My goal was to highlight ways healthcare is different from other commodities, not propose ways to reform the American healthcare system.

But to answer your question, I think tons of Americans would strenuously object to a payroll tax increase. Millions of Americans oppose tax increases on other people (e.g. raising the top income tax bracket). Many more would oppose an increase to their own tax bill. It’s an easy issue to demagogue, and a guaranteed vote-getter.