"Three years ago, I was just another spectator throwing pillows at the TV set."

So says Illinois state Senate candidate Dr. Arie Friedman, when interviewed by Dr. Wes about why a doctor would go into politics. The interview discusses why doctors are so important in politics:

Why are doctors important for politics anyway?

Health care is a huge part of what government does. Here in Illinois, we spend about half of our entire general budget on health care. Despite that, if I’m elected I will literally be the first physician in history elected to the Illinois General Assembly. If physicians care about the future of health care we simply have to begin earning seats on the legislative side of the table. Regardless of party, I believe physician have a very special insight into the needs of our patients and the role of government in health care….

I want to reemphasize the importance of getting involved. Three years ago, I was just another spectator throwing pillows at the TV set. Once I made the decision to get involved, I found that I could really have an impact. Regardless of your profession, if you are concerned about the political situation you simply must take it upon yourself to contribute to the dialogue in some way.