VOTE

Daniel Gray would rather be right than president. Thankfully, he will never be either.

In a recent letter he opines that “socialism is just communism for beginners.” This is a truly
sophomoric assertion that illustrates that Gray doesn’t really understand the various “isms.”
Socialist countries do not eschew public input. They merely prioritize the good of the whole
over individuals, deeming that funds should be raised collectively to support all people. This is
how all government, even representative republics, work.

This differs from communism wherein the country takes over all industry to distribute as they
see fit, and usually not equally or equitably. The reality is that socialism and communism aren’t
even terribly similar. Perhaps that is why they need two separate words to define them?

He attempts to illustrate his claim using healthcare, Canada specifically, claiming it isn’t free.
Here’s a clue, nothing is free. Snowplows aren’t free, but I don’t see him cursing the socialist
snowplows. And to be fair, they are an example of socialism. The same is true of the police, fire
department, the courts, the military, etc.

Having one’s choices limited, or being made to travel for healthcare isn’t unique to Canada’s
healthcare system. The same is true under insurance in the U.S. One is frequently told to wait,
where to go, when to show up, and what services are available. The only difference is that we
have to pay for the privilege.

It’s ironic that Mr. Gray elects to complain about this particular issue since he is covered by the
VA, which to be certain has its own problems, but none of those has an impact on Mr. Gray’s
finances. I guess socialism is horrible unless one is the beneficiary. For the record, I support fully
funding the VA, which has historically been woefully underfunded. I suppose Mr. Gray would
oppose this hideously socialist notion?

He goes on to invoke Alberta, Canada’s succession referendum, claiming that they might form
their own country (doubtful), or join the U.S. (almost inconceivable). If their objection is over
taxation and lack of autonomy, the last thing they would do is join the U.S. Their taxation would
increase, their wealth would devalue overnight and their burdens would increase. For starters,
they would need to seek private health insurance.

Brian Barnett
Glendale, Mass.