Politics
Out of context: Reply #5529
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- tommyo0
More or less, yes. I believe that federal powers by their very nature are dangerous. Just look at what Bush and the inept Congress did in 8 years. The abuse of power has arguably never been more transparent and the approval ratings so low. To think that every person entering office can abuse their position and walk away without repercussions is illustrative of the need to limit the reach of government.
I don't see the benefit of bigger government. Poverty levels are relatively at the same percentage they've been since the 50's. Just look at California. It's economy is ranked between 7th and 10th in the world. We're bankrupt and selling bonds (at 8% interest rates, which is nuts) to try and cover the proposed 2009 budget ... in the last 10 years our state government budget has doubled. The 2009 budget is a 10% increase over last year. Our state schools rank almost dead last nationally (47th).
So I'm sorry, but I've come to the personal conclusion that our system, and rapid increase in government expenditures does absolutely nothing except put hardships on our entire society. Everyone from the poor, middle class, businesses, foreigners and rich people. Governments as far as I'm concerned are as akin as you can get to 'design by committee.' I don't think the founders ever expected them to wield as much power as they do now. Destined to make horrible if not catastrophic decisions.
As far as my level of libertarian leanings, I'd say it's a 5 out of 10. I believe taxes are good thing if used transparently and conservatively. Governments are really good at certain tasks and really horrible at others. I'm not a huge believer in the libertarian freemarkets per se, seems too idealistic, but with the same breath I think the concept of over-regulation is too damaging to the marketplace.