Response from Joe Wilson (R)

South Carolina's 2nd District Rep. Joe Wilson responded promptly to my email with one of his own:

October 19, 2007


Mr. Steven D. Morgan
21 Wilamore Court
Columbia, South Carolina 29223

Dear Mr. Morgan,

Thank you for your recent correspondence regarding H.R. 976, the "Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007." I appreciate your taking the time to write.

I understand your concerns and welcome your interest in this matter. On September 26, 2007, H.R. 976 passed the Senate by a vote of 68 - 31. Since that time, the House passed this legislation by a vote of 265 - 159, and I voted against this legislation. President George W. Bush vetoed H.R. 976 on October 4, 2007. As you know, two thirds of the House must vote in favor to override a presidential veto, and on October 18, 2007, the House sustained President George W. Bush's veto by a vote of 273 - 156.

I strongly support the original purpose behind the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), but I could not support H.R. 976 because it is an irresponsible expansion of this government program. For example, the current law allows families earning up to $41,300 for a family of four to qualify for SCHIP. However, H.R. 976 would cover families earning up to 300% of FPL or to $61,950 for a family of four. Additionally, this legislation could allow illegal immigrants to enroll in SCHIP due to a lack of adequate identification standards. At a time when identity theft has become prevalent, I believe a Social Security number and name are not sufficient proof of citizenship.

As an alternative, I was a cosponsor and supporter of an amendment offered by Nathan Deal (GA - 09) that would have appropriately reauthorized SCHIP for 18 months. Congress must pass a responsible reauthorization of SCHIP that will provide insurance to America's low-income, uninsured children. As you may be aware, there are several bipartisan bills that I am considering as an avenue for SCHIP reauthorization. Please be assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind as Congress continues to debate this important topic.

It is an honor to represent the people of the Second Congressional District of South Carolina, and I value your input. If I may be of further assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Very Truly Yours,

Joe Wilson
Member of Congress

Now, I'm not sure if he wrote it personally of if this was a staff effort. Certainly the details about the bill and his response to that part sounded canned, like a form letter. The problem is that the lies about S-CHIP have been thoroughly debunked. The bill was compliant with pay-go, being paid for by the cigarette tax increase, which is, itself, a proven and effective way to combat smoking and reduce taxpayer burdens for Medicare/Medicaid-related lung cancer expenses and the like. Even Faux News conservatives have openly pointed out Bush's doublespeak and lies. They simply don't have a leg to stand on. Just a failed president to stand behind.