them. Thank you Mr. Mackey!

•  
  126

  Drew61

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  No CEO should ever be required to censor themselves because of their duties to shareholders.
  
  But to somehow expect Mackey to become citizen Mackey, and have his viewpoints and the resulting repercussions kept separate of Whole Foods is ridiculous.
  
  Look, his Op/Ed was published by the WSJ largely because it was so unexpected a view from the inhabitant of such a progressive icon. It was almost as if the WSJ's point in choosing Mackey's Op/Ed over all others available to it was to say, "Here's a major lefty and even HE'S against government-funded healthcare."
  
  Well, Mackey is not a major lefty, he's a traditionally conservative business executive. So to expect his position as CEO of Whole Foods to be irrelevant in this particular case of free speech is without merit.

•  
  127

  AlphaCentauri

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  What ChanticoSkky77 said struck a chord with me. I for one
  would like to see more financial transparency with insurance
  companies. I want to know where the money is going. If
  insurance companies are profiteering from peoples misfortunes.
  Then something needs to be done, and soon.
  
  To say I'm disappointed with the attitude of the nay sayers is a
  gross understatement. They seem to care more about
  undermining individuals than in trying to do something positive to
  help the country out of the hole it is in.
  
  My advice to those people is to stop complaining and provide
  alternative workable suggestions, and if you can't or won't, then
  be silent and don't stand in the way of those who want to improve
  the country.
  
  
  

•  
  128

  bigcig

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  What's more important -- Freedom vs. Rights?
  If basic healthcare is a right, then anything you say that does not recognize that right is going to be considered an attack on the rights of people? On the other hand, can freedom of speech be abridged by punishing those who do not agree that a right is defined by those who declare a right to be anything they want?
  
  This question is the essence of our political divide. Will the pursuit of rights kill our freedoms, or will the pursuit of freedoms compromise rights?
  

•  
  129

  kjameshall

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I have noticed that many large grocery chains are now carrying organic groceries and also lots of the other "healthy products" like nutraceuticals and foofy soaps. If they decide to get into this market, they will clean Whole Foods clock. Let's just hope that this move, though entitled by the 1st amendment, does not become a business case at Harvard on how not to run a company. There are plenty of cases where an incident such as this has ruined a company.

•  
  130

  chaseair

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I like him more because he doesnt believe government should take care of us. You liberal namby-pamby's should look to him as an example. We will be shopping there more.
  

•  
  131

  DWGoodwin

  08/21/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  He is on the money, and I applaud his courage. As he states, the last thing we need is another big government entitlement program. The left and the right should admire his pragmatic approach to the problem, and more companies should follow his lead. I think if anything, he has created a greater awareness for his stores, and the boycott threat is typical childish, idle nonsense from nutty extremists.

•  
  132

  bdbarbera

  08/22/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Calls for a boycott are ridiculous. Why has the healthcare debate, among so many other issues, become such an either/or issue? There are alternatives worth considering in any problem. It is never, and should never, be a "my way or the highway" argument.
  
  I applaud Mr. Mackay for offering a worthy alternative to consider, especially one that has worked for his company. There is absolutely nothing wrong with offering an alternative, especially when it demonstrates the success and strrength of the organization he is running. My hope is that for every boycotter his opinion earned, it earns ten new customers who respect his leadership.

•  
  133

  roddog63

  08/22/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I absolutely agree that Mr. Mackey should have expressed his opinion regarding healthcare reform and shared his successes at the helm of a large corporation. He, unlike the President, actually has real world experience at running something other than a bid for an elected office. Will I run out and start shopping more at Whole Foods because of his opinions? No, I will not shop there any more than I currently do. But that would be the case if I disagreed with this opinion as well.

•  
  134

  Steve Tobak

  08/22/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Great discussion. I thought Bill Dixon's comment was provocative:
  
  "So, because he is the CEO of a public company he only has
  a fiduciary responsibility to his shareholders? Don't
  offer leadership regardless of how much it is needed
  because it may cause negative reactions on the street or by
  consumers. We used to call that "sell out". Today we
  disguise it with business jargon and call it fiduciary
  responsibility."
  
