July 31, 2007
Posted: July 31st, 2007 11:30 AM ET

Rudy Giuliani took issue Tuesday with Democratic health care proposals.

(CNN) - Speaking before a town hall forum Tuesday, Republican presidential hopeful Rudy Giuliani lambasted the health care plans put forward by the Democratic presidential field.

"We've got to do it the American way. The American way is not single-payer, government-controlled anything. That's a European way of doing something; that's frankly a socialist way of doing something," the former New York mayor said. "That's why when you hear Democrats in particular talk about single-mandated health care, universal health care, what they're talking about is socialized medicine."

Giuliani was in Rochester, New Hampshire, to discuss his health care proposals. He said he would reform the current system by using free-market solutions that he said would facilitate consumer-driven health care.

"America's health care system is being dragged down by decades of government-imposed mandates and wasteful, unaccountable bureaucracy," he said. "To reform, we must empower all Americans by increasing health care choices and affordability, while bringing accountability to the system."

Giuliani was scheduled to appear later in the day in Norwalk, Connecticut.

–CNN Political Desk Editor Jamie Crawford

Filed under: Healthcare • Race to '08 • Rudy Giuliani


Independent Voter, TN   August 5th, 2007 2:55 pm ET

Trish in Canada:

First of all, please show me in either of your 3 prior postings where you said "I stated very clearly that our taxes per capita is paying towards our Health Care as is the case in every Federal Funded Health Program I know of."

Secondly, I have a number of Canadian friends who would refute every one of your statements. Many (but not all) of the Canadians I know are very unhappy with the level of care they receive and are equally as vocal in their feelings as you are in yours.

I'm the first to admit that the US system needs some improvement. But please be realistic and admit that your system isn't perfect either.

Fyuo   August 1st, 2007 2:50 am ET

"Trish, please don’t refer to someone as inane when you say that your “government is paying for healthcare.” Where do you think your government gets their money?"

Bruce, the people are government, duh.

Tricia M Charlottetown PEI   July 31st, 2007 7:35 pm ET

Bruce, Franklin, TN

I believe I stated very clearly that our taxes per capita is paying towards our Health Care as is the case in every Federal Funded Health Program I know of.

But you and we pay taxes on everything anyway so you either pay less in taxes for Health Care to your Government or you pay for Health Care to Private Corps. When it comes to a choice between Government and Private Corps. I'll give my dollars to Government for Health Care...which in the long run is much cheaper and gives me more extensive Health care.

Sarah, Kansas City, MO   July 31st, 2007 6:53 pm ET

I agree with the doctor who said that out of the healthcare plans that he has to deal with, Medicare is the simplist to deal with. This is the plan for everyone.

To the people out there that don't want their taxes going to pay for someones elses healthcare, well guess what, maybe your taxes aren't but you are paying for their healthcare through increased costs at the hospital and doctors offices. They have to offset their loses somewhere so they offset them onto you.

The taxes that dopey Guilliani says are going to be sky high is pure baloney. The taxes would be lower then the premiums that everyone now pays.

As Guilliani rails on about the evils of socialized medicine what does he say about medicare? Is he going to get rid of that? Medicare is about as efficient a healthcare system as there is. Much lower administrative costs then the insurance companies. Does Guilliani think that all those seniors are going to willingly give up medicare? Does he think that all of us baby boomers are prepared to pick up the costs of their parents healthcare on top of their own?

Guilliani and his 'American way' of insuring people; sounds like he is getting a huge pile of dough from the health insurance peddlers. What government mandates? What bureaucracy? The 2 government run programs are much more efficient then the insurance companies.

It was nice to hear that he managed to get through one speech without mentioning 911. As if trotting around NYC that horrible day with a surgical mask and barking orders while posing for cameras makes him look like a tough leader. People need to remember that this man has the leadership skills of a dictator with a personalty of Mousalini. He would be no improvement over Bush, just a continuation.

Canadian...eh   July 31st, 2007 6:47 pm ET

Tricia: You said it well for many of us living outside of the US. Here are some things you could have added

I am 58 years old, make 76 000 dollars as a teacher , pay 20% income tax and about $ 400 a year in health and extended health insurance. Through my life there have been many births, deaths, operations, accidents and tragedies. Throughout them all I am so happy my friends and family were covered by insurance and I have never been dissatisfied with the care they received. I pay more to insure my home and my carthen I do my life! And I wish Americans would stop spending over 760 million dollars a year buying our lower price drugs.

An example: A colleagyes 3 year old has been diagonsed with a herat defect. That was three weeks ago. She has been put on blood pressure medication to stabilize here and will be operated on on Aug. third. Her parents need only to worry about her getting better and no insurance agent was involved in determining whether she should receive this treatment. For thisI am happy to pay higher taxes(although I am not sure it is that much higher).

