some thoughts

i hate politics; i strive to be 'apolitical,' for lack of a better term. however, facts are facts: democrats have made affordable health care a mainstay of their election agenda, but apparently only if you're willing to get insurance through the government. witness their stealthy assault on americans who prefer the private-sector option of HSAs. this week, the house passed legislation that included a provision to require every HSA transaction be reviewed and verified as a legitimate medical expense. democrats say this is to ensure that consumers are using their tax-free withdrawals for a knee replacement, rather than a new iphone. in reality it adds a layer of bureaucracy that could sharply reduce the appeal and cost savings of HSAs.

airlines' airplanes are safer than ever, and flights on us airlines have never been as crowded. the last crash of a commercial jet occurred in november 2001, although the number of flights has increased substantially in the past six and one-half years.

can more effective regulation by the faa explain the recent improvement in airline safety? no - and this latest drama starring the faa, southwest and american airlines probably cost a few lives by forcing some travelers into their cars...