US Politics:Two Party System has now completely capitulated to Special Interests Groups as they become the ultimate winners of health care vote

The American public has just witnessed the power of special interest influence on a legislative process originally designed by our Constitution to represent the people of the United States, who now have very little representation if any. Although 60 votes were obtained — 58 Democrats, two independents and, surprise, no Republicans — by Harry Reid, he did not get them without compromise, or should I say without a payoff. It is plain and simple he had to buy votes in the name of compromise just to get a bill, good or bad.

Health care reform was initiated to reform the system for two reasons, first to provide health care for all Americans and second to provide that health care at a reasonable cost. The Senate bill does neither and has solidified the insurance industry's stranglehold on the American consumer for years to come.

The entire bill designed by the health care industry guarantees the industry 30 million more premium payers to fill their coffers and increase profits; those with pre-existing conditions will be required to pay higher premiums and the elderly will also pay higher premiums. Even if a family of four makes 400 percent of the poverty level ($88,000 per year), their premium will be subsidized by our tax dollars.

The bottom line: US political representatives have just given the insurance industry everything but the kitchen sink. My recommendation is to buy health insurance stocks, which just hit a 50-year high, and pray you don't get sick.

Special interests won health care vote - St. Petersburg Times