Still takin' what they're givin'

Critics have been all over the Congressional plans for their expense, their lack of cost controls and a host of imaginary horrors.

I think the NYT's David Leonhardt highlights another weakness - choice.

Real choice is not part of the bills moving through the Democratic-led Congress; even if the much-debated government-run insurance plan was created, it would not be available to most people who already have coverage. Republicans, meanwhile, have shown no interest in making insurance choice part of a compromise they could accept. Both parties are protecting the insurers.

He points out that what is happening may be a step forward, but its a baby step.

Lest anyone confuse the current situation in health insurance with choice, the NYT offers a graph of the current regional monopolies in health coverage.
(H/t E)