Reply #1: This post makes the common fallacy here of comparing HCR to some utopia, rather than the status quo [View All]

[BzaDem]

If you actually compare it to the status quo, you would find that the high risk pool rates are MUCH lower than the rates on the private market. So while that may be unaffordable for some, it is still much cheaper than a similar plan on the open market.

"When 2014 hits and the means-tested subsidized rates are still going to be unaffordable for anyone but the poorest of the poor"

That is complete and utter bullshit. People making 400% of the poverty level will pay no more than 9.5% of their income, and people making less than 400% will pay even less of a percentage of their income (down to 2.5% for those making around 135% of the poverty level, and free medicaid for those making 133% or lower).