Some local organizations hosted a healthcare forum at the Portsmouth library last night. We learned that the U.S. spent $2.4 trillion on healthcare in 2008 with relatively little to show for it.

As I’ve learned from attending campaign appearances of U.S. presidential candidates, there are three types of questioners at these events: the smart and informed, the earnest but not well informed and the Zany Zealots.

Let’s focus on the ZZs.

One guy last night insisted there was no problem with the uninsured in America. To prove it, he asked for a show of hands on how many of us were uninsured. When only a couple of hands went up, he concluded, “See, it’s not a problem in this country.”

Another guy, a self-proclaimed Dartmouth grad, criticized any reform that funds abortions and gives healthcare to “illegals.” 

You know how some people write letters to the editor, express outrage at something they read in the publication and conclude, “Please terminate my subscription”?

When I hear ZZs speechify (they never ask questions), I want to say, “Please terminate my membership in the human race.”

To spot ZZs at your next community forum, look for folks who dress inappropriately (why’s that guy in a coat ‘n tie on an 85-degree day?), mutter and whisper constantly to anyone within earshot and--when it’s their turn to ask a question--refer to reams of note cards.