I just don’t understand our governor’s reasoning or motivation.

We have an unprecedented opportunity to provide our low-income neighbors with expansion of health care through Maine Care (Medicaid). The federal government will pay 100 percent of the cost for three years. If we don’t accept the funds, the money will go to other states.

Over 60 percent of Mainers support this, not only for humane reasons (for the 70,000 additional people who would be covered), but for economic ones, as well. In Sagadahoc County alone it will mean $8 million annual additional income for hospitals and medical providers, and would probably create another 34 local jobs.

The hospitals all support the expansion. The uninsured, many of whom are veterans, and the working poor surely support the expansion. So why does the governor veto it? He calls health insurance “welfare.” Is he kidding?

Mike Michaud has come out in favor of the expansion of Maine Care. Vote for Mike on Nov. 4.

Polly Shaw
Bath


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