First you need to go over to an article at cnn.com that deals with the economy and the deficit..
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/08/02/geithner.economy/index.html (copy and paste)
1) What are 3 main problems facing our national debt?
2) What are two programs that put our generation into more debt BUT have brought short term relief?
3) What are 3 positives that are our economy will see by the end of 2009?
4) After reading the article please give me your opinion on the economy? What do you think is working and not working?
Please have each question answered in it's entirety and the last question needs to be a solid 3 paragraphs...Also you can use other articles that relate please just cite your sources...Good Luck.
1) The first issue facing our national debt is the expansion of the federal budget deficit to unsustainable levels. Secondly, the cost of health care and the impending retirement of the baby boomers is very costly. Lastly, bipartisan debates regarding the measures which should or should not be taken have prevented progress.
ReplyDelete2) The bailout plan and stimulus package.
3) According to Geithner, three positives our economy will see by the end of this year are positive growth, a downward trend in the loss of employment, and the creation of more jobs.
4) It is in the cyclical nature of things for there to be high and low points, and the American economy is no different. Right now, we are in bad shape, and our national deficit is only growing worse. I have little faith in our government right now. I feel that instead of working for us, they are working for themselves, and I do not trust them to fix this problem. However, I have not lost faith in the American economy or the American people. Our bouncing back is only a matter of time, the length of which depends on the will of the people and the fiscal responsibility of the government.
If the bailouts and stimulus package are working, they are only a temporary solution to a recurring problem. Geithner himself has referred to the growth of the federal budget deficit as “unsustainable”. I would love to know, if this issue has become as unsustainable as he suggests, why the government is continuing to spend the money that my great-grandchildren have yet to earn. I would love to know why we are spending billions of dollars on sustaining the unsustainable, just so that the same problem might occur again in my lifetime, and I would love to know why the government is continuing to adopt programs such as Cash for Clunkers while proposing that they take on health care as well.
There are so many things that I would love to know, but what I would love the most is for this spending to stop. I refuse to throw my support behind politicians who believe that spending more money and selling our own debt will somehow result in nationwide prosperity. What we need is some good old-fashioned American initiative. People need jobs, Mr. President, not a welfare check and a tax hike for subpar health care that they don’t even want. If any good has come of this mess, it is the fact that it has helped to open the eyes of many Americans who are beginning to fight back.
1. The first huge problem facing our national debt is the expansion of the federal budget deficit to "unsustainable levels". The stimuls package, and the bailout plan both contributed to that dilemma. The other issue is the continuing highly cost of the healthcare system. If it's not reformed soon, the deficit will expand even more. The third problem is the fact that Democrats and Republicans can't seem to come up with a compromise to get the deficit under control, and that's in turn halting real progress.
ReplyDelete2. The two programs that are providing short term relief but long term deficit are the bailout plan and the stimulus package. Even though they advantage us now, there will be more debt for future generations, which will be difficult to get rid of.
3. According to Geithner, our economy will continue to improve until the end of 2009. Then, the job losses will reduce as the year goes on, and more jobs will be created by the beginning of next year.
4. From where I stand, it seemed like the economy was improving slowly. In the beginning of this whole crisis, many were panicking because they thought they will lose their jobs. That's what happened to some, but not as much as I expected. Then, everything began to slow down, and the government told people to go out and spend their money to raise revenue. After that, they started saying no, save your money, you'll need it because it looks like this recession isn't going away that easily. Now, all that panic seems to be gone, and it looks like we're back to normal.
That's what I thought prior to reading this article. I guess it's because I haven't been watching much of the news lately, but now my whole opinion on this changed. Like Geithner stated, there will be more jobs & less job losses, but that still doesn't guarantee economic stability. That's just one small part of it. To me, it looks like it's going to take a while until things are back to normal again.
As far the programs that Obama has created to help the economy, I believe they are maintaining us for the while being. I don't think they're going to benefit us for the future. They're just unfortunatley expanding the national deficit to unsustainable levels. I would love to see how the future generations are going to deal with that. For the healthcare reform, they need to get going on it. It just seems like the Republicans aren't going to agree with the Democrats' approach anytime soon, so they need to compromise instead of wasting precious time and lives.
Obama gave many promises before he took office, and people had too much expectations. Now that they see he can't really do much, they're not supporting him. For god's sake, he's just one man, he can't do everything himself. Politicians thought he was going to be on FDR's level, but obviously they were very wrong. Like I said before, it's going to take time before we see real change.
1. As we speak our government is attempting to recover from some of the most difficult financial challenges this nation has ever faced. Because we have unimaginable debts, we are left with no option but to expand our federal budgets which leave the American people deeper in the hole. Secondly our financial futures are left in great danger with much being spent on healthcare and many who are expected to soon retire. Millions of people are expected to leave their current occupations and finally settle down. Lastly, many of our senators and representatives cannot seem to agree on what and how to fix this economic situation. With all ideas serving to accomplish the same goals, there seems to be little to no consensus on how to get the job done.
ReplyDelete2. The next couple of issues that put our futures at risk are the Stimulus Package and the Massive bailouts our federal government have issued.
3. The three positives that are foreseen are as follows: The decrease in amount of Americans going jobless, the ever so slowly growth in business, and the introduction of the new green jobs which has been proposed by the Obama Administration.
4. After reading the article it is clear to me that printing as we are and the mass borrowing from foreign governments can only lead in one direction, an America no one will soon recognize. It’s quite unfortunate that spending irresponsibly has led us in this direction. Now it seems that spending is the only way to escape this, even though we’ll end up where we started. As more money is being pumped in the banks, car companies, and now more recently the used car business,(Cash for Clunkers) things still do not look on the up in up. The current administration has spent like there’s no tomorrow.
I, as well as many other Americans am concerned about our so uncertain futures. It seems to me that some extraordinary changes are now in motion. It’s of a great concern that someday America may end up as a third world nation with little to no hope for our future young generations. As many now realize, the government is now giving away free money, so? How does this mass influx of free cash really improve the economy and it’s standing in the world? To me it’s nothing more than a fake fix to a real problem. People need jobs that will last, not green jobs that have been shown to only be temporary.
Much of what has occurred in recent months is evidence of a major lack of fiscal and personal responsibility. It’s unfortunate that responsible taxpayers and hard working Americans have to bare the burden of those who have made careless mistakes. With the plans now being enacted Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner has said that “all options need to be looked at” including tax increases which not only affect those who make 250,000 or more a year, but everyone who makes less than that. It is also clear that many Americans are becoming aware of the mistakes that our own government is committing. Plenty of people are now aware, and will hopefully make better choices once things really begin to turn around.
Camille’s Answers
ReplyDelete1. When looking at the way the United States functions as a body economically we have many different issues plaguing us at this moment such as: Job Loss, Unemployment Benefits running out and the Bailout Plan concerning the massive spending that is going on to possibly jump start the economy. The different bailouts are causing Americans Trillions of dollars in the future.
2. The Stimulus Package Programs there are many programs inclusive of this package, where billions of dollars are involved to help short term problems but we will be paying later on down the road. If the Health-Care System is reformed it will cause many problems along with spending billion possibly trillions of dollars rolling people into the program.
3. There are some positives involved in this program of getting thing done for many Americans; however, the change is coming it is just moving quit slowly in nature. The Banks are starting to loan money now for houses and automobiles, and new employment may not be in the field of work from the past; but with the re-training allow versatility to do other career moves. Many others the opportunity to have additional weeks of unemployment helps to find or look for possible job opportunities, while keeping the family a float with food and other amenities to sustain life.
4. Well the quick fix of the Stimulus Package has many different programs within it, and on right how is “Cash for Clunkers” Where people will bring their old cars in for trade now that is a concept in terms of getting people to buy new cars that are more gas efficient, and it does help just start the dealerships who are losing money and start to pump money back into the system. “The program, which provides payments of up to $4,500 for people who trade in gas-guzzling older vehicles for newer models with better fuel efficiency, is in danger of running out of money three months early because too many people rushed to take advantage of it.” http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/08/02/geithner.economy/index.html
The major argument over Health Care Reform from Democrats & Republican can be heard all the way to the White House, and this taxing expense for many Americans has been a burden for years. There have been Presidents that have attempted to tackle this issues from administration to administration, and President Obama wants to handle this problem. Many would say it is a wonderful plan to have centralize health care especially when there isn’t a job available, and your healthcare has ran out or their isn’t any benefits for the kids when they get sick. Others argue the issue of letting the government telling you where you are going to go for healthcare, and what services they will provide for your issue. “The Budget sets aside a reserve fund of more than $630 billion over 10 years that will be dedicated towards financing reforms to our health care system”. http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/fy2010_key_healthcare/
Unemployment Benefits is Government help aid for many of American’s out of work with no new job in sight, so the unemployment benefits help to pay bills with small amount money to try to keep the people a float during tough times. The benefits was originally suppose to last for 26 weeks (which is 6 months), but with the raising in claims and the downsizing continuing it has been extended for an additional 13 weeks to allow people to continue to look for another source of income. During this recession there has been a record broken in many different areas, and this is one where it was expected possibly the Government would run out of Unemployment Benefits due to so many Americans out of work. However, “The number of Americans collecting long-term unemployment aid fell to the lowest in three months in mid-July, according to government data that implied a slowing pace of layoffs as the economy stabilizes”. http://money.cnn.com/2009/07/30/news/economy/jobless_claims.reut/index.htm
Camille’s Answers
ReplyDelete1. When looking at the way the United States functions as a body economically we have many different issues plaguing us at this moment such as: Job Loss, Unemployment Benefits running out and the Bailout Plan concerning the massive spending that is going on to possibly jump start the economy. The different bailouts are causing Americans Trillions of dollars in the future.
2. The Stimulus Package Programs there are many programs inclusive of this package, where billions of dollars are involved to help short term problems but we will be paying later on down the road. If the Health-Care System is reformed it will cause many problems along with spending billion possibly trillions of dollars rolling people into the program.
3. There are some positives involved in this program of getting thing done for many Americans; however, the change is coming it is just moving quit slowly in nature. The Banks are starting to loan money now for houses and automobiles, and new employment may not be in the field of work from the past; but with the re-training allow versatility to do other career moves. Many others the opportunity to have additional weeks of unemployment helps to find or look for possible job opportunities, while keeping the family a float with food and other amenities to sustain life.