Every system has its malcontents and bumps but as a Christian I am proud that I live in a country that cares about the people around us as I know that is what Jesus would want. Surprising a country so alienated from each other and so single purposed also claims to be the most religious.

When I vote I know my vote will be counted, my prime minister and his cabinet must attend parliament like every other elected official and can't hide behind "executive privilege", I can select from more than two parties and when a gov't is unpopular, a simple nonconfidence vote can result in a new election...and eight weeks later we have a new government.

I am proud of our social contract, our universal programs, our standing in the world, that we didn't go to Iraq even though we had to listen to your idiotic insults, and our system of gov't....and by the way did you know that Microsoft is opening a major expansion in our backwards country??

You have lost your way and throwing stones, puffing up your chest, and trying to denegrate others isn't going to help you find it.

Bruce, Franklin, TN   July 31st, 2007 5:56 pm ET

Trish, please don't refer to someone as inane when you say that your "government is paying for healthcare." Where do you think your government gets their money?

Tricia M Charlottetown PEI Canada   July 31st, 2007 5:40 pm ET

To Anonomous, Greg and Linday:

It is people like you who make life unbearable for those who are truly needing of support. You know, it's not all about you or me. It's also about those who for no reason of their own, do not have jobs, a sufficient income, or the means to pay the astronomical prices of Private Corp Health Insurances or the cost of US Health Care. It's about single moms who can't afford the cost of Health Care for their children in your Nation. If you have a job and a good Health Care Provider good for you but does that give you the right to prevent others less fortunate to be deprived of the Health Care because they can't afford it?

To Linsay...Your statement about Canada and Canadians holds no water or truth. The Canadians going to the US for surgeries are going for procedures not available in Canada and are those who can afford that luxury. It's not because we have poor Health Care it is due soley to their personal choice.

And to this Statement of your's Lindsay:

"Here’s another question for you – have you met a Canadian or European who has single handedly improved their socio-economic status? Not without coming to America."Posted By Lindsay, Milwaukee, WI

It's these types of statements from people like yourself who tarnish America's International image. It must be a sad life when your vile for everyone from another Nation borders on hate. But hey, this is not news for Europeans or Canadians we all know MANY (not all thankfully) Americans have a false perception that they are Greater, Better, Richer, than all other Nationalities. But let me inform you, my socio-economic status takes in a 6 digit income on my own merits as a Business Owner and I didn't have to go to America I did right here on Canadian Soil! What a surprise eh?

I feel so fortunate to be a Canadian as we are a compassionate people who truly care for others and especially the less fortunate. We don't look down on our mulitcultural brothers and sisters. We treat them as equals. Our civil war with the Natives ended centuries ago we didnt' carry it with us into each generation as we journeyed forward.

But – why am I wasting my time conveying these truths here as Y'all will believe what you want to. Even given the Health Care issue – God Forbid Little Ole Canada or the Brits could possibly have a better Health Care System than the Great US of A.

Enrique, Chicago, IL   July 31st, 2007 5:37 pm ET

A President Giuliani would do what every other Republican president has done with healthcare...absolutely nothing.

L Morgan Houston, Texas   July 31st, 2007 5:27 pm ET

Isn't that nice!?! MR. Giuliani's companies always worked for profit – they didn't give their services away. Yet, as a physician, I have to give away about 12% of my services every year, or else deny needed care to working people with no benefits. As far as insurance goes, my favorite is Medicare. It has the fewest hassles and pays the fastest, plus has the simplest rules. Incidentally, it also has the lowest overhead of all the insurance providers. So – Mr. Giuliani is just plain wrong. But – he does have to pander to his constituency. Please do not attach my name if this is posted.

sonny c. v.p.,la.   July 31st, 2007 5:25 pm ET

Return of The Red Scare ! Watch out, Socialists are teaming up with Radical Islamists to bring down America! It starts w/Vietnam & ends in Calfornia after the dominos all tumble. Wait a second, Vietnam did "fall" to the Commies in 1975 & not one American life or precious $ was lost. Oh well, Rudy is right about the inferiority of the European system. Those wimpy French;talking all that "stuff" about the perils of taking down Sadaam. What do they know. Give em hell Rudy !

Trish M Charlottetown PEI   July 31st, 2007 5:09 pm ET

Rebuttal to: Greg, Phoenix, AZ

"Once again, Canada has 32 million people, the United States has 300 million people.

Can you not see how the implementation of SOCIALIZED MEDICINE in this country would be just a little bit different?

If we tried this in the US, it would sink us, plain and simple. Our taxes would go through the roof, and our economy would suffer greatly."

No Greg I can't see how it would be any different. Do the Math. Canada has 32 million paying tax dollars and the system has survived decades and is still in great form...America has 300 million people paying taxes so the system should also survive for decades in great form.

