Ok, MotoMike, you want the litmus test??
Do what Romney said: A litmus test. Do we need to borrow money from China for this department/program to exist?
Do we need to borrow money from China to bomb countries in the Middle East? NO
War is expensive and DEADLY to American citizens (as well as other humans in this world). I cannot imagine being a mother, daughter, wife or friend in a country where American tax dollars are being spent to blow up people I love... I CAN imagine being a mother, daughter, wife or friend in a country where MY tax dollars (collected at a higher rate than Romney paid) are spent and ones I love are dying overseas. I CAN imagine this, because it is a reality.
At some point, people will realize that PRO-LIFE really means standing up for those who are less fortunate than you, by believing that all humans have a right to decency and respect; that everyone around the GLOBE deserves life.
Violence is not the answer.
War is not the answer.
This is NOT where our budget should be focused.
That giant 56% chunk of spending would be better put to use on:
VA benefits for veterans, families, and caring for said soldiers AT HOME.
Infrastructure and engineering (see Bridgier's fabulous article under the "Rubes" thread)
Education and Social Programs (yes, there's that dirty word: SOCIALISM! Schools, libraries, roads, water departments, parks and recreation, city governments, law enforcement, fire, universities, etc. ALL SOCIALIST. Get over it).
Healthcare for a fundamentally unhealthy population
A strong beginning and base is economically PROVEN to result in a better, stronger fiscal future: less crime, better paid workforce, thriving communities. An educated and productive workforce pays taxes, contributes on the local and national level, and builds a strong community. (Cite: Nobel Prize winning economist James Heckman on the economic return of investing in families, education, and communities)
So MotoMike (and anyone else who seems to think that cutting education and social programs will somehow improve this country), there's your Litmus Test.[This message has been edited by Hannah Nash (10/5/2012)]