U.S.: Where were the protesters before?

We can all feel empathy for those losing their jobs or otherwise affected by the government’s budget cuts. There is plenty of pain to go around. But no way will everyone ever agree about the best process.

As I heard about the protests last weekend, I couldn’t help but wonder where all these good hearted people have been before now. Where were the protesters as the U.S. racked up $36 trillion in debt, and counting? Politicians have kicked the can down the road for years. We Americans have closed our eyes and gone about our merry overspending. 

The fears concerning Social Security, veteran’s benefits, Medicare and Medicaid are understandable. But our massive debt is akin to the proverbial bus with no brakes heading toward a cliff. Passionate congressional speeches, “debt clocks” and dire warnings haven’t precipitated protests about spending. But then when an administration tries to deflate that bloated government, people haul out their signs.

Social Security will run out of money by 2035. The 2025 budget deficit will add $2 trillion in debt. We will spend over $1 trillion on debt interest payments this year alone. THIS IS NOT SUSTAINABLE by anyone’s figures.

Unfortunately people have joined together to ferociously hate two individuals who are at least trying to tackle the debt. And they protest every last decision made while the bus continues to silently fly over the cliff to its ultimate demise. 

Will we fix the brakes or let personal hatred be our driving force?

CYNTHIA MARLETTE

Coeur d’Alene