  I could be wrong, but I don't think that's what I was saying in the post. I commended Mackey for speaking out and, for what it's worth, I agree with his views on health care. However, he is - like it or not - CEO of a public company. As such, he does - like it or not - have a responsibility to his shareholders. There are real consequences to our actions; you can't ignore them. He took a risk. In my opinion, it was calculated and probably worth it. I'm glad he took it. Seems to me that most of you agree. That's one helluva result we've come up with here, I think.
  
  Steve Tobak

•  
  135

  CADIP

  08/22/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Just the fact that you call it "Obamacare" instead of healthcare reform shows where you lean. It is the very CEO's of this country that are creating the class warfare that will be the downfall of this country. As the middle class erodes and these CEO's keep taking huge bonuses and profits there will be rioting in the streets.

•  
  136

  Steve Tobak

  08/22/09 | Report as spam

  ObamaCare and Rioting

  I took ObamaCare from the WSJ headline of Mackey's post. Period. No conspiracy. And the post was not about politics, although I'm not surprised that some people read one word and label.
  
  As for threatening "rioting in the streets," well, I've never said this to anyone before, but there's no place for someone with that sentiment on my blog.
  
  Steve Tobak

•  
  137

  mrbostick

  08/22/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I have been a shopper and supporter of Whole Foods but that ends NOW. Its not that I disagree that we all have responsibility within our means to take care of our selves -- work out, eat right, etc. But his editoral completely ignores the reality for more than 48 million Americans without Health Care. His position is more than native. It is the same bigotry and selfishness exhibited by the people who have care coverage and show up to rallies to prevent other deserving people from having the same rights.

•  
  138

  gedbuffee

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  These responses generally tend to
  reflect how much spontaneous,
  natural heart-felt responses are
  quashed and the ?personal calculator?
  mentality in America is spawning
  over-thinking, calculated responses
  and pre-censored speech. Going into
  chameleon mode and pre-screening a
  response as to whether it is a career-
  breaker, or from a business
  perspective, whether it alienates its
  core constituency means never having
  the integrity, or being brave enough,
  to take a personal position. Personal
  integrity, congruity and following your
  essential nature and morality is
  needed with these important issues
  and the ?what?s in-it-for-me?
  mentality needs to go. Let?s remind
  ourselves what Edmund Burke wrote
  around situations like this: ?The only
  thing necessary for the triumph of evil
  is for good men to do nothing?. The
  fact is that Obama would most likely
  not be President today had Martin
  Luther King not taken, and held a
  personal position, in spite of threats of
  personal consequences. Again this
  Confucius quote I?ve slightly modified
  here says sums this up: ?To see the
  right and not do it (for expediency) is
  cowardice?. John Mackay can be
  contentious but his op-ed is very
  much an attempt to be part of the
  solution. Let?s value him for this
  rather than commercialize discussion
  in the context of what is means for
  Whole Foods.

•  
  139

  johnfio

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  This set of comments is almost unbelievable. I've read all 138 so far and found only two people whose comments demonstrated they had the slightest idea of what they were talking about. The rest of you are clearly only interested in mouthing off without regard to the facts. It's a no brainer that Mackey has a right to say or print whatever opinion he likes. We live in a relatively open society. He also has the right to make a stupid mistake in exposing his company to criticism. But that's for his shareholders and Board to decide. What amazes me is that 136 of the bloggers apparently have no information about any of the health reform proposals -- Mackey's or anyone else's. The real problem with Mackey's op ed article is that he doesn't have any clue about the facts either. His ideas all sound good and have a kernel of truth, but the real world is more complex than his eight shallow slogans. Is it impossible to find more than two people out of 138 who are willing to discuss --AND INFORM THEMSELVES ABOUT -- the real issues?

•  
  140

  Avi Fertig

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Johnfio -- Please direct us na?ves to the 2 bloggers who know
  what they're talking about, so we can learn from their
  wisdom.

•  
  141

  troyscheer@...

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @johnfio You might have done well to read your post along with the other 138 before you posted it, as you present yourself as quite uniformed. Mackey's ideas are far more than shallow slogans. He provides eight ideas that put more control back into the hands of the consumer and not the government. You say Mackey's op ed shows he doesn't have any clue about the facts. Please enlighten us as to what the "facts" are instead of simply stating your "opinion."
  
