Marathon Pundit: Sen. Kent Conrad falsely cites CBO estimate on Dems' health care bill

One Kent Conrad post deserves a follow-up.

From the Senate Republican Communications Center:

SEN. KENT CONRAD (D-ND): “In the second 10 years, it reduces the deficit by one-quarter of 1% of G.D.P., which is equal to $650 Billion.” (Sen. Conrad, Floor Remarks, 12/7/09)

WHAT CBO ACTUALLY SAID: “A detailed year-by-year projection for years beyond 2019… would not be meaningful”

CBO: “A detailed year-by-year projection for years beyond 2019, like those that CBO prepares for the 10-year budget window, would not be meaningful because the uncertainties involved are simply too great.” (CBO Director Doug Elmendorf, Letter To Sen. Harry Reid, 11/18/09, P.14)

SO WHO IS THE SOURCE OF THIS $650 BILLION CLAIM?

“Reid’s office said the bill could reduce the deficit by $650 billion in its second 10 years.” (“Harry Reid's Plan Ups Pressure On Moderates,” Politico, 11/18/09)