An option? Republicans' alternative a start, but no answer yet in sight

A group of Republican legislators is taking a stab at coming up with an alternative to the Affordable Care Act -- also known as Obamacare.

It is an interesting plan, but all those involved are quick to admit that it is probably going nowhere.

There simply aren't the votes to get the measure even a consideration in the U.S. Senate.

There are more than a few reasons why.

First, many Democrats simply do not want to take the risk to rock the boat -- the health care bill is in place, and although they see it is flawed, they think it is better than nothing.

And we know just how silly a premise that is, don't we?

Second, the Republicans don't seem really to have one real cohesive plan as an alternative. They admit there are problems with the current system, but no one seems ready to go out on a limb to propose another option.

And we know what to call that, don't we?

So here we sit -- a proposal on the table but no real meaningful debate on the issue that concerns so many Americans.

And in the meantime, more and more groups are trying to get out of having to participate in Obamacare as the Oct. 1 implementation date looms.

Perhaps it is time for a little less demagoguery on both sides and a little more getting a solution in the works.

Just a thought.

Published in Editorials on September 19, 2013 11:48 AM