Free stuff in perspective
The recent early election ramblings in the debates and afterward make campaigning in these debacles more hyperbolic than anyone could imagine. It is hard to determine what other promises can be made without anyone from the media at least doing some simple investigative mathematics.
Two proposals come to mind, and I have not seen one simple analysis of what they mean to the American public.
The "Medicare for All" plan endorsed by virtually every Democratic candidate is first.
The "Green New Deal" plan also has been endorsed by all. but many have put their own spin on details.
"Medicare for All" is estimated to cost $10 trillion over 10 years or about $1 trillion a year. I assume it will continue forever, plus inflation, so it wouldn't go away.
"Green New Deal" is estimated to cost $30 trillion over 10 years or about $3 trillion a year. Again I don't know how it will ever go away and there are various options.
What does this mean to actual working stiffs and their families? Well, "Medicare for All" would cost every man, woman and child in America over $3,000 each - a family of four, over $12,000. And for all that, worse Healthcare. To make comparisons, check out Canada and even Massachusetts with Romneycare. Total disasters.
Now look at the Green New Deal and multiply the above by 2 or 3 and you have $36,000-$48,000 a year in taxes, fees, etc. That's the good news. The OMB has always underestimated the final costs. You remember, "you can keep your provider, and keep your doctor," of course, but at twice the cost.
This money must come from somewhere, and the only "piggy banks", are us, the American people.
Richard Francke
Bartlett