Do we need a public health care plan?

In an article published June 24, 2009 on the opinion page of The Wall Street Journal, Richard Reich describes why the United States needs a public health option. One of the biggest questions for many participating in this debate, he argues, is whether or not the cost of a public health-care option outweighs the benefits of the plan. Although financial cost is clearly a concern when suggesting and implementing a new policy, Reich argues that "it's important to recognize that those terrifying CBO (Congressional Budget Office) cost projections significantly overstate the costs."

The Wall Street Journal published this cartoon (above) alongside Reich's article. What argument does that cartoon present? How does it complement Reich's arguments?

To read the full article, visit the opinion page of The Wall Street Journal.