How Does the NYT Know that Republicans Are Opposed to a Public Health Insurance Option: "Because They Are Worried About the Costly Commitments Undertaken by the Government to Stave Off Economic Collapse?"

Republicans may give this as their reason for opposing a public option, but politicians do not always say what they mean. This is certainly a more politically appealing line then saying that they oppose a public option because of their close ties to the insurance industry. Since the NYT does not know the real reason that Republican members of Congress oppose a public option, it should refrain from making assertions about their reasons, and simply report what they say. It is also worth noting that the Republicans' alleged fear, that a public plan would drive private insurers from the market, would only be realized if it provided better care for the money than private plans. Most constituents are probably not worried about being given the option of getting a better health care plan.

--Dean baker