Health Is a Congressional Perk

If we are to believe our "president," and that is a big "if," he will not get his flu shot this year. And he has urged all Americans to just not get excited and not get flu shots so that those who really need them can have them. There's one place in the United States, however, that isn't experiencing a flu vaccine shortage: the Congress. "Directly contravening the instruction being given by the government's executive branch," Senator Majority Leader Bill, "Should Have Stayed a Heart Surgeon" Frist (Republican, of course) and the Capitol's attending physician are urging "all 535 lawmakers to get the vaccines even if they are young and healthy." Despite the shortage, many lawmakers were quick to comply, making sure to get their flu shots before they headed home to campaign this month. You see, they are worried that there might be some nasty germs out there amonst the people they represent. You know, the common people who are usually no threat to the Congress. But on the rare occasion that congressional members actually do go out and visit their constituents, there is that danger of contamination. And after all, if thousands die this year from flu, someone has to survive to run the country!

Bill Frist actually sent letters urging his 99 colleagues to get the shots because
"they mingle and shake hands with so many people."

Imagine all that mingling and hand shaking with the germ-ridden public- those people who are clamoring for health insurance, food, education, and security. What nuisances! But you have to go out there every once in a while to make an appearance. After all, this is an election year.

PS On a personal note, my niece Bonnie just received a heart transplant a month ago. Thankfully, her family members will be getting their flu shots, but not without some effort. When Bonnie received her new heart, none of us even dreamed that a simple flu shot would become an issue. This is a matter of life and death for them, as it is for many thousands of American citizens. Our president has not looked out for us. We cannot depend on him now or ever. Remember: George Bush has everything he needs for life. He does not have the capacity to see the needs of others. He has never known hardship or need, nor will he ever.


[To go to the WaPo article, click on the blog title.]