What do we need for 2014? We need major change in the United States and Minnesota governments. The current Freeborn County U.S. senator, U.S. representative, Minnesota governor and Minnesota representative are all big-spending, big-regulation types who need to go in 2014 as we think on some issues.

Income inequality, but why?

In the 1950s the poor made $1,200, middle $6,500 and well off $12,000. Fewer real wealthy, but they grew over time showing the underlying U.S. economic strength.

In 2012, the poor made $12,000, middle $65,000 and well off $120,000. Note: Growth increased actual dollar difference.

Since the 1950s women earn more, but the well-off and best paid often marry each other and increase family income differences between the poor and well-off.

The 1950s had one-income family, kids for the married, adoption for single mothers, limited subsidy for single-parent families or college students. No SNAP, Pell grants, etc. (tuition lower).

We need migration policies like in the 1950s with low numbers and private groups covering all costs. Guest workers in the U.S. can apply for citizenship under regular quotas.

Fed block grants, limited, no string funds in education, health and welfare. States and the feds need to reduce the cost for all, not legislate increases. States innovate, not spend more.

Computer problems, navigators. Why not have insurance agents handle Affordable Care Act? ACA is the health disaster act that was rightly an overreach that complicates people’s health.

Meanwhile, some call for a higher legislated basic wage rate, but why? Farmers, small business, kids, non-working, poor, many seniors don’t have jobs, but their cost may go up. Legislators who try to buy votes by voting higher compensation usually don’t pay it and don’t tell people the 1938 25-cent basic wage of the Depression cost-of-living adjusted for 75 years of inflation would be 20-25 times more today or $5 to $6 an hour now.

Lower cost by government reduces debt and people’s cost if done properly. Can 2014 be a start to lower government cost and spending?

 

Tom Schleck
Albert Lea