As I'm working on insane deadlines to make sure I make enough money to pay my mortgage, I received an email from my Representative in Congress Judy Biggert. I have NEVER received an email from this woman before. While it is her policy to not accept mail from her constituents, she does reserve the right to send mail. Probably, like all Republicans, it's easier to lace a letter with anthrax than lace an email. So sending an email instead of a printed flyer is something of a sea-change for her office. They must be frantic.
Judy Biggert, for the most part, has had an unnotable career in the House, except for maybe voting against health care for children, and changing the rules in the House Ethics Committee to allow Mark Foley to continue to serve while having buttsecks with underage Congressional pages.
Below is the email she sent, and my response.
On Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 8:49 AM, Congresswoman Judy Biggert <imail13@mail.house.gov> wrote:
E-News from U.S. Rep. Judy Biggert (R-IL-13th)
July 30, 2009
Legislative Update: Health Care Reform
Dear Mr. The Gryffin:
As you probably know, Congress is poised to consider dramatic changes to our nation's health care system. For most Americans, including those with private health coverage, this will mean major changes - or even an end - to their current plans or benefits. Others will find themselves affected through new taxes, employer mandates, and regulations on what medical options are available for providers and patients.
Proponents argue that a government-run plan is the only way to reach the uninsured.
Opponents point out that the current proposal before Congress would drive out higher-quality insurance options enjoyed by many families today. Others worry it would ration treatment and lower standards for care while costing taxpayers more than $1.6 trillion over the next ten years alone. I strongly share these concerns and continue to fight hard against such a flawed approach.
But we can all agree that the current system needs reform. Many still lack access to quality care, and premiums continue to skyrocket. Too often, doctors are compelled to practice costly, defensive medicine while pre-existing conditions go uncovered and untreated. At the same time, small businesses struggle to provide for their employees.
This is a national problem affecting every American, and it requires a comprehensive solution. Unfortunately, many in Congress seem intent on rushing forward with a ideologically-motivated, big-government plan while ignoring common-sense ideas that would actually curb costs, protect taxpayers, and improve the overall quality of care. Examples include medical malpractice reform to curb frivolous lawsuits, allowing small businesses to band together to receive the same high-volume discounts enjoyed by large employers, and a renewed emphasis on preventative care utilizing the latest in gene-based medicine.
I think we can do better. That's why I want to hear from you. As Congress continues to debate this critical issue, please do not hesitate to share your views or concerns with me. Your input in invaluable as we work to deliver better health care to the families of the 13th Congressional District and to all Americans. To contact me or my staff, please call my Willowbrook office at (630) 655-2052 or dial (202) 225-3515 for my office in Washington, DC. You also can email me by clicking here, or sign up to receive regular updates on what's happening in Washington at http://judybiggert.house.gov/...
As always, it is an honor to serve you.
Sincerely,
Judy Biggert
Member of Congress
Now, I don't have the time to counter all her bullshit right-wing talking points, but I do want to let her know I'm listening. And responding. And being an active participant in the system. So I sent her this.
Ms. Biggert,
I currently have no health insurance at all. So these changes to the health insurance system won't end my current plan. I'll finally have one.
In fact, the health insurance industry can and does cancel policies when people get sick -- sometimes in the middle of treatment! So really, no one in the U.S. is guaranteed health insurance. Oh! Except you. You have a great plan, don't you? It's a plan I pay for out of my taxes. How is that plan working out for you? Can you send me the forms to fill out so I can join that plan? Thanks.
Oh, but you say the Republicans have a better plan? Please send me that plan as well so I can compare. Thanks!
And also, I'd like to see a copy of your birth certificate. Thanks!
The Gryffin
Once I wrote her and it took her 9 months to respond. I hope I don't have to wait that long for all the paperwork she's going to send to me.