Senator Mikulski finally responded to my letter on the stimlus. Here it is.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (P.L. 111-5). It's good to hear from you.
I appreciate hearing your views about this issue. We have inherited a terrible mess, our economy is teetering, and we need to work together to get out of it.
President Obama and Congress have taken a major step forward by enacting the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Only a few weeks into a new Congress and a new Administration, we stood up for America and enacted the most significant economic stimulus legislation in our nation's history. By standing with President Obama, we stand up for America to create jobs for people who have lost them and to help those who have jobs keep them. This really is about jobs, jobs, jobs.
The ARRA creates jobs by investing in our infrastructure. It fixes aging physical infrastructure like roads, bridges, public transit and water systems. It invests in the technological infrastructure like broadband to expand small businesses. And it makes major improvements to our social infrastructure by investing in education so that families and local school districts can help special needs children, extending unemployment insurance for struggling families, and increasing federal assistance for the Medicaid program so states won't cut care for seniors and the poor. It also has targeted tax breaks to help families and small businesses.
I'm heartened that my automobile amendment was included in this legislation. It makes state sales or excise car tax deductible for all new cars purchased before the end of this year. It helps consumers and it helps save jobs in the automobile industry. From the salesman who sells the car, to the manufacturers who make it, to the mechanic who fixes it, and office managers who process the paperwork.
Last month 598,000 people lost their jobs, so this bill is a victory for America. It stimulates the economy today and lays the groundwork for a stronger economy tomorrow.
For more information on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, you may be interested in the White House website http://www.recovery.gov, where you can read the full text of the legislation and see how the money is being spent.
Thanks again for getting in touch with me about these issues. Knowing of your views was helpful to me. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance to you in the future.
Sincerely, Barbara A. MikulskiUnited States Senator
P.S. If I can be of further assistance in the future,please visit my website at http://mikulski.senate.govor call my Washington D.C. office at 202-224-4654
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
USA Auto Industry
General Motors is posting losses in the billions for the fourth quarter of 2008 and doubt if they will be able to continue without more loans from the USA and Canada. Chrysler and Ford are having their own problems and the question is what is going to happen to American car companies.
Thousands of jobs are at stake, and the lives of those dependent on those workers in one form or another are also at stake. Yet, how much tax payer money should be given to an industry that refuses to adapt, is poorly managed and clearly has no vision of the future?
Is the best thing to stop the loans, force the companies to declare bankruptcy and begin again? Maybe under a new structure, with new contracts between the industry and unions things could actually work out for the best?
Free enterprise means that you have to compete and if you are going to be the winner, you have to have the best ideas, be the most creative and offer the best product. The American car industry has failed in this regard.
Bankruptcy just might be the way to inspire them to approach the business from a new point of view.
I say no more loans. If they cannot adapt and survive on their own, then things will just have to continue in a new direction.
Survival of the fittest.
Its Common Sense!
Thousands of jobs are at stake, and the lives of those dependent on those workers in one form or another are also at stake. Yet, how much tax payer money should be given to an industry that refuses to adapt, is poorly managed and clearly has no vision of the future?
Is the best thing to stop the loans, force the companies to declare bankruptcy and begin again? Maybe under a new structure, with new contracts between the industry and unions things could actually work out for the best?
Free enterprise means that you have to compete and if you are going to be the winner, you have to have the best ideas, be the most creative and offer the best product. The American car industry has failed in this regard.
Bankruptcy just might be the way to inspire them to approach the business from a new point of view.
I say no more loans. If they cannot adapt and survive on their own, then things will just have to continue in a new direction.
Survival of the fittest.
Its Common Sense!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Ash Wednesday
Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of forty days of penance and fasting for the majority of Christians throughout the world. Instead of giving anything up this year, I decided I was going to try and adopt a more positive attitude about life and those around me. In general, I think I will be successful.
There is only one area that will cause me difficulty, Congress. Today they approved the spending of another $410 billion. This time there appears to be a lot of ear marks and we will have to see if President Obama sticks to his guns and vetoes the pork.
Now that the Democrats control both the executive and legislative branches of government, it will be interesting to see if they pursue and pass the line item veto. Some Republicans, like John McCain, would certainly go along with them. Sounds like something I need to write my senators about.
As we start Lent, let us all take time to look at the good, help those around us, and be a positive example for all. If we can do it, maybe we can get the politicians to do it. After all, miracles still happen.
Its Common Sense!
There is only one area that will cause me difficulty, Congress. Today they approved the spending of another $410 billion. This time there appears to be a lot of ear marks and we will have to see if President Obama sticks to his guns and vetoes the pork.
Now that the Democrats control both the executive and legislative branches of government, it will be interesting to see if they pursue and pass the line item veto. Some Republicans, like John McCain, would certainly go along with them. Sounds like something I need to write my senators about.
As we start Lent, let us all take time to look at the good, help those around us, and be a positive example for all. If we can do it, maybe we can get the politicians to do it. After all, miracles still happen.
Its Common Sense!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Let's take a minute to breath
I think that now is the time we all need to sit back and calmly reflect on what is going on. The stimulus package, like it or not, is passed and the money is going to be disbursed, sooner better than later. Some governors have problems with some of the money and that's fine. They should ask their constituents' opinion on the spending of any "questionable" money from the Federal government. This money is for the people, not for politicians to play with.
This week President Obama will unveil his budget and his plan to cut his inherited deficit in half during his term. Details will be important. Following the details will be even more important.
Pulling back from Iraq may save some money, but the truth of the matter is if we are to save Afghanistan from the Taliban and Al Quada, then we are going to have to spend heavily on education and modernization. In the past no country has defeated the Afghans because they only tried to destroy and break. To be successful we will have to work with the Afghans to help them grow and expand. All of which will take money.
So, we will sit and wait. There was a big conference today about the economy and the future of the country. All the experts were there. What we have to wait and see is if the "experts" can make their thoughts and dreams practical so that something beneficial will happen for the country.
Its Common Sense!
This week President Obama will unveil his budget and his plan to cut his inherited deficit in half during his term. Details will be important. Following the details will be even more important.
Pulling back from Iraq may save some money, but the truth of the matter is if we are to save Afghanistan from the Taliban and Al Quada, then we are going to have to spend heavily on education and modernization. In the past no country has defeated the Afghans because they only tried to destroy and break. To be successful we will have to work with the Afghans to help them grow and expand. All of which will take money.
