I received two emails today from Senator Ben Cardin of Maryland regarding Health Care Reform and the Senate Health Care Bill. I am printing the first today and the one that came five minutes later tomorrow.
Read carefully, especially in light of what the insurance companies stated over the weekend and in light of the bill that was approved in the Senate Finance Committee and is making its way to the floor.
Does Congress really understand our concerns?
Share your thoughts, at least I'll listen if no one else will.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me about the affordability of health care reform.
Earlier this year, several Congressional committees began work on legislation to reduce the overall cost of health care for all Americans and expand coverage to the millions who are uninsured. Our overarching goal is to achieve meaningful reforms that will maintain what works in our health care system and fix what is broken. Although the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over Medicare, Medicaid, and the financing of health reform, has not yet reported a bill, it is expected to do so shortly. Please be assured that I have read the bills that have been reported so far, and I will carefully read the Senate Finance Committee's bill before its provisions are debated on the Senate floor.
Everyday, more than 14,000 Americans lose their health insurance coverage, and the cost of medical care increases in this country, so the cost of inaction is greater than the cost of reform. Ten years ago, the average cost of a family health insurance policy in Maryland was $7,000, it is now more than $12,000, and if we do nothing, it is projected to be $23,000 by 2016. Providing Americans with a guarantee of stable, comprehensive medical coverage, along with strong insurance regulation will bring down the cost of care. A public option can help bring down the cost of health care. With fewer insurance companies offering coverage, competition is eroded and there is less incentive to control costs. This is apparent in Maryland, where only two companies control 71 percent of the private insurance market. A public plan could save money through lower administrative costs and greater efficiencies, which would in turn incentivize private insurers to be more efficient.
As the Senate continues deliberation, I hope we can agree that the only option that should not be on the table is the status quo. We cannot allow the current state of our health care system, which is too expensive and too fragmented, to continue. My objective is to make health care more affordable for American families' budgets and for our nation's budget. In order to achieve balanced federal budgets again, we must get health care costs under control, and in doing so, we will be able to make America more competitive in the global economy.
In addition, there are more than 46 million Americans who lack health insurance, and that number has grown by 20 percent in the past eight years. In Maryland , 760,000 people are uninsured. Underscoring the need for action is the fact that every day, Americans are filing for personal bankruptcy because they can't pay the health care bills they have incurred. In addition, when the uninsured cannot pay, health care providers shift those costs to those who can. It has been estimated that each American family with health insurance pays an additional $1,100 in premiums each year because of those who are unwilling or unable to get coverage.
I support reform that builds on our current system. I am privileged to represent a state that is home to two great medical centers-Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland --and to the National Institutes of Health. Marylanders are justifiably proud of our state's tradition of high quality medical care. We want to maintain the ability to choose the doctors and hospitals where we receive care. I want Marylanders and all other Americans to be able to choose the health care plan in which they participate. For these reasons, we need to build on our current system.
As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I firmly believe that any reform proposals we enact must be fully paid for, and the budget resolution passed by Congress requires that. I will carefully evaluate all options for financing health reform, keeping in mind the disproportionate effect that some provisions under discussion would have on working families. Health care access is an issue that stretches across all communities and many income levels, and it is not limited to members of one political party.
The President has made health care reform a priority for this Administration, and Congress has been striving to achieve workable solutions that can move our nation forward. I will continue to work in a bipartisan manner for solutions that will truly bring down the cost of health care in this country and expand access to quality care for all.
Again, thank you for letting me know your views on this important issue.
Please visit my website at http://cardin.senate.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter.
Showing posts with label Senate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Senate. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
The Public Option
The Health Care Debate continues and now it is Democrat against Democrat in whether a Public or Government financed option needs to be part of the package. Rockefeller of West Virginia wants the government option to follow the payment plan set up for Medicare recipients. Schumer of New York wants to discuss options then come up with a formula.
Of course the big questions is - Who is going to pay for this? Where will the funding come from to initiate this government run Health Care Organization?
Those of us already satisfied with our health plans will not be in favor of our tax dollars, especially increased tax dollars, going to finance this option.
The majority of people who will opt for this option are low income, or unemployed, so they will not be able to pay premiums. (At least Medicare recipients have their Medicare premium deducted from their monthly Social Security check.)
Without increasing taxes I do not believe the government plan will have the funding it needs. All the savings by tightening down on Medicare and Medicaid fraud will not be seen for years, if they ever actually appear.
I agree that all people need health coverage. But let's be honest and say the truth. For health care reform to work all the American public is going to have to pay. There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow that will finance this reform. The only pot of gold is the one from our pay checks, those of us who are lucky enough to be working these days.
The liberals can ask for everything under the sun. What they need to do is explain simply and clearly how they plan on paying for the reform.
Its Common Sense!
Of course the big questions is - Who is going to pay for this? Where will the funding come from to initiate this government run Health Care Organization?
Those of us already satisfied with our health plans will not be in favor of our tax dollars, especially increased tax dollars, going to finance this option.
The majority of people who will opt for this option are low income, or unemployed, so they will not be able to pay premiums. (At least Medicare recipients have their Medicare premium deducted from their monthly Social Security check.)
Without increasing taxes I do not believe the government plan will have the funding it needs. All the savings by tightening down on Medicare and Medicaid fraud will not be seen for years, if they ever actually appear.
I agree that all people need health coverage. But let's be honest and say the truth. For health care reform to work all the American public is going to have to pay. There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow that will finance this reform. The only pot of gold is the one from our pay checks, those of us who are lucky enough to be working these days.
The liberals can ask for everything under the sun. What they need to do is explain simply and clearly how they plan on paying for the reform.
Its Common Sense!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Senator Mikulski on Medical Malpractice
Today I received two missives on Health Care Reform.
One was from David Axelrod, senior advisor to President Obama. Since I write so often to the White House, I am on their mailing list. Basically he wants me to watch Obama's speech from Congress and explain all the positive parts of the President's goals for Health Care Reform. I still haven't figured out how this is not going to cost me in some manner, shape or form. Tomorrow I will share his missive.
The second missive was from Senator Barbara Mikulski regarding medical malpractice and how to bring it under control so doctors can practice offensive medicine as opposed to defensive medicine.
Here is her letter. Let me know what you think.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about medical liability and health care reform. It's great to hear from you.
Health care is one of the most important issues facing families and our economy. We absolutely need to pass health reform that:
-reduces costs for providers, families, business and government
-protects people's choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans
-improves providers' ability to deliver quality care
-assures affordable, quality health care for all Americans
I share your concern about the rising cost of malpractice insurance. The high costs of malpractice insurance are a huge financial burden, affecting doctors' ability to care for their patients and even practice medicine.
I agree that we must address the issue of medical malpractice. This must be done in a way that protects doctors from frivolous lawsuits - and protects patients who suffer because of negligence or preventable injury.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator
One was from David Axelrod, senior advisor to President Obama. Since I write so often to the White House, I am on their mailing list. Basically he wants me to watch Obama's speech from Congress and explain all the positive parts of the President's goals for Health Care Reform. I still haven't figured out how this is not going to cost me in some manner, shape or form. Tomorrow I will share his missive.
The second missive was from Senator Barbara Mikulski regarding medical malpractice and how to bring it under control so doctors can practice offensive medicine as opposed to defensive medicine.
Here is her letter. Let me know what you think.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about medical liability and health care reform. It's great to hear from you.
