The Heritage Foundation - Leadership for America

May 1, 2009 S Campbell, New York writes:

This states some common fallacies used by political parties of all stripes: per capita growth (economic growth per person) is NOT that different between France and the US - moreover, studies show that purchasing power has declined in the bottom 40% of workers in the US in the past 10 years, leading workers to work longer hours to maintain their living status (since, unlike France, US workers pay out of pocket for health care, etc).

In reality, both countries are more or less free-market economies. It seems petty to highlight differences based on the FREEDOM of French workers to self-organize, and the fact that they have certain social programs that support the WORKING poor (those on their way UP). It is an EXAGGERATION to say that these sorts of FREEDOMS and RIGHTS are the hallmarks of Socialism - they are the hallmarks of a country, which in addition to maintaining comparable growth the US, also has buffers in place to protect their workers from the sort of recession we are in now.

May 1, 2009 Barb -mn writes:

Great to hear from the outside. I loved it!

The majority of American people DO NOT PAY HEALTH CARE COSTS OUT OF THEIR OWN POCKETS. That is why it is outrageously expensive TO THOSE THAT DO! A person’s health is the person’s responsibility. NOT GOVERNMENT!

S Campbell states: (the french)”they have certain social programs that support the WORKING poor (those on their way UP).”

While America has social programs that profit those who claim to be poor or that keep them poor. Any complaint, another social program right around the corner. There is no initiative of this country to the working poor or poor to make their way up any ladder. As it is easier to take money then work for it.

What constitutes the “working poor” in this country? People living responsibly, independently with no means to “get ahead” due to government corruption and disrespect and unnecessary, outrageous tax increases? That’s where we’re at. Or people that get the same wage as we, yet get government handouts along with it? Lessening their living expenses while we are forced to provide? We pay taxes and receive NOTHING from government while others pay NO taxes and get whatever they want WITHOUT HAVING TO WORK FOR IT. Some of the working POOR at the same wages as us, are profiting from their titled “working poor” STATUS. So please what is the definition of the “working poor?”

We want the FREEDOM to do for ourselves. We don’t want to be dependent on anyone, especially GOVERNMENT. The more they tax the bigger the threat of taking away independence.

The threat of being forced on government DEPENDENCE due to government’s ABUSE of authority and their unwillingness to rule and protect under the constitution and declaration of independence is atrocious.
I loved the observation of France. It is RIGHT ON. Thank you, kindly!