Letter from Jan. 30, 2008

Economic stimulus

It’s never worked before

This so-called economic stimulus package of tax rebates is stupid.

First of all, it’s already our money so you can’t take money from us, then give it back and call it a stimulus. How silly is that?

Second, it’s a stupid political trick to buy votes.

Third, it’s never worked in the past. Permanent tax cuts help and build long-term growth. Every president including John Kennedy and Ronald Reagan knew that.

Fourth, it’s very temporary. It’s like serving a meal and expecting the meal to cure world hunger. Have politicians of both political parties gone insane? Does the political quest for power drive out common sense upon arrival in Washington, D.C.? Economies are built on enterprise, innovation and low government taxation and interference, not rebate checks in election years.

And to the potential recipients of this so-called tax rebate I add: don’t be fooled by this political nonsense. When the government takes your money then hands some of it back out of “generosity,” beware. The budget is the same, nothing is free — there is no free lunch — they will just print the money and deflate the value of your dollar a little and you will not really see a dime. In fact, it will cost more to administer the program than they give back.

And for all of you who plan on punching the ticket for the political party that championed this lunacy, you have just been bought. That was your price: $600 per vote using your own money. We don’t even need campaigns anymore!

DAVID HATZENBUEHLER

Silverdale