PROGRESSIVE HEALTH GURUS LAND IN SB TO 'FIX' WHAT THEY BROKE

The Santa Barbara Independent, ever vigilant in chronicling the plight of the perpetually 'disadvantaged,' reports that a caravan of 'health advocates' has descended upon our fair city. These are the same crusaders who've spent decades championing government-controlled mandates and regulations, only to now express utter shock and bewilderment that healthcare costs have, well, skyrocketed. It's truly a marvel of modern progressive thought: enact policies guaranteed to stifle competition and innovation, then convene a 'tour' to decry the inevitable consequences. One might even call it a full employment act for bureaucratic busybodies.

One can almost hear the earnest pronouncements from these self-appointed saviors, no doubt delivered with the solemnity of a papal encyclical. They'll lament the 'crisis' while meticulously avoiding any mention of the mountains of red tape, crushing administrative overhead, and stifling licensure requirements that are the direct result of their grand progressive designs. The real 'advocacy' here seems to be for more government funding, more oversight, and ultimately, more control over every aspect of our lives, all under the guise of 'affordability.' It’s the political equivalent of setting your own house on fire and then demanding public funds for a new sprinkler system, which you will, of course, personally oversee.

Expect the usual litany of demands for 'systemic change' – read: more taxes, more programs, and certainly no less bureaucracy. The genuine path to affordable healthcare, which involves unleashing market forces, fostering competition, and empowering individuals with choice, remains steadfastly off the agenda for these touring pundits. Instead, we'll get another round of highly compensated experts explaining why the solution to too much government is always, without fail, even more government. The 'affordability tour' continues, but don't hold your breath for any actual affordability; just more 'advocates' advocating for their own relevance.