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“No Comment Nixon” returns

July 20, 2009

It’s time for Jay to oppose Obama’s health care experiment

The top elected officials from states across the county reached a rare, bipartisan consensus at a recent meeting of the National Governors Association. According to the New York Times, prominent Governors, including several Obama allies, blasted the proposed government takeover of health care for its detrimental effect on the states.

The complaints came from Republicans and Democrats, with Tennessee’s Phil Bredesen (D) calling Congress’ bill “the mother of all unfunded mandates.” Bill Richardson (D), Barack Obama’s original choice to head the U.S. Department of Commerce, took issue with the $1 trillion price tag. Christine Gregoire (D) declared, “we’re not going to be in a position to pick up the tab.”

Not surprisingly, “No Comment Nixon” is silent on Obama’s health care experiment. Of course, if the costs of a health care takeover are unacceptable in New Mexico, Washington (state), and Tennessee, then they are surely unacceptable in Missouri—which is already facing falling revenue and massive budget cuts.

As Governor, Jay Nixon has an obligation to stand up for Missouri and tell Barack Obama that his health care legislation is too costly and too burdensome. Anything less is a disservice the Missourians he serves.