I'm Pete du Pont with the National Center for Policy Analysis. Just as a lot of political mischief gets done on behalf of "the children," plenty is being done as well on behalf of "the uninsured." But who are they, and why aren't they covered.
According to a recent NCPA brief analysis, if it were simply a matter of not being able to afford premiums, an income-based subsidy would solve the problem. And millions who could enroll in Medicaid don't.
The fact is, half of uninsured Americans have household incomes at least twice the poverty level. A recent California survey found 60 percent worried about being uninsured, but equal number disagreed buying health insurance was a high priority.
But of course, being uninsured isn't the same as being without health care. A recent report by the Texas comptroller showed Texas spends an average of about $1,000 per year on every uninsured person in the state.
The "uninsured" problem is a lot more complex than some politicians want you to think it is.
Those are my ideas, and at the NCPA we know ideas can change the world. I'm Pete du Pont. Next time, a serious voucher revolution.