Rep. Michael Grimm Sets the Record Straight on Medicare

Earlier today on CNBC's Squawk Box, Representative Michael Grimm of New York set the record straight on House Republicans' plan to save and strengthen Medicare. In a lively exchange with Vice President Biden's former chief economist Jared Bernstein, Grimm clarified the choice on Medicare: The President's plan to empower government bureaucrats to raid & ration Medicare for current seniors, while leaving the program bankrupt for the next generation - versus - the House Republicans' plan to protect those in and near retirement from any disruptions, while empowering future generations with a strengthened Medicare program they can count on. Democrat economist Bernstein stated: "It's underappreciated that what you call Obamacare, health care reform actually cuts $500 billion in Medicare.... [This law] cuts half-a-trillion dollars off of Medicare spending over ten years. That's in the books -- you can look up the CBO numbers. After that we are all on the same page, something has to be done." He's right. Both sides agree "something has to be done." - The President's plan is to empower 15 unelected bureaucrats to impose price controls and restrict access for current seniors. Despite this bureaucratic rationing, it is not enough to avert the program's looming bankruptcy. - The House Republican plan ensures no changes are made to those 55 and older, stops the $500 billion raid of Medicare, and repeals the President's rationing board. Instead, our proposed reforms offer future generations a personalized, strengthened Medicare program, giving future generations the same kinds of guaranteed coverage options Members of Congress now enjoy -- with less help for the wealthy, and more support for the poor and the sick. The House Republicans' plan saves Medicare. At the end of the day -- the question is: Who should make decisions about seniors' health care? - House Republicans want to empower patients themselves in consultation with their families and their doctors. - The President wants to empower a board of fifteen unelected bureaucrats in Washington. To watch the exchange: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmIJjkmy4FU To learn more: http://budget.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=242914