IF IT GETS FRAMED THAT WAY THE DEMOCRATS ARE TOAST:

The political divide over the health-care debate (Dan Balz, February 28, 2010, Washington Post)

In the aftermath of President Obama's White House health-care summit, it's clear that both sides are certain they are right on substance. Where they differ is over the politics. Democrats and Republicans believe that, in the end, they can win the political argument. As Obama said at the end of Thursday's gathering, "That's what elections are for."

Thursday's largely civil and intelligent summit underscored the deep philosophical gulf that remains between the two sides over health care (and many other issues). Both agree that the health-care system needs repair but significantly disagree over how to fix it. That is a genuine difference that seven hours of talking did not begin to narrow.

Democrats think more government is the answer; Republicans say the opposite, that market competition is the best antidote to the ailing system. Republicans are focused on cost, both rising premiums and government expenditures. They haven't made universal coverage anything close to a priority. Democrats are more determined to expand coverage to many millions more who lack insurance.

Consumer costs and Government spending vs. expanding the entitlement is at best a 60-40 divide, maybe even 70-30.

Posted by Orrin Judd at February 28, 2010 11:28 AM