As we continue to watch what few decent government programs we had left being strategically dwindled away while the elite continue to enjoy their life of luxury at our expense, Americans are starting to wake up to the reality of our dire situation.
The chart below compares the 10 safety-net programs slated for deep cuts (the “shared sacrifices”) on the left with the proposed tax breaks that should also be considered (on the right) to bring the budget into balance. This is really “WHY” these cuts are necessary?
Most Americans would be surprised to learn that tax breaks are not on the table during any budget negotiations. In fact, Congress has the Congressional Budget Office prepare an official spending estimate for the cost of all programs or their expansions. Meanwhile, Congress enacts and continues tax breaks without any requirement that the cost of tax breaks be calculated and shared with members before a vote.
They keep looking at drastic cuts in and/or elimination of all the safety-net programs while increasing benefits for the rich, and they aren’t even looking at the cost of the war and/or ending those expenses. In fact, they’re now looking at what it would take to create a “no-fly zone” over and around Libya.
The wars in Iraq/Afghanistan have added a massive burden to the backs of the American taxpayer. Check out what just one American city has foregone to help finance the war effort in a chart at The Nation.
Related Links:
- Center for American Progress: Infographic: Tax Breaks vs. Budget Cuts
- Daily Kos: The Must See Chart (This Is What Class War Looks Like)
- The Nation: Class War—Who’s Winning and Losing
- Center for American Progress: Budget Cuts that Work