Republican Health Care?

The Republicans in Congress have said that they will not only repeal the Health Care bill, but they will also introduce their own program.  This is a good thing.

First, it implies that health care insurance in this country is not adequate and needs some kind of attention.  The Republicans are finally admitting we have a problem.

Second, policy developed by the Republicans will generate commentary and opposition.  Saying “no” was easy.  The House majority will find that producing any kind of meaningful bill will be far more difficult.

Third, the Republicans will find--are finding already--that many parts of the reform passed last year are very popular.  They will either have to alienate large blocs of voters or admit that the Democrats were correct.

So far, though, any Republican health program is just talk.  Republican leaders say they need time to develop their policy.  

Good news!

The War in Afghanistan should be winding down very soon.  This week Senator Pat Toomey, man of action, visited that country, told President Karzai he needs to cooperate, and reviewed the American war effort.  This is one take-charge guy.