Debt, economy cannot be fixed at same time

Putting aside all the political posturing and overblown rhetoric, America has two major problems voters are demanding be addressed:

1) Debt: We have massive government debt which has suddenly become a priority for some politicians

2) Jobs and economy: We also want politicians to do things to help get Americans back to work in our sluggish economy.

Logically, we can't fix both at the same time because the solution to either one of these problems will have an inverse, or directly opposite effect, on the other problem.

To realistically fix the debt problem, politicians can either raise taxes or cut spending, or a combination of both. Raising taxes and/or cuts to government spending will have a negative effect on jobs and the economy.

To realistically help fix the economy problem, the government can either lower taxes, or the government can increase spending to stimulate the economy to help create demand for jobs, or a combination of both. Lowering taxes and/or increasing government spending will have a negative effect on the debt.

So it comes down to do we as voters want our politicians to get the debt under control now, or do we want them to do things to help our economy grow now. Voters who believe smooth-Talkin' politicians when they propose they can do both at the same time are being fooled and not thinking logically.

Airian Gregory

Oskaloosa