So, we will sit and wait. There was a big conference today about the economy and the future of the country. All the experts were there. What we have to wait and see is if the "experts" can make their thoughts and dreams practical so that something beneficial will happen for the country.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Obama's Budget
Word has leaked out about some of the items that will be included in President Obama's budget that will help cut the deficit in half by the time his term ends. Now, there is no doubt that the Bush Administration and Congress left a huge deficit/debt, but I think Obama is suffering from wishful thinking if he thinks he can actually reduce the deficit in half in four years.
One thing is to reduce the spending in Iraq and Afghanistan. Is that really going to happen? Hopefully the majority of our troops will be out of Iraq by 2011, but how much financial support will the USA continue to provide to the Iraq government?
Afghanistan will be receiving new troops shortly. New troops means more equipment, infrastructure and more cooperation with the Afghanistan government and military. In addition, if there is going to any real success against Al Quada and the Taliban, the USA and NATO are going to need to invest heavily in Afghanistan's education system, economic situation, and the creation of jobs that are non-poppy related and can offer competitive salaries.
These things will cost money. If the USA skimps, we will pay the price in more blood and bodies over the long haul.
Obama plans to let the tax cuts for the rich - those earning over $250,000.00 a year - run its course and expire in 2010. I can see the Republicans staying quiet and not asking for a renewal of the tax break.
With all the money that has been borrowed for the stimulus, the government's concentration should be on getting American business in the + column again, and then begin the work of taxing the public and industry fairly to bring in the revenue to pay off the debt.
As for controlling the deficit, Congress and the President have to start working off a balanced budget. No more out of control spending, taking loans from anyone willing to give us a handout. Our status in the world is going down because our leaders are perceived as money hungry bureaucrats.
A balance budget means that all of us need to start making sacrifices and live within in our means. At the same time we have to stay safe and strong. Hard to do but possible.
Its Common Sense!
One thing is to reduce the spending in Iraq and Afghanistan. Is that really going to happen? Hopefully the majority of our troops will be out of Iraq by 2011, but how much financial support will the USA continue to provide to the Iraq government?
Afghanistan will be receiving new troops shortly. New troops means more equipment, infrastructure and more cooperation with the Afghanistan government and military. In addition, if there is going to any real success against Al Quada and the Taliban, the USA and NATO are going to need to invest heavily in Afghanistan's education system, economic situation, and the creation of jobs that are non-poppy related and can offer competitive salaries.
These things will cost money. If the USA skimps, we will pay the price in more blood and bodies over the long haul.
Obama plans to let the tax cuts for the rich - those earning over $250,000.00 a year - run its course and expire in 2010. I can see the Republicans staying quiet and not asking for a renewal of the tax break.
With all the money that has been borrowed for the stimulus, the government's concentration should be on getting American business in the + column again, and then begin the work of taxing the public and industry fairly to bring in the revenue to pay off the debt.
As for controlling the deficit, Congress and the President have to start working off a balanced budget. No more out of control spending, taking loans from anyone willing to give us a handout. Our status in the world is going down because our leaders are perceived as money hungry bureaucrats.
A balance budget means that all of us need to start making sacrifices and live within in our means. At the same time we have to stay safe and strong. Hard to do but possible.
Its Common Sense!
Friday, February 20, 2009
My Congressman on the Stimulus
Here is my Congressman's response as to why he voted for the stimulus.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting our office about H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
H.R. 1 was signed into law by the President on February 17, 2009. It was first passed by the House of Representatives, then sent to the Senate, where it was changed. Both chambers then met in conference to resolve differences between their bills and members were briefed again on the evening before the vote. The final revised bill passed the House by a vote of 246-183 and by the Senate 60-38.
While this bill is not perfect, I voted to support it because Maryland is at a 15-year high for unemployment, with national job losses near the 2 million mark for the last year. I have been contacted by many constituents from our district who are out of work and their families are suffering. We are facing the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. While I would have preferred if the package was devoted entirely to infrastructure, to create jobs and provide aid to cash-strapped states and cities for schools and roads, bills do not progress without compromise. Doing nothing was not an option.
This bill has been a continuous process for five months. Since the market has crashed, we have been briefed by economists on both sides of the aisle to determine the best way to alleviate our country’s dire financial situation. I take my job very seriously, studied the bill carefully, and concluded that it would be in the best interest of my district, state and country to support it. We must remind ourselves that we are one country working together to take the first step on the road to recovery.
There is some misinformation about the bill which I would like to clarify. A few people have objected to the size of the package and disagree with some of the intended recipients of these federal dollars.
Suggestions have been made that ACORN, a low to medium income advocacy group, will directly receive funds from this stimulus. This is untrue. Most of these stimulus dollars will pass through state and local government agencies and be injected directly into local projects. · Democratic Leaders also removed the bill’s provision that would have allowed states to offer family planning services, including contraceptives, under Medicaid without receiving a federal waiver.
In terms of so-called pork barrel spending, Republicans objected to stimulus dollars for revitalization of the National Mall. President Obama and Democratic Leaders agreed to delete $200 million for this project, even though Mall repairs and maintenance have been neglected for years while it is heavily used for demonstrations and events.
Ultimately, the bill provides a total of $787 billion in spending and tax cuts, with more than a third of the total ($300 billion) for individuals and businesses. H.R. 1 also provides a payroll tax credit of $400 for individuals and $800 for married couples, which translates into a larger paycheck.
I understand you may disagree with me and I appreciate you taking the time to share your concerns. It will take years to recover from this unprecedented economic storm, and I believe H.R. 1 will prove a better alternative than inaction.
Sincerely,
C.A. Dutch RuppersbergerMember of Congress
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting our office about H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
H.R. 1 was signed into law by the President on February 17, 2009. It was first passed by the House of Representatives, then sent to the Senate, where it was changed. Both chambers then met in conference to resolve differences between their bills and members were briefed again on the evening before the vote. The final revised bill passed the House by a vote of 246-183 and by the Senate 60-38.
While this bill is not perfect, I voted to support it because Maryland is at a 15-year high for unemployment, with national job losses near the 2 million mark for the last year. I have been contacted by many constituents from our district who are out of work and their families are suffering. We are facing the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. While I would have preferred if the package was devoted entirely to infrastructure, to create jobs and provide aid to cash-strapped states and cities for schools and roads, bills do not progress without compromise. Doing nothing was not an option.
This bill has been a continuous process for five months. Since the market has crashed, we have been briefed by economists on both sides of the aisle to determine the best way to alleviate our country’s dire financial situation. I take my job very seriously, studied the bill carefully, and concluded that it would be in the best interest of my district, state and country to support it. We must remind ourselves that we are one country working together to take the first step on the road to recovery.
There is some misinformation about the bill which I would like to clarify. A few people have objected to the size of the package and disagree with some of the intended recipients of these federal dollars.
