NYT: Medicare Plan Runs Into Bipartisan Opposition

Obama Panel to Curb Medicare Finds Foes in Both Parties

President Obama’s intent to increase the influence of the Independent Payment Advisory Board has both Democrats and Republicans wary. As stated in the New York Times, Obama’s plan is to allow the board to have more power in shaping the deficit reduction plan, particularly in regard to Medicare. The article does a good job of providing multiple perspectives on the matter without personalizing or dramatizing the political debate. Rather than the popular tactic of framing the story within party or ideological conflicts, the NYT focuses on why various groups are opposed to increasing the board’s power. Not only are Republican and Democratic congressmen quoted, but members of the administration and lobby groups are heard as well.

While the article does give more attention to those in opposition to strengthening the panel, the writer includes an interesting statement from a supportive senator, John D. Rockefeller IV. He asserts, “Medicare payment policy should be determined by experts, using evidence, not by the undue influence of special interests.” Though this counterargument receives a very brief mention, it does provide a compelling explanation as to why some individuals might be so adamantly against Obama’s plan.