Dude, Screw the Iraqi's, Where's My Health Insurance?

Lileks pokes a student who said, "That dude's right" in support of Democratic presidential candidate, Howard Dean, asserting "that the extra $87 billion Bush is seeking to rebuild Iraq could have bought health insurance for every American". Lileks replies:

Would you prefer that your [health] fees were cut so you got free health insurance at the expense of an immunization program in Baghdad elementary schools? If that's what you think, fine; just drop the whole "bourgoise-America-is-so-selfish, man" bit, because it's old and busted. Bourgoise America is going to work. You're the one with your hand out. Both hands out.

Right on, James! Higher taxes may be the result of our government making life better for the Iraqis and, as an important side effect, safer for the world. I'm ok with that. Freedom isn't free--many have given their lives; I can surely suffer the departure of a few dollars. If rebuilding Iraq also means that I have to continue to pay up for health care that beats anything else in the world, so be it.

Dude.