On Thursday, yet another example of the ignorance that pervades the political sphere became apparent to me. In fact it came knocking upon my doorstep.
Indiana State University was "lucky" enough to get a visit from Sen. Hillary Clinton's senior health adviser, Andrea Palm. Ms. Palm is a New York native who served as legislative assistant under the late California representative Robert Matsui. She now advises Hillary on matters of national health.
And she does this without a single shred of experience in healthcare. During the Q&A session, my very first question asked, "What are your healthcare credentials?" And would you believe that her answer?
"Absolutely none."
What is Sen. Clinton thinking? Ms. Palm's assignment as health adviser seems to be nothing more than a doling out of advanced position to a "good 'ol gal" from New York. And judging from the political blabbermouthing and sweeping generalizations that Ms. Palm demonstrated during the Q&A, Hillary's health panel is in serious trouble. Luckily, she isn't being paid too much... here is her salary breakdown.
In my opinion, none of the audience's questions were answered satisfactorily. Ms. Palm spent her time talking around issues without addressing them forthright. I guess I shouldn't be surprised, what do I expect from what is obviously a "yes-woman".
But when taking a look at Obama's health adviser, credentials are obviously much more important to this young presidential candidate. In February there was a debate between Ms. Palm and Obama's adviser, Dr. Maxwell Bloche at Case Western U. I only wish I could have seen the fireworks this man (who possesses both an M.D. and a J.D.) threw at her insubstantial platform.
A note to Hillary: if you want to be an effective leader, surround yourself by people that will give you the straight story, not these nodding heads that do nothing but parrot your unfocused platform.
