The Cruz Tour

Senator Ted Cruz stopped by our small town for a visit yesterday.  He was here for almost 3 hours.  He gave a very brief speech regarding priorities and progress and then spent the majority of the time fielding and answering questions.  Most of the questions were predictable and fit well into the narrative that he wished to develop.

In his address he mentioned that one of the top priorities was unfinished business -- healthcare reform.  I am gratified for that acknowledgement since it is my #1 issue with Washington.  It has been for a number of years and will continue to be until fixed.

My wife and I are both self-employed and therefore do not fall under some corporate insurance policy as most citizens do.  We must provide our own insurance -- full price with no "partial or full premium payment" as part of some corporate benefits package.  For the minimum qualified plan under ObamaCare our premium is over $1,200 per month.  It comes out over $15,000 per year.  Neither of us have had any health issues and only see a doctor once every few years for something minor.

At least that was the case prior to this year when I had a minor emergency with chemical burns to my eyes.  When I was checked into the Emergency Room we were asked what insurance coverage we had.  Our answer was none, but we will pay as we go.

After treatment which took a couple of hours, we tried to pay on the way out the door but, were told they would send us a bill.  When it arrived it had a 60% discount for paying by check or credit card as opposed to filing insurance.

I was impressed with Senator Cruz.  He is a good speaker and willing to engage his constituents.  I believe he represents the interests of the citizens of Texas quite well.  His opponent in this year's campaign has moved about as far left as possible.  He will appeal to a portion of the voters, but I hope the majority will see him for what he is -- a left-wing extremist who would do away with borders and the rule of law.

Here are a few photos: