For years a democrat has held Massachusetts' senate seat and the ongoing debate about health care could be determined by a series of fluke circumstances. This year however, disheartened citizens, and an increased fervor for the republican cause has allowed Republican Scott Brown to gain a considerable base over democratic challenger, Martha Coakley.
The late senator Ted Kennedy supported the cause of health care reform andnow that he is gone, what exactly will happen should Republicans gain the seat. Traditionally, Massachusetts has been a leader in health care reform. It was the first state to implement a mandatory health insurance policy for most of its residents. This election could put a road block in the Democrats’ plan. Brown has openly said that he will be the so-called “41st vote” against health care reform. This means that Obama's proposed overhaul will not be easily passed.
Universal health care coverage or the public option has a low chance of becoming a reality if Brown takes the seat. Ultimately, his vote would probably be a means of Republican maneuvering. Key issues such as taxes and abortion would likely be up for compromise or a severe revision of the reform bill, as it exists today.
The GOP will have gained more power, and thus cause the Democrats to weaken their positions. An already watered down version of the bill would become even more so. As it stands, health insurance coverage has caused thousands to go bankrupt and stifles any real innovation in the field. When people can not pay, there is more burden on society. A Republican win may mean more of the same.
A Scott Brown win does not mean the end of health care reform but it would be harder to pass. The issue is a touchy one and the increasing distrust of Washington and its antics means more voters may decide for a change. Polls do indicate the Massachusetts residents are in favor of health care reform, however, they simply are taken in by Martha Coakley and want something more.
The health care reform bill has been under heated discussion by Democrats. The closed session talks are in their final stages and Democrats hope to have agreement soon. The word on Friday was that they were very close to bring the discussion to an end, at least for now. The impending Massachusetts election results will no doubt, make the move for change even more urgent.
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