Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle have publicly condemned the outburst by South Carolina Representative Joe Wilson during the President’s speech before legislators Wednesday night. While trying to win support for his increasingly unpopular health care agenda, Obama attempted to dispel the claims that illegal immigrants would be covered under the plan. On this point, the President said, “the reforms I’m proposing would not apply to those who are here illegally.” Wilson shouted out, “You lie!”
A few thoughts on Wilson’s remark:
First of all, at least he was listening. He was paying attention well enough to respond. And it shows that he cares about this issue. This is more than a political struggle confined to Washington D.C. The results of this debate over health care reform could shape the future of our country for years to come. The stakes are high. Our way of life is under assault. It would be nice to see more passion like this among other conservatives in Congress.
Second, whether he was lying or not, the President wasn’t being straightforward about this point. Sure the bill does not specifically grant benefits to illegal immigrants. But so far there is nothing that would require people to verify their citizenship in order to receive benefits. In other words, anyone who is seeking health care, even illegal aliens, will receive benefits sponsored by American taxpayers. Until we see stronger enforcement of current immigration laws and greater efforts to prevent illegal aliens from entering the country, this will be an issue. A lack of enforcement, along with the failure to verify the citizenship of those who would receive benefits, will inevitably result in illegal aliens taking advantage of our health care system under these reforms.
Finally, there are many people who feel the same way as Joe Wilson listening to Obama’s speech last night. Americans are fed up with the changes being enacted and pursued by the President and the Democrat-controlled Congress. If these elected officials continue to ignore the protest by the people, many of them should find themselves being replaced in November of 2010.
Wilson has since apologized for his outburst. This is not surprising. But it is very unfortunate. The Representative genuinely expressed the way he and many Americans feel based on the lies and deception by Obama and those promoting his health care agenda. He is not the one who needed to apologize.
Where is Obama’s apology? Why does he get a free pass? How can he say that illegal immigrants will not receive health care benefits when there is nothing in place to stop them? How can he say he will expand coverage to millions without new doctors to care for them? How can he claim this expanded coverage will save money without leading to rationing? These claims are illogical and insulting.
Mr. President, not all Americans are the fools you play them for.