Suggestions have been made that ACORN, a low to medium income advocacy group, will directly receive funds from this stimulus. This is untrue. Most of these stimulus dollars will pass through state and local government agencies and be injected directly into local projects. · Democratic Leaders also removed the bill’s provision that would have allowed states to offer family planning services, including contraceptives, under Medicaid without receiving a federal waiver.
In terms of so-called pork barrel spending, Republicans objected to stimulus dollars for revitalization of the National Mall. President Obama and Democratic Leaders agreed to delete $200 million for this project, even though Mall repairs and maintenance have been neglected for years while it is heavily used for demonstrations and events.
Ultimately, the bill provides a total of $787 billion in spending and tax cuts, with more than a third of the total ($300 billion) for individuals and businesses. H.R. 1 also provides a payroll tax credit of $400 for individuals and $800 for married couples, which translates into a larger paycheck.
I understand you may disagree with me and I appreciate you taking the time to share your concerns. It will take years to recover from this unprecedented economic storm, and I believe H.R. 1 will prove a better alternative than inaction.
Sincerely,
C.A. Dutch RuppersbergerMember of Congress
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Homeowner Bailout?
President Obama is putting up $75 billion to try and save four to seven million families from having their homes foreclosed. Fine, I don't want to see folks thrown out on the streets. But I do want to know just what the rules are going to be.
The home market crisis occurred because lenders and realtors got carried away and assured people they could handle mortgages out of their range. Also, lending institutions and realtors drove up the market, creating an unrealistic price ceiling, that has come crashing down.
What I want to know is what is going to happen to the lending institutions and realtors who lied and manipulated the public to make a big profit? Are these people going to be held accountable for the crimes they committed?
Are home buyers going to be forced to take a class about the reality of the economic situation before being allowed to buy a house? Things like using your base salary - no overtime or bonus, etc - to see what your actual monthly income is and what one third is, which should be the maximum amount of monthly income devoted to a mortgage.
We got into this crisis due to greedy and stupid people. We are now being mandated - no one asked me if I wanted my tax dollars going to mismanaged lending institutions and families who did not take the time to do the math - to save these foreclosures at our expense. Fine. But I want guarantees that in the future the government will have a plan in place to insure that this kind of greed and stupidity never destroy the housing market again.
Its Common Sense!
The home market crisis occurred because lenders and realtors got carried away and assured people they could handle mortgages out of their range. Also, lending institutions and realtors drove up the market, creating an unrealistic price ceiling, that has come crashing down.
What I want to know is what is going to happen to the lending institutions and realtors who lied and manipulated the public to make a big profit? Are these people going to be held accountable for the crimes they committed?
Are home buyers going to be forced to take a class about the reality of the economic situation before being allowed to buy a house? Things like using your base salary - no overtime or bonus, etc - to see what your actual monthly income is and what one third is, which should be the maximum amount of monthly income devoted to a mortgage.
We got into this crisis due to greedy and stupid people. We are now being mandated - no one asked me if I wanted my tax dollars going to mismanaged lending institutions and families who did not take the time to do the math - to save these foreclosures at our expense. Fine. But I want guarantees that in the future the government will have a plan in place to insure that this kind of greed and stupidity never destroy the housing market again.
Its Common Sense!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Chavez forever???
Venezuela voted on a referendum Sunday to abolish term limits on all political offices in the country and it won. Which means that Hugo Chavez can legitimately (as long as he controls the ballot boxes) remain the president for the rest of his life.
I have always been in favor of term limits. I believe US Senators (as well as state senators) should have a limit of two six year terms and that Congressmen (and their state equivalent) should have a limit of two four year terms. Two years never made any sense to me. Too much time wasted on campaigning. Of course the President's current term limit should remain in place.
What happens next in Venezuela and countries like Bolivia and Ecuador, where Chavez has some influence, is anybodies guess. We know he is supposedly supporting socialism, we just have to discover what the word means to him.
We will need to continue to keep a close eye on Chavez, especially as we move towards energy independence and cut petroleum products coming from Venezuela. His reaction will be interesting.
Time will tell if Chavez will bring true socialism to South America, or only extreme chaos.
Its Common Sense!
I have always been in favor of term limits. I believe US Senators (as well as state senators) should have a limit of two six year terms and that Congressmen (and their state equivalent) should have a limit of two four year terms. Two years never made any sense to me. Too much time wasted on campaigning. Of course the President's current term limit should remain in place.
What happens next in Venezuela and countries like Bolivia and Ecuador, where Chavez has some influence, is anybodies guess. We know he is supposedly supporting socialism, we just have to discover what the word means to him.
We will need to continue to keep a close eye on Chavez, especially as we move towards energy independence and cut petroleum products coming from Venezuela. His reaction will be interesting.
Time will tell if Chavez will bring true socialism to South America, or only extreme chaos.
Its Common Sense!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Taliban - What is the Appeal?
I was reading where the Taliban has made great inroads in the Swat Valley of north-western Pakistan to the extent that the local officials are going to give into their demands for using a much stricter interpretation of Islamic law. The Taliban got their point across by destroying girls schools, beheading those not in agreement and basically terrorizing the valley. They evidently won.
What I fail to understand is why the people would agree to this? I admit that I am not an Islamic scholar but I do know a little history. I know that there was a time when Islamic scholars lead the world in science and medicine and that the great Islamic learning centers in Spain, North Africa and parts of the Middle East were the envy of the world.
Then something happened. It appears that Islamic thinking fell into some kind of dark age and they have never recovered. How could any modern thinker agree with the Taliban? Women with no rights, treated worse than animals? No culture, no music, no free thought. Its very reminiscent of Pol Pot in Cambodia during the '70s, when he believed everyone should be on the farm guarded by an AK47.
Where are the modern Islamic thinkers? Why are there no voices protesting the Taliban's negative interpretation of the Koran? Surely there are those in the Islamic world who want to stand up and say the Taliban does not represent how the prophet wants them to live and treat others.
I will appreciate any insight into Islamic law that someone can share. I know their are different sects within Islam, based on history and religious interpretation of the Koran, I just do not understand why anyone would support the Taliban's interpretation of the Koran and their desire to take the people back into the Dark Ages.
If we in America are going to be able to help the citizens of Afghanistan and Pakistan who want to live their lives and religions as they see fit, then we have to understand the mentality of the Taliban so that we will be able to defeat them not on the battlefield with rifles, but in the intellectual, philosophical, and spiritual inner being that truly define who we are.
Its Common Sense!
