Where are real ideas, fiscal conservatism?

As we leap into this election, I'm surprised the Democrats are holding back. At a time when they should be out there running on what they've accomplished - health care reform, pulling combat troops out of Iraq, keeping us from a second Great Depression - they're too quiet.

The current Republicans tout the Bush tax cuts and repealing the health care reform, but are these serious ideas? They are having tantrums just thinking of returning taxes for the wealthiest in our country from 36 percent back to 39 percent as President Bill Clinton did, but let's not talk about that balanced budget. They have no ideas for our economic growth, inequality for others or cutting the debt.

We need to look at real fiscal conservatism and not the frauds now running as Republicans. President George W. Bush grew the size of our government as well as the debt, and this seems to have been forgotten by many.

A serious look at cutting defense, Social Security, Medicaid, having a true smaller government, and raising some taxes, will have to be addressed. Being honest with the people should be the main goal of any politician, not just winning an election.

Symon R. Sanborn

Cedar Rapids