We don't pay anymore taxes for our Health Care but I can guarantee you that your one X Ray and a hospital stay would ten times the amount we are paying and our government is paying for our Health Care.

Your statement is Inane with no mathematical logic.

Sam, Belleville MI   July 31st, 2007 5:02 pm ET

Do anyone who isn't in favor of some sort of universal health care:

What is the solution? Status quo so tens of millions of Americans remain uninsured? Is that acceptable to you? If it is, just say so.

If it isn't acceptable to you, but you aren't in favor of universal health care, what IS your solution?

Brian, New York, NY   July 31st, 2007 4:29 pm ET

I'm shocked at how many people who know so little have so much to say. Stop wasting time at CNN.com and go read a book or a newspaper with some credibility. Then join a discussion.

Scott Austin, TX   July 31st, 2007 3:29 pm ET

If Giuliani knows anything about health care, then I'm a Chinese aviator.

Will, PA   July 31st, 2007 3:16 pm ET

So Rudy if your Health Care Plan is so good and theres is so bad why don't you tell it on the youtube debate

Oh thats right you're afraid because you don't have one

J. Turchek, Stuart, VA   July 31st, 2007 3:13 pm ET

Rudy’s got it right. Everything that he said in the above is consistent with both Microeconomic theory and Macroeconomic theory.

RUDY is the man in Wichita KS   July 31st, 2007 3:12 pm ET

Pixie why would anyone want to pay more taxes?? More taxes just mean more money in the hands of people (Democrats and Republicans) that dont know how to manage it. I would like to see your sister my son anyone without insurance be able to get it. I just dont think higher taxes are the way to do it. Also what about people in this country illegally?? if we werent already providing them free care then hard working americans like you and I wouldnt have to carry the burden.

David, Gilbert Arizona   July 31st, 2007 3:11 pm ET

I find it funny how people hold up the Social Security system as an example of how a socialized program fails. Social Security has had a surplus of funds for decades. Multiple administrations have "raided" those surplus funds to help balance the Federal budget. President Bush vowed in 2001 not to used Social Security funds and then turned around and allocated $2.4 trillion of Social Security funds over a ten year period. These funds are used to bolster Bush's argument for making his tax cuts permanent. Social Security isn't broken. Government restrictions on allocating funds is what is broken.

If we had a universal socialized health care program it very well could work. The problem, of course, is that government would re-allocate any surplus to fund their own pet projects. Socialized health care isn't the problem. The problem is our broken, back biting, greedy government. Giuliani isn't going to change that one single bit.

Ashen Shard, Chambersburg, PA   July 31st, 2007 3:08 pm ET

For everyone saying socialized medicine won't work and will only raise our taxes, consider this:
1) yes, it will have to be paid for through taxes, but it will be much cheaper than what we are spending now. Just think, none of us will have to worry about having to cut back on something because we have to pay $310/month to make sure we have health insurance. It will also help business, who will also be required to pay taxes into this, but will no longer be paying the outrageous cost of health insurance in this country. Our system costs over $4000/person while the next most expensive system in the world is just over $2000/person.
2) You get treatment right away when you need it. The doctor decides if/what/when concerning your health, not some insurance representative who will deny or delay your treatment because the bottom line and their shareholders come first.
3) Pointing out waiting times in other countries compared to here is ludicrous. Sure, if it is not an important procedure, then you are going to have to wait. In an emergency they are not going to ignore you which has happened in this country and people die in emergency waiting rooms because they are ignored.

Government controlled health system will be cheaper and more efficient. The only plus of the system now is for those people who have a lot of money who don't have to worry like the common person.

Robert, Edwards AFB, CA   July 31st, 2007 3:04 pm ET

To bad, so sad, Sam.

Just because you dont have health insurance doesn't mean I should have to pay for it for you.

Independent Voter, TN   July 31st, 2007 2:37 pm ET

There should be no corelation between being a Democrat or Republican on this issue. I am an independent voter and I'm the one who posted earlier about having lived in England for 13 years and enduring the relatively inferior health care there.

I can appreciate that many of you do "research" on these topics, but until you experience it or live it, you really have no idea what you're talking about.

The physicians in these countries with National Health programs make squat on the public side. Consequently, they provide the type of care you would expect of a poorly compensated professional.

Please don't turn this into a partisan issue. Know what you're getting yourself into before you clamor for it.

Sam (Belleville, Michigan)   July 31st, 2007 2:24 pm ET

To Anonymous:

I was just using myself as an example. As I typed it, I realized, well, yes, I'd get funded by the government anyway (though the state government, not the federal). But I was more using my situation as an example as to why universal health care isn't as bad as people want to make it sound. It's for those of us who are looking for work, not as many people believe, for bums who don't want to find work.

