Congressman Botches Attempt To Compare Sebelius To North Korean Dictator — And Then Really Freaks Out

By Igor Volsky   

December 11, 2013 at 12:08 pm

"Congressman Botches Attempt To Compare Sebelius To North Korean Dictator — And Then Really Freaks Out"

A Republican Congressman tried, but failed, to compare Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to the North Korean dictator during a House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee hearing on Wednesday afternoon.
The comment came during an exchange about the effect of preventive services on health care premiums under the Affordable Care Act. Sebelius disputed Rep. John Shimkus’ (R-IL) claim that offering prevention benefits without cost sharing would increase beneficiaries’ health care expenses. “There is no free lunch, Madam Secretary!,” Shimkus charged. “When you mandate coverage, it is rolled directly on premiums, premiums increase, that is paying for these services!” Sebelius responded by arguing that investing in prevention could decrease costs down the road.
Shimkus grew visibly agitated by her explanation and tried to compare Sebelius to the leaders of North Korea. But rather than referencing the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), Shimkus likened the Secretary to the “Republic of Korea” or South Korea, America’s ally in the region. “Alright, I got it. We’re just going to agree to disagree. It’s like talking to the Republic of Korea or something,” he said.
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Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA) loudly objected, saying that Shimkus should at least allow Sebelius to answer his questions. “I do not have to allow her to answer the question!” Shimkus screamed in reply.
Graphic by Adam Peck.