In my previous diary, I deconstructed the new independent study of a single-payer health care system in Vermont. The study posited a higher cost estimate ($1.9-2.2 billion) than did the Shumlin Administration’s study ($1.6 billion). But its conclusions rested on some very sandy soil: it was full of qualifiers with very few definite conclusions. And the purpose of the “independent” report was not to objectively assess the single-payer concept; it was to find “potential fallacies” in the Administration’s study.

But even so, its worst-case estimate wasn’t dramatically higher than the Administration’s. At least not when you compare it to the renowned “model projection” by Lenore Broughton’s favorite “expert,” Wendy Wilton.

She ballparked the cost of single-payer at “over $3 billion annually.” Her report, which is a meaty three pages long, was a red flag constantly waved by conservative Republicans in the 2012 campaign. And now a study designed specifically to poke holes in Shumlin’s plan, produced an estimate much, much lower than Wilton’s. Hmmm.  

Now, normally I wouldn’t waste time writing about a failed candidate who managed to lose badly against a novice politician (Beth Pearce) despite the virtually unlimited financial support of Lenore Broughton & Co. But Wilton is still haunting the dark corners of Republican politics; she was on the conservative slate for top party offices at last weekend’s convention, and it wouldn’t surprise me one little bit if she were to run for State Treasurer again next year.

So, let it be known on this day, November 15, 2013: the centerpiece of Wilton’s last campaign has been thoroughly, if indirectly, debunked. I do hope this will be remembered when she tries again to win the state’s top financial office.  

Also, her 2011 report is still posted on Vermonters for Health Care Freedom’s website. In light of this new information, will Darcie “Hack” Johnston’s pet cause/meal ticket do the honest thing and disavow Wilton’s report?

Nah, didn’t think so.