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From the editorial advisory board: Gov. Ritter's one term Daily Camera

09.01.10

I applaud Gov. Ritter for recognizing the divisiveness his policies have brought to the state and the serious budget crisis we are in because of the expanded government he and his legislature implemented in 2007. Recognizing that the 2010 election would be a referendum on himself and his policies that could be hurtful to his family, he chose his family. Now the upcoming election can be about the issues rather than the person.

One specific area that the state has huge opportunities to help its citizens is to lower health care costs. I was lucky enough to ask the governor a question at a health care program put on by the University of Colorado about a year ago. In the question I pointed out that the Democrats focus has been on wage and price controls and the "demand side" of the supply/demand principle. They would be better off focusing on the one true method of reducing prices, increasing supply. I asked when his councilors would address the supply of health care, such as educating and licensing more family physicians and allowing the purchase of health insurance across state lines.

The governor indicated that his administration was trying to increase the number of rural clinics available but otherwise didn't address how supply could be increased. I hope that the upcoming discussion can focus on real methods of reducing costs rather than the "blue ribbon" panels' methods of negotiated compromises between hospitals, doctors and insurance companies to protect each other.

Once every few years you come across a politician that you actually like and make a personal connection with his/her style and personality. A few months ago I made that connection with Barack Obama. Three years ago, I made the same connection with Bill Ritter. I felt that he was genuine and forthright (as genuine and forthright as politicians can be given the environment in which they have to get elected). And just so you don't think I feel the same way about every Democratic candidate, I didn't feel that way about Bill Clinton, Al Gore, or even Gov. Romer. Although all capable politicians, at times, you felt like they were putting on a show for the public and pulling the wool over our eyes.

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