The U.S. deficit as of 2024 was over $36 trillion. Here is a short list of actions that could help solve the waste of government spending.
First, stop the bleeding. Pass an amendment to balance the budget that requires that revenue equal or exceed spending. Give a two- or three-year period to get into compliance. Reduce overspending by 50% the first year, 50% the second year and entirely the third year.
Second, work to lower the national debt. The annual interest on the debt is over 3% of GDP. Almost $1 trillion in interest on the debt annually is money down the drain.
Third, government spending reduction needs to be universal. Surely a 5% to 10% cutback in all departments, grants and programs is achievable, and all would share in the cost/reward of making America financially strong again.
Government, like personal spending, needs to focus on needs not wants. A deep dive into financial needs vs. wants will help identify waste and fraud. Be serious about eliminating waste, and prosecute those caught fraudulently bilking the government.
The government is us, you and me! Fraud is theft, and we need punishment that will discourage criminals from stealing from us. A slap on the wrist is too weak, and many criminals are therefore repeat offenders.
Last, refocus on the federal government’s purpose. Though we are 50 united states, geographically we are not the same. Farmers and ranchers have different needs than city factory and retail workers. Those in hurricane-prone coastal states have different needs than those in states prone to wildfires or seasonal flooding.
Push some federal programs back to the states. Keep the funds closer to the need and reduce the federal government size in the process. This could eliminate a level or two of bureaucratic cost.
It is time to get serious about long-standing issues. We are running out of road to kick the can down!
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