I've actually had someone on the left argue with me on a bizarre point.
Their new trial balloon they are floating out says that the fact we hire police and firemen, prove that we are a socialist republic.
Their logic is we give our money, by way of tax dollars, to be protected locally, and all they want to do is simply insure that this is done nationally.
Of course, there are several things wrong with this argument.
One is that we know this would be just a crack in the door, where VA/Medic-aid type health insurance would be just around the corner, along with what any other social ills they think the tax dollar will cure.
Not to mention the fact that local communities decide what is best for the safety, whether to contract first responders, or have a volunteer fire department, for example.
Why so many think a nanny state solution to local issues is such a great idea is beyond me.
Frankly, the nanny state is the easy button to them, and seems intellectually lazy.