David Leonhardt tells readers that the long-term budget problem facing the country is spending, not taxes, based on the projected costs of Medicare and Medicaid. Of course, the reason why the costs of these programs are projected to explode is that health care costs in the United States are projected to explode.
This would seem to suggest that the problem is health care, not spending. The country has to fix its health care system. Or, if the government is too incompetent or corrupt to fix the health care system we could simply outsource much of our health care to countries that have more efficient health care systems.
Unfortunately, the protectionists in Washington and in the media are doing their best to prevent the idea of free trade in health care services from even being discussed.
If you enjoyed this article, please consider making a tax-deductible donation today. For over 30 years, The American Prospect has delivered independent reporting that exposes corporate power, investigates political corruption, and analyzes threats to our democracy. Unlike many media outlets, we’re not owned by billionaires or corporations—we’re powered by readers like you.
Today’s independent journalism faces unprecedented challenges. Your support makes our reporting possible and keeps our work free and accessible to all. Whether it’s $5 or $50, every contribution helps sustain our nonprofit newsroom.
Join our community of supporters and make a donation today to help keep independent journalism thriving.
Copyright 2025 | The American Prospect, Inc. | All Rights Reserved