I'm not whining about not finding a job. I'm merely stating that people who have just finished school sometimes don't find jobs right away. It's tough. So if it is tough, why can't the government step in and help out? What is so wrong about that? I didn't say I'm not working – I'm working another job. But it's not one that provides health insurance. I pay my taxes just like you do. I live paycheck to paycheck, just like a lot of people who are posting, I'm sure. I'm okay with this. But having universal health care would not only help me, but hundreds of thousands of people in my situation.

Anonymous, CA   July 31st, 2007 2:23 pm ET

Then what is the solution Rudy?

All I hear is a mouth full of hot air and meaningless cliches such as accountability and market driven reform that would would some how magically fix the healthcare system.

Code for the poor would still have no coverage and the HMO's can continue to use corrupt practices to deny people coverage or services.

Anonymous   July 31st, 2007 2:19 pm ET

To Sam,
"I could have free insurance while I find a job, then once I do, that public school district would then pay for my insurance, thus taking the burden off the fedreal government." Ill ignore the obvious spelling error, and give you the benefit of the doubt that it was a typo. However I can ignore the blatantly idiotic statement you just made there. Public schools (including salary and any benefits), are funded by taxpayers. So while the federal government itself wont be financing your healthcare, taxpayers still would.

Furthermore, its time to stop whining that you cant find a job as a teacher. No one owes you a job as a teacher. While I admire that youve chosen this a profession, not everyone gets the career they want right away. Often times, people work at another job until they are able to find employment where they want. Ever consider moving to another district? Or how about working at a non-public school?

Pixie, Murfreesboro, TN   July 31st, 2007 2:19 pm ET

Why do you republicans complain about having to pay more taxes to ensure every AMERICAN receives at least the minimun health coverage, yet when your buddies in the white house raise the prospect of yet another war in the middle east (Iran!), there is no garment rending and pearl clutching about the cost in tax dollars that a war will incur?

For Anon who said this: "Lets see, social security is going bankrupt, our education system is one of the worst in the world, and our police, fire, and postal workers are underpaid, and underfunded. Yeah, I really want beauracrats in charge of my healthcare…"

Please provide support for your claims instead of Rush talking points.

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   July 31st, 2007 2:17 pm ET

Sam,

The problem with that idea is that you would have the GOVERNMENT assigned with the task to oversee and maintain the extremely complex system. You have seen their inability to rectify social security's multitude of problems so I don't really see how you could think they will be able to get this one right.

We have a capitalistic society that has continually proven to be the strongest in the world so I think I would put my trust in the American way over what some Democratic presidential candidate sells me on to get elected.

I wish nothing but the best for you, and hope your situation stabilizes very soon.

Sam (Belleville, Michigan)   July 31st, 2007 2:09 pm ET

To the anonymous poster that stated "if you don't get insurance from work, then find a better job. duh." This is a VERY poor way of looking at things. Getting a better job isn't simple. I'm a teacher looking for work. I'm actively searching for work. I have an extremely noble profession. It's hard to find a job. So, simply going to get better jobs is not simple in today's economy in the midwest, so please don't put us down.

dan   July 31st, 2007 2:08 pm ET

The real story here is that Giuliani made a speech without mentioning 9/11.

John, Ca.   July 31st, 2007 2:08 pm ET

ENOUGH REPUBLICAN IGNORANT HATE-SPEECH!

We have a hybrid system now and there is no reason why we can't expand this hybrid system to cover everyone with basic medical coverage. It would save money in the long run if everyone had access to preventative care versus using the emergency rooms as the provider of last resort often when it is too late.

ENOUGH HYSTERIA. TAKE OFF THE IDEOLOGICAL BLINDERS AND REPLACE THEM WITH A THINKING CAP.

IT'S MORALLY RIGHT AND ECONOMICALLY RIGHT TO PROVIDE UNIVERSAL CARE FOR ALL!

Mike, HI   July 31st, 2007 2:04 pm ET

First of all, Universal health care is NOT socialized medicine (another lie by Guliani) – people who have insurance will keep it, but this is just a way to help cover those 47 million people w/o care

And how are we helping those 47 million people? By taxing everyone, right? Does that mean raising taxes (which means those who "keep it" will have a harder time keeping it)? I'm all for cutting some federal programs, but which ones do the Democrats have the balls to cut?

Second – this is a moral and even a “christian” issue – can those of us who have access to health care actually look someone in the face who does not and seriously tell them we are too selfish to help them get health care coverage?

Then you can donate money to help them out. It should be done of your own accord, and you should be allowed to give the money to who you think deserves it or would use it best. That's more efficient than the government taking it and throwing it at the bureaucracy.

Sam (Belleville, Michigan)   July 31st, 2007 2:04 pm ET

Greg. What I believe the idea is by certain Democrats is NOT to overhaul the system as you claim, but to simply help the uninsured. I do not think anyone wishes to dramatically alter the sytem so that everyone is covered by the government. I believe the idea is that the uninsured would be helped, and for someone like me, I could have free insurance while I find a job, then once I do, that public school district would then pay for my insurance, thus taking the burden off the fedreal government.

