Bush tax cuts should not be permanent

The issue of tax cuts was a hindrance to congressional agreements on our national debt. It appears that some members of Congress still feel that the Bush tax cuts are carved in stone, regardless of the condition of our country’s indebtness. After all, how did the Bush tax cuts originate? And why were the tax cuts set for 10 years, despite what actually transpired over this time frame?

When George W. Bush was elected, he inherited a surplus and said, “a surplus is the tax revenue, after all, means that the taxpayers have been overcharged.” Further he stated, “the current surplus (2001) and projected surplus justify tax cuts.” Bush then claimed that the budget he sent to Congress in 2001 projects a $5.6 trillion surplus over the next 10 years.

The tax cuts were initiated based on these claims. His predictions were as accurate as his claims of WMD. Now with our huge deficit, we must eliminate the Bush tax cuts and everyone must pay a fair share. I know the wealthy have strong representation in Congress, but it is time for everyone to start paying, including the rich who have already profited greatly.

John Ostberg

Mount Prospect 847 259 6717