Roy, you are, of course, correct about the Bush policies you noted. However, I am a realist about politics. Given the choices among electable national politicians today, I prefer the prospects of the next four years over the alternative. Consider this excerpt from a recent speech by Sen. Ted Kennedy, who believes in government-provided healthcare “from birth to the end of life.” As you read it, keep in mind that the “progressive” wing of his party, whose belief system this misguided approach represents, may very well take control of his party and elevate this policy approach to the national stage once again.

“The first stage of the phase-in should also guarantee good health care to every young child. We made a start with the Children’s Health Insurance Program in 1997. It does a major part of the job. But it’s time to complete the job now. As we implement this reform, financing must be a shared responsibility. All will benefit; all should contribute. Payroll taxes should be part of the financing, but so should general revenues, to make the financing as progressive as possible.”