Area residents may remember last fall when our front yard posted two competing political signs. My son, Marcus, and I held differing views on the presidential candidates – though we shared similar views on other campaigns. Needless to say, whether we agree or disagree, politics is a frequent and lively topic of discussion around our house. Through this blog, Marcus and I will be sharing with you our thoughts on the issues (and candidates) of the day. We hope you come to enjoy our weekly “debates.”
Health care is too complicated to cover in one short blog. But, I expect we will regularly touch on some aspect of this important matter as the reform effort unfolds. For now, I would like to applaud all those who turned out for Congressman Walz’s town meeting last week (over 700 people packed the meeting with perhaps a similar number unable to get in due to space limitations). This truly is “democracy in action.” Clearly, there are strong emotions surrounding this issue – and many – often competing - points of view. But these voices need to be heard and considered.
Health care constitutes one sixth of our economy – so, naturally, workers in the health field and the insurance sector have a lot at stake. Employers and individuals struggling with annual double digit increases in health insurance premiums want to see health care cost control. Coverage for the uninsured - and for pre-existing conditions - is a high priority for many. In addition, addressing the exploding costs of Medicare and Medicaid must be part of the equation.
There are no simple answers and there will be no quick fixes. Whether – and how – the government addresses reform is going to affect each of us individually in some way. So, I am glad – and not surprised – that people are showing up and speaking out in large numbers. I agree with Congressman Walz that doing nothing is not an option. However, health care is too important to rush through. It warrants lots of public input and an attempt to find consensus – including bi-partisan support.
That is my two cents.
Tim
An attempt to find consensus is precisely what President Obama is seeking. Bipartisan support for a good health care reform bill is his ultimate goal – but he’s not going to find it. While Congressman Walz’s town hall was heated but respectful (“Minnesota nice,” I guess) other similar forums across the country have received negative attention for their histrionics. The criticism from the right has been more obstructive than constructive.
With cries of imaginary “Death Panels” and fears of government bureaucrats rationing your health care (because insurance bureaucrats aren’t currently in the same business?), it seems to me that this is opposition for opposition’s sake. Despite any concessions the President and congressional Democrats make to Republicans, I predict we’ll see the same type of thing we did on the stimulus bill: a near total shutout.
Zero House Republicans supported the stimulus, and only three GOP senators voted for it. One of those three is now a Democrat, and the other two are Maine Republicans – a breed almost as mythical as the aforementioned Death Panels. The fact that Democrats may have to go this one alone doesn’t automatically mean it will be a bad bill. We will have a bad bill, however, if we have one that fails to address costs or insure the uninsured.
My dad and I have a similar, conciliatory approach to politics. This can frustrate our more ideological friends. My own idealism ought not to be confused for liberalism (though I’ve got my fair share of that). His realism ought not to be confused for being rightwing (I grew up with the guy and rightwing he ain’t). We like to think of ourselves both as independents, and we hope you like to hear what we think – week after week.