4. Well the quick fix of the Stimulus Package has many different programs within it, and on right how is “Cash for Clunkers” Where people will bring their old cars in for trade now that is a concept in terms of getting people to buy new cars that are more gas efficient, and it does help just start the dealerships who are losing money and start to pump money back into the system. “The program, which provides payments of up to $4,500 for people who trade in gas-guzzling older vehicles for newer models with better fuel efficiency, is in danger of running out of money three months early because too many people rushed to take advantage of it.” http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/08/02/geithner.economy/index.html
The major argument over Health Care Reform from Democrats & Republican can be heard all the way to the White House, and this taxing expense for many Americans has been a burden for years. There have been Presidents that have attempted to tackle this issues from administration to administration, and President Obama wants to handle this problem. Many would say it is a wonderful plan to have centralize health care especially when there isn’t a job available, and your healthcare has ran out or their isn’t any benefits for the kids when they get sick. Others argue the issue of letting the government telling you where you are going to go for healthcare, and what services they will provide for your issue. “The Budget sets aside a reserve fund of more than $630 billion over 10 years that will be dedicated towards financing reforms to our health care system”. http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/fy2010_key_healthcare/
Unemployment Benefits is Government help aid for many of American’s out of work with no new job in sight, so the unemployment benefits help to pay bills with small amount money to try to keep the people a float during tough times. The benefits was originally suppose to last for 26 weeks (which is 6 months), but with the raising in claims and the downsizing continuing it has been extended for an additional 13 weeks to allow people to continue to look for another source of income. During this recession there has been a record broken in many different areas, and this is one where it was expected possibly the Government would run out of Unemployment Benefits due to so many Americans out of work. However, “The number of Americans collecting long-term unemployment aid fell to the lowest in three months in mid-July, according to government data that implied a slowing pace of layoffs as the economy stabilizes”. http://money.cnn.com/2009/07/30/news/economy/jobless_claims.reut/index.htm
Obama Signs Anti-Smoking Bill Into Law
ReplyDeleteOn June 22, 2009 President Obama signed into law an Anti-Smoking Bill combat and decrease tobacco-related fatalities, and help the kids deter from using or ding in areas where there is smoking readily available. "Each day, 1,000 young people under the age of 18 become new regular, daily smokers, and almost 90 percent of all smokers began at or before their 18th birthday," Mr. Obama said before signing the legislation. "I know; I was one of these teenagers. And so I know how difficult it can be to break this habit when it's been with you for a long time." The Tobacco Industries are making new cigarettes with candy flavor attracting a lot of kids to try it, but legislation goes into effect by October 2009 where they imposed a ban on selling the candy-flavored cigarettes. When the ban is enforced the Food Drug Administration (FDA) will look into the ingredients or additives used in the candy-flavored product, an all sponsorships, sporting events, clothing or giveaways will be excluded from any contest or any attraction where there might be kids present. The industry will not be able to use terms that could be misleading to the public such as “light” or “mild” by July 2010, and by July 2011 there will be stronger warning labels on tobacco. http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/06/22/politics/politicalhotsheet/entry5104008.shtml
In years gone by before strict legislations and lawsuits there were many advertisements on billboards, commercials, movies and other influential venues attracting people, and the target then was the youth and continuing on the values of smoking in society. It use to be a time in history where people could smoke on the airplanes in the smokers section, and smoking in restaurants where it was indicated usually in the back of the restaurant. Times have past and many lawsuits and laws have been presented; however, the tobacco industries are developing new strategies and techniques to stay in business through this tough time. This bold move by the President helps to preserve the life of the children hopefully for many years to come, and this measure isn’t saying it is going to totally stop kids from smoking but it will help slow down the effects of new smokers in America. President Obama adds "our work to protect our children and improve the public's health is not complete." http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/06/22/politics/politicalhotsheet/entry5104008.shtml
Barack Obama's US climate change bill passes key Congress vote
ReplyDeleteIn years past there were many talks about global warming and we knew what the biggest problem was, and the concern was about how the emissions from automobiles and big gas consuming trucks. We have all seen trucks smoking or cars smoking from not properly taking care of their vehicles, and the smoke is just pouring out of the exhaust pipes while in traffic waiting on the light. There are laws passed to ticket certain vehicles when they present themselves unlawful within the flow of traffic, but the tickets given out are very small compared to the vehicle we see daily. The house of Representatives voted on this key issue 219 to 212 to ensure the measures for cutting emissions will be put in place, and by 2020 17% should be cut and by 2050 83% in an effect to reverse the global warming. Democrats argue this was the most important bill to get passed; however, "The house has passed the most important energy and environment bill in our nation's history," said Ed Markey, one of the bill's authors. "Scientists say global warming is a dangerous man-made problem. Today we are saying clean energy will be the American-made solution." http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/jun/27/barack-obama-climate-change-bill
It was a hard fought battle for the Democratic who support for the President made extra provisions to make sure it passed congress along with 8 Republicans who crossed party lines; however, the victory it was good but the bill have to still clear the Senate where the oppositions is even harder before signing it into law. This is an important bill due to the whole world is watching how the US will be able to do it, so other countries can model the success to start the patch to the reversal of global warming. This bill is not only limited to vehicles or trucks it includes power companies to reduce their use by 15%, and to develop other ways to generate the power necessary such as wind and solar energy. Many states are starting to set up and develop jobs within their states by building solar panel productions to generate and store the power from the sun, and this will not only cut the cost for the people but help us to utilize the natural energy given daily. However, there are some lop holes in the bill being passed, but the President appealed to congress to pass the bill also as a job creation program. This bill is crucial in many ways President Obama has made some promises that me must keep, and many things are riding on the bill passing the Senate to be written into law. The Climate Control issue is a great effort and what it stands for is the preservation of life on earth which is a gallant applause, but if this bill is serving two cause or somewhat a help to one cause and not really to the other then the bill will be dead in the water by the time it hits the Senate. If the bill is only for the Climate Control then outline all the effect of it, and how feasible it is to make this happen immediately to get all the other countries on board. However, if it is a ditch plea to jump start the economy then the Administration will look weak in nature, because they will be fighting to issues with one common goal; but if the Senate rejects it President Obama will have a major problem!
1. One problem of our national debt are the emergency actions taken to relieve our debts such as the bailout plan. Another financial problem is the cost of health care which is out of control. Thirdly, is the number of people who are unemployed, it is without a doubt a serious issue for our nation.
ReplyDelete2. The stimulus package is something that, although had given minor relief to states and businesses, has certainly added to our increasing debt. The other being the bailout plan which helped a few banks gain partial stability but had no real lasting effects.
3. First, the rate of job loss is steadily decreasing with a chance for job creation. Secondly, there will be health care reform that will likely improve the cost of receiving health care. Thirdly, the value-added tax that might be imposed would slowly help to relieve some of our national debt by the end of the year.
4. As many philosophers throughout history have said, "nothing lasts forever," and a country's economic status is no exception. Every time there is a time of prosperity there will surely be a time of hardship soon to follow. Our economy is at the mercy of a constantly fluctuating market, in which a downturn is bound to occur and have drastic affect on the price of simple commodities. The economic cycle can be best describe as what goes up must go down.
I really believe the government should be doing something to help us bounce back out of the economic crisis. However, what they have been doing so far is definitely not making things any better, especially in the long run. They're handing money we don't have and even more with the cash for clunkers program, though it's a good idea to get people to drive more fuel efficient cars, it's a plan we can't afford. Right now people in D.C. are shooting out ideas that a 10 year old could have thought up and it is becoming downright shameful.
Right now the only that seems to me would work best to slowly pull us out of our debt is to impose taxes that affect every citizen equally, not differentiating between social classes. Although it would put a strain on people's wallets it will, at the very least, help to reduce our deficit to the point where our great-great-grandchildren won't face an economic crisis that is directly our fault. As long as our government is able to think up sensible plans to help us get through our economic problems.
This is regarding David Lopez's response.
ReplyDeleteI agree with almost everything you said so far, especially the part with Obama's administration spending so much. It has become out of control, and they keep adding to it, now also with the cash for clunkers bill. I don't really see how this is going to aid us for the future. Our generation is going to have to fix this problem, and by then it will become an enormous issue. Our debt will increase as well, and our recession might become one that won't get fixed this easily.
As far as jobs go, I think they need to create permanent ones that ensure working-class Americans in every situation. Many people are still out of work, including college-educated, intelligent ones, so that just shows how the government isn't doing much at the moment. Also, how you said that responsible Americans are paying for others' mistakes is completely correct. And the tax-hikes seem like they would work, too. I know many people, including me, won't agree with higher taxes, but I think it's a safe choice. I still believe they should tax the rich higher than the working-class Americans. After all, we can't have it all, and even if we don't like spending more money, we have to budge for the good of the country.
1.Three main problems facing our national debt are first, printing out money we don't have to bailout the banks and car companies. This will have a crippling effect for later generations, and is even effecting us now. Second, is when we paid for the wars held in Iraq and Afghanistan, that was a huge sum of money that we don't have and will still be paying off. Last, is the health care cost.
ReplyDelete2. One program is the "Cash for clunkers" though a great idea, it is taking huge sums of money from our government that we don't have, but it is having a short term relief upon the car companies because they are keeping business alive. Another program is the Stimulus Package, this package is giving a slight increase in your pay. Though, we will have to pay it back because we don't have enough money.
3.Based on the article, Geithner says that jobs will reduce as the year goes on, then our economy will improve until the end of this year. and lastly, at the beginning of 2010, more jobs will be created.
4. After reading this article, i find that, in my own opinion, the "cash for clunkers" is very much working. It is stimulating the car companies, they are selling a lot more cars then before and the employees aren't getting laid off. To me, this program is working because everyone who has a "gas guzzler" is rushing in to take advantage, therefore these car companies are creating a business. Unfortunatly, the only problem is that the government is giving us money we obviously don't have but i think that if we sell enough cars, the car companies can start paying the government back and therefore solve their issues first.
Next, i believe that the health insurance plan that Pres. Obama wants to create, though a good idea at first, it will be costing our economy huge sums of money that we obviously don't have. I personally don't think this plan will work because it will be costing our economy money making future generations still having to pay it off. I think he should come up with a solution thats not as expensive but can maybe provide the same benefits. Even though it hasn't even come into effect, i don't see it working because again, its spending more money that we don't have.
Lastly, i think that the stimulus package is working because they are providing companies, and people with money. For example, the stimulus package is providing hardworking individuals with just a few extra bucks each paycheck, depending on their amount of pay, though a sometimes small amount, it can help that person/family in this economy. Next, the bailout part of the stimulus package is salvaging companies like banks and car companies to help them survive in the economy. For example, it created the Cash for Clunkers program for the car dealerships, and for the banks, the government gave them money so they can lend the money to Americans that want to buy houses. Both programs, i believe are working, i mean, they just extended the Cash for Clunkers because it is doing so well.
1) The first thing that is facing our national debt is definitely all of our spending; as we spend more our debt will only naturally grow. Secondly, as we spend, no one can figure out a plan on how to fix the problem. Last, a problem is health care being that we have to take care of all the baby boomers.
ReplyDelete2) One program that has put our generation into more debt but brought short term relief is the “Cash for Clunkers.” This program will run out of money 3 months early due to the rush. People rushed to take advantage of this program. The other is the stimulus package where people receive a check under their circumstances.
(http://www.nowpublic.com/tech-biz/2009-economic-stimulus-check-who-eligible-rebate)
3) We will have more job opens towards the beginning of the new year. The “go-green” attitude we have this generation will also provide jobs. As well as a decrease in the job loss total.
4) Reflecting back on the article I can agree as everyone else that we are not in a good economic time. We can see that the government IS trying to the best they can to improve it. Coming up with a solution will be difficult and once they agree, we can get the economy back in place. As well as looking for a solution, the government is still considering what is going on everyday ‘on the streets.’ They said the government will consider extending unemployment benefits. This extend is necessary because the benefits will run out soon for more than a million Americans.
There are a few things that are working in the economy. The cash for clunkers is a program that is temporarily bringing relief to people. Financially, this program doesn’t help in the long run. This does help the environment though, and what’s wrong with that? One other thing that is working for us is the stimulus package. This relief is helping people with a little bit. The stimulus package includes: tax cuts: $500 income tax cut for singles, $1,000 for couples...which comes to roughly $13 per week in your pay check, depending on your income: For the Unemployed: another $25 a week, plus an additional 5 months in benefits; For a Family on Food Stamps: Roughly another $79 a month; For Seniors on Social Security: A one time check of $250; For people on SSI Disability: A one time check of $250; For Government Retirees: A one time $250 tax credit; For New Car Buyers: You can now deduct sales tax paid...but not the interest you pay each year on the loan, which was in an earlier version.; For First time home buyers: an $8,000 government tax credit that does not have to be paid back...which Realtors say will be much better than last year's $7,500 loan, which had to be paid back, and had little effect.
