Health care reform remains the major topic in the United States today. The media has assessed that Americans are still confused as to where health care reform stands; while in many ways they are at fault in adding to the confusion. Some representatives during their August recess held town hall meetings in their state for constituents. The opinions they gave on health care reform in many ways left people more puzzled and confused. Instead of creating a united front for the President on the positives all agreed upon for health care reform, these representatives have caused more animosity as they come back after Labor Day to spout their same routine ideas.
One would think that after Senator Ted Kennedy, the “Lion of the Senate”. has died that those who attended his funeral, and because of the tremendous outpouring of thousands of citizens saying their last goodbyes, that the decision makers of health care reform would consciously think of ways to go back to DC with a progressive (not the political meaning) outlook to pass the health care bill as soon as possible. But Washington is a cold hearted town and business as usual will probably prevail. Many in the Senate, Kennedy’s friendly enemies, are sorry he is gone because they have no one to vigorously argue with. And then there are some that are glad he is finally gone.
The televised town hall meetings continue and will soon come to an end. From what has been shown, Americans should be embarrassed at the outrageous, ill-mannered, shameless ignorance that many displayed at these meetings (the world was also watching). Many of these participants, with their no-holds barred attitudes, showed fervent signs of misinformation, lies, racism. Nazism, gun toting and other forms of negative and threatening behavior.
First amendment rights of free speech is a good thing, but when it becomes deplorable, degrading and disrespectful, especially on a passionate topic that affects all Americans, it creates an unhealthy environment that leads to hostility, disruption and violence.
Other frightful tactics used were many who attended these meetings were not talking about health care at all. These unfocused folks were talking about the Constitution, taking the country back, unemployment, the American Legion, Hitler – what do these items have to do with health care reform?
Those who were purposely being disruptive need to channel their frustrations and energies elsewhere - those who are unemployed should group together and go to their company’s senior management and demand answers. Network in a positive way by developing a job club in your community. Those who have health care, pick up the phone and call your health care representative and review your policy. Ask questions; find out where you stand and what changes (if any) may take effect. AIG, an insurance company that became a public fiasco due to mismanagement, led to charges and changes in replacing senior personnel and tightening regulations.
President Obama made time in his overwhelming schedule attending three town hall meetings to communicate with Americans on health care. He has stated to Americans repeatedly that if they like their health care plan and their doctor, they can keep it. He has given a plan of how health care costs will be paid for. He has stated his views on public option; which he is for, that he describes as an exchange program where Americans can pick and choose what they want for them and their families at affordable rates. He did a live talk show with a popular Philadelphia talk radio host at the White House reemphasizing his agenda on health care reform,
The Republicans, conservative Blue Dog Democrats and naysayers are enhancing negative actions by showing disrespect for the President, by not discouraging the possible violence that has erupted (which sends people to the hospital that may not have health care coverage) and by formulating an air of distrust toward the President. Further tactics include using and promoting terms such as “ramming a bill through”. “Government takeover” and “death plans”; spreading fear, discontent, and politics to get their points across.
The health care system is broken and needs total restructuring. It does not make sense that the health care system is in the sickly condition it is in. If America claims to be the richest country in the world, there is no excuse that a health care bill; though not perfect, be implemented.
Senator Edward M. Kennedy fought voraciously for positive health care changes for all Americans for decades. The torch has been passed to President Obama to continue those changes. He campaigned on a platform of change that must be carried out. Hopefully Mr. Obama will be very clear cut on his health care agenda when he addresses the joint session of Congress scheduled for next week.
A public option is needed so Americans can have a competitive choice and quality health care they deserve. This guarantee for Americans will solidify the tremendous effort and work that Senator Ted Kennedy put forth will not be in vain.
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