What I fail to understand is why the people would agree to this? I admit that I am not an Islamic scholar but I do know a little history. I know that there was a time when Islamic scholars lead the world in science and medicine and that the great Islamic learning centers in Spain, North Africa and parts of the Middle East were the envy of the world.
Then something happened. It appears that Islamic thinking fell into some kind of dark age and they have never recovered. How could any modern thinker agree with the Taliban? Women with no rights, treated worse than animals? No culture, no music, no free thought. Its very reminiscent of Pol Pot in Cambodia during the '70s, when he believed everyone should be on the farm guarded by an AK47.
Where are the modern Islamic thinkers? Why are there no voices protesting the Taliban's negative interpretation of the Koran? Surely there are those in the Islamic world who want to stand up and say the Taliban does not represent how the prophet wants them to live and treat others.
I will appreciate any insight into Islamic law that someone can share. I know their are different sects within Islam, based on history and religious interpretation of the Koran, I just do not understand why anyone would support the Taliban's interpretation of the Koran and their desire to take the people back into the Dark Ages.
If we in America are going to be able to help the citizens of Afghanistan and Pakistan who want to live their lives and religions as they see fit, then we have to understand the mentality of the Taliban so that we will be able to defeat them not on the battlefield with rifles, but in the intellectual, philosophical, and spiritual inner being that truly define who we are.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
The Stimulus and the Local Economy
Last evening I spoke to an acquaintance of mine who works for Maryland's State Highway Department. He explained to me that he is part of team putting the final touches on a couple of highway projects that will begin when the state receives its first $3 million infrastructure stimulus money. He is of the opinion that the money will help put people back to work and that it will get the economy moving.
On weekend he works in a convenience store and he told me that since October many of his regular customers had been in to say they were out of work and would no long be regulars.
His point is that if the money from the stimulus actually goes to workers on highway/bridge/tunnel/water work infrastructure projects and into factories and other building projects, then these are the workers who stop and buy gas and coffee etc at convenience stores. These are the people who go grocery shopping on Friday and Saturday, who may need to buy a new car or break down and get a HVD TV. With the right interest rate and loans from the banks they just may be able to buy a home, or at the very least continue paying the mortgage on their current home.
If the money from the stimulus actually goes to workers, then the economy can come back. The key is that the money needs to get in the hands of the people, not financial institutions who will only use it for their own interests or into special political pet projects that have no effect on the general good..
We all need to start monitoring the website Recovery.gov and make sure this money goes where it can do the most good - into the pockets of the American People.
Its Common Sense!
On weekend he works in a convenience store and he told me that since October many of his regular customers had been in to say they were out of work and would no long be regulars.
His point is that if the money from the stimulus actually goes to workers on highway/bridge/tunnel/water work infrastructure projects and into factories and other building projects, then these are the workers who stop and buy gas and coffee etc at convenience stores. These are the people who go grocery shopping on Friday and Saturday, who may need to buy a new car or break down and get a HVD TV. With the right interest rate and loans from the banks they just may be able to buy a home, or at the very least continue paying the mortgage on their current home.
If the money from the stimulus actually goes to workers, then the economy can come back. The key is that the money needs to get in the hands of the people, not financial institutions who will only use it for their own interests or into special political pet projects that have no effect on the general good..
We all need to start monitoring the website Recovery.gov and make sure this money goes where it can do the most good - into the pockets of the American People.
Its Common Sense!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Stimlus - Economic Help or Hinderance?
Well, the House passed the stimulus bill and no doubt, one way or another, the Senate will pass it as well and Tuesday morning it will be on President Obama's desk for his signature. Then will come the real fighting.
The Republicans will complain that the allocation of funds is totally wrong and not doing any good. They will also complain about the debt this stimulus puts on our grandchildren and great-grand children. I have to agree with them about that.
The Democrats will praise the affects of the stimulus, although they will get very defensive if forced to justify why some of their pet projects got funding, since they have little or nothing to do with the overall economic recovery of the nation.
Of course it is we the people who will be forced to make the most honest evaluation of the stimulus. Did it save and/or create all the jobs that were promised? Did it begin repairing the infrastructure of the country? Did the stimulus inspire green jobs? Did our energy companies begin investing in creating alternative energy sources that will make the United States energy independent? Are our schools better? Are we once again seen as a world leader?
A lot of questions, time will tell how the report card will be graded. President Obama during his travels this week says he wants to be judged on how effective or ineffective his plan is. Let's hope that we will be able to provide him with the honesty he wants.
Its Common Sense!
The Republicans will complain that the allocation of funds is totally wrong and not doing any good. They will also complain about the debt this stimulus puts on our grandchildren and great-grand children. I have to agree with them about that.
The Democrats will praise the affects of the stimulus, although they will get very defensive if forced to justify why some of their pet projects got funding, since they have little or nothing to do with the overall economic recovery of the nation.
Of course it is we the people who will be forced to make the most honest evaluation of the stimulus. Did it save and/or create all the jobs that were promised? Did it begin repairing the infrastructure of the country? Did the stimulus inspire green jobs? Did our energy companies begin investing in creating alternative energy sources that will make the United States energy independent? Are our schools better? Are we once again seen as a world leader?
A lot of questions, time will tell how the report card will be graded. President Obama during his travels this week says he wants to be judged on how effective or ineffective his plan is. Let's hope that we will be able to provide him with the honesty he wants.
Its Common Sense!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Senator Mikulski on Tim Geithner
Last evening, Wednesday February 11, 2009 I received a response from senator Mikulski regarding voting for Secretary Geithner. Needless to say its after the fact, but she did respond and I'll share her response.
I may not agree with her, but at least she answers some times.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me regarding the nomination of Timothy Geithner to the position of Secretary of the Treasury. It's good to hear from you.
I have heard from many Marylanders on this important nomination, and I understand your concerns. It's not too much to ask that the Treasury Secretary pay his taxes on time.
I believe each nominee should be judged on his or her merits. I have three criteria when I consider nominations. I look at the nominee's competence, integrity, and commitment to the mission of the department they seek to lead.
The mission of the Department of the Treasury is to serve the American people and strengthen national security by managing the U.S. Government's finances effectively, promoting economic growth and stability, and ensuring the safety, soundness and security of the U.S. and international financial systems. President Obama needs a Treasury Secretary at his side with the skills and experience to restore confidence and stability in our economy.
Yet I was very concerned by revelations that Mr. Geithner failed to promptly pay all of his income taxes. I ultimately voted in favor of his nomination because as we work to jump start the economy, the President needs a Treasury Secretary by his side that he trusts.
Again, thank you for writing to me. Please let me know if I can be of assistance to you in the future.