There are a few things that aren’t working in our economy. Mallory Livingston from Emporia State University said, “The growing national debt is largely due to the fact that the government issues a new debt each year to make up for the debt from the year before.” I agree with this entirely. Another problem is the misleading politicians we have. They could lie and say that this is under control, while it truly isn’t. Living in the shadow with only the effects hurt Americans.( http://www.facingup.org/our-generation-and-impact-america039s-growing-national-debt) Hopefully we can find a solution to all of this.
This is concerning Melissa Morelli's comment.
ReplyDeleteOk, I agree with the fact that you said the "cash for clunkers" seems to be working for now, but what about the future? Yes, people are rushing to take advantage of it, which means the money will run out very soon. Then, what will the car companies do because this bill just seems lke it's going to stimulate the business for only a short amount of time. That means they will have to find a new way to sell cars without adding a bonus for buyers. If they can do it, great for them, but if they can't, the government is just going to have to bail them out again. I just hope it works for now, at least, but then again, there's no guarantee on anything.
Also with what you said about the the healthcare reform, I totally agree with you. At first, I thought it would work too, until I started seeing all the oppositions and read more about it. Now, it just seems like another quick fix to me. Once again, the stimulus package is working well, it seems, especially for working-class families, like you said. All that worries me about this whole thing is the debt for our generation. I mean, it's increasing so much, and not much is being done about it at the moment. I guess it's going to be up to future generations to fix it.
1) Some of the main problems that the national debt is and will face are:
ReplyDeleteHigh inflation, which we are now being affected by it. By printing more and more money in order to help maintain banks and other corporatios at a stable economic status the government is making the crisis even more dangerous. Another issue is the cost of health care which is incredibly high. Finaly we can conclude that a barrier has been built between the democratic and republican party therefore making a decision even harder to be approved by both sides.
2) The stimulous package and the bailout plan is giving Americans hope for a better economy in a near-by future but it will cause severe damages to a future generation, and making the national debt even higher that what it is now.
3) Three positives that our country might see by the end of this year are :
The creation of more green jobs, our economy will improve until the end of this year, and job losses will begin to reduce as the year continues.
4) Since the foundation of this country our ancesters went through similar times as the one we are currently facing. It is something inebitable we can say. Economics will always have good and bad times, the question is where are we going to be able to prevent this?
The Government is doing his best to help the country, his proposals are brilliant but I think that they are looking at possible outcomes or consequences which is bad since the problem will be fixed only temporarily making it more difficult to the next generation to overcome the problem.
People gave alot of support to President Obama when he was doing his presidential campaing.At that point we can say that the economy was beginig to enter the difficult part, now that change is not being produced as people expected they are giving less support to President Obama.
The last thing that I have to say is that history repeats itself, and it will be something that we can't and will never change.
1. The 3 problems are national debt, the health care that is taking care of the baby boomers and the dispute between republicans and democrats about compromising the deficit problem.
ReplyDelete2. The stimulus package and bailout plan.
3. The 3 positives will mostly likely be more jobs, decrease in job loss, and positive growth of the national economy.
4. Right now I am kind of iffy on what is working or not. I view the economy right now like it is on life support. Its not doing better but it is also not gonna die any time soon. It looks and feels like it is barely working. Our economy is just going in circles and soon we are going to be right where we started if no major solution comes upon it. I do think it can do better later on but right now, I really do not see any progress.
I feel that the bailout plan and stimulus package are the life support of the economy right now. They are temporary and at any time it could stop working. Even Geithner stated that its "unsustainable" so i believe they should be looking for something that is "sustainable". They should just spend the time and money on searching for real solutions and not for temporary holds.
Lastly I feel like the health care plan is a hopeful dream but not a reality. It is a very good idea but the downer is that it costs alot of money, and money that we don´t even have. There should be a different plan, one that wouldnt cause future generations that debt that has been resulted in ours. As of right now I don´t see it working and unless they come up with a solution quickly, there would be no progression on the long run.
1. Our national debt is facing three main problems which are: the uncontrollable federal budget deficit, the healthcare system, and the inflation along with major federal spending.
ReplyDelete2. The two programs that put our generation into more debt are the “Cash for Clunkers” and the Stimulus Package. The Cash for Clunkers program helped Americans to obtain new model vehicles by getting up to $4.500 when they traded their gas-guzzling vehicle. Thousands rushed to trade in their vehicles that the program is in danger of running of out money 3 months earlier than expected. Lawmakers in Washington estimated the cost would be $1 billion, now they want $2 billion in order to keep the program running. Moreover, the Stimulus package is expected to be around $787 billion which is why WE are going to be in terrible debt.
3. The three positives that the economy will see by the end of the year include: pace of job losses will slow down, economic growth will increase, and the recovery of the nation’s car industry and/or the passage of healthcare reform.
4. I have so many opinions about our economy because it is uncertain what is happening right now. First of all, the Dow Jones fell apart staring around September or October of last year. It continued taking a nose-dive going from almost 14,000 to the low 8,000 (we were really close to reaching the 7,000 mark). As of today, the Dow Jones is recuperating and it has reached the 9,000. However, when we go to the supermarket to purchase food; we are face-to-face with reality. Inflation is all around us and it is affecting everyone’s pocket. Therefore, if the global market is getting better; then why are we still the facing the problem of inflation???
In addition, job loses throughout the nation are still on the rise. There are some states that are reporting unemployment rates to be above 15% and many are reaching or above the 10% mark. I know that there are some businesses that are really struggling and that it is absolutely imperative that they cut down their work force, but job loses is not a good sign of a strong economy. Although, I think I heard that last month the unemployment rate went down a bit, which are great news!
I don’t think bailout/stimulus bills are not the best way to fix our economy. We need to get rid of the “little” things that seem to slow down the national/global economy. I think passing healthcare reform will serve as a boost to our struggling economy. In addition, the government needs to impose harsh regulations on banks and home loan companies in order to prevent future economic disorders. I really do think that the American economy is going to get back on track very soon, but we need to work as one in order to accomplish that goal.
1. Three main problems facing national debt are as follows; the bailout plan, national economic stimulus and the health care system. The government is not well organized and now with the new president Barack Obama, Americans seem to want prompt responses, but the main issue is that there are many reasons to America’s national debt. Main problem being obviously that we [America] owe too much money and our economy is at crisis, and the only thing we do is for ask loans and extensions. The bailout program can spend from $500 billion to $1 trillion to buy distressed mortgages nationally (David Stout Business expert for New York Times); the economic stimulus will abstract more money from our economy and provide more jobs. With the hope of obtaining a return by making this “ go green jobs” and making America a more “ safe energy” nation that will result in savings of money and energy. The last one, but not less important the health care system that is abstracting money from Americans via taxes:]. America is only obtaining more loans with high interest.
ReplyDelete2. Talking to my History teacher Mr. Willis, we got to the conclusion that America commits the same errors over and over again leaving debt to the next generation because they do not learn from previous errors. Two examples are “the cash for clunkers” and “economic stimulus”. Most people think that economy is not trembling but at is best, and that is not need to make changes or analyze the situation and consequences that present debt can bring to future generations and its economy. Most of us know that whole deal about the “cash for clunkers”, but we do not realize the money used for this fuel efficient cars comes from our pocket and it helps now but our kids and future generations will have to pay for this. Also the stimulus plan that brings more benefits to the health system and provides more jobs. Because it works now giving jobs to millions but also is hard to keep these jobs for a lasting period. Plus this money to make new jobs is collected from our [America] economy.
3. Three positives America will see in the 2009 year are: increment of jobs, relief to economy, and more help for distressed mortgages.
4. I have to say that am confused, disappointed and intrigue about the future of our economy. Am confused because if the president Barack Obama is obtaining so much money for the stimulus of our economy, what if it does not work? What is the back of plan? Could America stop being “The most powerful nation”? If so who will proclaim the title? China? The government is obtaining so many loans as in previous occasions and distributing money. I Am concern about inflation, I am concern of our unstable economy which could be an easy way for other nations to take advantage of us in Pivotal decisions and opportunities such as gas prices.
I also feel a bit Disappointed because even though we [America] has the title of being “ the most powerful” we still have more problems within ourselves. An example is the education system, the need for a national health care system, etc. Am more disappointed that our national debt just did not appear but was pass along from previous generations. That means America had already been in crisis and there was not much done, at least in a positive way to help the America we are today, the America that we all built together.
THIS IS A REMARK ON MY COLLEAGUE MS.JASMIN:
ReplyDeleteIt is of my personal interest to know what you mean by: “we have to deal with baby-boomer”. Do you mean that our generation has to pay with our taxes for their well-being of these senior citizens? If so what in relation that has to do with our economy? How does it affect it? Do you believe that in the long run that will cause more problems because is something the congress needs to debate and come to a conclusion? I think our government is very busy with the previous issues that we are discussing in this blog, and does not think baby-boomers is that imperative or pivotal.
I think what you are saying is that our generation has taken care of the baby-boomers because of the system in America of how senior citizens retired and post generations become liable or responsible for these people. If I am not mistaking your main worry is all the taxes that are rising and that we have to pay for all the problems we have with our economy. Am I Right?
THIS IS A REMARK ON MY COLLEAGUE MS.MELISSA:
ReplyDeleteI agree with your opinion on the economic stimulus, but I strongly disagree in your opinion of a positive relief from the “cash for clunkers”. It seems like History only repeats it self, and previous generations not only inherit us more knowledge but also their debts. Ms. Morelli, you said is good that car companies are receiving the opportunity of paying back debts by the money received from “cash for clunkers”.
What happens after? Will these companies finish paying their debts? When are these companies going to finish paying their debts? The idea of temporary relief seems really promising yes, however in reality we are in a crisis. People do not have money to pay completely for these cars, or at least the vast majority. Without statistics I can assure you that there are more in need than wealthy right now. This is only a vicious cycle: “loans, then pay me half way, and then leave in debt post generations.” The relief is only temporally Ms. Melissa. In the other hand, it will definitely be best instead of approving this projects to suggest more realistic ideas such as a subway; something that will not bring debt to future generations and something we can pay for right now and helps our economy by transporting a greater number. Just like New York.
THIS IS A REMARK ON MY COLLEAGUE MR. JOSE BOTELLO:
ReplyDeleteI really like your response to your personal opinion for question number four. Your answer was not only realistic but clear and simple, and it even had a little of humor:].Definitely agreed that we would not see any big changes, or pay off everything any time soon, but at least we have a better chance. Plus we decrease the chances of our future generations from ending like us or worst. Am very glad somebody put on account the possible consequences.
Also I see your point that we should try to recover as much as we can now. The comment on how our senate is making unhealthy and inadequate decisions that a ten year old could make, was very funny and a bit realistic I would say. I thought of “ cash for clunkers” as “a bad decision,” and now I see more clearly and agree with you that is simply unnecessary. Is money Americans do not have (in the vast majority), and another future way to go in debt. You are right that idea was really vague and the people in the senate should not have approved it.
This is concerning Erica Arnold's response.