Health care is one of the most important issues facing families and our economy. We absolutely need to pass health reform that:
-reduces costs for providers, families, business and government
-protects people's choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans
-improves providers' ability to deliver quality care
-assures affordable, quality health care for all Americans
I share your concern about the rising cost of malpractice insurance. The high costs of malpractice insurance are a huge financial burden, affecting doctors' ability to care for their patients and even practice medicine.
I agree that we must address the issue of medical malpractice. This must be done in a way that protects doctors from frivolous lawsuits - and protects patients who suffer because of negligence or preventable injury.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Senator Mikulski on Health Care Reform
As you know I wrote to my legislators regarding health care reform. The first to respond is Senator Barbara Mikulski.
Read what she has to say. Definitely sounds to me like she thinks she is doing GREAT job.
Let me know what you think.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about health care reform. I'm so glad to hear from you.
Health care is one of the most important issues facing families and our economy. We absolutely need to pass comprehensive health reform that:
-reduces costs for families, business and government
-protects people's choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans
-assures affordable, quality health care for all Americans
As a member of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, I helped write the Affordable Health Choices Act, which was passed by our committee on July 15, 2009. This bill takes a giant step forward in providing health care that is available, undeniable and affordable for all Americans.
Our legislation protects choice of providers and plans, so if you like the coverage that you have, you will be able to keep it. We also take steps to fix what is broken. Our bill establishes insurance reforms and creates a strong public health insurance option so people can choose the health care plan that's right for them.
This legislation focuses on transforming the health care delivery system by focusing on public health, prevention and wellness programs. As the chair of the Quality Working Group, I wrote the section of the bill that would:
-improve care coordination and better manage chronic conditions
-use innovative practices to reduce medical errors and unnecessary hospital readmissions
The HELP committee bill also fixes basic inequities in the current system:
-ends discrimination on the basis of age, gender, or a pre-existing condition including denial of coverage and increased premiums
-eliminates lifetime and annual caps on benefits so that insurance companies can no longer just stop paying if your medical expenses are high
-allows young people extra time on their parents' insurance policy as they make the transition from school into jobs that offer them health coverage
Families and business are facing staggering health care costs. Premiums have doubled over the last 10 years. Without reform, these costs will continue to rise. The HELP bill reduces costs by:
-reducing administrative costs
-reducing medical and medication errors
-preventing hospital readmissions
-better managing chronic diseases
-reducing fraud and abuse in the health care system
-eliminating waste through promoting effective, evidence based medicine
This is a historic moment. Forty years ago, the United States of America landed a man on the moon. I think that's a wonderful achievement. But if we can send people into space and be able to afford to do it, we can also help people get to a doctor and be able to afford to do it.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator
Read what she has to say. Definitely sounds to me like she thinks she is doing GREAT job.
Let me know what you think.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about health care reform. I'm so glad to hear from you.
Health care is one of the most important issues facing families and our economy. We absolutely need to pass comprehensive health reform that:
-reduces costs for families, business and government
-protects people's choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans
-assures affordable, quality health care for all Americans
As a member of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, I helped write the Affordable Health Choices Act, which was passed by our committee on July 15, 2009. This bill takes a giant step forward in providing health care that is available, undeniable and affordable for all Americans.
Our legislation protects choice of providers and plans, so if you like the coverage that you have, you will be able to keep it. We also take steps to fix what is broken. Our bill establishes insurance reforms and creates a strong public health insurance option so people can choose the health care plan that's right for them.
This legislation focuses on transforming the health care delivery system by focusing on public health, prevention and wellness programs. As the chair of the Quality Working Group, I wrote the section of the bill that would:
-improve care coordination and better manage chronic conditions
-use innovative practices to reduce medical errors and unnecessary hospital readmissions
The HELP committee bill also fixes basic inequities in the current system:
-ends discrimination on the basis of age, gender, or a pre-existing condition including denial of coverage and increased premiums
-eliminates lifetime and annual caps on benefits so that insurance companies can no longer just stop paying if your medical expenses are high
-allows young people extra time on their parents' insurance policy as they make the transition from school into jobs that offer them health coverage
Families and business are facing staggering health care costs. Premiums have doubled over the last 10 years. Without reform, these costs will continue to rise. The HELP bill reduces costs by:
-reducing administrative costs
-reducing medical and medication errors
-preventing hospital readmissions
-better managing chronic diseases
-reducing fraud and abuse in the health care system
-eliminating waste through promoting effective, evidence based medicine
This is a historic moment. Forty years ago, the United States of America landed a man on the moon. I think that's a wonderful achievement. But if we can send people into space and be able to afford to do it, we can also help people get to a doctor and be able to afford to do it.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator
Friday, August 28, 2009
Senator Edward Kennedy - Truth vs Legend
Since his death, people have been eulogizing Senator Ted Kennedy on very network.
At the conclusion of John Ford's "The Man who shot Liberty Valance" the editor of the local newspaper, after hearing the facts of the death of Valance, takes the notes and throws them in a stove saying, I don't have the exact quote but its almost - Sir, this is the west and here when the legend becomes fact we print the legend.
I feel that this has always been the case in regards to the Kennedys, especially the men, with the exception of Joe J. who did not live long enough to create a legend.
I think that when reviewing the lives of the bigger than life characters, one has to look at their entire lives, not just the happy moments. In his later life I do believe that Ted Kennedy did fight for the people, that he was sincere in his desire for health care and rights for the aged, poor and handicapped. I just wonder about his motivation.
We know he was a drunk, a womanizer, and if not a murderer then definitely guilty of negligent manslaughter. He got a free ride on all of these. Where was his punishment? How much of the responsibility of the addictions of his first wife Joan were attributable to Ted and the life style he was leading?
When we look at Ted, as well as his brothers Jack and Bobbie, I think its important that we look at the total man. The strengths and weaknesses, the good and the bad, the positive and the negative.
None of them were saints, but not many of us are.
What needs to be done is look at the total life and contribution they made to their families and society and then make our judgement of who they were.
Its Common Sense!!
At the conclusion of John Ford's "The Man who shot Liberty Valance" the editor of the local newspaper, after hearing the facts of the death of Valance, takes the notes and throws them in a stove saying, I don't have the exact quote but its almost - Sir, this is the west and here when the legend becomes fact we print the legend.
I feel that this has always been the case in regards to the Kennedys, especially the men, with the exception of Joe J. who did not live long enough to create a legend.
I think that when reviewing the lives of the bigger than life characters, one has to look at their entire lives, not just the happy moments. In his later life I do believe that Ted Kennedy did fight for the people, that he was sincere in his desire for health care and rights for the aged, poor and handicapped. I just wonder about his motivation.
We know he was a drunk, a womanizer, and if not a murderer then definitely guilty of negligent manslaughter. He got a free ride on all of these. Where was his punishment? How much of the responsibility of the addictions of his first wife Joan were attributable to Ted and the life style he was leading?
When we look at Ted, as well as his brothers Jack and Bobbie, I think its important that we look at the total man. The strengths and weaknesses, the good and the bad, the positive and the negative.
None of them were saints, but not many of us are.
What needs to be done is look at the total life and contribution they made to their families and society and then make our judgement of who they were.
Its Common Sense!!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
What a Week
Well, it was an interesting week.
There was all the fall out about the AIG bonuses, the figure has risen from $165 million to $215 million and who knows what the final figure will be when its all over. Congress is making all kind of threats but we'll have to wait and see what really comes out of it.
