Letters to the Editor

Letter: The cost of free money

Let’s take a look at this stimulus money the federal government is lavishing down on us. $600 last year and $1,400 this year for a cool $2,000. That is some serious money.

So, what did it cost us? They have spent $4 trillion on stimulus programs. There are about 330 million souls in the United States, that means the government spent about $12,100 per person to get you $2,000. Doesn’t seem like a good deal. You don’t have to pay that $12,100 now, it is debt you owe. A debt you, your kids or grandkids will have to pay in the future. Kind of like a bank loan.I am sure you can use the $2,000, but it cost you $12,100 to get it. For those of you who didn’t qualify for a check, too bad, but you still have to pay the $12,100 anyway. This is a typical program that gives you something, but takes away much more.

The government gave me $40 per month for being in the Army ROTC program, which was money I really needed. I then spent two years in the Army making half as much as I would have in civilian practice and I wouldn’t have gotten shot at as a civilian.

So, maybe the government isn’t as generous it seems when it hands out “free” money. Maybe we just got played.

— Bob Bell

Anchorage

Have something on your mind? Send to letters@adn.com or click here to submit via any web browser. Letters under 200 words have the best chance of being published. Writers should disclose any personal or professional connections with the subjects of their letters. Letters are edited for accuracy, clarity and length.

ADVERTISEMENT