Quote from monty21:
I totally agree that Bush is an incompetent president, but I think our economic issues go beyond Bush and the Republican Party. It would be ridiculous to assume that a Democratic President would have avoided all of this, particurarly considering how the Democrats love to spend money on all sorts of programs.
Keynesian economics is behind our economic problems, and is utilized by both Republicans and Democrats. It does not make sense to spend money and increase the debt with the hope of saving the economy. There should be less spending and less regulation. The Austrian School of Economics is much more logical IMO. When Keyne's policies were introduced during the New Deal, it was probably the economic stimulus provided by WWII that saved this country from a depression rather than his theories.
First of all, a "shout out" from an ex-Nassau County resident.
A friendly challenge to your argument, however.
There are many who blame the decline of the dollar on the growing U.S. debt - which is certainly aggravated by the expense of the Iraq War - which was a distinctly Bush decision. Hard to argue that a Gore presidency would have us in Iraq.
Following this train of thought, there are many that blame the decline in the dollar for the increase in oil prices and commodities in general. This would lead, at least in part, to the hardship the OP introduced for discussion. By this train of thought, you ignore a very big economic elephant in the room.
*** Not interested in a Republicans are great (or evil) vs. Democrats are great (or evil) debate - so all of you hardcore politicos can stand down and give your keyboards a rest. ***
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In summary, Monty, do you agree that the Iraq War expense has pressured the US Dollar lower?
If not, what has?
Do you believe the theory that the lower US dollar has fueled higher commodity prices - oil in particular? If not, what has?
From what I hear, Nassau Ct. is experiencing perfect cookout weather this weekend. Hope you get a chance to enjoy it.
Later,
MA