Chris Dodd, head of the banking and finance committee in the Senate evidently did not understand the documents he had been given, not to mention the fact that he has gotten some nice contributions from the Wall street gang over the years. Had to tone down his outrage because the truth of the matter is he is either stupid or a crook. Which do you think?
Banks are still holding onto their money, even though some of them now have commercials about how they want to help with debt consolidation and refinance. They just are keeping the fine print very fine so the consumer won't know just what it will all cost.
President Obama went on the Jay Leno show and hemmed and hawed his way through questions about how one minute he is telling the people to be calm and the next minute he is telling the people its okay to be angry and outraged. He better be careful. When all the details of his budget plan come out, that anger and outrage could be pointed at him.
The President also shared his hopes for March Madness with ESPN. The country is going to hell in a handbag and he is worried about college basketball. Go figure.
Pope Benedict is touring Africa and causing controversy by saying that condoms aren't the answer to AIDS. He's right. I understand his point that the Catholic Church has always taught against contraception and that people should not be promiscuous and wait til marriage. A good moral teaching, but what do we do with the reality? Unfortunately, the Catholic Church never moves quickly when it comes to change. Education is needed, both regarding the spread and prevention of AIDS, as well as Catholic Church teaching on moral issues. As I have mentioned in the past, all Catholic should take the time to read Pope Paul VI encyclical "Humane Vitae". That is the best guide for the moral decisions that the Catholic Church has ever released.
Finally, I had a birthday this week and am now closer to sixty than fifty-five. Which means I am closer to retirement, which am eagerly awaiting, but also closer to the time when I will need to make some serious decisions about the course of my future.
The current financial situation in the world will probably force me to rethink some of my plans.
Speaking of retirement and crooks, I was glad to see the court decided Bernie Madoff can continue his retirement years in jail up until when he gets his formal sentence. I hope that he will shortly be joined by his wife and the rest of his family. What a bunch of crooks.
Keep up to date on what is happening. Write your legislators and demand actions that protect and help us, not just actions that spend our money on nothing.
Its our life and our country, we are the ones who have to make things better.
Its Common Sense!
There was all the fall out about the AIG bonuses, the figure has risen from $165 million to $215 million and who knows what the final figure will be when its all over. Congress is making all kind of threats but we'll have to wait and see what really comes out of it.
Chris Dodd, head of the banking and finance committee in the Senate evidently did not understand the documents he had been given, not to mention the fact that he has gotten some nice contributions from the Wall street gang over the years. Had to tone down his outrage because the truth of the matter is he is either stupid or a crook. Which do you think?
Banks are still holding onto their money, even though some of them now have commercials about how they want to help with debt consolidation and refinance. They just are keeping the fine print very fine so the consumer won't know just what it will all cost.
President Obama went on the Jay Leno show and hemmed and hawed his way through questions about how one minute he is telling the people to be calm and the next minute he is telling the people its okay to be angry and outraged. He better be careful. When all the details of his budget plan come out, that anger and outrage could be pointed at him.
The President also shared his hopes for March Madness with ESPN. The country is going to hell in a handbag and he is worried about college basketball. Go figure.
Pope Benedict is touring Africa and causing controversy by saying that condoms aren't the answer to AIDS. He's right. I understand his point that the Catholic Church has always taught against contraception and that people should not be promiscuous and wait til marriage. A good moral teaching, but what do we do with the reality? Unfortunately, the Catholic Church never moves quickly when it comes to change. Education is needed, both regarding the spread and prevention of AIDS, as well as Catholic Church teaching on moral issues. As I have mentioned in the past, all Catholic should take the time to read Pope Paul VI encyclical "Humane Vitae". That is the best guide for the moral decisions that the Catholic Church has ever released.
Finally, I had a birthday this week and am now closer to sixty than fifty-five. Which means I am closer to retirement, which am eagerly awaiting, but also closer to the time when I will need to make some serious decisions about the course of my future.
The current financial situation in the world will probably force me to rethink some of my plans.
Speaking of retirement and crooks, I was glad to see the court decided Bernie Madoff can continue his retirement years in jail up until when he gets his formal sentence. I hope that he will shortly be joined by his wife and the rest of his family. What a bunch of crooks.
Keep up to date on what is happening. Write your legislators and demand actions that protect and help us, not just actions that spend our money on nothing.
Its our life and our country, we are the ones who have to make things better.
Its Common Sense!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Senator Mikulski on the AIG Bonuses
Here is Senator Mikulski's views on the AIG bonuses.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about the outrageous bonuses American International Group (AIG) paid out to its executives. I appreciate hearing from you about this issue.
If you want to know what I think AIG really stands for, it's 'Ain't I Greedy'. People who played by the rules and are raising their families or trying to run a small business can't have access to credit. They're worried about keeping their jobs. They're losing their life savings. They're worried about holding on to their home or their health insurance.
And now the very people who helped bring the financial services and structure of the world economy to the brink of disaster want to give themselves bonuses! Giving bonuses to AIG financial executives is like giving bonuses to the captain of the Titanic for navigation. They got us into this mess. They show no remorse. And now they're saying they need to be paid extra to get us out of it.
I've sent a letter to the Chief Executive Officer of AIG telling them to voluntarily give up the bonuses. Say goodbye to the people who either don't know how to get us out of this mess or who are unwilling to help us get out of this mess unless they get a lavish bonus. And if they won't do that, I'm cosponsoring legislation to take the money back by taxing these AIG bonuses at 90 percent.
Knowing of your views is very helpful to me and I will keep them in mind. I know you're mad as hell and so am I. If you'd like to read more, I encourage you to visit my website http://mikulski.senate.gov/Newsroom/PressReleases/index.cfm where you can read the transcript of my floor statement on this issue and my letter to the CEO of AIG. Video of me speaking on the Senate floor about the AIG bonuses is available online at http://mikulski.senate.gov/Newsroom/VideoGallery/index.cfm
Again, thanks for contacting me. Please let me know if I can be of help to you in the future.
Sincerely, Barbara A. MikulskiUnited States Senator
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about the outrageous bonuses American International Group (AIG) paid out to its executives. I appreciate hearing from you about this issue.
If you want to know what I think AIG really stands for, it's 'Ain't I Greedy'. People who played by the rules and are raising their families or trying to run a small business can't have access to credit. They're worried about keeping their jobs. They're losing their life savings. They're worried about holding on to their home or their health insurance.
And now the very people who helped bring the financial services and structure of the world economy to the brink of disaster want to give themselves bonuses! Giving bonuses to AIG financial executives is like giving bonuses to the captain of the Titanic for navigation. They got us into this mess. They show no remorse. And now they're saying they need to be paid extra to get us out of it.
I've sent a letter to the Chief Executive Officer of AIG telling them to voluntarily give up the bonuses. Say goodbye to the people who either don't know how to get us out of this mess or who are unwilling to help us get out of this mess unless they get a lavish bonus. And if they won't do that, I'm cosponsoring legislation to take the money back by taxing these AIG bonuses at 90 percent.
Knowing of your views is very helpful to me and I will keep them in mind. I know you're mad as hell and so am I. If you'd like to read more, I encourage you to visit my website http://mikulski.senate.gov/Newsroom/PressReleases/index.cfm where you can read the transcript of my floor statement on this issue and my letter to the CEO of AIG. Video of me speaking on the Senate floor about the AIG bonuses is available online at http://mikulski.senate.gov/Newsroom/VideoGallery/index.cfm
Again, thanks for contacting me. Please let me know if I can be of help to you in the future.