Sincerely, Barbara A. MikulskiUnited States Senator
P.S. If I can be of further assistance in the future,please visit my website at http://mikulski.senate.gov/or call my Washington D.C. office at 202-224-4654
I may not agree with her, but at least she answers some times.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me regarding the nomination of Timothy Geithner to the position of Secretary of the Treasury. It's good to hear from you.
I have heard from many Marylanders on this important nomination, and I understand your concerns. It's not too much to ask that the Treasury Secretary pay his taxes on time.
I believe each nominee should be judged on his or her merits. I have three criteria when I consider nominations. I look at the nominee's competence, integrity, and commitment to the mission of the department they seek to lead.
The mission of the Department of the Treasury is to serve the American people and strengthen national security by managing the U.S. Government's finances effectively, promoting economic growth and stability, and ensuring the safety, soundness and security of the U.S. and international financial systems. President Obama needs a Treasury Secretary at his side with the skills and experience to restore confidence and stability in our economy.
Yet I was very concerned by revelations that Mr. Geithner failed to promptly pay all of his income taxes. I ultimately voted in favor of his nomination because as we work to jump start the economy, the President needs a Treasury Secretary by his side that he trusts.
Again, thank you for writing to me. Please let me know if I can be of assistance to you in the future.
Sincerely, Barbara A. MikulskiUnited States Senator
P.S. If I can be of further assistance in the future,please visit my website at http://mikulski.senate.gov/or call my Washington D.C. office at 202-224-4654
Can the senate & House Deal?
The Senate has worked out a deal that evidently the majority are happy with, even the Republicans. Now of course the House has to decide what they think. Pelosi was absent when Harry Reid made the announcement - not a good sign.
The Senate has brought the stimulus package down to a little below $800 billion. Since the House's original package was in $820's there will probably be some discussion. It will be interesting to see if Pelosi will push it to simply partisan politics - the Democrats have the votes so the hell with the Republicans - or if she will put the best interests of the country in the fore front.
An interesting development is that Caterpillar has stated they may hold off on some of their layoffs if the money becomes available quickly. Could there be other companies willing to follow suit?
How much compromise is needed for a package on Obama's desk for a signature? Now much pride will interfere with getting things done? How mature are our lawmakers?
We will watch as things develop and pray that all of the Capital Hill gang will put America first and their own interests second.
Its Common Sense!
The Senate has brought the stimulus package down to a little below $800 billion. Since the House's original package was in $820's there will probably be some discussion. It will be interesting to see if Pelosi will push it to simply partisan politics - the Democrats have the votes so the hell with the Republicans - or if she will put the best interests of the country in the fore front.
An interesting development is that Caterpillar has stated they may hold off on some of their layoffs if the money becomes available quickly. Could there be other companies willing to follow suit?
How much compromise is needed for a package on Obama's desk for a signature? Now much pride will interfere with getting things done? How mature are our lawmakers?
We will watch as things develop and pray that all of the Capital Hill gang will put America first and their own interests second.
Its Common Sense!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Bad News Continues
Last night President Obama during his news conference said he did not want to steal Treasury Secretary Gethner's thunder regarding the next phase of the bank/Wall Street bailout. Today it was evident why, there was no thunder.
Gethner offered very little, and scared the market, making stocks drop, especially stocks in banks. I thought the deal was that Gethner was going to have a plan for government, industry and the banks to go hand in hand to start building up the economy. Looks like that is not going to happen. So just what is Gethner's plan and how will it work? I fear that I am as confused as the rest of the commentators.
Another piece of disturbing news is that several judges in California want to start emptying out the prisons due to over crowding. They are talking in terms of fifty percent. I don't know how they are going to decide who gets to go, but I know I am glad I am not in California.
The state attorney general plans to fight the decision all the way to the Supreme Court, but the tragedy is that the state's financial and criminal situation is so bad that some criminals have been sent to out of state prisons. I don't know what the answer is, but I believe more prisons make better sense than letting criminals lose.
The freeing of prisoners is something that could be considered in other states. We will all do well to see just what current legislation is pending in our state houses.
Times are tough, but we shouldn't make them tougher by putting hardened criminals on the streets.
Its Common Sense!
Gethner offered very little, and scared the market, making stocks drop, especially stocks in banks. I thought the deal was that Gethner was going to have a plan for government, industry and the banks to go hand in hand to start building up the economy. Looks like that is not going to happen. So just what is Gethner's plan and how will it work? I fear that I am as confused as the rest of the commentators.
Another piece of disturbing news is that several judges in California want to start emptying out the prisons due to over crowding. They are talking in terms of fifty percent. I don't know how they are going to decide who gets to go, but I know I am glad I am not in California.
The state attorney general plans to fight the decision all the way to the Supreme Court, but the tragedy is that the state's financial and criminal situation is so bad that some criminals have been sent to out of state prisons. I don't know what the answer is, but I believe more prisons make better sense than letting criminals lose.
The freeing of prisoners is something that could be considered in other states. We will all do well to see just what current legislation is pending in our state houses.
Times are tough, but we shouldn't make them tougher by putting hardened criminals on the streets.
Its Common Sense!
Monday, February 9, 2009
What's the truth?
President Obama is on the road to sell the stimulus. How will it help the economy? How is giving the banks and Wall Street more money going to help the economy?
People need money in their pockets to stimulate the economy. The government needs to find jobs for the millions of unemployed, not worry about a CEO's salary. Most Americans feel that the hierarchy in the banks and Wall Street should be cut off at the knees, not given any help.
We don't need more unemployment benefits, we need jobs. We don't need more food stamps, we need work.
The idea should not be to turn this country into a welfare state, the plan should be to get this country up and working. Let's give industries incentives to be producing and hiring. Let's get our products competitive with the rest of the world, even if we need to add some tariffs.
Pork projects are not going to save us, only massive input will be any good.
President Obama needs to take command and give the marching order to Congress for a real stimulus that serves the country, not individuals.
It the President and Congress fail the country, then none of them should be put back in office.
Let's hold them accountable. Let's make them stand up for their actions and live with the consequences.
Its Common Sense!
People need money in their pockets to stimulate the economy. The government needs to find jobs for the millions of unemployed, not worry about a CEO's salary. Most Americans feel that the hierarchy in the banks and Wall Street should be cut off at the knees, not given any help.
We don't need more unemployment benefits, we need jobs. We don't need more food stamps, we need work.
The idea should not be to turn this country into a welfare state, the plan should be to get this country up and working. Let's give industries incentives to be producing and hiring. Let's get our products competitive with the rest of the world, even if we need to add some tariffs.
Pork projects are not going to save us, only massive input will be any good.
