Both candidates played loose with the facts at the second Presidential Debate in St. Louis Oct. 8. We offer a sampler of the dubious and sometimes false statements made by each of the candidates.
Issues: health care
Bush Mischaracterizes Kerry’s Health Plan
A Bush ad claims Kerry’s healthcare proposals would put “big government in charge” of medical decisions. In fact, Kerry’s plan would leave 97% with the insurance they have now — while up to 27 million who aren’t insured would gain coverage.
Kerry & Bush Duel Over Medicare Premiums – Who’s To Blame For The 17% Increase?
Bush falsely claims Kerry voted repeatedly to raise premiums. Kerry’s spot blaming Bush alone for the latest increase isn’t much better.
Kerry “Paperwork” Ad: Accurate
Kerry ad says medical paperwork costs hundreds of billions and his plan could save money. He’s right. But what about the expense?
Kerry Health Care Ad: Exaggerated, But Mostly on Target
He says 43 million don’t have “health care.” He means they don’t have insurance.
Bush Says Kerry Will Raise Taxes $900 Billion; Kerry Says That’s False
Attack ad revives question of whether Kerry’s numbers add up.