Sincerely, Barbara A. MikulskiUnited States Senator
Monday, March 16, 2009
Letters to the President & Senate regarding AIG Bonuses
As I mentioned yesterday, I wrote letters to the President and my senators regarding the AIG Bonus payout. Please feel free to use all or any part in contacting your representatives. We need to let the, know what we think about them wasting our money.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
I just read the following article http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090315/ap_on_bi_ge/aig_bonuses
Can you please explain to me why our taxpayer dollars are going to pay bonuses to AIG employees?
AIG failed, due to the greed and incompetence of its employees, without a bailout of my taxpayer dollars, AIG would be bankrupt and its employees on the street. However, due to some contract signed before we, the American taxpayer became involuntary share holders of AIG; the company is obligated to pay out $165 million in bonuses. Are we share holders getting any bonus?
I feel that Congress has definitely failed to protect the American public with this bank and Wall Street bailout. You approved billions of dollars, released it to these institutions with no controls or accountability. Now our money is being used to pay bonuses to the incompetent idiots who created our current financial crisis.
Explain to me why my money is being used in this manner?
Why hasn't Treasury Secretary Geithner informed AIG that the rules have changed and there will be no bonuses until AIG has paid back its bailout money and become solvent on its own?
Once again I feel that Congress has failed the American public and wasted our money. When will you become responsible and look out for our interests, rather than those of the fat cats on Wall Street?
Dear Mister President
I just read the following article http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090315/ap_on_bi_ge/aig_bonuses
Can you please explain to me why our taxpayer dollars are going to pay bonuses to AIG employees?
AIG failed, due to the greed and incompetence of its employees, without a bailout of my taxpayer dollars, AIG would be bankrupt and its employees on the street. However, due to some contract signed before we, the American taxpayer became involuntary share holders of AIG; the company is obligated to pay out $165 million in bonuses. Are we share holders getting any bonus?
I feel that the Executive Branch and Congress have definitely failed to protect the American public with this bank and Wall Street bailout. You approved billions of dollars, released it to these institutions with no controls or accountability. Now our money is being used to pay bonuses to the incompetent idiots who created our current financial crisis.
Explain to me why my money is being used in this manner?
Why hasn't Treasury Secretary Geithner informed AIG that the rules have changed and there will be no bonuses until AIG has paid back its bailout money and become solvent on its own?
Once again I feel that the Executive Branch and Congress have failed the American public and wasted our money. When will you become responsible and look out for our interests, rather than those of the fat cats on Wall Street?
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to voice my concerns.
I await your response.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
I just read the following article http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090315/ap_on_bi_ge/aig_bonuses
Can you please explain to me why our taxpayer dollars are going to pay bonuses to AIG employees?
AIG failed, due to the greed and incompetence of its employees, without a bailout of my taxpayer dollars, AIG would be bankrupt and its employees on the street. However, due to some contract signed before we, the American taxpayer became involuntary share holders of AIG; the company is obligated to pay out $165 million in bonuses. Are we share holders getting any bonus?
I feel that Congress has definitely failed to protect the American public with this bank and Wall Street bailout. You approved billions of dollars, released it to these institutions with no controls or accountability. Now our money is being used to pay bonuses to the incompetent idiots who created our current financial crisis.
Explain to me why my money is being used in this manner?
Why hasn't Treasury Secretary Geithner informed AIG that the rules have changed and there will be no bonuses until AIG has paid back its bailout money and become solvent on its own?
Once again I feel that Congress has failed the American public and wasted our money. When will you become responsible and look out for our interests, rather than those of the fat cats on Wall Street?
Dear Mister President
I just read the following article http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090315/ap_on_bi_ge/aig_bonuses
Can you please explain to me why our taxpayer dollars are going to pay bonuses to AIG employees?
AIG failed, due to the greed and incompetence of its employees, without a bailout of my taxpayer dollars, AIG would be bankrupt and its employees on the street. However, due to some contract signed before we, the American taxpayer became involuntary share holders of AIG; the company is obligated to pay out $165 million in bonuses. Are we share holders getting any bonus?
I feel that the Executive Branch and Congress have definitely failed to protect the American public with this bank and Wall Street bailout. You approved billions of dollars, released it to these institutions with no controls or accountability. Now our money is being used to pay bonuses to the incompetent idiots who created our current financial crisis.
Explain to me why my money is being used in this manner?
Why hasn't Treasury Secretary Geithner informed AIG that the rules have changed and there will be no bonuses until AIG has paid back its bailout money and become solvent on its own?
Once again I feel that the Executive Branch and Congress have failed the American public and wasted our money. When will you become responsible and look out for our interests, rather than those of the fat cats on Wall Street?
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to voice my concerns.
I await your response.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Sentaor Cardin on the Stmulus
Senator Cardin responded today about his view of the stimulus. More and more its like the blind leading the blind. (Please note - I did not edit his response, what you see is what I got. Maybe he should hirer a staffer to proof read.)
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me regarding the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 ( H.R. 1 ) . Over the past few months, I have heard from thousand s of Maryland ers who are struggling in this economic climate, but are also worried about significant new federal spending . I share your concerns about our economy; it is my top priority in the United States Senate.
Our economy is hurting and President Obama asked Congress to support the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act . I agree with President Obama that there is no miracle that will solve our problems overnight, but if we do not act quickly, this recession could continue for years . America could lose its competitive edge that has served as the foundation for our strength and standing in the world . I am committed to working in a bipartisan manner to find ef fective legislative solutions that benefit working individuals and families. These solutions must be timely, temporary, and guarantee greater transparency and accountability so that consumers, homeowners, investors and taxpayers are adequately protected. Additionally, we must improve the current regulatory system so that we can help stabilize the financial markets and increase the availability of credit to families and small businesses.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act would provide needed tax relief for individuals and families. The bill include s a $25 0 one-time payment distrib uted to Social S ecurity ben eficiaries, disabled veterans, SSI beneficiaries, and retired rail-road workers; an alternative minimum tax patch for 2009; a temporary suspension of federal income tax on the first $2,400 of unemployment benefits; and an expansion of the homeowner tax credit to $8 ,000 .
I also sponsored a provision in the bill that would provide relief to our nation's small businesses. It is essential that surety bonding capacity be available for small business contractors once funds are made available to rebuild our nations' infrastructure. My provision increase s the current statutory limits under the Surety Bond Guarantee Program from $2 million to $5 million . This will allow small businesses to compete for a greater share of federal contracts and ensure that the government better spreads it s ' work among minority owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, and disadvantaged small businesses.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 would provide important investments in health information technology. These investments will quickly grow jobs in the health care sector and eventually improve the quality of health care for every American. The bill would also expand health insurance coverage through COBRA and Medicaid programs to individuals who lose their jobs and are uninsured. It also include s a temporary increase in the Medicaid federal matching funds, several unemployment benefits , and supplemental grant extensions for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) to assist states struggling to meet the growing needs of newly unemployed workers.
On a local level, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act would provide at least $2.5 billion for Maryland . A portion of t his money would put Marylanders immediately to work rebuilding our crumbling roads, bridges , and transit systems - creating a stronger and more efficient infrastructure for the 21st century economy. Funds will be distributed throughout Maryland for infrastructure , science, education, training, energy, and will help protect our most vulnerable citizens by providing immediate relief for the poor, the young , and the elderly.
