Isn’t expanding Medicare and Medicaid a government option?

Democrats are working on another potential compromise which would extend Medicare benefits to those as young as 55, and Medicaid benefits to those making up to 300% of the poverty level. This is being presented as a compromise, but isn’t this just a different way of having a government option?

Unfortunately, this plan looks like it might have the potential to gain traction. Medicare and Medicaid have a long history, and are valued by many Americans. Using these two programs, which are known commodities, removes a lot of the uncertainty surrounding a government option. By focusing on the expansion of these two programs, the unknown is largely removed. This is a compromise I can see being palatable to both moderates, who are going to say they fought against a (new) government option, and progressives who will essentially be getting their way. Of course, this compromise has risks.

If Medicare is extended to individuals as young as 55, we would probably see that brought down to an even younger age in the future. With Medicaid, I could see the income levels steadily rising, or any potential copay decreasing. Remember: We’re not talking about a a company that needs to at least break even, we’re talking about politicians who are spending other people’s money and looking for votes.

This is definitely an idea that will gain support. The Democrats will get their unofficial government option, and taxpayers will get the bill.