Barack Obama on 60 Minutes

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Barack Obama appeared on 60 Minutes and discussed Afghanistan, health care, and “fat cat bankers” who receive exclusive blame for all that is wrong in the world. The majority of the interview dealt with Afghanistan, and the President mentioned that the decision to send more troops isn’t popular, but is necessary. I agree, but it’s also fairly easy to see that he attempted to make it more popular.

The President stated that the success of the tropp surge will begin to be known in December of 2010, with a reduction of forces to begin in July of 2011. Barack Obama states that a deadline is needed to make a point to the Afghan people, to drive home the point that the United States will not have an open-ended commitment. I agree, but of course, there’s no mention of how many soldiers will return home, or a final date to fully withdraw. » read more

Sorry, it’s none of your business

Barack Obama had had it with “fat cat” bankers. He’s also concerned that banks are returning TARP money so they can pay large end-of-year bonuses without government interference.

I’m not sure if Barack Obama realizes this or not, but these banks are private businesses. Once they pay back TARP funds, what they do with their earnings is none of the government’s business. Of course, in Barack Obama’s socialist-leaning world, everything should be the government’s business.

Maybe it’s me, but shouldn’t we be happy that banks are able to pay funds back in full? I know it’s popular to pile on those who are successful, but this seems rather foolish.

Another day, another stimulus package

The White House has continued to claim that the $787 billion stimulus bill is a success so far. Plus, only about a third of the money has been spent, and the rate of spending is expected to pick up during the winter. If that’s the case, why do we need another stimulus bill?

The next stimulus would include tax breaks for small businesses, more money spent on transportation and infrastructure, and a “Cash for Caulkers” program which would stress weatherization and energy efficiency projects for homeowners. So, how much would this cost, and how would he pay for it? » read more

George Bush talks a good game, but isn’t a true fiscal conservative

Since leaving office, former President George W. Bush has been quiet. Recently, he broke his silence and discussed the role of government, and how excessive government interference can be a threat to freedom. The President made many good points. It’s too bad he isn’t credible.

One of the major problems with the Obama administration can be summed up by this Bush quote:

“the role of government is not to create wealth, but to create the conditions that allow entrepreneurs and innovators to thrive.”

I couldn’t agree more. Government should take care of the basics, then get out of the way. Some will succeed and some will fail, but it isn’t the government’s job to pick winners and losers, only to make sure the playing field is level. From listening to Barack Obama and following his actions, he thinks government is the solution to all our problems. George Bush seems to say the right things, but let’s not forget that he’s the one who helped open the flood gates. » read more