Universal healthcare

Because of the presidential race for the White House 2008, the idea of universal healthcare is at the forefront of many people's minds (it is also the only thing Hillary Clinton really ever talks about). Pretty much every industrialized nation offers a universal healthcare plan except the U.S.
Small businesses can benefit from a universal healthcare plan. Big companies can offer employees better coverage with more benefits, and thus have the advantage in the hiring market. With universal healthcare, however, a single government body provides coverage for basic needs. This means more small businesses will be able to be established which creates jobs.
Many people do not go to the doctor's office for routine check-ups simply because it costs too much. This makes early detection of chronic illnesses impossible. Paying for treatment of a long-term illness is much more expensive than paying for preventative treatment in most cases. Offering universal healthcare means more long-term illnesses can be caught early.
People will be able to put more money into markets, stimulating the economy. If bombarded by healthcare bills, consumers are not spending money in the market. With universal healthcare, medical bills will not force people in to bankruptcy, and consumer spending will increase, stimulating our dying economy.
Parents who cannot afford coverage for their children will now be nonexistent. Children will be born covered, creating a brighter and healthier generation of future workers!

Why do you think the U.S. hasn't employed universal healthcare already?

Economic stimulus plan

I decided for my first blog to discuss the economic stimulus plan. The bill will issue out about $150 billion in tax rebates for middle-class Americans earning less than $75,000 or less individually. The hope is that everyone will get their $600 and run out and spend it. Many people ask "How will this help, won't it just further the national debt?" There is much truth to this notion, the national debt will increase once again by offering this package. There has also been a lot of criticism toward the president for not increasing food stamp, welfare, or unemployment benefits instead of proposing this stimulus plan. This may be more of a macroeconomics question but where does the government fit in in the market cycle? They give money to households to give to businesses and somehow get back to the government in taxes? This stimulus package seems like more of a quick-fix than anything. Eventually, households will have to pay the money back as national debt begins to diminish. Also, isn't it a bit of a gamble? People may decide to save their money instead of spend which will really not help a struggling economy.

Perhaps I'm just confused, but I'm not alone. Anyone got some helpful information for me?