Counterpunch! Episode #4

Welcome to Counterpunch! Episode #4. Today's question: Should Alabama participate in the lawsuit challenging the newly passed health care law?

http://www.politicsalabama.org/files/Counterpunch/CP_Episode4.mp3

Speaking in favor is myself, and opposed is Sherry Walker of Left In Alabama.

Here is a transcript of my argument.

Yes, I think that would be a wise thing to do.

We live in a nation where the powers of Congress are limited by the US Constitution… there are things that Congress simply cannot do to individuals or states. And when Congress decides to trample on our individual rights, it is incumbent on individuals to stand up and challenge them in court. But when Congress decides to trample on the rights and powers of the states, then the States MUST challenge them.

The US Supreme Court has ruled that our federal government can’t simply decide one day to “commandeer” the state legislatures for federal purposes. They can’t suddenly start regulating and controlling areas that have traditionally been the responsibility of the states.

And that’s what ObamaCare does. Traditionally, the states have regulated most aspects of healthcare delivery, including hospitals, health insurance, and the licensing of medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. ObamaCare imposes federal regulations in all these areas, and this appears to be a direct violation of existing Supreme Court precedent.

And because of that, Alabama should challenge the law in court.

For Politics Alabama, I am Matthew Givens.