Trump has not fulfilled his promises

In response to the recent letter ('Respect the office of the president”), let me offer a different, less parochial perspective regarding the promises he has kept.

The economy is doing well when one considers investment growth, corporate profits and decreased unemployment. However, due to unchecked federal spending along with the tax cuts enacted in 2017, the budget deficit has skyrocketed to almost $1 trillion in 2019. And worker wage growth remains sluggish.

The wall had not been paid for by Mexico and there has been no comprehensive immigration reform. The pledge to easily reform ACA has made little progress. Foreign policy is inconsistent and lacks a big picture approach. The 'easy to win” trade wars have resulted in a 20 percent increase in farm bankruptcies filed in 2019, despite taxpayer funded bailouts to help lessen the impact of the trade embargos on farmers.

'Drain the swamp” remains just political hype. The administration rewards political allies and big donors with cabinet positions, ambassadorships, and inner circle access. While both parties have been guilty of this practice in the past, it appears that the swamp now is only bigger and deeper.

The truth is both parties, and especially this president, are making little progress in working together to truly address the many issues facing the average citizen, but seem more intent on practicing partisan politics and holding power. The American people deserve better.

John Burke

Cedar Rapids