  @mrbostick I get a kick out of someone who "shopped" at Whole Foods talking about "selfishness." I'm sure you could have found a generic grocery store at which to shop and give the savings to those in need. Throwing the word bigotry around is quite tolerant of you. Please understand that of the "48 million" you tell us have no health insurance, many are young and don't want it, many could afford it and don't want it, and others are illegals. Yes, there are some who would like to be covered that aren't. However, having the government take over our health care system to get those people "covered" is not and will never be the answer.
  
  If people would be willing to work with the doctors, many things could be affordable to them. I am one of those with a "pre-existing condition" and have worked out arrangements with my eye specialist that allows me to pay out of my pocket an amount that would be affordable to just about anyone. People need to quick looking to the government to save them and put a little effort into taking care of their own lives.
  
  

•  
  142

  troyscheer@...

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @drew61 - Please explain how I am against "acceptance of repercussions that come from statements freely given." Everyone is quite entitled to express themselves. If people disagree with Mackey and decide to no longer shop at Whole Foods, more power to them. In fact, those who have launched the Facebook boycott group, more power to them. Am I being hypocritical? I don't think so. But I'm sure you will enlighten me. Thanks in advance.

•  
  143

  Coach Mack

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Actually, over half the US population, according to some figures, lead an unhealthy lifestyle. High acid foods like meats, coffee and carbonated drinks and sugars and most processed foods have a negative effect on our health. I applaud anyone who stands up for a better health lifestyle.
  
  The problem I see is that for huge numbers of people, health care is not a priority until after they need it. They have a very nice house and furniture, extended cable and at least two TV's, fairly new car or two, a couple of computers and broadband Internet, and no savings and no insurance. Then they get sick and can not qualify for insurance, and go bankrupt paying medical bills and have to rely on the government for assistance. (The #1 reason for bankruptcies is medically related.)
  
  Again, the lifestyle choices make a difference, and like car insurance, if health insurance is not required I don't see it becoming a priority over cable and computer. The question I have is: how many people don't have insurance and healthy lifestyles because they spend their money on other things instead?

•  
  144

  verycold

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I agree with Coach Mack that a good segment of our population lives a less than healthy life. It isn't just their diet, but I am amazed how much of our population refuses to exercise. I live on a gorgeous bike trail and rarely see walkers or bikers using the path. Yes, early in the spring there is that surge in activity, and more again in the fall, but that is it. It is dead during the summer and we have had a very cool summer.
  
  Many reasons people are hospitalized could have been avoided. So the question is how do we convey that message to the next generation.
  
  

•  
  145

  JuanJ123

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  It becoming evident the the Taxpayers and citizens that are paying the bills of the U.S. Liberal Government are now rebelling telling the Nation that they are sick and tired of supporting the FREELOADERS of the country. The freloaders need to find jobs and join the society. Then the OBAMACARE won't matter. Apparently OBAMA isn't too bright he seemingly cannot Connect with the Citizens of this Nation. He, Pelosi and Reid are a Disgrace to the U.S. and the Democratic Party, of which I left and became an Independent being ashamed of those three.

•  
  146

  slellis

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I say Cuddos to him. Why should we be afraid to speak on the subject of obamacare especially against it? This is a free country is it not? We are allowed to have a mind of our own at least that is what I thought. Those that are for obamacare are so out there they would probably just off the bridge if obama told them to. This is how ridicules all of this is. When we became a Nation under God where our forefathers brought us out of the revolutionary war we became a free nation. Has everyone for gotten? We do not have to bow down to the almighty, and say we accept your health plan, yes we accept your high outragous taxes, yes we accept whatever you say. Wake up people.

•  
  147

  Steve Tobak

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  "unbelievable"

  johnfio sort of missed the point of the post, didn't he? This is not a healthcare blog; it's a management / leadership blog.
  
  I find it fascinating that someone would comment on a blog and either 1) try to change the conversation to his own idea of what they should be talking about, or 2) not even be aware he's doing it.
  
  Seems like he should have his own blog, doesn't it? Then he can talk about whatever he wants.
  
  ST

•  
  148

  brcollins42@...

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  So, there's no room for rioting in the streets comment but the rest of the hate bashing and name calling is okay because it only involves liberals?
  
  Just to be clear.
  
