Real Clear Politics has a story that asks great questions about what government should and shouldn't do. Edwin Feulner is president of the Heritage Foundation.
Here are six simple questions our politicians - and the people who elect them - should raise when considering any proposed government action:
1. Is it the government's business? Federal power should be brought to bear only on those things that cannot be handled more efficiently by a state, a community or an individual.
2. Does it promote self-reliance? Too many government programs punish individual initiative. Some even create a permanent underclass of dependents.
3. Is it responsible? Too many policy-makers treat the federal treasury as a bottomless well of cash. It isn't. Washington's unfunded promises must be paid eventually. Where will the money come from?
4. Does it make America more prosperous? Politicians brag about "bringing home the bacon." But all the pork projects and open-ended entitlements actually sap America's prosperity.
5. Does it make us safer? Congress requires nearly 40 percent of federal anti-terrorism spending be divided equally among the states. Is the terrorist threat really as great in Montana as in California or New York? Government's first order of business is to protect the homeland, not "spread the pork."
6. Does it unify us? Our country grows stronger through addition and multiplication, not subtraction and division. Government policies should encourage patriotism, American values and a common language to foster a unified national identity.
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2 comments:
Cowboy,
I like the approach, but think it can be simpler yet. Ask first, Is it in support of the national defense or the monetary policy?
If not, ask why?; how come?; are you sure?; come back and see me when you've got it figured out; I'll probably still say no!!!
Bill
Good points but what can we do when there is simply no way to hold politicians accountable. Safe districts and party control of challengers make it all moot.
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