In a mass e-mail dated April 5, Heath Shuler speaks about the need for reform in our health-care system, about Republican obstructionism, and about the bitter partisan divide in Washington. But in the long debate over health care, he consistently allied himself with the obstructionists and with the industries that fatten themselves on the suffering of Americans.
A quick look at the contributors to his enormous campaign coffers belies his message of caring. Pharmaceuticals, health-product companies, insurers, health professionals and big tobacco are major contributors to [Rep.] Shuler, and his vote against health-care reform was much more about pleasing them than worrying over the impact of reform on small businesses. If he really cared about his constituents, he would work to protect them, to help them, to make sure they have full access to medical care. He has chosen instead to actively support those who simply don't care.
— Michael Carlebach
Asheville
How is it that so many leftists complained about the current passed law as being a product of big pharma and the insurance lobby? It looks like you are damned if you do and damned if you don’t.
President Obama received over $20 million from the health care insurance industry during his election capaign. Hmmm….do you think that’s why single payer was never on the table and why he never advocated for the public option? Following the money is a very instructive exercise, but you have to follow it EVERYWHERE it goes.