  I'm glad Mr. Mackey's solution works for him. I work for a small company and most of my experience is with small companies and start-ups. It has been my job for the last 14 years in different companies, in different industries, to try and get health insurance coverage for our employees without bankrupting ourselves. The current system doesn't work for us. There is no meaningful competition in small company coverage and it takes me a couple of weeks every year to try and figure out what the renewal says. It takes this long because nothing is laid out easily.
  
  "Congratulations! We're offering you this slightly lower rate this year" strikes fear in my heart. Because now I have to get on the phone and go over our coverage line by line to see what deductible they've changed or what lifetime limitation they've put in.
  
  In other companies, I've had to argue with them about adding people and, in this one, even though our employees barely use the insurance I face an increase of easily 10-20 % every year. Our average age is 32 so it's not based on actuarial predictions.
  
  I've got relatives who sound like people on this board. No government meddling. Except they worked for the federal government and their health care (which they are very happy with) is run by the government. But if the government tries to cover everyone, that would screw theirs up. So if you work for big business or some government entity, I can see why you're not concerned about reform.
  
  The rest of us are done waiting.

•  
  149

  Steve Tobak

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  Just to be clear

  brcollins42: Threats of violence (rioting is, by definition, violent) are not welcome on my blog. Period. How you can interpret that as a political statement boggles my mind.
  
  And that's right, that's where I draw the line, but that's just me. Readers can click "report as spam" on any comment and BNET probably has a policy about that sort of thing.
  
  Incidentally, my consulting firm is a small business that pays through the nose for high-deductable health insurance.
  
  ST

•  
  150

  chaseair

  08/23/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I like anybody who does not like socialist programs/ideology.
  
  I don't want to pay for all the unhealthy Americans through my tax money. Take good care of yourself, work smart and hard so you can afford the best, look to the Lord, not big daddy govt.
  
  I had four children without health insurance. We paid for the births out of pocket.

•  
  151

  johnfio

  08/24/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @Steve Tobak It's you that miss the point my friend. Mackey clearly has a right to write the op ed. What he doesn't have a right to do is use his prominent position to disseminate false information to a wide audience. It's that action for which his shareholders should hold him responsible. And to @troyscher, since others on this blob don't want to hear the facts about Mackey's proposals, I suggest you go to any number of web sites that lay out the whole story (pun intended!) about the benefits of mandated insurance benefits (they brought us child health care, mental health care and advanced cancer treatments, among others); the amount taxpayers are already paying for the uninsured under the current system, etc. I'd be happy to respond privately to the few folks on this blog who have more interest about health reform than just spraying their testosterone (too big a work for some of you?) on the internet about a non-issue.

•  
  152

  soberight

  08/24/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  I am a conservative and a regular shopper at Whole Foods. I will go out of my way to shop there even more now. Go ahead and let the left-wing loons boycott. It's a free country. Free speech seems to be OK when you're a liberal but if you are fiscally conservative and anti-big government you are part of the "angry mob" or you're labeled an extremist. I'm glad there are still a few CEOs like Mr. Mackey and Safeway CEO Steve Burd that are trying to contribute good, free-market ideas to the health care debate. Since when is it unacceptable in our country to voice your opinion? Oh wait, I know....since January 2009.

•  
  153

  troyscheer@...

  08/24/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @johnfio More than happy to privately debate you about walking down the dark road of too much government control. You have my e-mail. However, when you feel the need to pass yourself off as some great mind, you may want to proof read your comments before you hit submit. I'll let your brilliant mind figure out what I mean. Can you?

•  
  154

  Drew61

  08/24/09 | Report as spam

  re:troyscheer

  Well, for a bunch of people who are fine with a Whole Foods boycott, you sure seem angry at the possibility.
  
  Troy points out the hypocrisy of liberal free speech advocates who don't advocate for Mr. Mackey's free speech.
  
  I point out the hypocrisy of the conservative, who tell me people should have the right to speak freely but must accept whatever repercussions come from said actions (at least that's what they told when some friends were roughed up protesting the Iraq war.)
  
  Ho hum, now many of the folks right here seem to think Mr. Mackey and his chain should be excused from that very same tenet. Maybe they're not conservatives, even through they refer to the "libs" as the core of the problem
  
  Add to that the fact of the sheer numbers of conservative boycotts in recent years of Proctor & Gamble, CBS and other corporations, squelching THEIR freedom of expression, and it seems fair to level accusations of hypocrisy on the right, at least for this blog entry.
  