Anonymous   July 31st, 2007 2:03 pm ET

"Susan, Fort Pierce: If Canada is so great and the U.S is so bad than why don’t you go to Canada? Nothing in life is free. Socialized health care will not work. Socialism is bad, have you forgotten this? We are trying to get away from our government controlling every aspect of our lives. They couldn’t handle Hurricane Katrina, but you think they can handle your health care and MILLIONS of other people’s. You and many others need to wake up and do research because your going to kill our country."

Too bad they dont want us...

"I guess for republicans the american way is “every man for themselves”

For those of you who detest government helping people – then I guess it is ok to take away you grandma’s Social Security check, your son’s federal student loans, and the FMLA leave that your wife got when she was pregnant…"

Actually America was founded as a nation that gave people freedom to pursue their own dreams without intervention from the government. In a way you could call this every man for himself. The founding principle of the country was "work hard and get ahead , dont work hard, you fail". When did it become my responsibility to worry about people who wont work intentionally? For those who are unable to work I understand the argument.

Three of my four grandparents are dead. None of them relied on Social Security as their sole source of income, they were actually frugal and saved for their retirement. I wasnt eligible for government aid for college. Most companies (if they are intelligent), would give that pregnant leave these days to keep their employees happy. In fact many of them are giving *gasp* paternity leave too.

So yeah, I dont want the government to have any say in my life. I forgot though, Im too stupid to take care of my own life, so the government should do it for me.

If you dont get insurance from work, find a better job. Duh

steve, albuquerque, NM   July 31st, 2007 1:59 pm ET

To Lindsay, Milwaukee, WI or others who claim that european health care is not working – do you have some proof that you could share with us?

Or are you just regurgitating what Rush, Hannity and others have told you without questioning it

Provide some evidence and then we will believe you

TC Plainfield IL   July 31st, 2007 1:58 pm ET

If you want a presidential candidate with the guts to stand up for the rights of insurance and pharmaceutical companies, then Rudy is you man! The rest of us will be looking for a better answer.

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   July 31st, 2007 1:57 pm ET

Sam,

Noone is saying that our healthcare system is working properly. It obviously is not. However, the moderates on this board, and others, are only saying that we must do it the right way.

If we tried to overhaul our system in such a way as to move to a government funded, and government officiated system the strain on our economy would be beyond belief. Our taxes would go so high that healthcare would be about the only thing you could afford (because it would be free and worthless).

Please be cognizant that the various political parties are only trying to get elected and are NOT speaking out for people like you and me.

Sam (Belleville, Michigan)   July 31st, 2007 1:56 pm ET

Looks like those detractors of universal health care keep coming and don't bother to look at my post a little up on the board that clearly explains why this is not a terrible, awful thing. Look up a bit, read it, and explain to me why it'd be so evil if the government helped me out for a bit.

Lindsay, Milwaukee, WI   July 31st, 2007 1:53 pm ET

European healthcare is not working. Canadian healthcare is not working. Sicko is just another biased viewpoint getting a lot of press. It's not accurate.

To the girl who'd pay a little extra so her little sister can have health insurance – go ahead, pay a little extra. Just don't expect all of us to pay too.

To the question about Canadians – there are LOTS of Canadians disatisfied with their healthcare, that's why they come to the US for almost all surgical procedures. Here's another question for you – have you met a Canadian or European who has single handedly improved their socio-economic status? Not without coming to America.

steve, Albuquerque NM   July 31st, 2007 1:49 pm ET

Typical Giuliani – trying to scare americans into voting for him – pathetic

First of all, Universal health care is NOT socialized medicine (another lie by Guliani) – people who have insurance will keep it, but this is just a way to help cover those 47 million people w/o care

Second – this is a moral and even a "christian" issue – can those of us who have access to health care actually look someone in the face who does not and seriously tell them we are too selfish to help them get health care coverage? That is truly sad if people feel that way... I guess for republicans the american way is "every man for themselves"

For those of you who detest government helping people – then I guess it is ok to take away you grandma's Social Security check, your son's federal student loans, and the FMLA leave that your wife got when she was pregnant...

Anonymous   July 31st, 2007 1:48 pm ET

Susan, Fort Pierce: If Canada is so great and the U.S is so bad than why don't you go to Canada? Nothing in life is free. Socialized health care will not work. Socialism is bad, have you forgotten this? We are trying to get away from our government controlling every aspect of our lives. They couldn't handle Hurricane Katrina, but you think they can handle your health care and MILLIONS of other people's. You and many others need to wake up and do research because your going to kill our country.