Representative David Obey introduced H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 on January 26 , 2009. The House passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Conference Report by a vote of 246-183 on February 13, 2009, and it was forwarded to the Senate . I voted for H.R. 1 , and the Senate passed it by a vote of 60-38 that evening. On February 17, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and it became Public L aw : 111-5 .
I appreciate your contacting me about this most serious and difficult issue. I ask that you continue to keep me informed of your views on efforts to improve the economy. With your help, we can work together in pursuit of bipartisan solutions to improve the lives of working families and our country as a whole. Please visit my website at http://cardin.senate.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me regarding the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 ( H.R. 1 ) . Over the past few months, I have heard from thousand s of Maryland ers who are struggling in this economic climate, but are also worried about significant new federal spending . I share your concerns about our economy; it is my top priority in the United States Senate.
Our economy is hurting and President Obama asked Congress to support the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act . I agree with President Obama that there is no miracle that will solve our problems overnight, but if we do not act quickly, this recession could continue for years . America could lose its competitive edge that has served as the foundation for our strength and standing in the world . I am committed to working in a bipartisan manner to find ef fective legislative solutions that benefit working individuals and families. These solutions must be timely, temporary, and guarantee greater transparency and accountability so that consumers, homeowners, investors and taxpayers are adequately protected. Additionally, we must improve the current regulatory system so that we can help stabilize the financial markets and increase the availability of credit to families and small businesses.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act would provide needed tax relief for individuals and families. The bill include s a $25 0 one-time payment distrib uted to Social S ecurity ben eficiaries, disabled veterans, SSI beneficiaries, and retired rail-road workers; an alternative minimum tax patch for 2009; a temporary suspension of federal income tax on the first $2,400 of unemployment benefits; and an expansion of the homeowner tax credit to $8 ,000 .
I also sponsored a provision in the bill that would provide relief to our nation's small businesses. It is essential that surety bonding capacity be available for small business contractors once funds are made available to rebuild our nations' infrastructure. My provision increase s the current statutory limits under the Surety Bond Guarantee Program from $2 million to $5 million . This will allow small businesses to compete for a greater share of federal contracts and ensure that the government better spreads it s ' work among minority owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, and disadvantaged small businesses.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 would provide important investments in health information technology. These investments will quickly grow jobs in the health care sector and eventually improve the quality of health care for every American. The bill would also expand health insurance coverage through COBRA and Medicaid programs to individuals who lose their jobs and are uninsured. It also include s a temporary increase in the Medicaid federal matching funds, several unemployment benefits , and supplemental grant extensions for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) to assist states struggling to meet the growing needs of newly unemployed workers.
On a local level, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act would provide at least $2.5 billion for Maryland . A portion of t his money would put Marylanders immediately to work rebuilding our crumbling roads, bridges , and transit systems - creating a stronger and more efficient infrastructure for the 21st century economy. Funds will be distributed throughout Maryland for infrastructure , science, education, training, energy, and will help protect our most vulnerable citizens by providing immediate relief for the poor, the young , and the elderly.
Representative David Obey introduced H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 on January 26 , 2009. The House passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Conference Report by a vote of 246-183 on February 13, 2009, and it was forwarded to the Senate . I voted for H.R. 1 , and the Senate passed it by a vote of 60-38 that evening. On February 17, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and it became Public L aw : 111-5 .
I appreciate your contacting me about this most serious and difficult issue. I ask that you continue to keep me informed of your views on efforts to improve the economy. With your help, we can work together in pursuit of bipartisan solutions to improve the lives of working families and our country as a whole. Please visit my website at http://cardin.senate.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Senator Mikulski on Energy
The other day I shared Congressman Ruppersberger view on energy reform. Today I have the response I received from Senator Barbara Mikulski.
Let me know if you think they are addressing our concerns.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for writing to me about funding for alternative energy in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
(P.L. 111-5). It's great to hear from you.
I have good news! The ARRA included over $41 billion to improve the way our country uses, produces and conserves energy. This will support projects such as the Weatherization Assistance Program, modernizing the electric grid, repairing federal buildings to increase energy efficiency, fossil energy research and development, energy efficiency and renewable energy research and many others. Securing our energy future is important. I supported this funding legislation because I believe in a sensible energy plan that promotes alternative energy and energy efficiency and reduces global warming pollution.
President Obama and Congress have taken a major step forward by enacting the 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.
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.
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 once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance 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
Let me know if you think they are addressing our concerns.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for writing to me about funding for alternative energy in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
(P.L. 111-5). It's great to hear from you.
I have good news! The ARRA included over $41 billion to improve the way our country uses, produces and conserves energy. This will support projects such as the Weatherization Assistance Program, modernizing the electric grid, repairing federal buildings to increase energy efficiency, fossil energy research and development, energy efficiency and renewable energy research and many others. Securing our energy future is important. I supported this funding legislation because I believe in a sensible energy plan that promotes alternative energy and energy efficiency and reduces global warming pollution.
President Obama and Congress have taken a major step forward by enacting the 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.
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.
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 once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance 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
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.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Letter to the Senate on Tim Geithner
Hillary is the new Secretary of State. Let's see how she does.
Many believe that regardless of his past transgressions, Tim Geithner is the right person to be the Secretary of the Treasury. I do not agree. Once an evader and liar, always an evader and liar. I sent the following letter last night to my senators. I believe we can do better,
As always feel free to use all or any part of the letter in contacting your representatives.
It is our job to make sure the promised "changes" are the ones we think are best for our country.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
I am asking that you do not vote in favor of Tim Geithner becoming the next Secretary of the Treasury. He has already proven himself to be a liar, a manipulator and a schemer. The person who is selected to any cabinet position should at least pass the initial tests of honesty and integrity. Mr. Geithner has already failed.
How will he inspire us, when we know he believes it's alright to cheat on your taxes? His idea of disclosure is to hide everything.
This is not the person we need to lead our nation to economic recovery.
Find us someone with honor and integrity.
Find us someone better than Tim Geithner.
Many believe that regardless of his past transgressions, Tim Geithner is the right person to be the Secretary of the Treasury. I do not agree. Once an evader and liar, always an evader and liar. I sent the following letter last night to my senators. I believe we can do better,
As always feel free to use all or any part of the letter in contacting your representatives.
It is our job to make sure the promised "changes" are the ones we think are best for our country.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
I am asking that you do not vote in favor of Tim Geithner becoming the next Secretary of the Treasury. He has already proven himself to be a liar, a manipulator and a schemer. The person who is selected to any cabinet position should at least pass the initial tests of honesty and integrity. Mr. Geithner has already failed.
How will he inspire us, when we know he believes it's alright to cheat on your taxes? His idea of disclosure is to hide everything.
This is not the person we need to lead our nation to economic recovery.
Find us someone with honor and integrity.
Find us someone better than Tim Geithner.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Honeymoon?
Will the Obama Administration have a honeymoon period? The way the week is shaping up that might turn out to a dream Obama will never see.
When Obama chose Leon Panetta to head the CIA he forgot to confer with Senator Diane Feinstein of California, the chairperson of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Talk about a slap in the face. You would think that Feinstein just might have had a few suggestions for the person to run US intelligence, other than a former president's chief of staff. (Where are the new faces and changes Obama promised? More and more it is looking like the same old story and same "old" faces.)