ReplyDeleteBasically, I feel the same way as you about our economy. I also don't trust the government, they're the ones that got us in this mess in the first place. It sucks that we have to depend on them to get us out of it, too. The only thing that gives me comfort about this whole situation is the fact this has happened before throughout history, and people have gotten through it. They had much less advantages than we do now, and many of them died, especially during the Great Depression. If they rose out of the Depression, then I know we can get out of this recession.
I also agree with what you said about the programs that Obama has put out. I think he's just trying to help the people, but not really thinking about the consequences for the future. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate what he's doing, but I just don't think it's going to help us in the long run. Also, I think he's taking on too much at once. The healthcare plan that is proposed by the Democrats seems to be getting a lot of negative feedback from the Republicans. I think it's for a good reason, and they were also saying that they might go on with it without the republicans' vote. I do not believe that is such a good idea because it's going to create a lot of tension between the two parties. Maybe if he came up with this plan before the stimulus package and the bailout plan, things would have been different.
1)
ReplyDelete-The three main problems facing our nations debt it the huge federal budget deficit,high cost of healthcare and
our malidoit politicians never being able to compromise.
2)The two "wonderful" programs that has been thrusted into our hands are the bailout plan and the stimulus bill.
3)The supposed positives that Timothy Geithner stated are a positive growth in the economy,unemployment going down
and the creation of jobs.
4)Our economy is just atrocious. Geithner is stating that our economy will be getting better by the end of this year,
but he can't be serious. He is one of our politicians that are chosing to spend money we don't have. These people
who are taking our money and shooting us further down are just sitting pretty on the hill. These people are
practically throwing flaming daggers at us and they dont care. I feel like im staring at the devil.
These people that we are forced to look towards for help are shielding our eyes from the reality. They
gave us the bailout which was supposed to help us. They gave us the stimulous package that is supposed to be helping
us. Yeah, it is "helping" now but it will be hurting our generation, but they are practically burning it down. They threw in
the bills the most stupidest things possible, for instance aids prevention and stopping the spread of it and sustaining a rum company.
These are what we are paying for! Are these people on Capitol Hill mad? The prevention and the hault of spreading the virus?! Did
they think of not having sex with someone you dont know? I guess not because they just want our money. The talk of a second
stimulous made my blood pressure shoot up literally,and my blood pressure shouldn't shoot up to the level it reached. The cash for clunkers program was a disaster running out of money in 4 days, my lord and asking for more money wow.
They think they are helping us,but they are making matters worse. Obama said that only the wealthy class will see the tax hike
but Geithner said that the middle class (most of America) will be feeling a tax hike as well...hmm who can we believe? We are hurting so much
because of the economy and spending more money isnt helping it. Why do they think that? We are borrowing more money from other
countries like China, if we countinue this than China can buy this country, but hey maybe our educational system will be better ;) The
house split isnt working either. They think that what they see is the real picture but the Democrats and Republicans need to step back and
look at the big picture. They need to put their differences aside and help out this ailing economy, they are watching us drown. Do they even care about
us? What they are throwing at us is not working, none of it is. They need to come up with better plans, if I could come up
with a better plan i'd throw it out there in a heartbeat. Our politicans really need to wise up.
1. The first issue to our n ational debt is the expansion of the federal budget deficit to unsustainalbe levels. The second issue is with the healthcare system. It is to costly and it can make the deficit worse. The third is with all the people unemployed.
ReplyDelete2. The programs which are hurting our helping our economy now and we are gonna pay for more in the long run is the bailout plan and the stimulus package.
3. The 3 positives we will see is more jobs, job loses reduced and the economy steadily improving.
4. It's very obvious that our economy is in trouble and our government doesen't know how to fix it. They are mending it with a not so good band aid and we don't know how long it's gonna hold. Im talking aboutt the stimulus and the bailout package of course. They are helping now but how much will they hurt us in the long run.
In my opinion on what is working is that it's all working for now. It's just a matter of how long will it work for and how long will we have to pay for it in the long run. The stimulus package helped everyone out but we have to pay it all back and who knows how long that will take. The problem im thinking about is are any of these plans helping us with the economic stability of our nation.
What's not working is obviously the cash for clunkers. It's because in the article it states that they are having to many people trade in the cars for $4500 and they are taking advantage of it. Also, our healthcare needs to be reformed before our deficit gets even larger. I believe the government is trying to do good for the meantime but it's just gonna hurt us later on.
This comment is to Erica Arnold.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you when you say that why would we be trying to sustain the unsustainable. Why would we honestly be spending money on that and that whole paragraph that you wrote makes a lot of sense. You said that you don't want it to reoccur and I agree. Because it can come back way worse just like a disease. I say that tackle one problem at a time.
I agree with your last paragraph also where you say the spending needs to stop because it does. If we continue to spend then we will just be kept in debt forever. Then we will never get better and bigger depression after bigger depression. Problem after problem will occur. When you say that people need jobs thats the truth and that's how i think we will save the economy.
1. Three main problems facing our national debt are health care, expanding unemployment benefits, and expanding federal budget deficits to unsuitable levels.
ReplyDelete2. Two programs that put our generation into more debt, but have brought short-term relief are: the stimulus package and the bail-out plan.
3. Hopefully by the end of this year, we will see the rate of unemployment go down, a consensus of the health care reform, and an increase of job opportunities.
4. There are many issues that have to be resolved, but there is a priority level of importance as to which ones MUST to be resolved first. Every economy goes through a cycle in which has its ups & downs. As we know, our economy is not what is was in 2005. We as a country must have faith, put in our part, and reassure ourselves that it will come through in just a matter of time.
Obviously there are many things that are not working. Like I said before, it is just a matter of time. Problems do not just get fixed overnight, especially when we are talking about America's economy. We were not prepared for something like this to happen, but we knew that it was going to happen eventually. With many job losses, many people do not know what to do, who to turn to, and are in seek of massive help. Some even think of suicide as an option!!
We know that President Obama is trying to find a solution, but with the crisis this big, he definitely needs help. The "cash for clunkers" program did help many many people, but how long will it last? This can not go on forever! The number of job losses mixed with inflation is a call for emergency. With new job opportunities opening late 2009, will hopefully bring a new rise in the economy.
This is in regards to Chynna's response.
ReplyDeleteFor the first time, it looks like we agree on something. I see how you think the government put us in this situation and now they want us to depend on them to get us out of it. That's just ridiculous to me. Now, I realize why there's so much debate over the healthcare issue. People don't want the government taking over every aspect of their lives, and I understand their fears. I feel the same exact way now that I'm learning how two-sided the people in Washington are.
They all live in their fancy houses and have a good life while the unfortunate ones have to find a way to survive in this bad economy. The tax-hikes were supposed to apply to the first-class citizens as Obama promised, but I'm not seeing that happening. And the borrowing from other countries has to stop, like you said. The debt is just building up, and they need to find a way to deal with it before it becomes impossible. Also, both parties need to stop all their bickering and be able to compromise. We're not going to get anywhere if this continues on, it's just wasting time.
This is in regards to what Jose Botello had to say about the economy. I agree with much of what he had to say. He is absolutely correct in too much government involvement has spun these issues out of proportion. With the issues as they stand, it is understandable why the federal government is pushed to make some haste full choices. He goes on to say that the “cash for clunkers bill” is not going to help in the long run. I totally agree with him on this statement. The issue of fiscal responsibility has surpassed all party lines this time around. It’s now becoming clear that no matter what party you belong to, it’s now down to stop spending tax payer dollars! As the economy worsens it’s difficult to believe that the federal government wants to have Americans bare the burden of their government’s mistakes.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I do disagree with Jose in that we must raise the taxes of everyone equally. That is something I do not agree with. In fact, I disagree quite passionately with President Obama’s tax increase for those who make 250 thousand or more. With the economy continuing to tank, it’s hard to imagine raising taxes for those who are having trouble as well. Wealthy Americans are struggling during these trying times too. If we make their financial situation more difficult, than their forced to the cost cutting, wage reducing decisions which would trickle down to the average middle class worker cutting down on their paychecks. I just don’t understand how raising taxes on the wealthy would solve the issue when they’re the ones running the show. You hurting them would be equivalent to running the little guy into a financial abyss of fiscal destruction.
This is regarding Saul's response.
ReplyDeleteI love how you used life support as a metaphor for the two programs. It's very true what you stated about them being our base right now. If those programs weren't in place, our economy would collapse. There's nothing that is permanent in those plans that guarantees us future economic stability. I think we're going to be in big trouble for the coming years. As far as the spending goes, our governmnt isn't doing anything to stop it.
I also agree with what you said about the healthcare issue. It's going to cost a lot of money that we don't have. People are angry and lashing out because of that, and they don't want the government to control healthcare, too. All this debate isn't going to get us anywhere. It doesn't seem like they're going to agree on the plan, so they should just come up with a better plan.
This comment is in regards to Mekdelawit’s comment:
ReplyDeleteHi! It is very interesting how you started your first paragraph, “The first huge problem…” I would have to say that all the problems facing our national debt are, indeed, huge. The first that came to my mind were your first two, but your last one never crossed through my mind once. However, you are absolutely right that the far-from-over disagreement between Democrats and Republicans seems to have no ending, but it did have a beginning. I would have to say that unless these problems are settled, our economy will not FULLY recover and WE will be the ones most affected by this.
On your fourth answer, I think the first paragraph is just about right. People were and still are afraid of losing their jobs. Throughout the nation we see industries just taking nose-dives to bankruptcy. As we saw at the beginning of the crisis, the housing industry just went down without signs of recuperation and it led to the government take-over of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Then, the American car industry just plummeted leaving all major car brands on the brink of bankruptcy which ultimately led to bailout plans from the government in order to keep them afloat. I would like to point out that WE, the youth, are the ones that are going to be dealing with this expansion of the national deficit. You are SO right when you said that too many of us have “numerous” expectations that are being handled by just “one” person, President Obama.
This comment is in regards to David’s comment:
ReplyDeleteHello! I think the fact that you are into politics is what made you come up with such realistic answers to all four questions. I totally agree with you that many Americans are getting ready to leave the workforce and turn to home to live the rest of their lives as much as happy and healthy as possible. We are not talking about one or one hundred; we are talking about millions of Americans making plans to retire. I am not trying to say that senior citizens should be excluded in any way from the upcoming (?) healthcare reform, but it would greatly increase the federal spending to keep up the so debated “government-run” health insurance.
I think we are on the same page when you talked about major governmental spending on companies that played a major role on starting this recession and that will, most likely, continue committing wrongdoing after the economy recovers (whenever that is). For so many years, the U.S. has helped developing countries in need; but this time WE are the “Third World Country” in need from “REAL” developed nations (China???). I would have to disagree with the fact that Green jobs have a great chance of being log-lasting, as long as the government commits to maintaining sufficient funding to keep them running. As far as the Tax increase goes, millions of Americans are in the struggling face (middle to low class) which saves them from being affected by this increase. I would have to say that there’s a limited number of Americans that make $250,000 or more a year. I enjoyed reading your comment!
This comment is in regards to Priscila’s comment;
ReplyDeleteYou asked me many questions in this comment so I will state your question and then answer it.
Q: “Do you mean that our generation has to pay with our taxes for their well-being of these senior citizens?”
A: The answer to that question is yes. That is what our tax dollars contribute to.
Q: “If so what in relation that has to do with our economy? How does it affect it?”
A: Tax dollars are the things that run and stabilize the country. So spending on the baby boomers is spending tax dollars.
Q: “Do you believe that in the long run that will cause more problems because is something the congress needs to debate and come to a conclusion?”
