2/08/06 Budget Doesn't Reflect Our Values

It's time we start questioning the budget priorities in this country. The House just voted to cut over $39 billion from Medicaid, Social Security for people with disabilities, child care and student loans. The president is about to ask for another $70 billion for the Iraq war.

Spending on the war in Iraq has already reached approximately $250 billion. The cost of the overall "war on terror" is approaching half a trillion dollars and the federal budget deficit is growing. First, we don't have the money to pay for this war. Second, what does it say about this country's values that we are more willing to spend money to kill people than to help them? Third, how does being in debt and making international enemies help our national security?

We would be more secure if our financial house were in order and if we made sure our human needs were taken care of. I do not believe the federal budget reflects the values of its citizens.

Contact government representatives and lead them to a more sane budget. After all, it's our money.

-- Jean McElhaney, Lone Rock