Evidently irked by being ignored, Senator Feinstein decided that she had no problem with Roland Burris being seated as the junior senator of Illinois, an act that irked her Democrat brethren. I guess this is her way of letting Obama know she is not someone to be played with.
As for Roland Burris, we will see how it plays out. Being from a small town outside the city of Baltimore Maryland I found it interesting that one of Burris' attorneys is Kurt Schmook (never could spell his last name correctly) a former Baltimore mayor. According to Kurt the law is on Burris' side. We'll just have to see if the law means anything.
Harry Reid asked Norm to concede the Minnesota election and let Al move to DC. Norm has filed a suit in court, so it will be some time before we know what will happen in the land of lakes.
If the Democrats want to sell Obama's economic package, they better get their act together and become unified or at least put on a united front and do their bickering behind close doors. This is a time when Americans need to see a strong government, not a bunch of cat fights.
We'll watch as the next couple of weeks progress. Is it possible the members of Congress can put aside their petty squabbles, their greed and their desire to be on camera to actually work for the good of the American public?
I saw an interesting comment this evening on one of the news shows. The 2008 Congress had one of the lowest approval ratings of all time, and still over 90% of the incumbents were reelected.
What does that say about us? Are we as afraid of change as the DC gang is?
Apathy has brought us here, continued apathy can only take us further down.
Is that what we want? Is that the legacy we want to give our children?
Get off your butts and be heard!!!
Its Common Sense!
When Obama chose Leon Panetta to head the CIA he forgot to confer with Senator Diane Feinstein of California, the chairperson of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Talk about a slap in the face. You would think that Feinstein just might have had a few suggestions for the person to run US intelligence, other than a former president's chief of staff. (Where are the new faces and changes Obama promised? More and more it is looking like the same old story and same "old" faces.)
Evidently irked by being ignored, Senator Feinstein decided that she had no problem with Roland Burris being seated as the junior senator of Illinois, an act that irked her Democrat brethren. I guess this is her way of letting Obama know she is not someone to be played with.
As for Roland Burris, we will see how it plays out. Being from a small town outside the city of Baltimore Maryland I found it interesting that one of Burris' attorneys is Kurt Schmook (never could spell his last name correctly) a former Baltimore mayor. According to Kurt the law is on Burris' side. We'll just have to see if the law means anything.
Harry Reid asked Norm to concede the Minnesota election and let Al move to DC. Norm has filed a suit in court, so it will be some time before we know what will happen in the land of lakes.
If the Democrats want to sell Obama's economic package, they better get their act together and become unified or at least put on a united front and do their bickering behind close doors. This is a time when Americans need to see a strong government, not a bunch of cat fights.
We'll watch as the next couple of weeks progress. Is it possible the members of Congress can put aside their petty squabbles, their greed and their desire to be on camera to actually work for the good of the American public?
I saw an interesting comment this evening on one of the news shows. The 2008 Congress had one of the lowest approval ratings of all time, and still over 90% of the incumbents were reelected.
What does that say about us? Are we as afraid of change as the DC gang is?
Apathy has brought us here, continued apathy can only take us further down.
Is that what we want? Is that the legacy we want to give our children?
Get off your butts and be heard!!!
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Ask the Senate about the Stimulus Package
After writing the blog yesterday I decided that I should followup and send a letter to my representatives in hopes of getting some answers regarding how the stimulus package will be financed and just what is really going to happen with taxes. A copy of the letter follows.
As always, feel free to use all or any part of the letter to contact your representatives in hopes of getting answers from them.
We need to let those who represent us know we are not sheep who will passively go where ever they say. Our voices need to be heard and our desires respected.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
I understand that on Monday January 5, 2009 President-elect Obama is scheduled to meet with congressional leaders to discuss a stimulus plan he wants waiting for his approval on January 20.
The stimulus package will cost around $800 billion dollars.
Where is the money coming from? Is the plan to increase our international debt? What interest rate will we be paying? What deals will the USA be making with China for the money or at least part of the money?
Then the question about taxes has to be raised. I know President-elect Obama has promised not to increase personal income taxes, but what about other taxes?
I read that both at the federal and state levels the plan is to increase gasoline taxes by at least 50%. Will that kind of increase also be added to electronics, telephones, automobiles, travel, lodging, etc?
We Americans are not stupid. We know the government needs money to run its programs. What we want is an honest explanation as to how the government plans to raise the money.
Do not boast that you did not raise my personal income tax when you raised the tax on everything I buy. A tax is a tax, a tax increase is a tax increase.
Be honest and tell us where and when the increases will occur. Better we pay additional taxes than stay indebted to China forever.
Tell us the plan - the whole plan.
Let's start this new Democratic Administration with a fresh concept - total honesty for the American public. Tell us the truth, let us know what we have to do, what burden we have to accept, lay it all out for us. Forget the lies, forget the smoke and mirrors - honesty - let that be the watch word of the Obama Administration and the Democratic Congress.
Now is the time to set the example for the world, show what true democracy really is all about.
Thank You.
Michael Wolfe
As always, feel free to use all or any part of the letter to contact your representatives in hopes of getting answers from them.
We need to let those who represent us know we are not sheep who will passively go where ever they say. Our voices need to be heard and our desires respected.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
I understand that on Monday January 5, 2009 President-elect Obama is scheduled to meet with congressional leaders to discuss a stimulus plan he wants waiting for his approval on January 20.
The stimulus package will cost around $800 billion dollars.
Where is the money coming from? Is the plan to increase our international debt? What interest rate will we be paying? What deals will the USA be making with China for the money or at least part of the money?
Then the question about taxes has to be raised. I know President-elect Obama has promised not to increase personal income taxes, but what about other taxes?
I read that both at the federal and state levels the plan is to increase gasoline taxes by at least 50%. Will that kind of increase also be added to electronics, telephones, automobiles, travel, lodging, etc?
We Americans are not stupid. We know the government needs money to run its programs. What we want is an honest explanation as to how the government plans to raise the money.
Do not boast that you did not raise my personal income tax when you raised the tax on everything I buy. A tax is a tax, a tax increase is a tax increase.
Be honest and tell us where and when the increases will occur. Better we pay additional taxes than stay indebted to China forever.
Tell us the plan - the whole plan.
Let's start this new Democratic Administration with a fresh concept - total honesty for the American public. Tell us the truth, let us know what we have to do, what burden we have to accept, lay it all out for us. Forget the lies, forget the smoke and mirrors - honesty - let that be the watch word of the Obama Administration and the Democratic Congress.
Now is the time to set the example for the world, show what true democracy really is all about.
Thank You.
Michael Wolfe
Monday, November 10, 2008
Transition
The transition began for real with Obama's visit to the White House. In the past this was done in December but President Bush had President-Elect Obama show up as soon as possible. You have to wonder just how eager George W is to get to the ranch in Crawford and dump everything in Obama's lap.
Obama will be gaining additional economic woes. It appears that AIG needs more money and rather than a bailout, the US government is going to buy stock. Let me know when your stock certificates arrive in the mail.
Circuit City has declared bankruptcy, doesn't appear that it is going to be a very Merry Christmas for a lot of folks.
The three major US automakers are looking for loans. I think they should be forced to produce natural gas burning cars within the year before any loans are approved. I also believe that Obama should allow the oil companies to do their drilling, so long as they guarantee that every gas station they own - and the independents they provide fuel to - will have at least two natural gas pumps operating within one year. Let the auto companies and oil companies put up or shut up before they receive anything else from the government.
