Friday, September 16, 2011

Letter to Jim Webb on the American Jobs Act

Please note: I'm deliberately trying to use language that will resonate with a conservative-leaning Democrat, as opposed to calling him a running-dog lackey of corporate power whom I regret ever having voted for, etc.

Dear Senator Webb:
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I am a constituent and a supporter who appreciates your singular voice, especially on issues pertinent to the working class in Virginia. That's why I was so very disappointed to see you quoted in _Politico_ criticizing the American Jobs Act as "terrible."
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I hope you will reconsider this judgment of the merits of the American Jobs Act.
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We need to use federal funds to jump-start this dreary economy. With interest rates low and job-seekers eager to get to work, we should be forging ahead with projects that build long-lasting public assets like roads, bridges, and schools.
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I likewise believe that -- as individuals do with mortgages, college loans, and business loans -- when the American government borrows money for worthy endeavors, it should repay those funds expeditiously.
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That is why it is important to ask the best-off people, who have fared best in this contractionary moment, to contribute to the public good -- yes, in the form of marginally higher taxes on income vastly higher than that of the average American, including myself.
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The wealthiest need to chip in so that the great majority of us may benefit. In turn, increased prosperity will help them as well, both psychologically and financially.
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I support the American Jobs Act as an example of balancing short-term "stimulus" with prudent long-term repayment and debt reduction. The plan aligns neatly with the priorities voiced by economic experts inside and outside government, including the Congressional Budget Office, the Federal Reserve, and forecasters and ratings agencies.
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Passing this bill would help your struggling constituents -- my neighbors -- with jobs now and with a more responsible fiscal footing in the future.
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I hope you will take another look, and then lend your voice to this crucial initiative.

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