I usually steer clear of politics on this blog, at least, of “partisan” politics. I try to avoid slamming one politician or endorsing another, even though I’m a political junkie who follows this stuff with wanton disregard for almost all other news. But the latest from Hillary Clinton on “universal health care” is just too much.
According to a report today, Hillary Clinton has more big government plans in store:
In a day dominated by familiar stump speeches, Hillary Clinton made news by saying she might allow workers’ wages to be garnisheed if they refuse to buy health insurance. She has criticized Obama for pushing a health plan that she says would not require universal coverage.
Pressed on how she would enforce her mandate, Clinton said: “I think there are a number of mechanisms” that are possible, including “going after people’s wages, automatic enrollment.”
She said such measures would apply only to workers who can afford health coverage but refuse to buy it, which puts undue pressure on hospitals and emergency rooms. Under her plan, she said, health care “will be affordable for everyone” because she would limit premium payments “to a low percent of your income.”
Note the bold; this plan effectively eliminates free choice for insurance, the price of which is already ridiculous. I’ll tell you, while I like the idea of more affordable health care, I don’t like the idea of being forced to do much of anything. Especially when that something benefits medical and pharmaceutical corporations far more than it does those who have no insurance. As far as I can tell, it would be one more minus on already small paychecks.
Wouldn’t it be far more effective to find ways to actually reduce the cost of health care? After all, I like my doctor. But a recent office visit, which involved very little work on his part, cost him twenty minutes of work (MAYBE) and me more than a tank of gas.
Amy | 12-Feb-08 at 11:36 am | Permalink
Interesting… not the part about Hilary, the part about your doctor’s visit costing you more than a tank of gas (which is outrageous). The jury is still out on my stand on health insurance although, after being uninsured for a few years after college because I could not afford it, I think I might lean towards a government-funded (eek!) base insurance. Whether I really want that to happen, I’m not sure, but I do think something has got to give.
I’ve enjoyed reading your thoughts on the election. I’m currently reading “The Political Brain” for my politics class. It’s very left-leaning but quite entertaining and interesting.