How is the mandate different from forcing SS and Medicare on us? You asked...
I say they are different, even though I question the constitutionality of all three...
SS and Medicare is a tax, in return for which you become eligible for retirement and medical benefits.
The mandate is forced purchase of an insurance product, for which you receive punishment if you refuse to purchase the mandated product. The IRS is empowered against you for your refusal to purchase.
There is no known limit on what the government could force you to purchase under a similar scheme. No limit on their power to punish you if you refuse, through the IRS.
I would add, SS and Medicare do have congressional involvement and oversight, whereas in the Obamacare bill the Secretary of HHS is virtually given carte blanche to do as they please.
Finally, the Court will hear arguments re: the bill forcing states to greatly expand Medicaid onto which the “newly insured” will be forced.
Does a state have no standing against doing whatever the feds order them to do? That would be a total reversal of the Founders intent. The feds were to be a creation by the states for the states purposes, not the other way around.
So, take note...more than the mandate will be ruled on.