Former Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber Announces Reform Movement

In an announcement to the press that ended months of speculation, the former governor announced that he would not be seeking another shot at that office.  He instead announced that he would be starting a campaign to reform health care.  In his announcement he said "I can make the greatest difference not by entering a campaign for governor but by launching a campaign to change the American health care system."  It was put forth that perhaps Mr. Kitzhaber had announced his potential run for governor as a way to get publicity for his health care reforms, and he doesn't deny it.  I applaud him, as the growing cost of health care is the most challenging affront to the future of the economy.  Not to mention that it is grossly unfair and should be an embarrassment to any American.  As the richest economy in the world, there is no way that any public official can justify our current system.  Mr. Kitzhaber- "M.D." by the way-has some very interesting views and ideas for genuine health care reform.  Mr. Kitzhaber is not without qualification.  He was a champion of the Oregon Health Plan when it was formed.  It became a model for other States by greatly reducing the ranks of the uninsured.  It provides limited benefits to a wide range of Oregonians.  It has since been attacked and reduced by Republicans, still it remains the only source of health care for many.