Health care reform benefits the U.S.

I endorse the new health care plan, but I'm compelled to weigh in on this mess and express my disappointment in those who feel it's a financial burden on the American taxpayers. What is their rejection based on?

Congressman Mike Pence, who is in opposition to the health care proposal, during his stop in Portland on March 13, retrieved a copy of the U.S. constitution from his pocket and declared to his audience, "Nowhere in this constitution does it require citizens to purchase health care." Therefore, having this bill "shoved down our throats is unconstitutional."

This shallow mindset is shared by many states, and resistance is gathering strength.

My reply to Mr. Pence and the like-minded public is, "Where is it stated in that sacred document, especially in the amendments (the last one of which was added May 7, 1992) that requires us to purchase a license and insurance to own and drive an automobile or obtain a permit for a concealed weapon or declare a minimum age for alcohol consumption, etc., etc.?"

On this basis, are all laws rendered null and void, no longer valid and enforceable?

If we have the misfortune of appearing before the Honorable Brian D. Hutchison or the Honorable Max C. Ludy (the two judges who sit on the Jay Circuit and Superior Court benches) can we produce a copy of the constitution and demand they show us which article or amendment states specifically what offense we're charged with?

I think not.

History tells us when Social Security became law on Jan. 1, 1936, all employers with eight or more people must pay into the system. And Medicare and Medicaid came on-line on July 30, 1965.

There were wailing and crying among the masses with revolt and demonstrations over the government taking money from us against our collective will to fund these programs.

If government-run health care is one of the cons, where is the push to eliminate Medicare and Medicaid?

The new health care system will probably save tax dollars.

Thirty million Americans do not have health care, so when junior sneezes it's off to the emergency room and we know who foots the bill.

Everyone, with few exceptions, regardless of financial status, should be required to purchase a set minimum of health insurance, which is in step with certain requirements if you drive an old clunker, where there are no exceptions.

Financial opposition to the health care equation is more pronounced than its "unconstitutionality."

The U.S. provides foreign aid to over 150 countries, the Iraq/Afghanistan quagmire has drained us of over $975 billion in 9 years, and enormous funding rescued corporate giants.

A trademark of democracy invites opposing views, and ye shall step forward and be heard, even if flawed wisdom reigns supreme.

And there is overwhelming evidence of this defective thinking when the combined resistance to this questionable spending has been less than what's being targeted against the health care plan.

Instead of our leaders bankrupting us in their quest to help the world keep its balance, let's drain our purse on home projects.

Whether you're for or against this health care issue, at least the appropriations are being spent on Americans in America.

Think about it.

Roy L. Leverich

Portland

Thank you

To the editor:

My wife and I would like to thank the pastors, churches, prayer groups, and community for all your prayers, calls, cards, and support during this time of sickness.

A special thank you to New Covenant Fellowship, the wonderful church that I pastor, for your love and support. Also to my friend Doug McCowan and neighbor Doug Milligan for having our driveway plowed out for us.

Thank you also to all of the emergency and hospital workers who helped me that morning. We thank you all and feel your support. We ask for your continued prayers.

God bless you.

Pastor Terry Bye

Portland[[In-content Ad]]