By J. Scott Rasbach

Anderson resident

Our elected representative, Congressman Mike Pence of Indiana’s 6th District, had an opportunity to assure the liberty of thousands of his constituents. Rather than championing liberty, Pence decided instead to support his political party by casting a NO vote on HBR 3200 (health care). With his NO vote Pence showed his lack of concern and compassion for his constituents in desperate need of health care.

Freedom of choice is not a liberty when the ability to choose is tied to money. Pence says he favors freedom of choice with regard to health care. But who are those free to choose? Are the General Motors retirees free to choose? These people, who make up a significant portion of Pence’s constituency, lost their health care benefits when GM went bankrupt this year. Are the younger workers free to choose their career when a major factor influencing the choice is the availability of health care benefits? Is the man working in a job he hates or for an employer he despises free to choose another job when the decision means the loss of health insurance? Does the woman laid off from her job have a choice regarding the health care of her family when her reduced income is inadequate to buy both groceries and health insurance?

We, as a people, provide for the common good in other areas. We make a free education available to all our children. The free public library is a staple in communities across America. Local, state and national parks provide recreation for rich and poor alike. Most of our roads and highways require no toll for their use. Our senior citizens and the disabled receive a pension and health insurance from the federal government. Does Congressman Pence wish to provide us more freedom to choose and greater liberty by abolishing these societal benefits as well?

Mr. Pence, we implore you: tear down this wall! The wall of money and resources that separates the health insurance “haves” from the “have nots.” Remember, Mr. Pence, that the majority of your constituents, and of the nation, are unemployed. The children, care givers, the disabled, the infirm, the retired and the laid-off outnumber those employed. Continuing a health care system based upon employment is absurd. Keep in mind, Mr. Pence, the average family income in Madison County is $38,000 while the average family health insurance premium is $12,000. There is no doubt that the average family cannot afford to pay the entire cost for its health insurance. Those blessed with greater than average incomes and/or assets will have to subsidize the majority. This is the role of government, to provide for the common good. Health care should not be reserved for the rich but rather a birthright of every American.

Mr. Pence, support liberty and help your constituents achieve economic freedom and a healthier lifetime. Have the courage to lead your party in support of health care for all Americans this year.