President Obama needs to take command and give the marching order to Congress for a real stimulus that serves the country, not individuals.
It the President and Congress fail the country, then none of them should be put back in office.
Let's hold them accountable. Let's make them stand up for their actions and live with the consequences.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Democrats vs Republicans
The Democrats and Republicans are definitely at odds over the stimulus package. I have to admit that I am in agreement with the Republicans regarding parts of the package that appear to do very little to get the economy moving. If you don't have a job, and the banks aren't giving loans, what does it matter if you get a tax break when you buy a new car?
The same thing goes with buying a new house, who can afford to do it and where do you get the money to do it?
Seems to me the package needs to hit the key problems - getting people back to work and forcing the banks to start doing business by worrying more about a small profit as opposed to a large profit, at least until things stabilize.
Once again I stress INFRASTRUCTURE projects. I am convinced they are the way to go. I realize it is government money, but we tax payers need roads, bridges and tunnels to get around, so they are things worth investing our tax dollars in.
As far as the development of home grown energy, energy companies, working with the government can begin these projects. The energy companies will be the ones to make the profits, they should be brave enough to put up the risk capital to get things started.
Write your representatives, push for infrastructure projects, which can get people working now and insure that all of the businesses dependent on the working class will be able to continue functioning.
Americans working together is the only way to beat the current economic situation.
Its Common Sense!
The same thing goes with buying a new house, who can afford to do it and where do you get the money to do it?
Seems to me the package needs to hit the key problems - getting people back to work and forcing the banks to start doing business by worrying more about a small profit as opposed to a large profit, at least until things stabilize.
Once again I stress INFRASTRUCTURE projects. I am convinced they are the way to go. I realize it is government money, but we tax payers need roads, bridges and tunnels to get around, so they are things worth investing our tax dollars in.
As far as the development of home grown energy, energy companies, working with the government can begin these projects. The energy companies will be the ones to make the profits, they should be brave enough to put up the risk capital to get things started.
Write your representatives, push for infrastructure projects, which can get people working now and insure that all of the businesses dependent on the working class will be able to continue functioning.
Americans working together is the only way to beat the current economic situation.
Its Common Sense!
Saturday, February 7, 2009
What's Important!!
I reported that I had a seizure on 01/29/2009. Since then I have been to a neurologist and received the news that I will need a series of tests to try and figure what went wrong
I also found out that in the state of Maryland, if you lose consciousness for any reason, you need to turn in your license and have a state medical board evaluate if you are competent to maintain a license. This morning I surrendered my license, hopefully for only 90 days.
I have been driving for forty-one years, actually it will be forty-two this coming March 20, and to suddenly have that privilege removed hit me hard. I am so used to the freedom one has when they can drive, that the shock of the changes in my life are a little overwhelming.
So, even though I am in a bit of a private depression because I do not like being dependent on others, or asking favors, I have to say that I thank God that I am blessed in many ways.
I have a loving wife who is going out of her way to make me get better and make things as easy as possible.
My daughter came home from grad school in Denver to help get me to doctors and do all she could to make certain her parents are going to be okay.
We have some friends and neighbors who have volunteered to drive us to work, the supermarket, etc.
It truly is when you confront your own personal crisis that you realize you have friends and relatives who are there to help.
I will get over feeling sorry for myself, thank God for all that I have, then follow doctor's orders and hopefully be driving in 90 days.
So, today I ask that all of you sit back and reflect on those who will be there when you are in a time of need, and thank God that when we need it most someone will be there.
Its Common Sense!
I also found out that in the state of Maryland, if you lose consciousness for any reason, you need to turn in your license and have a state medical board evaluate if you are competent to maintain a license. This morning I surrendered my license, hopefully for only 90 days.
I have been driving for forty-one years, actually it will be forty-two this coming March 20, and to suddenly have that privilege removed hit me hard. I am so used to the freedom one has when they can drive, that the shock of the changes in my life are a little overwhelming.
So, even though I am in a bit of a private depression because I do not like being dependent on others, or asking favors, I have to say that I thank God that I am blessed in many ways.
I have a loving wife who is going out of her way to make me get better and make things as easy as possible.
My daughter came home from grad school in Denver to help get me to doctors and do all she could to make certain her parents are going to be okay.
We have some friends and neighbors who have volunteered to drive us to work, the supermarket, etc.
It truly is when you confront your own personal crisis that you realize you have friends and relatives who are there to help.
I will get over feeling sorry for myself, thank God for all that I have, then follow doctor's orders and hopefully be driving in 90 days.
So, today I ask that all of you sit back and reflect on those who will be there when you are in a time of need, and thank God that when we need it most someone will be there.
Its Common Sense!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Economic Responsiblity
While Congress and the President debate on the best way to be economically responsible and get the economy moving, I thought I would write a little about another kind of economic responsibility, parenthood.
We have all seen the news about the woman in southern California who gave birth to the octuplets. This woman already has six children, is single and is unemployed. Supposedly she did receive a disability payment of $165,000.00 that was spread out over several years, but no doubt that money is all gone.
In an interview she gave Ann Curry of NBC the woman stated that she had multiple (6) embryos implanted for each pregnancy but this time they all took and some even divided.
Why does a single woman need fourteen kids? More important, why did the clinic implant the embryos knowing she was single and unemployed? (How did she pay for the procedure? Did state Medicaid pay? Is this our tax dollars at work, creating more bodies for the welfare rolls?)
Where is society's responsibility in a case like this? It takes a village to educate a child. The village needs to educate perspective parents before they have children.
What is going to happen to these fourteen children? Will they end up being wards of the state, being placed in foster homes, or worse, juvenile detention centers?
We (society) need to hold people like this mother responsible for her actions. We should not feel sorry for her and her decision. We need to hold her accountable and make her take care of her family. She was getting disability for a back injury, how is she going to carry around infants with a bad back?
In these tough economic times, when lay offs are occurring in the thousands everyday, and donations to charities are drying up, we all have to be responsible for the consequences of our actions. Being unprepared to deal with the care of new human lives is a crime. Unfortunately it is the children who will end up suffering the most.
A question for you. During these tough economic times, should embryo clinics do detailed background checks on their clients before implanting the embryo? Should the clinic have the right to say, you already have children we can not assist in giving you more?
Who is the responsible party in this decision? Or are their multiple parties who all need to be part of the decision?
Your tax dollars will eventually come into play in cases like this one because we know the woman will be going to the state for welfare. Do we have a right to tell our legislators how to spend our tax dollars in our states? Should we be responsible for the children of poor single mothers?
