Dear President Obama #23: Stimulus plan 9 from outer space
Reporter's Note: President Obama has asked Americans to help him with ideas on how to make our government operate better. Every day I write a letter with my best thoughts, which admittedly, are not much.
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Tom Foreman | Bio
AC360° Correspondent
Dear Mr. President,
I’m getting into a twist over all these numbers. Hundreds of billions? Trillions? Scadillions? Uber-infinitillions? The money Washington is talking about every day now is simply mind-blowing. I suspect precious few elected officials can even keep track of it all.
So I am wondering if you could develop a simple, comprehensible meter of some sort for measuring the economy. Like that thing we’ve tried with the Homeland Security, only better. (I say better, because I’m not sure the HS system works so well. I mean, if the sign already says the threat level is HIGH, why do we need a color, too?)
How about a dashboard-like display with three dials? The first can show much money our economy is losing. The second can show how much we are spending to fix the problem. And the third can show how well our plans are working out. You can even put a little note next to it that says, “Your actually financial recovery may vary.” I know, the Republicans will want their own meter sure as the sun shines, but we’ve got to start somewhere.
Numbers this vast, when they are tossed about so freely and frequently, start taking on an otherworldly quality; like Stimulus Plan 9 From Outer Space. But the real problems people face are very down to earth. Trustworthy people, with reliable jobs, and solid down payments can’t get loans because the banking system is in such a shambles. Hard workers, who always show up on time, and do their jobs conscientiously, are living in fear of pink slips. Families who have saved and paid their bills for years, are afraid they won’t be able to afford college, or retirement, or medical bills, or care for their aging parents. Americans who are careful, patriotic, civic-minded, decent, and normally confident, are scared.
I don’t know what kind of big number can measure their feelings, or their desperate hope that Washington can put aside its political maneuvering long enough to find a real solution. But I know small numbers matter right now, too: The number of people in a town, the number of folks in a family, that lone person out there right now who is worried and waiting for things to get better.
You’ve got my number. Good luck and call when you can.
Regards,
Tom
Find more of the Foreman Letters here.
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Post by: Priority Filed under: First 100 Days • Letters to the President • President Barack Obama • Tom Foreman |
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Dear Pres. Obama,
My name is susan from the Philippines, I want to let you know how much you influence me in regard with your principles but i do want to share this letter: Daniel: Epitome of great leadership, not a few people covet to walk tall in the corridors of power, probably because power is often confused with greatness. The lives of those who governed and still govern the world, however, speak clearly of the fine distinction of one from the other. Power-driven people usually rule to gain greater power; righteous leaders, on the other hand, lead to serve truth, justice and righteousness. Above all of the120princes, chosen to rule throughout his kingdom, it pleased KIng Dariusto set Daniel as the chief president. It was because an excellent spirit was in him (Daniel6:3). Daniel personified greatness in power. he was installed as the leader next only to the king, but he was never overwhelmed by his position and influence. rather he conducted himself wisely in all circumstances and kept his integrity beyond reproach, at a time when a conspiracy among the princes and president was building up against him, out of jealousy and envy, they could not find grounds for the charges aganst his conduct in government affairs. They could find no coirruption in him because he was trustworthy, and he was never negligent (Daniel6:4). finding no way on how to entrap him, the conspirators thought of fabricating a law, which would directly transgress the law of his God, in order for them to find basis with which they could charge him. they sweet talked the king, thus they succeeded on their evil plan. The king made into law the degree that anyone whoi would pray to any god and man within the next 30days , other than to the king would be thrown into the lions den. now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before(Daniel6:10) in the face of sure danger Daniel did not count it a threat to pay his greatest loyalty to his God even when his very own life was at stake, he did not disappoint the hope of the evil conspirators when he proved them right , that his loyalty to his God was beyond human intimidation. yes he was the trusted man of the king but he didn't compromise his supreme loyalty to Him who changes times and seasons and set up kings and deposes them (Daniel2:21). the courage he displayed was unquestionably beyond the typical. surely it takes a remarkablye degree of courage to stand alone against a conspiracy of extremely powerful and influential people if only to stand true to the cause of God. it takes an exceptional deal of courage to disobey the highest ruler in the land, if only to preserve the righteous principles of God. it takes tremendous notch of power to do what is right despite the threats and dangers attached to it. Daniel's integrity that was beyond reproach, his righteous attribution of supreme loyalty to whom it was due, his courage that was beyond typical and ordinary- these are the Godly qualities which constitute the distinct and excellent spirit in a leader. A great leader is not only he who is able to overcome the most excruciating battles. a great leader is not only he who is able to lead his people from one vitory to another. a great leader is not only he who is able to provide for every need of his land. a great leader is he who is never threatened to stand for truth, justice and righteousness, just like Daniel. a great leader is he who never mocked to take the side of the majority, on the false promise of greateer influence, just like King Darius. nothing is more lamentable indeed than to have a world that is alienated of great leaders of Daniel's class. let this be a challenge therefore to all of us to strive to become leaders of excellent spirit, even in the humble position we are into. When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn (Proverbs 29:2), for the righteous exalteth a nation but sin is a reproach to any people (Proverbs14:34) God bless America. i want to thank anderson cooper thru his website. God bless you and your family.
susan
These letters are starting to be the best part of the blog, IMHO. For someone not from the States, and who gets utterly confused by all the goings-on, these posts help me to get a grip on the situation.
Of course, the more I understand about the economy, the more I wonder where all the money is going to come from, but...that's a whole other letter, I think.
Keep up the good work, Tom!
