Health care debate dominated by distortion

As public opinion stands, most agree with the core concepts in the health care reform being proposed before congress. According to a CBS poll conducted in late August, 79 percent of those polled feel that "the government should require health care companies to cover patients regardless of pre-existing conditions." 72 percent polled were in favor of "setting limits on how much insurance companies can charge for premiums, co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses."

And 71 percent were in favor of "the government providing subsidies so low-income citizens can buy their own health insurance from private insurance companies." Contrast these numbers with the percentage of those who say they are "confused about the health care reform before congress:" 67 percent, and one begins to see the motivation of those who wish to deliberately mislead the public.

It's unfair, and further more grossly irresponsible that a small group of partisan figures can derail popular legislation by conjuring up fairy tales about death panels and playing to the public's irrational fears.