A Farewell “Gift” From Liberals

By Mike Scinto

Appearing in Kettering-Oakwood Times and Times Community Newspapers

Liberal Democrats in Congress have shown their final act of cowardice; they are taking their fall “campaign” break without facing a decision on one of the biggest points of contention facing this administration, and this session of Congress. The Bush tax cuts expire next year if they don’t receive an extension. To boil it down, the administration wants tax cuts for those who make less than $250,000 a year and Republicans say tax cuts needs to be across the board.

The Bush tax cuts were enacted in 2001 and 2003 and will end, if not extended, on December 31 of this year. Some liberals have said they should expire, Obama wants a new series of cuts for those making under $250,000 and, since most growth comes from investment, job creation and manufacturing from upper income individuals, Republicans see the need to extend those cuts rather than send the economy into an even deeper downward spiral.

Extending the cuts would not be an instantaneous solution to our economic woes but rather would allow for long-term, gradual and steady growth.

What liberals just don’t get is that the tax cuts didn’t drive us into our recession. It was the outrageous and ever-growing entitlement program menu that, rather than encouraging growth and prosperity, encourages more hands sticking out looking for freebies from Uncle Sam; meaning the “deep” pockets of hard-working taxpayers.

Lawmakers owe it to taxpayers (voters) to let them know exactly where they stand BEFORE this crucial election. While we can see a fairly accurate chart of who will vote for what, a real man (or woman) of integrity would let the voters know where they stand without question.

Yes, this Congress’ leadership, Reid and Pelosi, have shown where they stand in the area or honor and integrity; should we have expected more, or less, from these political hacks and their band of hooligans? On the bright side, those of their ilk will be out after the first of the year. On the down side however, how many more of us will be victimized before their departure (and beyond)?