I am concerned about the Buy America provisions in this stimulus package, and how they have been altered to not be as strong as before. Hello, nothing is going to be "stimulated" without American jobs that pay a fair wage for a fair day's work. We need to be MAKING things in this country, not just pushing money and assets around and around, or working retail, selling goods that are all foreign made. From what I have seen, Obama's postion on outsourcing seems to have completely reversed, and that worries me.
geez what the heck are you all complaining. He tries the best he can do, let me see you do so.
I have a comment that will differently help you in securing your legacy, qiut before you bury all of us in your socialistic agenda. It's better to just walk away then to make the mess larger by spending our childrens money.
My husband and I have always been one of those conscientious workers, paid our bills on time and lived within our means. As a teacher, I invested in a 403b, which for those of you unfamiliar, means the money invested comes directly from my paycheck. No matching funds, like a 401k. I invested a big chunk of my salary the last two years, so in essence, I would have been better off working at McD's; certainly would have been less stressful.
And to add insult to injury, we most likely will not be able to take advantage of the proposed tax breaks in the stimulus bill. My husband makes a significant amount more than I do, putting us just over the maximum limit of the proposal. Some people have told me, if your husband makes that much, you don't need the refund. I say, why should I take a hit, while those who helped to cause the downfall get the refund?
One other thing that bothers me, is the President's shift in rhetoric- from create to create or save 4 million jobs. Does that mean new jobs might not be created, but at least the 4 million already employed won't lose their jobs? I would feel better if there was more specific information on how many and what jobs are being created.
Dear Mr. President,
I am a financial services executive and I am not 100% supportive of this bailout. There are hundreds of small broker dealers throughout this country who fill a niche for a select retail and institutional client base. There is no bailout for us, no corporate jets, and no audience in front of national TV. What is really sad in watching all of this is that all of the people that are out of work will not have medical coverage at some point. I think that some of the $800 billion should be directed to the folks who need medical coverage. If americans know that the US government will stand ready to provide a nationwide health plan to all Americans, losing a job will be less painful. Don’t loose sight of the finish line and your goals.
Dear Mr. President,
I am a financial services executive and I am not 100% supportive of this bailout. There are hundreds of small broker dealers throughout this country who fill a niche for a select retail and institutional client base. There is no bailout for us, no corporate jets, and no audience in front of national TV. What is really sad in watching all of this is that all of the people that are out of work will not have medical coverage at some point. I think that some of the $800 billion should be directed to the folks who need medical coverage. If americans know that the US government will stand ready to provide a nationwide health plan to all Americans, losing a job will be less painful. Don't loose sight of the finish line and your goals.
There is not a soul that can explain this and it was planned that way.
Do you feel better now ?
That meters that registers how much we are paying out and how much we are losing should be pretty durable – I bet the needle on those will be spinning at the speed of light – while the recovery meter will be motionless for a long time. Hope I'm wrong.
Hey Tom, the letter is "right on the money." Too bad you will never get a response and too bad that the real hurting people in this economy (not the actor at the town hall meeting yesterday) will not get the help they need from the stimulus package as it is right now.
We can fix that in a couple of years though when those congress people come up for reelection...if any of us still have the means to buy gas to actually go and vote or have not died by then.
Mr. President,
As I watch your television messages, I am wondering why you never look directly at the camera when you are giving a speach. You only look side to side. As a viewer, it makes me feel like you don't want to make direct eye contact with me as you are telling me about changes you want me to support. If this is simply an oversight on how the teleprompters are set up, you should have this changed. I am sure that I am not along with these perceptions.
P.Gandy
Oklahoma
Ninety-Five percent of tax money is derived from business. Hence, five percent is your dollars. Let's get our views in perspective. The bail-out is surely partially borrowed...but essentially given back to big business.
If I am wrong, please correct me.
Hey Tom
Hav'nt had a chance to read all your letters, but I wonder Have you asked the President what we are supposed to do for the next 2 years while we wait for the swift action of this government to take place?.........they are charging by the day for this U-Haul
Tom,
these letters are the highlight of my morning! I agree on everything you have written so far. I am also disappointed these astronomical numbers that they throw out, i don't get it! What i am getting is that as single parent with 2 kids with low income, I will get the short end of the stick! Always the little guy does! I am not the middle class that everybody talks about. What about the below that income, the poor people?!? I was in tears when the lady ask Obama to help her in Florida townhall meeting, I feel her pain, I know what it is like. I think all the politicians, decision makers etc. would be required to spent a week/amonth as a low income citizen and see what it is like, BECAUSE THEY HAVE NO IDEA!! maybe that would open the eyes for the real struggle that people are facing. Tom, next time Obama gives you a ring let him know this ok? Sarah
Tom,
you nailed it! now if they stop writing these bills they will have no need for ink (delema) could cause a job loss although i didn't see anything in it for Bic.......But i wonder is this part of 5 no wait 2.5 no 4 million saved no wait Created yeah that's it! ......They need couple meters for that 1 for loss, 1 for creation, and maybe an OOPS!!!!!!!!!! one too. What do think?
They are drowing us with words and numbers--and in particular "fear." Everyone has the answer, but really no one has the answer or knows what to do. We don't have the money to fund these bailouts and stimulus plans--so what we are going to do is "print/create" more money---useless paper that isn't worth the value of being placed on a toilet paper roll in any Port Authority.
Tom,
I'm in total agreement with you! They do need to come up with a way so that we can see how this money that we are doling out faster than the blink of an eye, is being used and how effective it is. I just can't believe how much they keep on passing out. It's like they think we have a never ending stream of cash. How many stimulus packages are they going to do before it's over with? It's getting ridiculous!
Cindy..Ga.