Just curious, has anyone see one of our local Congressional Democrats take a high-profile position on Democratic attempts to have the federal government "negotiate" prices for the Medicare drug benefit? I haven't, but maybe I missed it.

In the meantime, the Washington Post gives a one, two punch and then some to the Democratic proposal. First, the Congressional Budget Office says such "negotiations" won't actually save money over the current system where private sector providers compete to provide the benefit to seniors. Thus, the whole point of the proposal is moot. Second, the Post notes experts are skewering the Democrats' praise of the VA's drug pricing system as a model for what they want to see in Medicare. For rhetorical flourish, the Post also runs an op-ed from the current HHS Secretary questioning the Democratic proposal:

The success of the Medicare prescription drug benefit provides strong evidence that competition among private drug plans has contributed significantly to lowering costs. The average monthly premium has dropped by 42 percent, from an estimated $38 to $22 -- and there is a plan available for less than $20 a month in every state. The net Medicare cost of the drug program has fallen by close to $200 billion since its passage in 2003.

Seniors and people with disabilities like the benefit. Studies consistently show that three-quarters of Medicare beneficiaries are satisfied with their coverage. Individuals like being able to choose the plan that best fits their needs. A single, one-size-fits-all drug plan would have made the choice easier, and Congress did create a standard plan. But fewer than 15 percent of enrollees have selected that standard plan -- opting instead for plans with lower premiums, no deductibles and enhanced coverage.

In summary, the current program is working well, costing less then expected, and leaving seniors satisfied. The proposed modifications won't save any money. So, what's the point of making a change?

Democrats will probably still pass the bill in question, simply because it's one of their "100 hour promises" and they'll look bad if they don't. But after the CBO report, there is simply no reason for any Republican (or responsible Democrat) to vote, "aye." It's a bad proposal, likely destined to face a just death in the Senate.