Robert Reich: The Why Should I Get Out Of My Chair Gap in 2012

Robert Reich: The Why-Should-I-Get-Out-Of-My-Chair Gap in 2012

http://robertreich.org/post/2189538588
In the 2010 midterm elections Democrats suffered from a so-called “enthusiasm gap.”

If Dems agree to the tax plan just negotiated by the White House with Republican leaders, they’ll face a “why-should-I-get-up-out-of-my-chair” gap that will make 2010’s Dem enthusiasm seem like a pep rally by comparison.

It’s a $70,000 gift for every millionaire, financed by a gigantic hole in the federal budget that will put on the cutting board education, infrastructure, and everything else most other Americans need and want.

Some Dem apologists say the deal is a $900 billion stimulus. Not true. The rich spend a smaller share of their incomes than everyone else, so the huge benefits going their way will barely stimulate the economy. (Their savings will move around the world wherever they can get the highest return.)

And while middle and working class consumers will get a small break from payroll taxes, they’ll use most of it to help pay down their debts because they know the tax break isn’t permanent while their debt payments and penalties are growing. Again, very little stimulus.

(more at link)

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We need a WPA style jobs program mentioned in this article. Why is no one discussing that? It worked before and economists says it is the most efficient use of money in terms of combating unemployment and improving the economy.
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