Bush’s arguments are utter nonsense

During debate No. 3, President Bush was asked why he was against allowing U.S. citizens to bring in prescription drugs from Canada where they sell for much less money. His answer was that he was trying to protect the health of U.S. citizens. What nonsense! He won’t even let Medicare negotiate for lower drug prices with the manufacturers. He is trying to protect the health of the U.S. drug companies who contribute large sums to his campaign coffers.

First off, most prescription drugs in Canada are imported from the U.S. or are manufactured in Canada by U.S. drug corporation subsidiaries.

Secondly, I have never read about any mass deaths in Canada from folks buying Canadian prescriptions. Anybody hear about Vioxx in the U.S.? Only the latest problem with U.S. drug companies. Where were you, Mr. President?

I am on Social Security and every dollar is important to me and thousands like me. I save almost $1,000 per year by purchasing my prescription drugs in Canada. One prescription, Metformin, costs about $125 for a three-month supply in the U.S. In Canada I can purchase a four-month supply for $35 U.S. I feel very sorry for people living south of Washington who must travel very far to get this benefit. And I feel ashamed of the insult the president has made against the Canadian government and people.

John Kerry supports legalizing the importation of drugs from Canada. Every senior citizen and those who are close should vote against Bush since it really affects their wallet and health. Choosing between drugs and food is not an acceptable choice. Clearly, if Haliburton had the flu vaccine contract, there would be plenty of vaccine available for U.S. citizens (who are lined up at the Canadian border today to get a shot in Canada!).

RONALD P. ZEUTSCHEL

Woodinville

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

Everett mayor Cassie Franklin delivers her State of the City address on Friday, March 28 in Everett, Washington. (Will Geschke / The Herald)
Editorial: The state of Everett amid the state of play

In her state of the city speech, Mayor Cassie Franklin makes the case for optimism amid dark clouds.

Comment: An ‘impossible trinity’ of goals for Trump’s tariffs

Trump wants revenue, manufacturing and foreign policy wins; he can’t get all three, if any.

Arrest of Mahmoud Khalil: Protect freedom of speech for all

It’s been weeks since Mahmoud Khalil was abducted from his home in… Continue reading

Trump’s, Musk’s cuts to education are most damaging

In my long life of service to my community, I have never… Continue reading

Property owners abuse Perrinville Creek watershed

This case history of property owners ignoring the law for instant self-gratification… Continue reading

Douthat: Trump’s Signalgate denials not impressing non-MAGA

Even 60 percent of Republicans polled said the scandal was a serious one.

Genna Martin / The Herald
Piles of wires, motherboards and other electronic parts fill boxes at E-Waste Recycling Center, Thursday. 
Photo taken 1204014
Editorial: Right to repair win for consumers, shops, climate

Legislation now in the Senate would make it easier and cheaper to fix smartphones and other devices.

The WA Cares law is designed to give individuals access to a lifetime benefit amount that, should they need it, they can use on a wide range of long-term services and supports. (Washington State Department of Social and Health Services)
Editorial: Changes to WA Cares will honor voters’ confidence

State lawmakers are considering changes to improve the benefit’s access and long-term stability.

A press operator grabs a Herald newspaper to check over as the papers roll off the press in March 2022 in Everett. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald file photo)
Editorial: Keep journalism vital with state grant program

Legislation proposes a modest tax for some tech companies to help pay salaries of local journalists.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Monday, March 31

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Comment: Hegseth isn’t unholding standards he vowed he would

Veterans are among the most critical of the Defense secretary for his lapse of security and protocol.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.