The $350 Hammer:

How hard will it be to get a handle on the medical care business? Today's New York Times provides a peek at the medical industry and how the government facilitates the big business rip off of the American taxpayer/worker. Focusing on the difference between what Medicare pays for a typical walker ($110) and what anyone could buy the same object for at Wal-Mart ($59.92), the Times provides a keyhole view into the medical industry morass reminiscent of the military/industrial complex rip off of taxpayers. The next time someone touts the values of capitalistic competition, direct them here. Don't pass up the part of the story about how the industry is buying up congressmen and senators.


Where'd the Money Go?

Today's Washington Post reports on $2 billion of taxpayer money that went down the drain in Pakistan, our erstwhile partners in fighting terrorism. It seems there is no accountability. Millions of dollars earmarked for specific development has disappeared, no doubt into the pockets of the rulers. No wonder Osama remains safe in that country. Apparently, as long as he's there, the Pakistani government believes it has a steady flow of unregulated cash from the U.S., at least as long as the Bush administration remains in power.

In the meantime, John McCain's chief political adviser is openly hoping for another terrorist attack along the lines of 9/11.