A: In the long run, well truly it’s not that long of a run because we are facing it NOW and no – congress doesn’t need to debate this. This is an issue, and the article we read agrees with me.
Next, you said, “…does not think baby-boomers is that imperative or pivotal.” I disagree with you. I think they are important; they are as important as you or me. We are all citizens of America and we all have to deal with our money issues. If you don’t know what baby boomers are – they are the people that were born in a mass quantity when the men came back from war. When you stated, “… our generation has taken care of the baby-boomers because of the system in America of how senior citizens retire.” You are correct, but with more people retiring, more money is needed there. Did I clear everything up?
1. The three main problems facing our national debt are national deficit, the health-care system, and lastly the controversies between our fellow Democrat’s and Republican’s that cannot seem to come up with a solution they both among to agree on.
ReplyDelete2. Two programs that put our generation into more debt are the stimulus package and the bailout plan.
3. Three positive features that we would hopefully see by the end of the year are reducing job losses, more opportunities for workers to get jobs starting next year, and increasing of national growth.
4. In reality, its difficult to say that many struggles are going on in our country. The economy is not doing so well with all the money spending, the problems that are going on that might cause a collapse in our economy. I sometimes feel that our government sets up unrealistic goals that I’m not sure that would work. Starting with the job losses, many people in needs are loosing their jobs; the only way they can raise their families and have money to have a stable shelter provided for their children. I feel that many states should stop building businesses why? Because to actually overcome in my point of view not many businesses are doing good and I can say because I’m observing how companies are struggling. I’ve noticed especially on the strip, let’s look at Fremont St. area, that placed used to be filled with people, now not really. Imaging this city cannot stay well if we don’t have enough tourist coming like before now for me that place feels like a ghost town. A lot of places have to get close because they don’t have a lot of costumers and the money to keep their businesses all tied up together. Now another thing I’ve noticed restaurants used to be packed and now not really also. Families have to save up money so they can have a chance of survival, it is hard to go out and buy outside foods because we do not have the money to at least enjoy ourselves we are afraid we can be left with no money. And to also point out many businesses are clicking their way to bankruptcy, which many had. Probably what am saying does not have to do but I’m mostly pointing out the lack of jobs out there.
Another thing the ideal look of the health-care plan. I still do have my mixed feelings about it but I had observed more the con’s than the pro’s to be honest. If this plan does occur its going to be even harder for Americans to be able to pay their bills and much more. In reality check not all of us have a lot of money and if this reform does pass we are going to be doomed. I don’t know this should not be rushed because it can cause problems for the economy. But hey who I am to predict the future right? I’m just worry this might lead to more problems but I’m not the one with all the answers.
I feel the need for the economy to be heal is to just stop the spending that is going on. I hope someday those two parties minds can join in together and FINALLY agree on something. But ah well only time would know as many of us have been saying everything comes with its time and patience. I really do hope though by the end of this year those three positive ideal goals do happen, I’m definitely crossing my fingers for that.
1. Among the many problems facing our economy today, a major one is the federal budget deficit. It is expanding to unbeliveable levels that in the future it may take a lot of time to pay off. Sure, economy is reviving, but the US is getting deeply in debt. Examples can be the stimulus packeage and the bailout plan. Another problem is the costs of the healthcare plan. The prices are extremely high and if nothing is done about it, the economy will keep suffering the consequences. Lastly, both parties democrats and republicans clearly don't understand the many conflicts and they are not able to compromise in order to benefit the US and to help the econmy progress.
ReplyDelete2. Both, the stimulus package and the bailout plan are now giving short term relief, but in reality they are just sinking us more in debt. Yes, they are helpful now, but in the long run it will have to get paid. If the debt keeps on increasing it will be really hard to pay all of it.
3. In the interview that Geithner gave he believes that our economy will be improving and will be better by the end of 2009. This means that the loss of jobs will decrease and that hopefully more jobs can be available by the start of next year.
4. Reading this article helped me understand many ideas of the economy that I didn't quite realize. The economy was really bad to the point that prices increased enormously and as smart people we stopped spending money. The government also knows the situation, but makes little efford on fixing it. They are not helping instead they are worsening things. They keep on passing bills that only provide short relief; however, they are not looking to the ugly side. By the bills helping they are also making the US debt increase. I don't think the government is acting correctly. They are just looking for ways to help, but they don't think clearly on the situation.
I believe that democrats and republican shuld come to an agreement that will benefit everyone. They are different, but also they are affected by the economy. By more and more money being printed to help banks, car dealers and people who are in "bankruptcy". The government already spent money on the banks, but it different change anything. The banks are not helping the economy, but hurting more. They have taken many and many houses on their posession because people cannot afford, then what do they do with the haunted house. I mean, of course, the situation is bad, but taking homes won't help either. The banks should realize that giving someone an opportunity to pay their house is better than to have many houses on their side. I don't think they realize they are doing bad instead to good.
I hope that the economy can be back to normal. Americans have suffered the harsh conditions because they lost their jobs. The economy got so bad that people asked the government for help. Many unfortunately take advantage of that help and end up hurting others. For instance people who earn "a lot" pay high taxes for medicaid, social security and federal. Then again its their own money and people who don't work take advantage. Seriously, the government is not acting with responsability. If they keep on passing small bills to help in the long run they will see the harm they are causing. I had faith in President Obama, but to me he doesn't put enough effort. Some americans happened to be selfish or so I saw on the news. In Pennsylvania, people didn't want to reform healthcare because they are afraid to lose what they get. The point is to benefit everyone and not just a group and to me they don't realize that. Reforming healthcare can be a helpful step towards economy if it is done correctly.
This is concerning David Lopez's response.
ReplyDeleteDavid, I completely agree with everything that you said. The Obama Administration has spent an astonishing amount of time not only proposing faulty solutions but pushing them through. The problems our nation is facing are far too serious for the insufficient measures that are being taken to correct them. You said that the current administration is spending like there's no tomorrow, and you're right. By the time tomorrow arrives, it will be dismal for those who must live it. This administration is spending wealth that has not been earned and punishing everyday Americans for their own fiscal irresposnsibility.
You also mentioned the fact that the government has been giving out so-called "free money". I am disgusted that some people actually regard this as some sort of government charity. Nothing in this world is free, least of all government intervention and money. All of us, our children, and even our grandchildren will pay for all of this tenfold. The frivolity must stop. All of this extra spending and unreasonable sense of entitlement is doing nothing more than destroying our Constitution and pushing the United States int he direction of a welfare state.
Priscilla,
ReplyDeleteI have to say we stand on the same stand, where you mentioned “I also feel a bit Disappointed because even though we [America] has the title of being “ the most powerful” we still have more problems within ourselves.” I find it clear where you are coming from, we are supposed to be a strong country put well together to contribute to achieve to make this country a more stabled community. But it is difficult to understand that we have to deal with some worse issues, with all these spending money and everything it is just making this country look like a troubled society. I know its hard for them to come out with ideas because they are running out of ideas because somehow is has to do a lot with the controversies with Democrat’s and Republican’s, why cant they just stop being so hardheaded and finally try to come up with something that is going to help this country? I am no one to put the blame on someone but they don’t get their heads put well together, but I’m just guessing they just want the “best” for this country.
I am also concern in many stuff as you are too, I’m just afraid for our generation to be heading with a crisis that is going to affect us throughout the rest of our lives. I’m concern on what’s going to happen if these goals the governments are setting do not work. I’m just dealing with many doubts that are worrying me, its like damn what if it actually doesn’t work, but we cannot be living with what ifs. I hope and pray that America can come up with a solution that is going to succeed and not cause us more trouble than we already are in. I mean they do have good ideas but come on everything comes up with its own timing. And they seem to want to put things on a rush that is not good. But I still not loosing my faith there can be a solution, hopefully.
Chynna,
ReplyDeleteYou stated “Geithner is stating that our economy will be getting better by the end of this year, but he can't be serious.” sadly he is being serious and I agree with you completely, its sad to realize he is making it seem in less than four months the economy is actually going to be heal. Like come on he is totally making it seem as if everything is going to be okay and a joyful ending will come and solved all these problems. I mean great he has nice ideas among his mind but still I don’t believe in less of four months this problem would have a solution so fast. I feel they are just setting up things that are just so unrealistic and most of all the big controversies between those two parties why cant they just stop getting their differences in the way and actually do something correct and both of them come with a damn solution that is going to finally fix all these problems. They make it seem so hard and complicated but it really is not.
I wish I can answer your questions but to be true I want those answers answered too. I don’t know it seems to me this is just going down the drain, I mean cool they want to fix things but it gets me upset how they want to rush things. I wish I can tell them take it easy you have a brilliant idea but don’t make it all hurry up. But as I noticed you are very upset with how America is being run today and I get you. Thus far it is hard to make them focus on the con’s with their own beliefs, they have to realize not everything is easy they have to see the consequences to their ideas.
This comment is to Melissa Morelli:
ReplyDeleteI understand what you said about Cash for Clunkers, so now that the plan is working they are hiring then when its over they will fire them again? I mean the government keeps on making money with the cars that are selling, but the dealers are losing to. Sure, they can change their cars to better ones, but what if your car is in good conditions and they trade for a newer one. The dealer would most likely keep the car and sell it some other time, but the government won't allow it because they now want to help the environment. That makes the car dealer loose money.
Another thing, now that the econmy is getting better people take advantage of this huge opportunity. What if suddenly they can't pay for their new car? Do they loose? Most likely yes, and then changing their car would of been a big mistake. I mean the bill helps with $4,500 and they can buy a car that is up to $45,000. How can someone be able to pay a car? I know the bill is working, but until when, it is having such a good response that it is just temporarly. What do you think is going to happen when its over?
This comment is to Saul:
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you said. The economy is definately going on circles and it will keep on doing that if nothing is done about it. A solution seems far from where we are. I also agree that both the stimulus package and the bailout plan are working now. They are temporary and at any given time they can stop working to. It is a lot of money what is invested on it and I don't think the government would want to throw a lot of money away. I think it is time for a plan that will be helpful for the economy instea of bills and more bills.
The healthcare plan is more of a dream than a reality. Efforts are slow and republicans and democrats can't seem to compromise. The mistake they are making will cause future generations to suffere. They will be the ones who will have to work to pay off the debt without them even having anything to do it. In reality they don't contribute to the problem, but they will contribute to the solution. The healthcare is a lot of money, I agree. It is also a necesity for many that don't have it and the government should get working in order to help the US.
This comment is to Cesar:
ReplyDeleteLike you, I want the econmy to get better. I have the same question as you, why is it that if the econmy is getting better then the prices on food are still high? Maybe it is because the economy is barely coming together. Although food is essential to everyone it can be helpful on obtaining more money. Gas at a time got to high prices, but the american learned that they can move without using their cars. Then the government stopped raising the prices on the gas and the american began buying it again. It is different since like I said food is a requirement for a person to live.
About jobs, yep people did get fired and that was bad. The unemployment rate did go down and yeah it is a good idea. I agree with that, but I wonder how they are going to create more jobs for those who lost what sustained their families? The government does need to get rid of the "little" things that are slowing us and instead focus on how severe the problem is. I also agree that the economy still has a long way to go in order to get fixed. Economy is like a circle until a solution is found it will just keep on going round and round.
