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It is unfortunate that the national debate over health care reform is being cluttered with all kinds of shrill, unintelligible voices that seem more determined to scuttle the process than to find common ground.
Certainly, it is important for Americans to get involved in the debate. But the discussion would be much healthier if those doing the shouting would base their views on solid facts and not the many half-truths and myths that are being perpetuated.
Obviously, with such a complex issue, it is difficult to distinguish fact from fiction. May we make a couple of suggestions?
First, be wary of advertisements and emails put forth by special interest groups on all sides of the debate. Also listen with a discerning ear to the many pundits and media personalities who are often feeding the frenzy in order to entertain and secure higher ratings.
Second, make an effort to get the facts. In this debate, The Kaiser Family Foundation (http://www.kff.org/), the Annenberg Public Policy Center (http://www.factcheck.org/) and The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (http://www.cbpp.org/) seem to have an objective handle on what is, and is not accurate.
On the critical issue of health care reform, a hearty debate is absolutely in order. KSL's desire is that it be based on fact, not misinformation and mayhem.
