Testy McCain Grills Sebelius on Health Care Tax Credit

Kathleen Sebelius got a chilly bout of questioning from John McCain during a Senate committee hearing, Ezra Klein writes for the American Prospect. His manner tense and confrontational, the Arizona senator asked Sebelius if she supported replacing the tax incentive for employer-based care with a $5000 tax credit—an idea he pitched on the campaign trail—Sebelius responded that she supported the president’s plan. “You know," McCain interrupted, "we are asking for your views."

"I support what the president has proposed," Sebelius replied. "That if Americans have health insurance that they like they should be able to keep it.” Sebelius told the committee that health reform would be “my mission,” as “inaction is not an option. The status quo is unacceptable, and unsustainable.” Sebelius’ confirmation hearing as HHS Secretary begins Thursday.
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