Susan, Fort Pierce, Florida   July 31st, 2007 1:34 pm ET

What a joke the Republicans are! I would give anything to have a health care system like Canada's. Yes, some elective surgary you have to wait for but I would rather wait to have a knee replacement and know that I won't have to worrry about the cost rather than have the operation tomorrow and be in debt the rest of my life with a half a million dollar hospital bill! If that is the "American Way" than I will take Canada's any day of the week. Peace of mind is the best medicine!

Sam (Belleville, Michigan)   July 31st, 2007 1:29 pm ET

I think the detractors of a universal health care system are missing something.

Not EVERYONE has to be on the governmental health care system. Health care can still exist the way it does today. If you have a job and have health insurace through it, that won't change. But for the tens of millions of Americans without health insurance, this will help them.

Take me for instance. I am a 25-year old college graduate. I have a degree in teaching, a fairly noble and upstanding profession. Here in Michigan, it is hard for me to find a job. I am working with middle-schoolers currently, but at an hourly rate. I don't have health insurance through my job. I have to pay $100 a month for bare-minimum insurance.

I am not one who would "abuse" the sytem or "rely" on government. However, I feel I am exactly the person the Democrats are thinking of when they think of universal health care. A system to help those who can't afford it at their current situation.

James   July 31st, 2007 1:17 pm ET

When Guliani "defeated" prostate cancer he did so by having the best insurance a rich white man's money can buy. Of course he could care less about the 47 million Americans without health insurance, or the 51% who need to see a doctor but don't because of the cost. This old Nixonesque mantra of "socialized" medicine "more taxes", etc. is as outdated as Bushs' oil policies in Iraq. I suppose he is implying here of doing away with Medicaid as well since that too is "socialized" medicine.

Mike, Staatsburg, NY   July 31st, 2007 1:13 pm ET

Maybe someone should tell re-marrying Rudy that the "European, socialist" way of doing things is costing nations like Germany, France, Switzerland, Holland, etc., half as much as a percentage of GDP in health care costs as it is costing America... and they cover EVERY CITIZEN.

U.S. way: 14+ percent of GDP, 46 million uninsured
"European, socialist" way: 7% of GDP, 0 uninsured

I'll take the "European, socialist" way, thank you!

Mary, Beaver, PA   July 31st, 2007 1:08 pm ET

I noticed how good England's National Health Service was when I was there: layoffs and red ink because it's not fiscally viable. And don't ask my English husband about the quality of medical care. Eight percent of everyone's income funds the system, and yet my husband suffered with severe neck injuries for 18 years because the doctors kept looking for injuries in his shoulder. That doesn't even count the apathy of his primary provider, who suggested that there was always the river if he couldn't stand the pain. His cousin has had numerous bouts with skin cancer but has to see a private provider because the waiting list through NHS is too long. My husband had to do the same to get timely dental care. Yes, the US health system has problems, but let's be very careful before we replace it with something that only looks good from a distance.

Ian, Eastham MA   July 31st, 2007 1:08 pm ET

Giuliani's position on this subject almost sounds like Ron Paul's. Although, since he's provided no specifics, I not sure he really knows what to say beyond "Free markets, good; Government, bad".

There are several problems with our healthcare system. Most problems can be traced to government policies, which stack the decks against us.

For instance, if your employer pays your health insurance it’s tax deductible for them. If you pay it, it's not. Since your company chooses your insurance, you lose out on choice and competition suffers.

Also, the same procedure is priced around 50% LESS when an insurance company pays, because they get a discount. That means you get hosed on any healthcare expenses when you pay yourself! This puts health services and health insurance out of range for many.

The best system would allow individuals to purchase catastrophic insurance coverage and make price discrimination illegal for healthcare providers (including pharmaceuticals).

It’s funny, no one is complaining about auto insurance. We choose that ourselves, there are reasonable deductibles, good competition, and the body shop charges the insurance company the same amount they’ll charge you for the same repair.

David, San Mateo, CA   July 31st, 2007 1:07 pm ET

Now hold on a minute, wasn't Kucinich the only Democratic nominee who supported a "single-payer" system? I was pretty certain neither Clinton, Obama, or Edwards were advocating that.

Jamie; Columbus, OH   July 31st, 2007 12:59 pm ET

Sure, if you don't want universal healthcare or "socialized" medicine, that's fine. Please give an intelligent alternative rather than say catch phrases like making it more "affordable" and "giving people more choices" and "doing it the American way." The point of "socialized medicine" is to make healthcare more affordable and accessible. Oh, by the way, the "wasteful bureaucracy" you speak of also used catch phrases and empty words. How about something with substance?

MS Johnson City, TN   July 31st, 2007 12:56 pm ET

Giuliani is pretending as if he has won the nomination. How amusing!

Healthcare will become affordable when the government and insurance companies will get out of that business. It will become affordable when a patient will have a say about how much he wants to pay his doctor or pharmacist, not the government or insurance company. It is not a rocket science, sir.