This comment is to Priscilla:
ReplyDeleteI understand you are disappointed and am sure you are not the only one.To me it seems as if you are more interested on the title that the US has than on the problem we have. "The most powerful" can mean so much. It can be powerful in its army, powerful in its economy and powerful all together. I don't think holding to that is a requirement now, but instead to work things out. Am also worried that future generation will have to deal with the problems that we are now facing and it is sad. To me being "the most powerful nation" or holding the title is not important, but I do agree that we can be powerful if we fix the economy. Of course, that is far from happening.
What is the back of plan? Do you think there is even a backup? As I see it, it is not possible. I mean if they cannot come up with a concrete plan then why would they have a backup. Even if there was one it will be both a waste of time and a waste of more money that we do not have. Priscilla, be realistic it is a sad situation that we are going throw, but if the government cannot work out together then we are pretty much doomed or the economy will not get better soon. One last thing to be "the most powerful" nation can be important, but what matters is to fix the economy once and for all.
This comment is to Chynna:
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more with you. Seriously, you are right with everything you said. I don't believe anyone should be against you unless they were to be blind. The true reality is that they are not a help at all. Like you said they are just watching us drown. To me I don't think they care, I mean they will still have their money and I believe most of them are selfish. I think the government doesn't realize what they are truly doing. The stimulus package and the bailout plan are not the best choice. Seriously, if they want to pass another stimulus plan they will make the debt extremely high. The cash for clunkers is not really helpful because they did not count many people will go for it and I don't think they realized the actual money it will take just to save the economy.
Also, you are right on who to believe. If our President said the wealthy class and Geithner said the middle class then you are right. Who should we believe? Is the government lying to us then? How can we trust them when they are harming us? If most americans are in the middle class work for what they want, then I don't think its fair to take the money they earn with their work by paying taxes. When in reality the taxes may not help them. Paying a lot of money in taxes only benefits the government. I seriously I agree that republicans and democrats should put aside their differences in order to help the US.
This is in regards to Mekdelawitx’s comment
ReplyDeleteYes we finally agree on something. I’m glad you see the governments faults, the democrats and republicans. I’m sorry to say but our government is just terrible right now. Our politicians aren’t trustyworthy then again when were they really? They have control over everything practically. Where is our freedom now? We cant decide where our money goes now. I thought this government was supposed to take us out of debt not push us further. Obama promised change, and I thought it was going to be a positive change, not a change that would divide this country.
Every politician is sitting pretty while the people that they should stand for are suffering. They don’t help them. Its so frustrating to see all of this, especially when you see it first hand. Honestly I thought Obama was going to be great, but I really thought about it and I realized it was all a fantasy. Sounds oh so good to the ear, but once it hits your brain its crap. Then he appointed Tim Geithner, a guy who hasn’t paid taxes for eight years, to be in charge of our money. And this fight between democrats and republicans needs to stop. The sad part is, is that they wont stop unless we fall completely. Do you wonder if they know the quote “United we stand. Divided we fall” They act like they care, but if they do why don’t they show it?
This is in regards to Erica’s response:
ReplyDeleteErica I completely agree with you. This government has gone out of control. They spend money we don’t have and want us to pay with money we wont have. This is just plain ridiculous. They want us to trust them but how can we? They spend, spend and spend and they complain about not having money. Then they borrow more money from other countries. Do they not understand that we, the American people are paying for it or do they understand and not care? I am so disappointed in this government. We are drowning in debt and they wont pull us out. Geez, if they were lifeguards and if we were really drowning we would be dead.
I agree that we need to stop spending money because this is going over our heads. Our generation, our children and our grand children will be paying for this and if this irrelevant spending doesn’t stop then our country wont bounce back. The American people are angry and scared of this government, I am not giving up hope with the American people but all hope is lost with this government as of now. They need to wise up and listen to the people and each other. Obama is pushing to much and giving us too much of his mess. I wish he could open up his eyes and start helping the people out in what they REALLY need, not for what he wants. For example, the health care reform, I never wanted the bailout or “stimulus” but we have that. The American people want help, but is our government just full of maladroit politicians that they cant and don’t want to see it.
This is regards to Jake’s comment
ReplyDeleteJake, this government has shoved us the stimulus and bailout too quick. The stimulus has only hurt us more, the people receiving the stimulus money are happy because they wont be the ones paying for it. This is like a gun shot wound and these lovely politicians are covering it up with a tiny bandage. We bailed out companies who have greedy CEO’s why? The stimulus is giving people a chance for a second unemployment, and that is the only positive I can find as of now. We are paying for bailing out companies and we are paying to take care of people we don’t even know.
Obama and this government want to reform healthcare, I see why they do because it just honestly SUCKS. The government is in control of it too. This government complains and points out that many americans don’t have health insurance, we already know that. But what some people don’t know is about that there are government healthcare programs for all kinds of people, but they government turns them away too. The healthcare system needs to be reformed, but not with nationalized healthcare. The government really needs to be reformed. They spend too much money on things and want us to pay. I thought they were supposed to help us. I don’t understand this government anymore, do you?
This is in regards to Melissa’s comment:
ReplyDeleteI was reading your response, mainly response four. I understand that you support the cash for clunkers program, I see your point that the American people are getting money and its great. But what isn’t great is that this program is driving this economy further down. Its making the deficit worse. These car companies can go ahead and TRY to sell those cars that have those low prices but it doesn’t matter that the prices are low, who can really afford to buy a car right now. So the car companies can try to bounce back, but before they do something major needs to happen with the unemployment rate. People cant afford housing and some cant even afford food how in the world are they going to afford a car.
In your last paragraph, you stated that the bailouts and stimulus package have been helping the big companies and the American people out. I think its great that its helping out the people but I don’t like how it is helping out these companies with greedy CEO’s. I say that they are greedy because they have so much to give but they wont. Its their company, shouldn’t they take care of it? Have they heard of sacrifice? I really wonder. You stated “…and for the banks, the government gave them money so they can lend the money to Americans that want to buy houses.” Banks have the money to loan out money to the American people to buy houses but some banks wont loan the money and I know some people wont go to banks because they know that the interest is too high.These government programs are making this 11 TRILLION deficit worse. This is not making this economy recover, spending more money will not help this economy bounce back.
This comment is in regards to Mekdelawit's response.
ReplyDeleteYou said that you believe that President Obama's programs are maintaining us for the time being, and I must say that I don't find that to be in the least bit comforting. I don't think that what our country needs is maintenance, but real solutions. Holding us over is not doing any of us a favor. During the Great Depression, people were forced to pick themselves up by their bootstraps, do whatever work they had to do to feed their families, and relearn fiscal responsibility. I don't see how forcing us into more debt and babying us is going to better our situation. Like you said, the measures that have been taken thus far will not benefit us in the future.
I also don't see how the proposed health care reform is going to help to better our situation, now or ever. The ongoing debate between Republicans and Democrats is wasting time, to be sure, but I think that the wasted time is a blessing in comparison to the billions of dollars that this so-called reform could be wasting. This health care shabang is one of the reasons why people have stopped supporting President Obama. He has quadrupled our national debt in a matter of months, and he's looking to spend more. I agree with you that he is just one man, but it is the people's responsibility to be critical of their leadership. We need to be in top of things and let politicians know that they're being kept in check. Liberty, after all, is when the government fears the people.
This comment is regarding Jose Botello's response.
ReplyDeleteI love that you compared the state of the economy to the age-old axiom, "what goes up, must come down". I also enjoyed your appropriate description of the immature notions of most politicians in D.C. right now. I completely agree with the idea that most ten year olds would be capable of coming up with the same progressive ideas that congress has thus far. Instead of spewing on and on about progress and reform we don't really need, I think our government should look into leading our country in the direction our founding fathers intended.
Taxation is one-hundred percent necessary, and I agree should have an equal affect in every American's life, but I think that there are other ways of helping our ailing economy. Pork barrel spending has gotten out of control on both sides, and neither seems to be showing signs of stopping. Special interest programs are also sucking us dry. Instead of making everyone a victim and spending their way to power, maybe they could try looking out for the people's best interest.
This comment is regarding Melissa Morelli's response.
ReplyDeleteI think that Cash for Clunkers sounds great on paper, but I don't see it making a huge amount of difference in the end. The program ran out of money in a matter of days, and isn't really doing much of anything in the way of helping out economy. All this program really does is transfer money from one taxpayer's wallet to another's. Giving $4,500 away to everyone with a clunker isn't going to spell wealth for our generation or any other, and the boost in car sales will become a bust once the program is kaput.
I completely agree with you about President Obama's proposed health care reform. This reform not only asks that the American people pay more for less, but that they hand more power to the government. I also have very little faith in the President when he says that this will not affect those of us who choose to keep our own plan. He has referred to himself, on more than one occasion, as a proponent of single payer health care. Lastly, although the stimulus plan may have some small success at the moment, it will do nothing the way of our country's future neyond causing damage. Not a cent of this stimulus will go unpaid for, and I am ashamed to have left this burden for future generations.
This comment is regarding Jasmyn Franklin's response.
ReplyDeleteI do not see how extending unemployment benefits is going to help the overall state of our nation's economy. Rather than handing out welfare checks and labeling everyone and their brother a victim, the government should do their best to provide people with jobs. If you give a man a fish, he eats once, but if you give him a fishing rod and teach him how to fish, he will eat everyday for the rest of his life.
I appreciate that you ended your response on a positive note, in hopes that we will soon find a solution to many of the issues plaguing our country, but I do not believe that said solutions can be found in any of the programs you mentioned. These programs are spending money we don't have at a pace that is too difficult to keep track of. There's absolutely nothing wrong with trying to protect the environment, but it's definitely not our priority at the moment. We have too much on our plates to attempt saving the planet from a problem we may not have created in the first place.
This comment is in regards to Erica's comment:
ReplyDeleteYou said. "I do not see how extending unemployment benefits is going to help the overall state of our nation's economy." Extending the unemployment benefits is going to help NOW. People are getting laid off for the simple reason of our economy. People need to get by and still live. Also, not all people are just looking for a check as you claim. Some people are embarrassed to ask for unemployment but are forced to because of their situation.
You said, "There's absolutely nothing wrong with trying to protect the environment, but it's definitely not our priority at the moment." People all across the country do realize that we have a problem in the economy. Everyone isn't obligated to try and fix that one problem though. There are many people in America, and we all can make a difference. If it is not on your priority list, I'm sure it's on some else's agenda.
One last thing you mentioned was, “We have too much on our plates to attempt saving the planet from a problem we may not have created in the first place.” As the human race, we have created global warming. Our cars that we drive use gas, which is a natural resource, and finally, as Nevada we are in desperate need of water. These are just a few issues in our environment.
This is in regards to Rafaela’s comment:
ReplyDeleteI’m glad we stand on the same side, then again I am glad that our colleagues stand on the same side.
Our government is just insane. They need to get real. They live in this fantasy world that shows that spending more money helps a bad economy and that fighting against each other helps the country. Are they drugs or something? Sometimes I believe that they are especially with what they say. They need to get their head out of the clouds and look what’s in front of them. Again, spending more money wont pull you out of a depression, it pushes you further, do they not know that? And do you wonder why our government always uses the word recession, instead of depression? Are they scared of the D-word? I know you don’t have a positive answer, but don’t you wonder too?
It is great that they want to fix this problem but they aren’t fixing crap. If they want to help then they should make some sacrifices too not sit pretty on their asses while the whole country suffers. I have a couple great ideas, why doesn’t Pelosi give up her botox to help her ailing state of California, instead of her spending that money on her face she can help her people. Harry Reid, well I have no idea what he does, but he needs to put his pride aside and use his mind. And Geithner, well first he shouldn’t even say anything, then again he should be our head of treasury. He should pay his missing 4 years of taxes. That would be a great help. They need to stop pushing ideas and plans that are hurting us. It is just crap.
