Great thread. Great analogy comparing the current condition of the US to cancer.
Based on the facts here, one thing is clear. The patient (USA) has Stage 4 inoperable cancer. Hospice has been called in and we are on life support.
But - have no fear. Dr. Obama has the magic cure.
Obamacare.
How about we shoot them?
What we have to contend with is something more insidious: neoliberalism.
Neoliberals believe that countries can maintain a vibrant capitalist economy while at the same time heaping tons of taxes and regulations on the capitalists to fund their welfare programs. Neoliberals don't want to own the means of production, they just want to pretty much dictate everything that owners can do with the means of production.
In a way it is a lazy man's version of socialism. As a neoliberal you don't actually have to run a profit making company. You just have to tell those evil capitalists how to do their job.
Even dyed in the wool socialists hate neoliberals, but despite being loathed by both the left and the right they are the ones that essentially run the world, or at least the western part of it.
Supposedly now there are only two choices for viable governments: quasi-monarchic governments like Singapore or quasi-socialist neoliberal governments like those in Western Europe. The idea that we should go back to some limited form of libertarian, classical liberal, or conservative government is a complete nonstarter.
Say hello to our new leaders. They're young, hip, compassionate, innovative, and coming for your wallet!
Eliminate all forms of welfare and food stamps.
Add government medical care to the eliminate list.