Speaking about business as usual in Washington...
NBC news reported last night that congress approved 2.5 billion dollars to purchase 10 more C-17 planes for the military that the military says it does not want or need. In fact, defense secretary Robert Gates stated that the purchase diverted funds that are necessary for things that the military does need.
The reasoning on how this all happened: The construction of this unneeded and unwanted aircraft was spread amongst almost all of the states in the union. Great way to raise a representative's popularity by creating new jobs for their constituents.
The problem with stopping production: Of course, now that it was allowed to pass in the first place it will undoubtedly create more job losses.
The problem with continuing production: How are we even supposed to begin contemplating any kind of successful outcome for our nation's military conflicts when we can't provide the funding for tools that they deem necessary for this success if they "order a chainsaw and we hand them a screwdriver instead"?
One possible solution to keep everybody happy and productive: The best case scenario seems to be that these kind of shenanigans by Congress shouldn't be allowed in the first place. How about that line item veto for the president since Congress seems no longer to be capable of policing themselves?
A solution for job losses created by stopping production: I've said it before - Why not explore green technologies? Many other industrialized nations and private industries have already seen their economies begin to grow again by investing in green technologies. Doesn't it make good budget sense since the innovation of green technology addresses not only the jobs issue, but our need to address climate change and our dependence on fossil fuels. By the way, I've also seen many reports that say lessening our dependence on fossil fuels will also increase our national security.
Any other ideas out there?