We all will have to see what kind of deals are around for "Black"Friday. (I hate those early morning specials where you have to be at the store at 5am.)
Finally, Joe Biden won his Senate seat from Delaware. So the question is who will serve in his place? I am curious to see if the governor of Delaware appoints Biden's son to fulfill the term. Perhaps this is the beginning of a Biden dynasty from the First State.
Tomorrow we celebrate Veteran's Day, remembering those brave men and women who have served their country in the military since 1776. Take a moment tomorrow to thank them for their many sacrifices. It is because of them that people like me are free to write and say what I want. Our military may make mistakes, but overall they are a fine group of dedicated individuals who deserve our respect.
Its Common Sense!
Obama will be gaining additional economic woes. It appears that AIG needs more money and rather than a bailout, the US government is going to buy stock. Let me know when your stock certificates arrive in the mail.
Circuit City has declared bankruptcy, doesn't appear that it is going to be a very Merry Christmas for a lot of folks.
The three major US automakers are looking for loans. I think they should be forced to produce natural gas burning cars within the year before any loans are approved. I also believe that Obama should allow the oil companies to do their drilling, so long as they guarantee that every gas station they own - and the independents they provide fuel to - will have at least two natural gas pumps operating within one year. Let the auto companies and oil companies put up or shut up before they receive anything else from the government.
We all will have to see what kind of deals are around for "Black"Friday. (I hate those early morning specials where you have to be at the store at 5am.)
Finally, Joe Biden won his Senate seat from Delaware. So the question is who will serve in his place? I am curious to see if the governor of Delaware appoints Biden's son to fulfill the term. Perhaps this is the beginning of a Biden dynasty from the First State.
Tomorrow we celebrate Veteran's Day, remembering those brave men and women who have served their country in the military since 1776. Take a moment tomorrow to thank them for their many sacrifices. It is because of them that people like me are free to write and say what I want. Our military may make mistakes, but overall they are a fine group of dedicated individuals who deserve our respect.
Its Common Sense!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Senate Bailout National Bank and VP Debate
Okay, tonight is the first and only vice-presidential debate of this campaign. Needless to say, we all have to watch. Will Sarah Palin continue to be as nervous as she has been with Katie Couric, or from behind a podium will she get her act together, talk about what she knows and admit the areas where she has limited knowledge?
Will Joe Biden be able to answer briefly or will he let his mouth run on and on and get him trouble?
This could be really entertaining. And - let us not forget, that one of this pair could be a heart beat away from being our president someday. Take some time to consider that prospect.
Last night the Senate passed the bailout bill. Big surprise. What upsets me is the concessions that were made. The tax break for the rich is extended - tell me why you voted for that Barack Obama and Joe Biden. The amount of cash that can now be insured by the FDIC was raised to $250,000.00. What no one said is that the banks will have to pay for the additional insurance. Wonder where that money will come from? Tax breaks for homeowners with foreclosure woes are extended until 2013. Small business owners with five employees or less are getting some kind of break, and no doubt somewhere in the fine print are a couple of "entitlements" that we will be paying for.
Somewhere it says if the loans aren't paid off the president will be able to take action. I will need to find the bill and read it to see if the president really has any power.
I am skeptical about the whole thing. I think the government should have opened a National Bank with this money and started making loans to those who qualify. Frankly I do not see the need to help the banks who let greed and stupidity be their guide. Let's have a National Bank, Congress, as the board of directors, can make oversight into loans as tight as they want without worrying about any one's feelings.
Since the President is the bank's CEO we do not have to worry about any golden umbrella, the job is covered by his salary. We the people are the share holders, so maybe we will receive some dividends on our investment.
Treasury secretary Paulson put everyone in a panic mode. Loans are tight and banks are afraid. Too bad. There was no oversight for their idiotic reasoning that housing prices would continue to climb to unrealistic heights and that they could make loans to anyone who walked in off of the streets. The banks are paying the price for their greed. They should be happy that their executives are not being sent to jail for the mismanagement and attempted robbery of the American public.
The Senate's bill just let's the status quo continue. I thought that Obama and McCain both promised to change Washington!! Looks like business as usual to me.
Let's create a National Bank. It will have branches is all 50 states and territories. It will provide employment. Loans can be rigidly investigated and controlled. With the president as CEO and Congress as the board of directors there will be no need for fancy salaries or perks. They will be doing their job protecting the American citizen. We, the tax paying citizens, will be the stock holders and with good management we should all see dividends.
This makes more sense to me than simply giving money to banks and trusting them to do the right thing.
Its Common Sense.
Will Joe Biden be able to answer briefly or will he let his mouth run on and on and get him trouble?
This could be really entertaining. And - let us not forget, that one of this pair could be a heart beat away from being our president someday. Take some time to consider that prospect.
Last night the Senate passed the bailout bill. Big surprise. What upsets me is the concessions that were made. The tax break for the rich is extended - tell me why you voted for that Barack Obama and Joe Biden. The amount of cash that can now be insured by the FDIC was raised to $250,000.00. What no one said is that the banks will have to pay for the additional insurance. Wonder where that money will come from? Tax breaks for homeowners with foreclosure woes are extended until 2013. Small business owners with five employees or less are getting some kind of break, and no doubt somewhere in the fine print are a couple of "entitlements" that we will be paying for.
Somewhere it says if the loans aren't paid off the president will be able to take action. I will need to find the bill and read it to see if the president really has any power.
I am skeptical about the whole thing. I think the government should have opened a National Bank with this money and started making loans to those who qualify. Frankly I do not see the need to help the banks who let greed and stupidity be their guide. Let's have a National Bank, Congress, as the board of directors, can make oversight into loans as tight as they want without worrying about any one's feelings.
Since the President is the bank's CEO we do not have to worry about any golden umbrella, the job is covered by his salary. We the people are the share holders, so maybe we will receive some dividends on our investment.
Treasury secretary Paulson put everyone in a panic mode. Loans are tight and banks are afraid. Too bad. There was no oversight for their idiotic reasoning that housing prices would continue to climb to unrealistic heights and that they could make loans to anyone who walked in off of the streets. The banks are paying the price for their greed. They should be happy that their executives are not being sent to jail for the mismanagement and attempted robbery of the American public.
The Senate's bill just let's the status quo continue. I thought that Obama and McCain both promised to change Washington!! Looks like business as usual to me.
Let's create a National Bank. It will have branches is all 50 states and territories. It will provide employment. Loans can be rigidly investigated and controlled. With the president as CEO and Congress as the board of directors there will be no need for fancy salaries or perks. They will be doing their job protecting the American citizen. We, the tax paying citizens, will be the stock holders and with good management we should all see dividends.
This makes more sense to me than simply giving money to banks and trusting them to do the right thing.
Its Common Sense.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Senator Mikulski respons eto 9/21/08 letter
Here is senator Mikulski's response to my question of 09/21/08 about the bailouts. Note that she does not answer where any money will be coming from but sticks to party politics.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for writing to me about the Bush Administration's proposal to bail out the financial industry. It's good to hear from you.
There's no question that we are in a credit crisis. People who have saved for their retirement, been faithful in paying their mortgage, and worked hard to pay for college are wondering, 'What is going on?'
They've watched Wall Street executives pay themselves lavish salaries. They've watched irresponsible lending practices. They've watched casino economics, gambling on risky investment mechanisms. Now those very same Americans who've worked hard and played by the rules are being asked to pay the bill for those who didn't.
