For American Eyes

Go, fight, spend

In a February 5, 2008 article found on the Austin American Statesman website, taken from the Chicago Tribune, Bush is proposing the national budget for 2009 to Congress. The proposed budget is $3.1 trillion, increasing spending for defense while reducing funding for Medicare and Medicaid. $145 billion in tax relief is promised to help spur the economy. The deficit would reach $407 billion in 2009 with this budget. The national debt, which was $9.6 trillion this year would be an estimated $10.38 in 2009. This budget could bring the national deficit to record numbers. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, said, "The president writes only in red ink, having never submitted to Congress a balanced budget. He piles on more debt to fund his misguided foreign policy while neglecting so many needs at home." This article is important because it shows how the checks and balances are being put to use. Congress, while fighting amongst themselves for party power, allow their party views to influence decisions. Democrats don't want Bush's plan. Also, Congress is supposed to monitor the use of United States money and make sure it is not being used for useless purposes. The war is taking a big chunk of our tax dollars with no sign of ending the conflict. I wish Congress would stop being so political and allow our money to be used for the benefit of the country and not just a few men in the right place.


http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/nation/02/05/0205budget.html