Staff Reports
Governor Gavin Newsom of California made headlines this weekend, my conservative friends, as he decided to veto a bill aimed at limiting the cost of insulin charged by insurance companies. This move has stirred up controversy within his own party, the Democrats, who are suggesting it will leave people struggling to afford essentials. Democrats often resort to playing the sympathy card, making it seem as if Governor Newsom is responsible for a famine or something equally dramatic.
The proposed bill sought to cap the price of a 30-day supply of insulin at $35 for health plans and disability insurance. However, Governor Newsom had a different perspective. He argued that the bill was redundant, as the state had already entered into a $50 million contract with Civica Rx, a nonprofit pharmaceutical company, to produce affordable insulin known as CalRx, with the goal of making it available for just $30. Governor Newsom's approach is to address the core issue: the exorbitant costs of pharmaceuticals. Unfortunately, the Democrats seem less concerned about this.
ICYMI: @CAGovernor Gavin Newsom announced that CalRx has secured a contract with a manufacturer (CIVICA) to make $30 insulin available to all who need it.
The Governor also announced today that California will seek to manufacture its own Naloxone. pic.twitter.com/tilsiR7PMF
— Brandon Richards 🐻 (@BrandonRichards) March 19, 2023
Democratic Senator Scott Wiener, the bill's author, expressed his displeasure with Governor Newsom's decision. He raised concerns, claiming that thousands of Californians would be forced to choose between buying insulin and buying food. But this seems like yet another instance of Democrats attempting to leverage a victim narrative to advance their big government agenda. Governor Newsom has already taken steps to provide affordable insulin through his innovative partnership. However, apparently, that isn't sufficient for Senator Wiener.
If vetoing the insulin bill wasn't sufficient, Governor Newsom also vetoed a bill that would have mandated insurance companies to cover hearing aids for individuals under 21. One might think the Democrats would appreciate the Governor's fiscal responsibility, but alas, they appear determined to spend recklessly without considering the consequences. For my part, I commend Governor Newsom for his steadfastness in not yielding to the demands of his own party and for making the tough choices. We need more leaders like him who prioritize fiscal responsibility over pandering to every special interest group. Keep up the good work, Governor Newsom!