  

•  
  155

  samigato

  08/24/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  John Mackey's comments are thoughtful and well-organized. Maybe that is one reason he is successful at what he does: serve as the CEO of a profitable comapny. He doesn't run it like the federally operated postal system, or the federal give away of more of our taxpayer dollars in the cash for clunkers program. I am heartened to see a company executive speak out to offer other solutions to health care reform rather than supporting the frightening government plan. The government plan will take more from us to fund a rationed system that gives back much less than we have now. It would be smart of the Obama administration to slow down and study some successful models of health care that do work, but their main goal is to gain more control over the citizens of the United States of America (and illegals), not to provide a better, more cost-efficient health care program than we currently have. I like the idea of individuals making the choice to live healthy in order to live longer, without the government meddleing in personal health and lifestyles.

•  
  156

  Scooter76

  08/24/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Kudos to Mr. Mackey! Shame on those who disagree with his viewpoints and vilify him for having the audacity to utter an opinion. Here is a man walks the walk--manages his company very well, doesn't pay himself an abusive (the critic's frequent complaint of CEOs) salary, employs thousands of people and gives them great benefits. That we all could work for someone so socially responsible. I don't live that close to a Whole Foods but I can guarantee you my family will make it a habit to go out of our way to shop there.

•  
  157

  HoudiniNFO

  08/24/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Hmmmm! Tough choice...
  
  1) Speak out against something that has a long term negative impact on our life, culture and prosperity in America; knowing that you will get a short term negative reaction by your consumers (most people's memory is about as long as it take to switch channels on a remote).
  
  2) Make sure this year's balance sheet shows maximum earnings so that you can cash in on your options prior to the demise of the economy if universal healthcare is approved.
  
  Dang! Not sure what I'd do?! Maybe I should go smoke some of that organic herbal stuff to clear my head.
  
  ...He made the right decision.

•  
  158

  wgaboy

  08/24/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  havent read the healthcare bill.
  havent read the CEO's op ed.
  
  first ask yourself,
  "have I at least made an attempt to look at the issues at hand, used the brain God gave me to make some choices, and voted in the last few elections. including LOCAL?"
  If not, you aint... , you don't belong here ...and you have gotten what you deserve...
  If so, have I made any effort to discuss my choices with others who may not agree with me?
  
  If I have not,
  just remember Pogo's words
  WE have met the enemy and he is US.
  

•  
  159

  troyscheer@...

  08/25/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @Drew61 - I give up. As Barney Frank told one of his constituents, "talking to you is like talking to the dining room table." I will put my efforts into something more fruitful.

•  
  160

  peterww

  08/25/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  A poster above named "NURREDIN" started off their post by stating, "He's (Mackey) just shown he's dumb as a rock." Nurredin, a quick background on Mackey: He founded and grew Whole Foods to what it is today. Also, Whole Foods is consistently listed as one of the best places to work, so it seems as far as busy savy and leadership, Mackey is doing alright. Lastly, he is speaking out for his shareholders (employees and customers included) by advocating for more competition and reforms in healthcare because the current health care bill (or the many pieces of a bill as is) will most likely harm all businesses and their employees' health care options.

•  
  161

  Drew61

  08/25/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  OK, Troy, I'll try explaining one more time what should be evident, but evidently requires explanation
  
  Your VERY FIRST contact with me above, you said, quote: "People are merely pointing out how much "libs" love to wave the free speech flag, but when an opposing view is presented, look out."
  
  My point from the start has been so simple the even you AND your dining room table should get it: Those who accuse the "libs" of free speech hypocrisy, as your statement was clearly intended to do, might want to recall their own hypocrisies in regards to free speech.
  
  As for your "It just usually becomes evident that liberal ideas are great in theory and don't work in reality worth a damn," from the same comment, that's simply a display of your ignorance.
  
  Ideas like social security, unemployment insurance, MediCare, Medicaid and the VA continue to provide their services as designed, imperfectly perhaps, but continually, long after their naysayers have been dead and buried. These are ALL liberal ideas, along with things like city parks, etc.
  
  You enjoy the fruits of liberal thought every day and don't even know it. THAT is dining-room-table ignorance.

