Keep It Simple

The disconnect between the responsible citizen and our elected officials is the most blatant when we consider the economic fix we are in and a quick fix we could all benefit from. The basic problem will never be resolved by continuing to Band-aid the symptoms.

There are three categories that seem to be untouchable for our elected officials that could instantaneously and positively begin to turn our economy around.

Tort reform-lawsuits and liability necessitate the extraordinary and devastating cost of health care while destroying the necessary research and development of new and effective drugs. Socializing healthcare will not be cheaper or more effective. The higher cost will be hidden in the higher taxes.

Domestic source of energy: Our elected officials have promised to raise gas prices, home heating fuel and electric cost. I believe them because banning local sources of fossil fuel, clean coal and nuclear energy leaves no other scenario except higher prices, extremely higher prices for food, fuel and all commodities.

Tax reform: Flat tax, fair tax and consumer tax should all be put on the table for discussion. Any one of the above mentioned would resolve the issue of who is paying too little or too much. The poor, the middle class and the rich might all be paying fewer taxes and the tax cheaters such as our new Cabinet members would be eliminated. Government revenues would probably be enhanced.

When you talk to your elected officials keep it simple: tort reform, domestic source of energy and tax reform. The most expensive stigma among Americans is ignorance and complacency.

Paul Sullivan
Avon Park