Mark Steyn has it right. Once they get nationalized health care in place they have shifted the relationship between citizen and government in such a way that all future political battles will be fought on their ground. Nationalized health care means the end of real conservatism as a likely viable alternative. We already see this in our politics.
Even under Reagan government did NOT shrink (at best he held the line) and under every other government regardless of the party in power the government has grown. It has grown because government keeps expanding entitlements and reducing the role of taxpayers thus creating a dependent class of voters that will reliably vote for larger government out of self interest. Today that body of government dependents is at just about 50% and pushing health care through will make that number a virtual 100%.
Given the stakes and the huge advantage the left gains I can see them as being willing to accept a wipe-out in 2010 and even 2012 because after that, if socialized medicine remains a fact (and I am sure they believe they will be able to block any attempt to repeal it) they will have domiinance for as far as the eye can see. We are dealing with ideologues here - not just the usual run of political animal seeking perpetual reelection - but people who are true believers and willing to take a hit if they can advance their agenda.
It will take heavy involvement by the opposition to halt this and even then it may not be enough.
The purse is empty. Just as the Maoist’s install their dream candidate.
1.4 trillion dollar deficit this year alone. Over 100 trillion dollars in promised entitlement payments.