Chynna,
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean, they make it seem as if spending more money is going to help our economy to heal. But newsflash they do not realize they are making our country get into a more messier stand. I am disappointed they argue and argue and they don’t find a way to fix something, they think debating and so on is going to make them come up with a solution. What they should really do is shut their mouths and put their little differences aside and find a conclusion to end this. They are just being idiots and I am aggravated with all of them. And yes I also do wonder why they always use the term recession besides depression. It seems they don’t want to face the reality and are just wandering around with their own lala land, they shall stop.
I also know that our founding father’s wouldn’t be so happy with what’s going on inside our country. I just feel they got to get their acts together and stop all this nonsense. I feel this people are not using their minds correctly and they are making our country lead to a more disaster. Like you said about Harry Reid, they all have to put their pride aside and find a way to use their little neurons they have left. I believe they have to create more realistic ideas rather than repeating stuff from the past that had lead us to were we are standing now.
This comment is regarding Jasmyn's response.
ReplyDeleteExtending unemployment benefits may or may not help our current situation, but can you honestly say that it will benefit us in the future? The last thing our country needs right now is more debt, and the extension of unemployment benefits will not pay for itself. Incidentally, I never said that all Americans are in the same position or that all of them are looking for a handout. I realize that there are millions of different circumstances that people find themselves in. However, circumstances aside, as Ronald Reagan said, "We should measure welfare's success by how many people leave welfare, not by how many are added." People leave welfare through the ability to fend for themselves, independent of the government. That is why I believe that providing people with jobs is far more important than force feeding them welfare checks that their neighbors have inadvertently paid for.
I realize that the environment is a priority for many people, and I have no qualms about them doing what they can to protect it. However, with the current state of our nation, it is not our GOVERNMENT'S duty to pour funds we don't have into special interest groups who are trying to solve a problem we might not have created. I understand that you believe the human race is responsible for global warming, and that's perfectly fine; you're definitely not alone. However, in spite of popular belief, there are studies which suggest that global warming is a natural occurrence.
This comment is regarding Mario Gonzalez's response.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you about the inevitability of hard economic times. As Jose Botello (and many others, I'm sure) have said before me, what goes up, must come down. It is in the never ending, cyclical nature of everything. The only preventative means of stopping this that I can see is all around fiscal responsibility for the government AND the people. We are hardly helping ourselves by purchasing cars and homes that we know we can't afford.
While I would disagree with describing the president's plans as brilliant, I do agree with the fact that they are only temporary solutions. I have a hard time believing that any gains can be made by spending money that hasn't been made or ushering in an age of welfare codependency. I agreed with you entirely when you said "...since the problem will be fixed only temporarily making it more difficult to the next generation to overcome the problem." I also agree with you that history repeats itself, but this doesn't mean that we are incapable of learning from our mistakes or the mistakes of others. The way our country has been spending, printing, and borrowing money as of late is a spell for disaster.
This comment is regarding Saul Ponce De Leon's response.
ReplyDeleteI love that you described our economy as being on life support! I completely agree with you that our economy is in a limbo-like state right now. While it isn't getting worse, it isn't progressing, either, and I believe that this is due to the early efforts put forth by the Obama administration. Like you said, the stimulus package and bailouts are a temporary solution to a very big problem. In my opinion, they are the insufficient band aid to the economy's flesh wound.
While I don't believe that the health care plan is a good idea, I do agree that it will cost too much. At times like these, in spite of what some or most will say, we are in no position to take on something so costly. When push comes to shove, I truly believe that the United States' health care system is superior to those abroad. People come here from all over the world to get the kind of care that their own government has rationed and withheld from them. Instead of conforming to the rest of the world, we should hold true to our own laws and break up the monopolies that have a stranglehold over the health industry.
This comment is regarding Priscilla's response.
ReplyDeleteI feel exactly the same way that you do about the future of our economy. I'm confused by the facts and figures and all that led up to this, I am disappointed by the fiscal irresponsibility of both the government and the people, and I am intrigued to see where all of this will lead us. I am also concerned about what could result from the failure of the stimulus package. In the end, whether it works or not, we still have to pay back every red cent. You mentioned the possibility of the United States losing its title as the world's super power, and I'm worried about that as well. What would the world be like if its leading super power were communist China?
While I agree with you that the United States has its far share of issues, I do not believe that they are nearly as problematic as most people would have me believe. We do need reform in education as well as in the health industry, but I don't believe in same kind of reformation that you do. The last thing we need is nationalized health care; just as Canada. I do agree with you about the astronomical debt we seem to have accumulated. I am very disappointed to have seen things get so bad.
This comment is regarding Chynna's response.
ReplyDeleteOur economy IS atrocious and yet, for some God awful reason, the empty suits in Washington continue to spend. When you said, "These people are practically throwing flaming daggers at us and they don't care," I had to agree with you. These politicians don't care about us. They are narcissistic, power hungry individuals who pickpocket hardworking Americans not only for their money but for their independence. I completely agree that they are doing nothing more than "sitting pretty on Capitol Hill." We don't need their phony rhetoric and empty promises: we need them to do their job by serving the people they were elected to serve.
I completely agree with you when you say that these politicians are shielding us from reality, or at least trying to. Under the guise of helping us, they have put bailouts into effect and passed the stimulus package. I don't recall the American people being asked beforehand if this was an appropriate measure. Aren't they supposed to be serving us? It seems to me like they are doing nothing more than serving themselves, which is a huge shocker, and spending money we don't have to pander to the special interest groups that will get them reelected.
This comment is regarding Jake Hight's response.
ReplyDeleteI love that you described the stimulus package and bailout plans as a band aid. I feel exactly the same way! Our economy has suffered a proverbial bullet wound, and the methods that our government is employing in an effort to resuscitate it are sub par at best. If I've said it once, I've said in a thousand times, but how in the world do they expect spending more money and selling our OWN debt to help move past this recession? It cannot possibly work! As much as it scares to me to think that the politicians in Washington really are idiots, it scares me much more to think that they might very well be aware of this.
In my opinion, none of these measures will help to reinforce the stability of our nation's economy. How could they possibly? All they are doing is drawing a heavy curtain around the ugly truth of it all and distracting us from the possibility that there could be a far worse economic meltdown in the near future. I agree with you that Cash for Clunkers isn't working, but I don't believe that health care reform will work, either. Medicare and Medicaid already have no funding. I think that maybe, just maybe, our government should attempt to deal with that debacle before attempting to take on anything larger.
This is a response to David Lopez's response:
ReplyDeleteI liked the way you started your first answer."As we speak our government is ATTEMPTING to recover", I capitalized attempting because I think that the government is trying but it is not actually giving the effort to do so, they are just spending money like crazy and we have not seen that much positives about this.
Also I completely think you are right about the dissagreement between our senators and representatives, it seems that now they are not looking for a benefit to the country but looking the best for their party. The goal should be do the best for your country now matter what is your side.
This is a response to Mekdelawitx15's response:
ReplyDeleteI can say you are completely right on what you wrote, at the end of the year everybody was in panic, houses were in forclosure banks were taking cars away it seemed that we were going into a bigger and bigger recession, then President Obama came with the stimolous package and we saw little improvement. He gave millions of dollars to banks! I think that the banks were responsible for this, because they gave loans to everybody thats how I think all of this started.
As you said, I also don't have much faith in the goverment they seem to not worry about it.
Last thing to say is that you say that now it seems that all of this is gone, this I agree, BUT I can say that the media has a lot to do with it. From the end of 2008 until March of 2009 ALL you saw in newspapers and T.V. was "Our ecomony is worse","We might see a relief until the end of 2009", but when Economy was not a topic in news it was rare to see something about the economy.
This is a coment to Saul Ponce de Leon's comment:
ReplyDeleteI agree on what you said about the stimulus package it gave Americans faith and strenght but it will only be a short term relief because the govt. spend millions of dollars in this relief plans which helped boost the economy, but in a future generation it will be of severe damage and it will be harder for them to come out of the hole.
I also think that the healthcare reform will be a good idea, but as you said, it is a hopeful dream, not a reality. People say they don't have money, but they actually do, it is like if a migratory reform is approved, people will spend what it takes to have the rights a US citizen has, so I don't think that money is an issue.
This is a response to Cesar's comment:
ReplyDelete"If the global market is getting better; then why are we still the facing the problem of inflation?" This is an excellent question. But not even the government could answer this!, but instead of global market I think that you should of said US market, if improvement is what they say it is "happening" then why gas keeps getting 2 more cents every day? Why tax rised from 7.75% to 8.10%? Why food prices went higher?
It is ridiculous that when there is high demand on something, instead of being cheapper it actually is more exspensive. If the ecomomy was actually improving prices would be lower I think.
This in response to Pricilla's comment:
ReplyDeleteI can say that by reading other fellow classmates, it seems that you worry to much, and you ask yourself to many questions regarding this. As you, I'm also very dissapointed about our current government.
I now it is a hard task to do, you have to take really important decisions, but still that is why they are there, because they are "well prepared" for that.
It seems that the only good job the govt. is doing is giving promises, and forget about them, or say they are not a priority now.
This comment is to Mario Gonzales:
ReplyDeleteI agree that they are not thinking correcrly. The government itself is destroy the economy little by little and I don't think they realize it. They say they want to help and that they are working, but times keeps on passing and we don't see anything being done. The situation now is stable unlike we were before. The remedies to the problem that they have are not the best. You are right when you say that other generations will have to pay off the debt. I think this is sad because they don't even contribute to the problem. Passing bills is not the best way to help our nation's econmy. I think if they keep on finding little bills as ways out then for sure the economy will not recover soon, but it will make the debt really high.
Also it is true that President Obama has lost a lot of his credibility. He promised and promised so many good things to the nation and many did vote for him. Now, I think people realize that his words were inspiring and that we all believed; however, they didn't realize it wasn't going to be easy. Pres. Obama can be doing all he can, but his promises are what gave him the presidency because many wanted change. He can't change how the economy in months, but probably he can in one or two years. The main problem is that Democrats and Republicans cannot work together. Hopefully, they will soon realize that their differences can be put aside and for a solution that can benefit everyone can be achived. It is true that history repeats and it can't be changed, but I hope that the outcome is favorable to the U.S.
This comment is to Jake Hight:
ReplyDeleteWhat will the future be like? Probably, it will be the same, but a little different. Paying and paying will be key in the future, but we will have to pay the debt that the government is gaining now. Short relief is helpful in these times and it will not always be favorable. What will happen when the money of the stimulus packeage or the bailout plan are finished? What will the government do to give people relief again? We can all ask this question, but I also think we can all predict the answer. More short term reliefs. I believe that until the government puts effort to really help then they can put together the many ideas that am sure they have. Once they achieve this then the economy might have a possibilty on going back up. The U.S. debt has increased because the money that the government spends. I don't think they realize they are spending money that we don't have.
Well, on the clash for clunker, I believe it is working. It is favoring both the government and americans. They are taking advantage because that is what the government wanted. The government is putting money, but in the long run they are the ones gaining the benefit. If someone exchanges their old car for new they only get limited help. They are given $4500, but who will pay the rest. They are allowed to buy a car that is up to $45000. I think that is a lot of money and the ones who will pay are them. The car dealers have work now, cars are really selling and they are also helping the environment. It is helping economy now, but I hope that once the money is exhausted the government puts and end to cash for clunkers.