Congress must act promptly to restore confidence and stability in the economy. But I will not be stampeded into voting for the Bush Administration bill. During the last seven years, every time there's a crisis, they generate fear and they generate bad ideas. This three-page bill gives the Secretary of the Treasury unlimited power to intervene in our financial markets without any review by Congress, agencies, or courts. It cannot be rubber stamped by the Congress.
At the minimum, the plan must be limited and temporary - not open-ended. There can't be any golden parachutes that reward executives for their excesses and their recklessness. No blank checks. There also must be a plan for those who have been hit hardest by the mortgage crisis.
Knowing of your views is very helpful to me. I will keep them in mind as the Senate continues to debate the President's economic plan.
Thanks again for getting in touch. 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.govor call my Washington D.C. office at 202-224-4654
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for writing to me about the Bush Administration's proposal to bail out the financial industry. It's good to hear from you.
There's no question that we are in a credit crisis. People who have saved for their retirement, been faithful in paying their mortgage, and worked hard to pay for college are wondering, 'What is going on?'
They've watched Wall Street executives pay themselves lavish salaries. They've watched irresponsible lending practices. They've watched casino economics, gambling on risky investment mechanisms. Now those very same Americans who've worked hard and played by the rules are being asked to pay the bill for those who didn't.
Congress must act promptly to restore confidence and stability in the economy. But I will not be stampeded into voting for the Bush Administration bill. During the last seven years, every time there's a crisis, they generate fear and they generate bad ideas. This three-page bill gives the Secretary of the Treasury unlimited power to intervene in our financial markets without any review by Congress, agencies, or courts. It cannot be rubber stamped by the Congress.
At the minimum, the plan must be limited and temporary - not open-ended. There can't be any golden parachutes that reward executives for their excesses and their recklessness. No blank checks. There also must be a plan for those who have been hit hardest by the mortgage crisis.
Knowing of your views is very helpful to me. I will keep them in mind as the Senate continues to debate the President's economic plan.
Thanks again for getting in touch. 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.govor call my Washington D.C. office at 202-224-4654
Monday, September 22, 2008
Appropriations, Earmarks, Pork
This is the second in a series of letters I will be sending to my senators and congressman. Please feel free to use it or any part of it to make requests or ask questions of your representatives. Hopefully I will have some answers to share with you in the near future.
Dear Senator,
The close of the fiscal year will soon be upon us and once again the Congress has failed to pass the appropriation bills needed for the government to continue to function. Once again we will go through a series of "continuing motions" until all of the backroom deals have been made and everybody on the "Hill" is satisfied with their "Earmarks."
Senator, I am writing to you to ask you to fight the "earmarks". The past two months have brought almost a trillion dollar debt upon this country. We do not need to go further in debt to borrow money so some one can study the effects of cows passing gas, or how many trout are in the streams of West Virginia.
The time of irresponsible spending has to end. You the members of Congress are suppose to be the leaders of this country, not children with their hands in the cookie jar trying to grab all they can.
Please stand up and tell your fellow senators "No more!"
Think of the people, not the lobbyist and special interest.
In this election year we need to see through these appropriations which party really is the party of change, and which party is business as usual.
I would really appreciate if you could send to me a list of the senators requesting earmarks and just what those earmarks are.
Michael Wolfe
Dear Senator,
The close of the fiscal year will soon be upon us and once again the Congress has failed to pass the appropriation bills needed for the government to continue to function. Once again we will go through a series of "continuing motions" until all of the backroom deals have been made and everybody on the "Hill" is satisfied with their "Earmarks."
Senator, I am writing to you to ask you to fight the "earmarks". The past two months have brought almost a trillion dollar debt upon this country. We do not need to go further in debt to borrow money so some one can study the effects of cows passing gas, or how many trout are in the streams of West Virginia.
The time of irresponsible spending has to end. You the members of Congress are suppose to be the leaders of this country, not children with their hands in the cookie jar trying to grab all they can.
Please stand up and tell your fellow senators "No more!"
Think of the people, not the lobbyist and special interest.
In this election year we need to see through these appropriations which party really is the party of change, and which party is business as usual.
I would really appreciate if you could send to me a list of the senators requesting earmarks and just what those earmarks are.
Michael Wolfe
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Request to Senators for bailout information
Earlier today I sent the following email to my two senators - Barbara Mikulsi and Benjamin Cardin, as well as my congressman Dutch Ruppersberger. If and when I get a response I will share those as well.
Please feel free to use any or all of this email and send it to your representatives. (Just go to US Senate.gov to get the email address of your senators, and US Congress.gov for the email address of your representative.)
Hopefully, if enough of us raise the questions, some answers will be given.
Here is the email.
Dear Senator,
The current figures available on all of the bailouts is $200 billion for Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac, $85 billion for AIG, and $700 billion for "toxic" mortgages. That's just short of a trillion dollars.
How much is the current deficit? How much deeper in debt does this country need to go?
I know we are borrowing the money from foreign governments. Who are the principal lenders, what is the interest rate, and what is the payback schedule? What are the terms if we default on our loan?
Several years ago Senator Mikulski sent me several books to explain how the Federal government could have a surplus and deficit at the same time. The math was confusing then, now it is even worse.
What is the plan for paying back our creditors? What kind of tax burden is this going to put on the American people? Let's be honest, Senator, someone is going to have to pay, and it never seems to be Congress, but rather the American people.
I read where Congresswoman Pelosi is considering putting together another stimulus package. Forget it!! You do not need to borrow anymore money.
Iraq supposedly has a $78 billion surplus. Make them pay for the war (after all we aren‘t getting any help at the gas pump and I thought that was the real reason we invaded), and we can at least stop those ridiculous monthly payments we are currently sending over there.
Nobody wants to be responsible, no one wants to hold anyone accountable and punish them, its "oh well, we'll try better next time."
Forget about the popularity contest, make some tough decisions and get this deficit off our backs.
Michael Wolfe
Please feel free to use any or all of this email and send it to your representatives. (Just go to US Senate.gov to get the email address of your senators, and US Congress.gov for the email address of your representative.)
Hopefully, if enough of us raise the questions, some answers will be given.
Here is the email.
Dear Senator,
The current figures available on all of the bailouts is $200 billion for Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac, $85 billion for AIG, and $700 billion for "toxic" mortgages. That's just short of a trillion dollars.
How much is the current deficit? How much deeper in debt does this country need to go?
I know we are borrowing the money from foreign governments. Who are the principal lenders, what is the interest rate, and what is the payback schedule? What are the terms if we default on our loan?
Several years ago Senator Mikulski sent me several books to explain how the Federal government could have a surplus and deficit at the same time. The math was confusing then, now it is even worse.
What is the plan for paying back our creditors? What kind of tax burden is this going to put on the American people? Let's be honest, Senator, someone is going to have to pay, and it never seems to be Congress, but rather the American people.
I read where Congresswoman Pelosi is considering putting together another stimulus package. Forget it!! You do not need to borrow anymore money.
Iraq supposedly has a $78 billion surplus. Make them pay for the war (after all we aren‘t getting any help at the gas pump and I thought that was the real reason we invaded), and we can at least stop those ridiculous monthly payments we are currently sending over there.
Nobody wants to be responsible, no one wants to hold anyone accountable and punish them, its "oh well, we'll try better next time."
Forget about the popularity contest, make some tough decisions and get this deficit off our backs.
Michael Wolfe
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