Brad Lager’s Capital Report – Stimulating the economy

On numerous occasions I have written about my belief that Americans will do a better job of spending their money than big government. Last week, I watched in amazement as Congress agreed to the largest spending plan in modern history. After looking at the federal stimulus package and the insane spending it calls for, it is not hard to see why people have such little faith in today’s government.

The final spending plan tallies nearly $800 billion. To evaluate the worthiness of this action, we must ask the same question we would ask of any investment: What return will we, as taxpayers, receive for our investment? My fear is that politicians and bureaucrats cannot spend that kind of money without much of it going to pet projects and their special interest constituencies. The worst part is that once again the government is choosing to reward certain people or industries while ignoring others, essentially picking winners and losers. This is counter intuitive to the fundamental cornerstone of our economy, the market through consumerism picks winners and losers, not government.

Unfortunately, once again big government is going to ignore the fundamentals of economics and keep doing what it has been doing while expecting a different result. I believe that hard-working Americans have always been more prudent in spending their money than the government. Less money spent on taxes means more money available for investment in America. Entrepreneurs will start and grow businesses. Business owners will make capital investments and grow jobs. Instead of picking winners and losers, government should create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to compete on a level playing field thereby having the opportunity to succeed. It is time to reduce the burdens that stifle business, create a level playing field for all, and allow everyone to work towards their American dream. It may not be the glamour that politicians prefer, but it is a recipe for long-term economic growth.

As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is [email protected] and my mailing address is Room 429, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.