BOLD STEPS

BOLD STEPS


The critical nature of that which confounds us these days demands that positive action be taken – action based on unequivocal, quantifiable facts that test alternative approaches to those that currently are proving to be un- or counter-productive. The concept of “testing” alternative policies cannot be considered precedent-setting since most legislation, even after passed, continues to be debated, amended, overturned or even allowed to expire. That being the case, it is difficult to comprehend the unwillingness to try or test alternatives, as though to do so would establish concrete, non-amendable policies never to be altered or reversed.

The abrasive verbal battles raging within and between the Executive and Legislative branches of our federal government produce animosity and headlines, but no significant results. The Right insists that taxing wealth stymies job creative incentives, while entitlement spending compounds our already unprecedented budget deficit through irresponsible spending that only adds to the debt. The operative word there is irresponsible, and though there is theoretical support for such points of view, today’s economic realities do not bear them out. For example, the Bush tax cuts to the wealthy have done nothing to stimulate job creation here in the U.S. nor have they bolstered our staggering economy. We must get money in the hands of those with needs in order to stimulate consumer spending. The wealthy, with or without tax breaks, have the wherewithal to invest in job-creating opportunities here at home, but why would they when it is easier, less risky and probably more profitable to invest globally – a strategy that may even provide them with additional tax-lowering benefits. It is the less-affluent, budding entrepreneurs who are more likely to take risks and embark on job-creating enterprises in this economy. Many who have lost their jobs and find employment opportunities bleak, would enthusiastically venture into a start-up business. If only they had access to capital. But proposing to provide such opportunity alarms many who fear runaway entitlement expenditures will only increase welfare dependency while compounding the debt. The Left, though verbally expressing opposing points of view, doesn’t seem to have the backbone or the confidence to stand firm. Even when in the majority, they fold; seemingly cowered by opposition intimidation or fear that supporting entitlements or taxing wealth will bring consequences when they again must face reelection. Unfortunately, in the minds of our politicians, nothing takes precedence over getting reelected.

The negative aspects attributed to entitlements can appear legitimate, especially where such spending can too easily, though often erroneously, be equated to larger deficits and a looming economic collapse. But we really don’t know that that would happen and that is why it is important to take intelligent, calculated bold action to prove one way or the other how increased spending on entitlements would impact the economy and the debt. It is too easy to make claims and accusations based on preconceived notions and anecdotal “evidence” that may well be proven wrong if put to the test. Unfortunately, in today’s legislative environment nothing is put to the test, the bills that are eventually passed are so watered down, as a result of compromise and intimidation, that the resultant legislation is insignificant and ineffectual. The highly touted Health Care Reform Act and the stimulus package are examples.

Where is the evidence that taxing wealth stifles job creation? Where is the evidence that increasing entitlements will increase spending and welfare dependence more than it will stimulate job opportunity and consumer spending, thus favorably increasing the tax base? Where is the evidence that protecting and enhancing wealth is more vital to the future of this great nation than protecting the middle class? Where are the statesmen/women to replace the backstabbing, celebrity-hungry politicians who can figure out how to raise unlimited campaign funds, but can’t find ways to get dollars for education and infrastructure? Answering these questions may be the first step toward a brighter future.

A.N. Pavia
July, 2011