I think we need a lot more say in how our money is spent and we need to start getting out the message that people need to be responsible and pay for their actions. After all, they are of the opinion that we will pay to take care of them, its time they were taught that they will need to pay to take care of themselves.
Its Common Sense!
We have all seen the news about the woman in southern California who gave birth to the octuplets. This woman already has six children, is single and is unemployed. Supposedly she did receive a disability payment of $165,000.00 that was spread out over several years, but no doubt that money is all gone.
In an interview she gave Ann Curry of NBC the woman stated that she had multiple (6) embryos implanted for each pregnancy but this time they all took and some even divided.
Why does a single woman need fourteen kids? More important, why did the clinic implant the embryos knowing she was single and unemployed? (How did she pay for the procedure? Did state Medicaid pay? Is this our tax dollars at work, creating more bodies for the welfare rolls?)
Where is society's responsibility in a case like this? It takes a village to educate a child. The village needs to educate perspective parents before they have children.
What is going to happen to these fourteen children? Will they end up being wards of the state, being placed in foster homes, or worse, juvenile detention centers?
We (society) need to hold people like this mother responsible for her actions. We should not feel sorry for her and her decision. We need to hold her accountable and make her take care of her family. She was getting disability for a back injury, how is she going to carry around infants with a bad back?
In these tough economic times, when lay offs are occurring in the thousands everyday, and donations to charities are drying up, we all have to be responsible for the consequences of our actions. Being unprepared to deal with the care of new human lives is a crime. Unfortunately it is the children who will end up suffering the most.
A question for you. During these tough economic times, should embryo clinics do detailed background checks on their clients before implanting the embryo? Should the clinic have the right to say, you already have children we can not assist in giving you more?
Who is the responsible party in this decision? Or are their multiple parties who all need to be part of the decision?
Your tax dollars will eventually come into play in cases like this one because we know the woman will be going to the state for welfare. Do we have a right to tell our legislators how to spend our tax dollars in our states? Should we be responsible for the children of poor single mothers?
I think we need a lot more say in how our money is spent and we need to start getting out the message that people need to be responsible and pay for their actions. After all, they are of the opinion that we will pay to take care of them, its time they were taught that they will need to pay to take care of themselves.
Its Common Sense!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
What is the stimulus?
Just what is the message of Obama's stimulus package? I think part of the problem is that he is not selling his plan. Just how does this package help the American public?
We have definitely heard about the negative aspects. Buying birth control pills for the poor, but not providing education or responsibility, providing minimum jobs at high salaries in limited areas, special studies on things like fish populations, which have always been pork projects.
What I do not understand is why the president did not sit down initially with the leaders of both parties of both Houses and say, here are things I know will stimulate the economy, how can you build on them? If all the players had known up front what were the priorities it would have been easier to come up with a plan needing little debate and easy acceptance. Instead, Obama lost control of the game and there is no telling if and when he will regain control.
Yesterday one of my senators, Barbara Mikulski got an amendment added regarding tax on new car sells. Of course I didn't see anything about getting the loan to buy the new car. The Republicans also got a $15,000.00 tax break for new home buyers - again nothing about where you get the loan to make the purchase.
These kind of deals do very little for the overall economy.
Once again I stress - INFRASTRUCTURE !!!
Get Americans back to repairing and building highways, bridges and tunnels. The money for those salaries generates spending in the communities and if projects are approved in all fifty states, everyone profits and the economy gets moving.
Little tax breaks are nice but have little effect. Big projects and big spending is what will get the country moving again.
Its Common Sense!
We have definitely heard about the negative aspects. Buying birth control pills for the poor, but not providing education or responsibility, providing minimum jobs at high salaries in limited areas, special studies on things like fish populations, which have always been pork projects.
What I do not understand is why the president did not sit down initially with the leaders of both parties of both Houses and say, here are things I know will stimulate the economy, how can you build on them? If all the players had known up front what were the priorities it would have been easier to come up with a plan needing little debate and easy acceptance. Instead, Obama lost control of the game and there is no telling if and when he will regain control.
Yesterday one of my senators, Barbara Mikulski got an amendment added regarding tax on new car sells. Of course I didn't see anything about getting the loan to buy the new car. The Republicans also got a $15,000.00 tax break for new home buyers - again nothing about where you get the loan to make the purchase.
These kind of deals do very little for the overall economy.
Once again I stress - INFRASTRUCTURE !!!
Get Americans back to repairing and building highways, bridges and tunnels. The money for those salaries generates spending in the communities and if projects are approved in all fifty states, everyone profits and the economy gets moving.
Little tax breaks are nice but have little effect. Big projects and big spending is what will get the country moving again.
Its Common Sense!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Priorities for the Obama Administration
Well two more of Obama's nominees bit the dust because of tax issues. I still believe Gethner should have bowed out, but what's done is done. The important thing is that the President has got to take control of the stimulus package and show how it is going to jump start the economy. Let's face it, Pelosi and company in the House filled it with pork, pork that does nothing for the overall economy. Now the Senate is trying to make adjustments, to make it more presentable. But the problem is it is really too little too late.
First, the big push should be for infrastructure projects that can generate employment and spending nation wide. These little tax breaks are okay but they are chump change. Tax breaks for first time home buyers and buyers of new cars are not going to put a lot of money in the system. After all, who can get a loan to buy a house or new car?
Unfortunately, both houses of Congress are being over protective of the money and not placing it where it can do the most good.
Obama is going to put limits on officer pay in banks or corporations who receive bailout money starting now. Big deal. What he should be doing is offering incentives to get their banks/companies viable again and competing in the world market.
Let's get building roads, bridges and tunnels that lead somewhere and are used by large numbers of the public. Let's hold the firms that get the contracts accountable and make them earn their money.
I, like many others, am still waiting to see the "change" Obama promised to bring to Washington.
So far it appears to be business as usual.
Let's put pressure on our representatives and the President to live up to their promises. We did our part by getting them into office, now its their turn to deliver.
Its Common Sense!
First, the big push should be for infrastructure projects that can generate employment and spending nation wide. These little tax breaks are okay but they are chump change. Tax breaks for first time home buyers and buyers of new cars are not going to put a lot of money in the system. After all, who can get a loan to buy a house or new car?
Unfortunately, both houses of Congress are being over protective of the money and not placing it where it can do the most good.
Obama is going to put limits on officer pay in banks or corporations who receive bailout money starting now. Big deal. What he should be doing is offering incentives to get their banks/companies viable again and competing in the world market.
Let's get building roads, bridges and tunnels that lead somewhere and are used by large numbers of the public. Let's hold the firms that get the contracts accountable and make them earn their money.
I, like many others, am still waiting to see the "change" Obama promised to bring to Washington.
