by James Frazier
Much of the controversy over the health care proposals in front of Congress has swirled around their cost. Reform opponents claim that expensive overhauls, bailouts, and the resulting massive federal budget deficits will weaken our country. This column will attempt to answer the question: Is this hype or reality?
First of all, it is crucial to note that the current debate over health care reform and budget deficits has become extremely polarized. When almost everyone involved, including many “experts,” has an obvious political agenda or bias, it becomes extremely difficult to get reliable information. Add in the obscure nature of government finances, and how is one to muck through the debate to get a sense of the reality beyond the headlines?
