An astonishing* 29.2 percent of Whitman County residents do not have current health insurance, according to a recent U.S Census Bureau report, making health care one of the most important issues facing voters this November.
Whitman County has the second-highest uninsured rate in the state of Washington and is almost double that of the national average, which stands just below 30 percent. This raises the question, would universal health care work here, locally?
“I think it has a chance to work,” said Brian Bell, a member of the Young Democrats student organization. “The cost of insurance today is so exorbitant it’s no wonder that almost 30 percent of people are uninsured.”
With the cost of insurance rising and the economy fighting its way out of a slump, many local citizens say that health care just isn’t affordable.
Whitman County’s average income has dropped to just over $35,000, (why not say the number here – it would save us a couple words and not slow readers down) almost $20,000 less than the statewide average. Many local citizens face the tough decision between buying insurance and putting food on the table.
Dennis McConnell, a member of the Pullman Kiwanis Club and co-owner of the Pullman Gladish Community Center, considers himself a member of the middle class.
“It’s tough to come up with the money to keep yourself covered, but when it comes to health I don’t want to take any chances,” McConnell said. “I have friends who haven’t been as lucky and aren’t covered. It’s just not right.”
According to Obama’s numerous press releases, he hopes his bill will lower the cost of health care and will make plans more secure and stable. It is similar to health care systems in countries such as Canada, England and Spain but has its own regulations and stipulations. Despite Obama’s best efforts, some people are not quite as enthusiastic about the plan.
District 9 candidate Susan Fagan opposes the universal health care program on her Web Site, saying she does not support a government-run program.
Pat Hailey, agrees, saying she does not support the liberal agenda of representatives in Seattle.
“When I decide who I’m voting for it will come down to who wants to help fix our health care system,” said junior Brian Mitchell. “Both district 9 candidates seem opposed to Obama’s bill, but they have their own ideas as well.”
Whether it’s Obama’s bill or a candidate’s new idea on the issue, health care will most definitely be in the minds of the voters and at the forefront of November’s election.
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