So far it appears to be business as usual.
Let's put pressure on our representatives and the President to live up to their promises. We did our part by getting them into office, now its their turn to deliver.
Its Common Sense!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Stimulus Package?
The more I read the more confused I get about this Obama stimulus package. I thought he wanted to do big things with the infrastructure. Now I read that they might raise infrastructure projects to $40 billion, double what it originally was. So what is the other $800 billion to be spent on that will immediately stimulate the economy?
As far as I know there is nothing about mortgage relief, tax breaks, or any kind of reasonable loans starting up any time soon.
Could this entire stimulus be pork? How does that help the country?
Thus far I have not been impressed with the Obama Administration. Two of his cabinet choices have outstanding back tax issues, that they decided to resolve when nominated to be part of the cabinet. Let's face it, if they had been Republicans, Congress would have been all over them.
Obama says he has a plan to stimulate the economy, yet the more you try and learn, the murkier things get.
I am beginning to fear that we are headed into a Depression, unless Obama and the Congress can move quickly and effectively to head it off. Unfortunately, I just do not see the leadership we need presenting itself. Both Pelosi and Reid look like they are more interested in revenge and showing they have the power, rather than doing what is best for the country.
Time will tell, but I think we all better start thinking in terms of a Depression.
Do you agree? Is my thinking flawed?
Share your thoughts and ideas.
We are in this together, we can solve it together.
Its Common Sense!
As far as I know there is nothing about mortgage relief, tax breaks, or any kind of reasonable loans starting up any time soon.
Could this entire stimulus be pork? How does that help the country?
Thus far I have not been impressed with the Obama Administration. Two of his cabinet choices have outstanding back tax issues, that they decided to resolve when nominated to be part of the cabinet. Let's face it, if they had been Republicans, Congress would have been all over them.
Obama says he has a plan to stimulate the economy, yet the more you try and learn, the murkier things get.
I am beginning to fear that we are headed into a Depression, unless Obama and the Congress can move quickly and effectively to head it off. Unfortunately, I just do not see the leadership we need presenting itself. Both Pelosi and Reid look like they are more interested in revenge and showing they have the power, rather than doing what is best for the country.
Time will tell, but I think we all better start thinking in terms of a Depression.
Do you agree? Is my thinking flawed?
Share your thoughts and ideas.
We are in this together, we can solve it together.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
The Senate and the Stimulus
I sent the following letter to my senators on Sunday February 1 in anticipation of the Senate debate on the $870 billion stimulus package. Please feel free to use all or part in writing to your own senators. We need some answers before they put the national debt out of sight
Dear Senator
I would appreciate if you could provide me a breakdown of just how the $870 billion stimulus package passed by the House and coming to the Senate is going to be spent.
From what I have seen even though a lot of money is being thrown out there, very little is going to do anything to get the economy moving.I want to know why at least half of the money is not earmarked for infrastructure projects.Let's repair the roads, bridges and tunnels across the country. That will offer plenty of employment, and construction workers will guarantee that grocery stores and other retailers stay open.
Little projects to study trout and the like are pork projects that need to be put aside. We need projects that are good for the country as a whole, not a private earmark for some senator or congressman.
All reports indicate that the Congress lost control of the first $700 billion stimulus package - allowing Wall Street and the Banks to do what ever they wanted - which meant paying bonuses but doing nothing for the economy. Where are the loan deals we were promised?
We do not want to see this second package go the same way.You in Congress are creating a debt that will be on our great grandchildren' shoulders. The least you can do is make sure that every penny is to put to the use of stimulating the economy.
We have heard a lot of talk but seen little action or responsibility.Its time you and the rest of Congress started being the guardians of our money.
The power is yours - think as an American first, not as a Democrat.Thank you for your attention.
Dear Senator
I would appreciate if you could provide me a breakdown of just how the $870 billion stimulus package passed by the House and coming to the Senate is going to be spent.
From what I have seen even though a lot of money is being thrown out there, very little is going to do anything to get the economy moving.I want to know why at least half of the money is not earmarked for infrastructure projects.Let's repair the roads, bridges and tunnels across the country. That will offer plenty of employment, and construction workers will guarantee that grocery stores and other retailers stay open.
Little projects to study trout and the like are pork projects that need to be put aside. We need projects that are good for the country as a whole, not a private earmark for some senator or congressman.
All reports indicate that the Congress lost control of the first $700 billion stimulus package - allowing Wall Street and the Banks to do what ever they wanted - which meant paying bonuses but doing nothing for the economy. Where are the loan deals we were promised?
We do not want to see this second package go the same way.You in Congress are creating a debt that will be on our great grandchildren' shoulders. The least you can do is make sure that every penny is to put to the use of stimulating the economy.
We have heard a lot of talk but seen little action or responsibility.Its time you and the rest of Congress started being the guardians of our money.
The power is yours - think as an American first, not as a Democrat.Thank you for your attention.
Economic Stimulus Package
President Obama's stimulus package heads for the Senate this week. It passed the House without a single Republican vote. The Democrats (read Nancy Pelosi) made it clear that they have the power and they can do what they want.
The sad thing is that this package really does little to stimulate the economy. I have seen nothing in the bill that will get large numbers of people working or offer assistance on mortgages. I wish the President would explain just how he thinks spending all this money will help.
We saw $700 billion sucked up by Wall Street and the banks with no result for the public. No better loan rates, (no loans period for the most part) no improvement in the stock market, and no sense of relief in any form.
All we know is that some of our tax money went to pay bonuses. Obama is mad, but I don't see him demanding repayment of any of the money.
I think we need to see exactly how the next $870 billion is to be spent before we give permission to release it to the world.
Write your senators. Ask them to send you a detailed listing of how the money is to be spent.
After all its our money, our tax dollars are going to have to cover it eventually, we should have some say in how it is being spent.
Its Common Sense!
The sad thing is that this package really does little to stimulate the economy. I have seen nothing in the bill that will get large numbers of people working or offer assistance on mortgages. I wish the President would explain just how he thinks spending all this money will help.
We saw $700 billion sucked up by Wall Street and the banks with no result for the public. No better loan rates, (no loans period for the most part) no improvement in the stock market, and no sense of relief in any form.
All we know is that some of our tax money went to pay bonuses. Obama is mad, but I don't see him demanding repayment of any of the money.
I think we need to see exactly how the next $870 billion is to be spent before we give permission to release it to the world.
Write your senators. Ask them to send you a detailed listing of how the money is to be spent.
After all its our money, our tax dollars are going to have to cover it eventually, we should have some say in how it is being spent.
Its Common Sense!
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