Lack of facts is disappointing

U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill claimed the "biggest disappointment" of the president's speech was an outburst accusing the president of being a liar. The outburst was unfortunate, but I disagree with Sen. McCaskill. I was more disappointed that our president avoided an opportunity to use all the facts in this important and necessary discussion.

First, there's no final plan, so the president made promises about a bill that isn't ready for signature. The president claimed he wouldn't "sign a plan that adds one dime to our deficits either now or in the future." but FactCheck.org confirms that promise is impossible to keep. As is the promise that "nothing in this plan will require you or your employer to change the coverage or the doctor you have." Again, there's no specific plan yet, but FactCheck.org again disproves this promise under any plan being considered. They also disprove the pledge that "Medicare benefits won't be cut," as many experts believe seniors almost certainly would see reduced benefits. The preventive-care cost estimates are also disproven, as studies have shown that preventive care tests mentioned by Obama actually cost more money than they save.

One truthful moment came when the president abruptly dropped the number of uninsured from 46 million to 30 million. Another when the resident stated he wanted health coverage to be mandatory.

These are the facts, and it's disappointing that they're being skirted in the debate. I want a rationale, honest discussion. And my position, support or dissent does not equate to racism.

CHAD CRAFT, Jackson