Seven Democratic contenders have taken the debate stage tonight in New Hampshire, and the attacks were fierce from the start. One of the initial topics brought up by the moderators was the divisive issue of healthcare. The debate stage is comprised of candidates with diverse stances on healthcare, from a single-payer system to a public option.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) managed to launch a zinger at Pete Buttigieg on healthcare. Buttigieg and Klobuchar have taken similar stances on healthcare during this primary; both have typically opposed a full commitment to Medicare for All, and have opted for plans with a more modest price tag. Sen. Klobuchar pointed out, however, that Pete Buttigieg was once a sworn supporter of Medicare for All:
Gosh! Okay... I, Pete Buttigieg, politician, do henceforth and forthwith declare, most affirmatively and indubitably, unto the ages, that I do favor Medicare for All, as I do favor any measure that would help get all Americans covered. Now if you'll excuse me, potholes await.
— Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) February 19, 2018
Buh? When/where have you ever heard me oppose Medicare for All?
— Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) February 17, 2018
Yikes! Here's the Buttigieg tweet Klobuchar just referred to.
— Andrew Clark (@AndrewHClark) February 8, 2020
Buttigieg was most affirmatively and indubitably for Medicare For All before he was against it. #DemDebate https://t.co/wkRQCZnUJg
Healthcare is a divisive issue among Democrats in this primary. The Affordable Care Act has proven itself a complete failure, and the eventual nominee will need to tangibly explain the funding for their healthcare plan.
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