Sunday, January 11, 2009
'Mr. Cool's Centrist Gamble' Part II
At least Jeffrey Sachs, formerly of Harvard, isn't pretending the push for bigger government is all about the economic crisis. ... Seven words that make you cringe when you hear about the developing economic-stimulus package: "The Democrats are going to be Democrats." And that's why food stamps will be touted as 'bang for the buck' economic stimulators. ... Nothing against food stamps. They'll be necessary as part of overall social policy during tough times. But don't insult our intelligence by claiming that food stamps create jobs while tax-rebate dollars in the hands of average Americans don't. If Dems are so worried Americans won't spend tax rebates, then give me $10,000 and I'll guarantee I'll spend ever dime within 6 months, not one penny going toward savings. I'll even sign a pledge. I'm positive I can find millions of Americans prepared to take the same vow. ...
Tom Friedman wants strategic investments. He almost sounds naive at this point, even though I agree with every one of his goals. ... No mention of food stamps. ... Repeat: Nothing against spending in coming months. But to waste these funds -- and to squander this one-shot-only opportunity -- is going to be tragic.
At least Jeffrey Sachs, formerly of Harvard, isn't pretending the push for bigger government is all about the economic crisis. ... Seven words that make you cringe when you hear about the developing economic-stimulus package: "The Democrats are going to be Democrats." And that's why food stamps will be touted as 'bang for the buck' economic stimulators. ... Nothing against food stamps. They'll be necessary as part of overall social policy during tough times. But don't insult our intelligence by claiming that food stamps create jobs while tax-rebate dollars in the hands of average Americans don't. If Dems are so worried Americans won't spend tax rebates, then give me $10,000 and I'll guarantee I'll spend ever dime within 6 months, not one penny going toward savings. I'll even sign a pledge. I'm positive I can find millions of Americans prepared to take the same vow. ...
Tom Friedman wants strategic investments. He almost sounds naive at this point, even though I agree with every one of his goals. ... No mention of food stamps. ... Repeat: Nothing against spending in coming months. But to waste these funds -- and to squander this one-shot-only opportunity -- is going to be tragic.