Eleyne,
ReplyDeleteAm very patriotic I have to admit that. However I hope you also understand that US has gone through many ups and downs, but still we persevere and we are here as a nation. The title to me “The most powerful country” sounds outstanding. Especially because US is known around the world for that (remember the gold rush and people migrating to US from all over the world). I mean isn’t this the reason why my parents, your parents, and the vast majority of people who migrate here are looking for? An opportunity? A better chance? Eleyne is not about the title is about America, is about our nation, our economy and our issues. This country provides so many opportunities, including the possibilities of you going to college and for you to have financial aid.
Being realistic I do not think there is much our generation can do to what previous generations have done. Especially because “we are deep in the whole”, I am aware that we have problems and so is everyone in this blog this is why we are here. Again there is a lot to be fix and I personally disagree with “our government is bad,” it might be in the wrong path, however is our responsibility to say what we want and take action. The only thing two things I agree with you Ms. Calderon are; first the fact we have issues,(again no something we can hide), second “let us be realistic” because we need help and to try to fix it. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMMENT:D
Jasmyn,
ReplyDeleteOh Jasmyn thank you did answer my question very detail except for the last one. “…about baby-boomers being important”. I think perhaps you misunderstood and thought I said baby-boomers are not important let us ignore them. That was not what I meant I know what are baby-boomers my mom was born in the early forty’s (she’s going to kill me for this), and she does talk about it. I was actually expecting and answer with more detail because your very first answer says something vague about baby-boomers being a priority or that we should worry that money should go to them.
Hahaha missy I did not say I thought they were not important “as you and I” … I just wanted a reason why the money should go to them (besides the number of people is increasing) something like a fact, something less vague. I though you probably search the subject about the baby-boomers and I could ask you more detail questions. Why the money should go to them if is not being mention in the news as much as it used to? All I wanted was a little bit of facts on why you mention them beyond all the other issues we as a country have. Besides that little thing on the last question everything else was great THANK YOU:D!
1. One of the three main problems facing our national debt is the increasing deficit in the federal budget. The second one is the divided views congress is having over our nation's crisis. The last problem is the costly nature of the healthcare system.
ReplyDelete2. The two programs that have given our nation short term relief but put our generation in more debt are unmistakably the stimulus package and the bailout plan. Thanks Obama.
3. The three positives that our economy will see by the end of 2009 are continued economic improvement, a reversal on job losses, and the possibility of job creation.
4. Right now, the economy is certainly doing better, but that doesnt mean it's going to stay like that. The plans congress have come up with are doing a great job at temporarily aiding our economy. The stimulus package is doing a great job at helping out taxpayers and the unemployed. The bailout plan is also lending a hand to big companies who are having trouble maintaining their businesses. Of course these quick fixes arent going to support all of our economy's issues.
All of this massive spending is going to do more damage in the future because it isn't solving any problems,it's just covering them up for a limited time. The debt that adds up over the years will be a bitter reminder of the mistakes Obama and congress made. This is because most Americans are taking advantage of these bills in the wrong way. Instead of using their unemployment benefits to look for jobs or make profitable decisions,they're out buying new flat screens so they can make sitting down at home more enjoyable. Also, big corporations are handing out bonuses to the already wealthy executives and spending bailout money by going on unnecessary vacations. Rather than invest on creating more jobs,they decide to make it rain for the top dogs.
In a nutshell,the economy is doing better,but will gradually get worse. All these new bills will make economic recovery more difficult in the later years. We might as well dig our graves with a golden shovel. So,while masking our economy's disgusting truth,we will pay greatly for our government's actions. A little relief never hurt anyone,in the present,but it will hurt US in the future.
This comment is towards Erica Arnold:
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you said earlier about every countries' economy goes through its ups and downs. With our economy getting worst it is unfortunate that it has lasted this long. There are many businesses that have gone out of business, the housing market is not getting better, and big corporations are losing big money as well as employees.
However, it is important to have faith that our economy will get better. I am not saying it will happen overnight, but eventually. I hope it will be better by the beginning/middle of next year. Some say you have to be positive and others say they are just being realistic, whatever the case is, we know that our economy will rise.
Saul,
ReplyDeleteYeah I have the same feeling as you where you stated about how the economy is depending on a life support. Our economy is going in circles as you mentioned and its just getting hard to get it to sustain in the right level. I know we stand on the same side on many typical issues that you pointed out on your comment and the vast of majority I agree with you in every aspect. I have a feeling that our economy is not going to heal since all the troubling going on. It gets me annoyed how the government are proposing ideas that are going to make us end in a more unstable situation.
Other issue you pointed out was about the health-care plan. I agree with you, I mean in the beginning I was having mixed feelings about the issue but now seeing the con’s of this reform is just brought me to the side of actually not supporting it. Our country is having some money issues and if this reform does occur, well that means more money spending is going to proceed. I mean as you said it is a hopeful dream no doubt in that, it does point out good ideas and everything but right now is not the moment to make something happen because on how our economy is standing right now.
This comment is to Jose B.
ReplyDeleteI conquer with your response to question 4. Not only do we have to be smart with what we spend, but also how we spend it. Our economy is sure to bounce back, but we need time organization to help us follow through with this. In many cases time is money, but it is not necessarily the most important thing on the block. We need to use both time and money wisely.
1.The first huge problem the cost of health care, which is getting really expensive. The second problem is facing our national debt is the expansion of the federal budget deficit to unsustainable levels, this can include bailouts plans. And the third problem is the unemployment percentage in the nation.
ReplyDelete2. The program “Cash for Clunkers” has helped out the car dealerships because it has kept them in business; but it is taking money from the government, money we don’t have. Another program is the stimulus packages that they gave out, although it helped out many companies and stores it is still taking money out of the government.
3.First positive that we will see is a gain in jobs, there will be more job openings. Secondly, there will be more “green jobs“. Thirdly, there is a health reform that Obama is trying to put out.
4.Even though we don’t know when or where the economy started to get in bad shape, experts think that it stated with housing. They say that it was in the beginning of the decade where the problem started. During the beginning it was a good investment to buy and sell a house. It was even considered a safe investment. And for those global invertors that were hoping to get good money (considering the economic boom in 1999’s and 00‘s) they were looking at the united states for big money.
When people wanted to get their house and didn’t have enough money for the down payment, they would go to apply for a loan. That is when they started to head to the bank to be able to get a mortgage loan. This started to happen around 2000-01, and it was very easy to borrow money for a house, even if you didn’t have good credit. Investors thought that it was safe and that it would make them a lot of money that they invested in the housing market.
This started to backfire because the economy started to go downhill. Then, the people that previously didn’t have the money to pay for the loan, who had gotten a “subprime loan”, weren’t able to pay back. It wasn’t only them that couldn’t pay back but everyone else, there started to be job loss and people started to panic and that’s when they were pulling out from their investments. "It was a perfect storm," Velshi said. "It was a lack of regulation, it was greed and creativity in the financial industry, and it was an American dream that got off track." So far, I think that the economy is getting better because there is more job opportunities.
1.The first huge problem the cost of health care, which is getting really expensive. The second problem is facing our national debt is the expansion of the federal budget deficit to unsustainable levels, this can include bailouts plans. And the third problem is the unemployment percentage in the nation.
ReplyDelete2. The program “Cash for Clunkers” has helped out the car dealerships because it has kept them in business; but it is taking money from the government, money we don’t have. Another program is the stimulus packages that they gave out, although it helped out many companies and stores it is still taking money out of the government.
3.First positive that we will see is a gain in jobs, there will be more job openings. Secondly, there will be more “green jobs“. Thirdly, there is a health reform that Obama is trying to put out.
4.Even though we don’t know when or where the economy started to get in bad shape, experts think that it stated with housing. They say that it was in the beginning of the decade where the problem started. During the beginning it was a good investment to buy and sell a house. It was even considered a safe investment. And for those global invertors that were hoping to get good money (considering the economic boom in 1999’s and 00‘s) they were looking at the united states for big money.
When people wanted to get their house and didn’t have enough money for the down payment, they would go to apply for a loan. That is when they started to head to the bank to be able to get a mortgage loan. This started to happen around 2000-01, and it was very easy to borrow money for a house, even if you didn’t have good credit. Investors thought that it was safe and that it would make them a lot of money that they invested in the housing market.
This started to backfire because the economy started to go downhill. Then, the people that previously didn’t have the money to pay for the loan, who had gotten a “subprime loan”, weren’t able to pay back. It wasn’t only them that couldn’t pay back but everyone else, there started to be job loss and people started to panic and that’s when they were pulling out from their investments. "It was a perfect storm," Velshi said. "It was a lack of regulation, it was greed and creativity in the financial industry, and it was an American dream that got off track." So far, I think that the economy is getting better because there is more job opportunities.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/01/29/economic.crisis.explainer/index.html
This comment is regarding Gabriela De Leon:
ReplyDeleteIn your response to number 4, I think our economy started going down in the middle end of 2007, but I have heard that it started when former President Bill Clinton was Commander in Chief. Although I do not know who to believe, there is no doubt we have been in these rough times quite a while. Many problems do have to do with the housing market. It is a great time to buy, if you have the correct statements and background check. Many many people have lost their homes, gone to bankruptcy, lost their cars, and of course, their jobs. Some are calling this the Second Great Depression. I know it will all get better, but how long will it last?
Priscilla,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you because the government have been borrowing a lot of money that we don’t have. They are also coming up with stimulus packages and cash for clunkers and they are getting the money. Like you said it is helping us now. What will happen later? The debt we are leaving will be left over for our kids to take care of and I don’t think it’ right.
I think that if we did something bad in the past then we should learn from our mistakes and not do it again. We shouldn’t repeat history. There has to be a point when we have
to learn to stop doing what we did for many years. This is only hurting our economy. Maybe later on we can control ourselves.
Chynna,
ReplyDeleteThe way you described that it felt like you were staring at the devil, that caught my attention. But you are completely right, they keep taking money we don’t have and leading us into a worse situation. They think that if they take money out of who
knows where that that will save us, but it seems like they don’t think about how that could lead us onto inflation.
And like you said the money and the stimulus, al of that was for the main purpose,
to help us. Yeah its helping us right now, but later when we need to pay that money
back where is it going to come from???
Jocelyn,
ReplyDeleteYou are right, we cant fix things overnight and we cant expect them to fix themselves either. We cant just try to sit there and look pretty when we are having an economic crisis, that’s not right. We need to think what good things we need to do in the short termand also in the long term.
And yes, history does repeat itself but we need to learn from it. Soon we might be
worse who knows?? We are all hoping for the best. We are hoping none of the action
the government are taking will lead into inflation or case us to be in bigger debt.
Mekdelawit
ReplyDeleteWe are really in big debt and we really do need to find a way to fix it. I think that if we don’t fix it then we willsoon keep getting worse and worse. We need to find something or someone that will help us. Obama I think is doing a really good job. He is trying to do everything in his power to help our economy get better. People are judging him for trying to do too much at one time but then again of he doesn’t do it who will.
Jasmyn,
ReplyDeleteI think that the cash for clunker is working out really good because it is helping both t
he people who are in need of a car and the dealerships. It is heping them from not
having to close down. If they did it would be a huge impact on the economy. But I
think that inthe long term its going to come back and bite us.
But I think with all of the job opening that we are having withthe go green thing we
will be going on a better way towards recovering our economy.