26 January, 2012

Because the Market Allows It

Romney Debates Romney About Health-Care Reform: Michael Kinsley - Bloomberg: Romney’s one concrete suggestion for health-care reform is repealing the law that forbids insurance companies from selling insurance across state lines. This would create something that doesn’t now exist -- a national insurance market -- and dramatically increase competition, thus helping to control costs. It’s a good idea, but, of course, it is exactly the opposite of what he claims to believe is needed in general: Outside competition would make it nearly impossible for states to regulate health insurance, leaving that power and obligation to the federal government. How does Romney resolve this apparent contradiction?

That is enough, for the moment. It’s obvious -- isn’t it? - - that Romney is just blowing smoke. The real story is clear: He wanted to achieve something important and good for the people of his state, namely universal health care. But he chose the wrong horse -- who could have guessed that an idea from the Heritage Foundation would become “liberal” anathema in the Republican primaries?

It’s annoying, but it’s more than that: It’s disqualifying. To talk such nonsense and count on the hubbub of the campaign to clothe its naked contempt for the voters is an insult to all of us.