•  
  162

  MVanderford

  08/25/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  As a native Texan and a Whole Foods shopper since the
  original Lamar St. days -- I can assure you all that John
  Mackey is a first-rate wack-a-doodle, religious nut with
  plenty of very creepy behavior -- albeit one with a great
  product.
  
  Do you really want to throw your lot in with this freak?
  
  How about asking another great Texas wack-job about health
  care -- I am sure Charles Manson has plenty of time on his
  hands.
  

•  
  163

  johnfio

  08/25/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Thank you to Drew61 for trying to educate TroyScheer. Unfortunately, he's a dining table that isn't even made of real wood. He's just a formica baby. And to you Troy, that was no typo AND it was directed at you. Your ignorant diatribes have shown me that you have very small testosterone works.

•  
  164

  Drew61

  08/25/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Thanks, but I generally don't try to educate the TroySheers of the world - time's too short to spend any of it convincing myopic, self-satisfied ideologues of anything other than their personal truths.
  
  It's like the dead in the Sixth Sense seeing only what they want to see.
  
  I just like pointing out the hypocrisies of those who yell "Hypocrite!"

•  
  165

  17204

  08/25/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Food Fight! Food Fight! Fool Fight!
  As for me, I'm an Old Liberal. By definition, Old Liberals are open-minded -- even willing to changed our minds if facts prove us wrong.
  And we don't demonize. Apply those qualities to today's Rigid Lefties and they expose themselves as Counterfeit Liberals. Finally, do what the Pols haven't done: Read and understand HR 3200 before praising it.
  

•  
  166

  troyscheer@...

  08/26/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @Drew61 and @johnfio Thank you for continuing to make my points for me. And @17204 BRAVO!!

•  
  167

  johnfio

  08/26/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @17204 I've read over 400 pages of the House bill and listened to debate from both sides of the aisle. If you have, as you imply in your post, then you know the facts don't support the ignorant comments of many of these bloggers. If you haven't read the Bill, then you should be ashamed.
  @troyscheer You are a lost and hopeless case. I don't demonize you. I merely describe you. I'm done with this fruitless exchange.

•  
  168

  verycold

  08/27/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Martykz - from 2000 to 2008 the radical left which is seen with this exchange, never called Bush, President Bush. They never gave him any respect from day 1. When the president came into office in 2009 and announced that 'I won, you lost", he lost all my respect.
  
  Medicare has a debt obligation of 38 trillion presently. Obviously that is unsustainable. Medicare reimbursement will get hacked and so will the programs. They are bleeding profusely right now and not nearly enough money to sustain this program when baby boomers retire.
  
  The big problem with this nation and the current discussion is that little of pertains to actual numbers. We see in our school system how few excel in math and that is so evident with this health care issue. The progressives only care that they get coverage for all, including illegals, and the cost of doing this is not ever considered. It is like looking for a home to buy, loving the location and the quality of the home and making an offer without checking FIRST to find out the cost of the home and if the buyer comes close to being able to afford it.
  
  Johnfio - does it sit well with you that unions will be getting 10 billion to support VEBAs in this health care bill? Did you know that union workers now only pay $11 co-pay? So the government not only bailed out the autos, but going forward will be paying for their health care.
  
  A reasonable voice like Mackey that runs a well oiled machine, is a very generous citizen, is scoffed at by the radical left.
  
  Liberals have become the dutiful slaves of the government never once questioning their motives and in fact behaving as if the government was some sort of parent figure. Pathetic.

•  
  169

  Avi Fertig

  08/27/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @johnfio -- You've only read 400 pages? And you call yourself
  an authority? Come back when you've read all 1000+.
  
  (...you may even get some calls from representatives in
  Congress asking for a synopsis.)

•  
  170

  troyscheer@...

  08/27/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  @johnfio Coming from you, I will take lost and hopeless cause as a great compliment. Now, I must get back to work to pay for all of the Social Security, unemployment, Medicare, Medicaid, etc. of which you and @Drew61 seem to think I benefit. Oh, wait, I'll never get any benefit from those debacles. You all would do well to listen to @verycold. Look at outcomes, not intentions. Mr. Mackey has developed a successful outcome based on "numbers." Government, not so much. And believe me, I'm not just talking Obama. Bush and McCain are no better. And after my many readings of the constitution, I'm still looking for the "congress must provide health care" article.

