Presidential politics: health care & the Holy Grail

Since Harry Truman called for national health insurance in 1948, presidential candidates have tried with little success to engage the nation in a discussion of health policy. With the single exception of John Kennedy in 1960, candidates of both major parties have failed to raise health care to the "first tier" of campaign debate. As the U.S. prepares for the 1992 election, Democrats hope to break that cycle. While polls show greater interest among voters, indications are a serious national debate is not likely until 1996.