America Is Troubled

 Help Her!

It is interesting to note in DC how different kinds of spending are now characterized. In budget words, "mandatory" spending is now regarded as something the federal government must provide, while "discretionary" spending can be provided, or not, based on the availability of money in the budget.  As shocking as it might be, defense spending is now regarded as "discretionary," while spending on social programs is regarded as "mandatory."

 

This is in sharp contrast with the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States which calls on our federal government to "provide for the common defense," and to "promote the general welfare" [emphasis added].  Do you note the difference in words chosen?  "Provide" means the federal government is to use its means to defend the nation. "Promote" means the government is only to set the right environment for states and people to provide for their own welfare.  But in 21st century Washington, things are backwards.  Welfare programs are now regarded as mandatory spending, and defending our nation as discretionary.

 

Brigadier General Bernie Skoch

Candidate, Us House of Representatives

Arkansas 3rd District