•  
  171

  17204

  08/27/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Sarcasm doesn't replace fact, Mr Fio.
  
  Read as much of HR3200 as you can, perhaps you'll modify your opinion. To find specific problem points, I suggest you check The Web for summaries and references.
  
  If your search yields nothing, say so and I'll try to help you.
  
  Sincerely,
  17204
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

•  
  172

  HenryT516

  08/31/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Hooray for John Mackey!!! This is what America needs clear, fair and logical advice and suggestions to true American healthcare reform. More CEO's should be helping the American public and voicing sound ideas and suggestions for not only healthcare reform but other national issues. We do need some healthcare improvements but not massive reconstruction to the world's best healthcare. The present healthcare reform bills in both congressional houses, though incomplete. are filled with unsatainable, wastseful and failed government controled methods that will actually raise costs and remove many more from the healthcare coverage roles.
  
  Congress has always been for Congress and not the American people since the ending of the American Civil War period. Since that time special interests and lawyers have controled and set laws for the American people. This time period also has created the career politician which has hurt the American Republic and Democracy. It is time to include term limits to healthcare, social security and medicare/medicaid reforms.
  
  Finally I do agree with most suggestions made by John Mackey. However, I believe THREE additional points would greatly improve and expand healthcare to all while reducing costs system wide. 1) Allow doctors and medical facilities to treat the uninsured, with a $5 or $10 dollar copay, Americans on a rotation basis, similar to public defenders system for the criminal justice, while taking 100% deduction for cost of services. This would allow the unisured to have healthcare but would not promote miss or over use of the public system. 2) Utilized the Veterans Medical facilities for major treatment or operations of the uninsured to eliminate the cost to build additional medical facilities. Let private medical personal to provide similar volunteer services to vetereans and the uninsured at these facilities to help improve veterans care as well as healthcare for the uninsured. Finally 3) Non-American citizens must pay for an additional healthcare rider based on earnings to participate in the American healthcare system.

•  
  173

  almcfarland

  09/02/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  Absolutely. What Mackey missed was the opportunity to go after the root cause of the majority of our issues -- poor health. Whole Foods stands for one pillar in good health -- good food. His bully pulpit (and President Obama's) could stand to spend more time on the front-end of this problem.
  
  http://pivotpointsolutions.wordpress.com/

•  
  174

  waxmiami

  09/03/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  You go boy!! Free speech is still one of the most important rights we have and I believe that Mackey has the right to express his concerns as he wishes.
  
  Unfortunately, after the past elections, democrats has shown us that if we dont agree with their ideas we are anti-americans, terrorists or racists.
  
  The hate that has been created has become unbearable. Name calling and insults keep flying around for those who have ideas that are not popular with the liberals.
  
  Eventually, this is going to hurt the democratic party. People are getting tired of this smashing tactics and unreasonable attacks. Just wait until the next elections of the house and senate.
  
  Mr. Makey, I support you 100%. Even if I agree or dissagree with your thoughts.

•  
  175

  geejaye

  09/04/09 | Report as spam

  RE: Should Whole Foods CEO Have Taken on ObamaCare?

  This discussion was about whether Mackey's anti-"Obamacare" article was good for the business of Whole Foods . Well, perhaps Mackey is simply being "crazy as a fox".
  
  Whole Foods had already lost a lot of its patrons from its core-demographics due to Whole Foods' labor practices, aggressive monopolization, and not being fully transparent about GMO's and toxic chemicals in their products. So - at that level, Mackey didn't have that much to lose.
  
  Perhaps his whole strategy was to attract shoppers in a new demographics - a group that would not be as involved in labor unions, GMO's, etc. And, writing against "Obmamacare" would certainly be a good step towards gaining that demographic group's attention. In fact, the comments in this forum validate his strategy.
  
  I, myself, welcome this change. The group that is going to go out of their way to now shop at Whole Foods to prove that Mackey was right is the same group that have supported the factory-farming of corn, soybeans, meat and other products. If that group now moves over to the organic product / Michael Pollan camp - maybe that will spur changes in America's food production system as a whole.
  
  And that would be the one of the best way to improve the overall health of America.