Massachusetts Model

Republicans are looking at the Massachusetts race as a model for the GOP campaign throughout the country (Boston Globe, January 15: A1, A4).

It is, I hope, a failing model. GOP operatives argue that "the health care bill is a big empty vessel into which people can assign their pet peeves or anger." Scott Brown is an empty suit onto which voters can project their dearest wishes. He has little in the way of legislative accomplishment in Massachusetts.

Of course there is a better way to reform health care, but Scott Brown does not tell us what that is, he just mouths the platitude. The real question is,"Is there a politically feasible better way?" I think not. As Congress is so beholden to the lobbyists for all parties in the health care industry (except the patients).

Reform in our political system may have to precede reform in those areas where we need it most: health care, banking, and the alleviation of poverty.


Sent to Boston Globe