ShadowSD has an excellent, rec-listed Diary outlining talking points for the healthcare debate. The points presented are based on logic and reason, and they are grounded in facts and data.
Unfortunately, many of those who oppose reform do not make their decisions logically nor do they rely on facts. We need something for them, too.
This is not snark.
Many voters make political decisions based on their values and on their perception of right and wrong. For instance, telling them that "insurance companies are making big profits", might not move them – they believe big profits are part of the American Dream. Telling them that, "single mothers can’t afford healthcare" might only remind them of their belief that women should not have sex before marriage.
I know it is tough, but they are our countrymen. We must speak to their values if we wish their support. Luckily, HR 3200 has many themes that address non-Liberal values.
I’ve picked out some non-Liberal points for these situations. I have also included two "Universal" points that even the most bone-headed can’t be against...although I may be surprised.
This is why all Real Americans should support HR 3200. They are based on the text of bill. Please point out any errors.
Non-Liberal Talking Points
- It promotes Personal Responsibility by forcing uninsured people to buy coverage and stop freeloading off of Working People.
- It requires illegal immigrants to pay for healthcare, unlike the status quo, where they can go into an ER and get free treatment.
- Insurers that deny end-of-life care, or ignore Living Wills can no longer keep these practices secret.
- It promotes Free Market competition by offering a public option.
- It mandates that those who like their current insurance, or who want different insurance can still get it.
Universal Talking Points
- It stops people from being denied healthcare because of a pre-existing condition.
- It stops insurance companies from canceling your coverage if you get sick.
Lastly, did you know that nearly every Gannett Newspaper has a website with a "comment-on-this-article" feature? There are dozens of them and they are spread throughout many smaller towns and Republican parts of the country. To echo Crashing Vor’s rec-listed Diary, reaching out to these areas might give facts a chance to be seen by "less-orange" corners of the world. Here is a list.