Letter: Medicaid choice shows Utah life not elevated

I find Utah state government quite ironic, starting with the state Legislature. We all know there are 111,000 people who need insurance help. We also know the federal government has offered $500 million to the cause and that Utah has so far refused to take it.

It was, however, very refreshing to see John C. Wester of the Catholic Diocese ask "why in a state that proudly proclaims its pro-life beliefs, political leaders are frittering away the chance to expand Medicaid."

He continued by saying it is a moral responsibility. Which begs the question, where are the comments from the First Presidency of the dominant faith in Utah? I don't understand the silence. In one short meeting, they could immediately help the 111,000 aforementioned. If this had been an alcohol bill I'm certain the church would have quickly "weighed in." Alcohol bills get immediate reactions. Insurance for the poor begets silence?

"Life elevated," really? Tell that to the 390 human beings who will suffer and die needlessly because of the Legislature playing politics. This state has made a "Commitment to Ignorance." And the most ironic item of all: believing your own rhetoric. Oh, the irony.

Ross Montoya

West Valley City