Go Ron Paul!

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   July 31st, 2007 12:50 pm ET

Once again, Canada has 32 million people, the United States has 300 million people.

Can you not see how the implementation of SOCIALIZED MEDICINE in this country would be just a little bit different?

If we tried this in the US, it would sink us, plain and simple. Our taxes would go through the roof, and our economy would suffer greatly.

NO THANKS!

Joseph Smith, Cramerton NC   July 31st, 2007 12:50 pm ET

So what your saying Mayor is that we need to do it the American way so someone can profit from it as in the free enterprise system. That wouldnt be so bad if the governemt could regulate just how rich a company can become off of someone elses misfortunes. Affordable healthcare is all i am looking for. I am paying almost 400 dollars per month for a family of 3.I work in emergency services so I dont make a lot of money.What is your plan Mayor?

Lee, Boston, MA   July 31st, 2007 12:44 pm ET

Why in the world do my comments get moderated away, but Greg in Phoenix, AZ, gets to post his drivel twice?

Not to mention "anonymous" and "RUDY I am with you" who violate the "name required" policy. I guess when it's conservative dogma being spouted, the rules go out the window? Way to go CNN.

Tricia M Charlottetown PEI   July 31st, 2007 12:43 pm ET

You should listen more intently to Michael Moore.

Our Medicare system in Canada is working great. We don't pay for hospital care, radiology, scans, tests, or doctore visits just to name a few. Those who can't afford health care are covered under our government not turned on their heels out the door. We can have a baby or three without morgaging our home.

We've had our system for decades and it works great. Our Country hasn't gone under due to our Health Care System.

I sure wouldn't want the US Plan.
And have to wait till I can afford needed treatments/surgeries/scans/or hospital stays.

Canadians are against Private Sector Health Care which is just a glorified system for the rich and famous.

James Huntington Beach CA   July 31st, 2007 12:39 pm ET

I think bringing accountablitiy to the sysmtem is the way to do it. I read all these post and everybody is saying the same thing. We all need better health care. I know 5 Canadians and i assumed they had better health care. They all moved from Canada and 100% of them said the health care system there SUCKS. I dont know about Europe but im sure you get what you pay for. I know there dental plans is not very good- look at their teeth.

Chris, Middletown, CT   July 31st, 2007 12:37 pm ET

Ask the neighbors to the north – they pay 60% taxes – Giuliani is correct – a socialized system is NOT what anyone needs – and anyone who quotes Michael Moore automatically loses credibility. Turn on your TV in the afternoon – and see every other ad is for a lawyer saying how much you deserve – tort reform is a start – and health care costs go down – Democrats need to start reading....(and not just one side of the story)

Zander, Akron OH   July 31st, 2007 12:35 pm ET

The health care system is not "being dragged down by decades of government-imposed mandates and wasteful, unaccountable bureaucracy." It's being dragged down by insurance companies that would rather make a profit than provide the care that people deserve. Should we be neglectful to our own citizens? Is that the American way, Mr. Guiliani? And by the way, the only Democratic candidate who is proposing a single-payer system is Dennis Kucinich; so essentially he's lying about most of the Democrat's proposals. Just what we need, another president who doesn't tell the truth to the American people.

Heather   July 31st, 2007 12:33 pm ET

Ryan, that is indeed a copy of Adam Sandler's Big Daddy under his arm. I guess Giuliani is just trying to hook him up with advertising space since Sandler is one of his big political contributers. Typical tit for tat.

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   July 31st, 2007 12:29 pm ET

You guys can move to France and Cuba, I think I'll stick with our great capitalistic experiment.

Kudos to Giuliani for coming out and speaking against an ill-fated idea that could sink our country into a longstanding depression!

Independent Voter, TN   July 31st, 2007 12:28 pm ET

As someone who lived in England for 13 years with a national health care system, I can say with some objectivity that we have the finest health care in the world. And although the system can always be improved, socialized medicine provides an inferior product.

Ask our neighbors to the North who wait months for surgical procedures why many of them would prefer to come here and pay for healthcare rather than receive it "free" up there.

In addition, be prepared for an enormous jump in taxes. The Europeans do not enjoy our standard of living and pay an enormous tax burden. Why are some of you wanting to be like them? The grass isn't always greener.

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   July 31st, 2007 12:26 pm ET

Gee, think some of these posters saw SICKO?

Yeah, we should TOTALLY change from being the greatest country in the world to be more like France or Cuba! They REALLY have it figured out!

Michael Moore is just SOOOO smart and really has no agendas whatsoever!

You guys crack me up!

