In the April 16 Columbian story “Herrera Beutler defends her vote,” U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas, attempted to do the impossible. That is, to defend her vote to support the Republican 2012 budget proposal, which, among other actions, “transforms” Medicare. Yes, it transforms Medicare right out of existence for anyone unfortunate enough to be younger than the age of 55.
Her vote supports the notion that Medicare recipients would receive a voucher or coupon of some sort with which to go out into the private insurance market and purchase health insurance. Any difference in the insurance premium and voucher value would be the responsibility of seniors and those on disability. This would likely cost thousands of dollars per year for each individual. Does she really think most senior citizens on fixed incomes can afford this transformation of Medicare?
And, oh, Herrera Beutler doesn’t refer to this voucher program for what it is, she calls it “premium support.” The only thing worse than being dishonest with your constituents is treating them like they are stupid.
Rick Brown
Brush Prairie
