Wallace W. Arnett – 4/24/08

This page was last updated on April 25, 2008.

Stop pandering and lead; Wallace W. Arnett; Beaver County Times; April 24, 2008.

Below is a detailed critique of the subject letter.

“In regard to John McCain’s economic plan:”

[RWC] Since Mr. Arnett mentions only one item from Mr. McCain’s plan, here’s a link so you can see the full plan.

“First, I thought it was a joke. Then, I realized how really sad it was to be presented as a plan for this country to be moved forward, especially the part about rescinding the gas tax this summer.”

“It was just more of our politicians pandering to the voting public.

“Instead of worrying about getting elected or re-elected, they should be worried about the future of our country. Waiving the gas tax is not in the interests of this country. It will only fuel our consumption and do nothing for our future.

“The only way to decrease our gas consumption is for a federal tax increase, say 50 cents per gallon.”

[RWC] If an increase in the price of gasoline by $2/gallon didn’t “decrease our gas consumption,” why would a tax increase of $0.50/gallon? Using Mr. Arnett’s language, is he joking?

“Would I want to pay it? No. But as a consumer, I would be forced to buy more fuel-efficient vehicles, and my demand would force the auto producers to manufacture more fuel-efficient vehicles, something which Washington has proven it cannot do.”

[RWC] If an increase in the price of gasoline by $2/gallon didn’t cause you to buy a “more fuel-efficient” vehicle, why would a tax increase of $0.50/gallon? How long does Mr. Arnett think it would take $0.50/gallon to offset the price of a new car?

“We need our elected representatives to lead, not pander. Perhaps someday a politician will show up who has some political courage. Sooner, rather than later, I hope.”

[RWC] Did you notice Mr. Arnett failed to mention the pandering of the two Democrat candidates? Which is worse, dropping the gas tax for three months, or promising to provide “free” or cheap healthcare in perpetuity?