Ray, Miami, FL   July 31st, 2007 12:25 pm ET

If the American way is to Alienate the under previllaged and increase the weath of the privillaged than "Go Giuliani". I myself is more in favor of a government for the people by the people and not for profit sake. To participate in a government that favors profits over well being of it's citizens is not American and Giuliani should go to the nearest library and refresh his memory of what "GOVERNMENT" really is and stop refering Europe as a "Primitive" society. If government can not run healthcare than I wonder what else they cannot do, maybe we should privatize the military to, oh yeah it's already happening.... I pledge alliance to Corporate America and the doller bill.... Great to be bought and mislead.... Greed is Good, right...

Anonymous   July 31st, 2007 12:24 pm ET

"ooOOOooO SOCIALIZED medicine huh? Well he said it was socialized so there is obviously no benifit to the system at all. I wonder what he thinks about SOCIALIZED education, SOCIAL security, and SOCIALIZED police forces, fire fighters, and postal workers? "

Lets see, social security is going bankrupt, our education system is one of the worst in the world, and our police, fire, and postal workers are underpaid, and underfunded. Yeah, I really want beauracrats in charge of my healthcare...

RUDY I am with you in Wichita KS   July 31st, 2007 12:20 pm ET

I am with Rudy on this one. We DO NOT want a socialized healthcare system. Isnt the VA a form of government ran healthcare?? How is that system working – me thinks not very well. The question I have for Democrats is who will pay for a government run healthcare system?? I for one am not in favor of my taxes and/or health premiums going up to help pay for someone who is in the country illegally or someone who EXPECTS the government to take care of them.

Sharon, Tampa,FL   July 31st, 2007 12:14 pm ET

For those of you who dont know...the European socialized medicine is not working for them either. And their level of care is a lot worse than ours even with medicaid. And that goes for Canada too!
This is not a plug for Guiliani, I'm not voting for him. But he is correct on this one issue.

Patrick, Las Vegas NV   July 31st, 2007 12:13 pm ET

All I hear out of the Republicans' collective maws is that we have to deal with health care "the American way" and not "European style". Well, THE AMERICAN WAY IS NOT WORKING.

Amy Lubchansky, Miami, FL   July 31st, 2007 12:10 pm ET

I assume by the big, bad, scary term "socialized medicine" Guliani means "healthcare policies that actually work". He is correct in saying that it is not American-any American that has been unfortunate enough to nagivate the terrifying terrain of our own health care policies, or lack thereof, already knows this, and they have the failing health and bankruptcy to prove it.

The only people afraid of "socialized medicine" are the people who have been raping the American public for years-big pharm and the insurance companies and the politicians they buy.

Ever met any Canadians or Europeans who have serious complaints with their 5 weeks of mandated paid vacation and FREE healthcare and FREE college? Yeah, me neither.

Bring on the socialized medicine!

Clifford, St. Petersburg Florida   July 31st, 2007 12:10 pm ET

Isn't Medicaid Socialist healthcare? HMO's began with Nixon in 1969 and 1970 and the ones that get rich are the Insurance Companies while our parents and grandparents fall victim to decisions made by Healthcare providers and not doctors. Let's have social medicine for all and reward the doctors for keeping our families healthy. Why are candidates that are millionares playing with the lives of those that can't afford healthcare?

Mike, Frederick MD   July 31st, 2007 12:09 pm ET

Go see SICKO and see what it's all about...maybe you will learn something, instead of being tricked by these republicans!

Ryan, New York, NY   July 31st, 2007 12:07 pm ET

Is that picture of him buying the Adam Sandler DVD the only one that CNN has for the political ticker? You'd almost think that it was paid product placement.

Ahmed, Washington, DC.   July 31st, 2007 12:04 pm ET

Is that a copy of Adam Sandler's "Big Daddy" under his arm?

jason, california   July 31st, 2007 11:59 am ET

He is just what we need. Another president trying to help his big business buddies. In my opinion he really doesn't care about the average american. Typical republican.

Pixie, Murfreesboro, TN   July 31st, 2007 11:59 am ET

ooOOOooO SOCIALIZED medicine huh? Well he said it was socialized so there is obviously no benifit to the system at all. I wonder what he thinks about SOCIALIZED education, SOCIAL security, and SOCIALIZED police forces, fire fighters, and postal workers?

He says we have to do it the "American way"! Which I assume in this context it means pursuing the same broken strategy even when others (Europeans ) have developed a much more effective system for ensuring the health and well being of their countrymen. I don't know about you guys, but I am all for socialized medicine. I wouldn't mind one bit paying a little extra in taxes so people like my little sister could have coverage.

Rurik Hover, St. Paul, MN   July 31st, 2007 11:57 am ET

Giuliani makes me laugh every time he opens his mouth nowadays. He seems to be attempting to be the loudest twit in the box of twits that are looking for the GOP nomination. He never says anything constructive about what he wants to do; he just says 'The other guys are wrong." I seem to remember George Bush doing the same thing....

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