Politics versus public health

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As Congress moves closer to controlling our health care system, I believe that we the people should evaluate whether government is capable of such a monumental task.

After all, politicians rarely do what is best for the citizens, but rather what's best for their political future. Politics, not common sense, drives the decision- making in Washington, regardless of political party.

Providing health care for the uninsured is a noble endeavor. However, when we scratch below the surface of health care reform we find political paybacks and favors. How else do you explain that all versions of the health care bills include taxpayer funding of abortions? Follow the money; the abortion industry expects a return on its investment.

The federal response to H1N1 reveals a policy of politics before public health. When the virus was discovered in Mexico in March, the White House and Congress refused to restrict all travel to and from Mexico for fear of alienating political allies.

Many in Congress are unable to manage their personal finances or obey the tax laws they create. How can they possibly manage something as complicated as the nation's health care system? Political corruption and incompetency will produce mediocre health care at a much higher price.

PHIL COOK

Modesto