Letters and Comments

The White House has the same freedom of speech as the rest of us, so any attack or defensiveness is within its rights and has plenty of historical precedent.

Brad of TX in response to Public Opinion:
White House vs. Fox News: Who Is Right?

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So often our discussions seem to leave out reason and fairness ["Social Security Makes the Call: No 2010 COLA," usnews.com]. Let me assure you I have concerns for the elderly. As a pastor I visit them and hear of their trials on a regular basis. However, this fussing over no cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for this year is unreasonable. If there was no inflation then there should be no COLA. But you say," their expenses did go up in certain areas that affect them directly." This is true. They paid more for healthcare, drugs, and food. But remember that in years past they received increases based on the same formula. Many of the elements (involved in inflation) that increased their benefits in times past were areas that did not affect them. In the overall picture, it is fair.

Comment by Fredrick Stone of NC

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I agree with this article in that this so-called obesity epidemic has nothing to do with willpower but everything to do with our food supply ["The Obesity Epidemic Isn't Just About Willpower," usnews.com]. Specifically—the American food supply and American style of eating over the last 30 years or so. These huge food corporations are including ingredients in our food (high fructose corn syrup, MSG, transfats) that are directly responsible. How does 66 percent of the population become overweight or obese? If it was just "willpower" involved, maybe 10 percent to 15 percent of people would be affected. Notice that when once previously healthy immigrants come to this country and start eating "American style," they become obese. Also a factor in the spread of obesity worldwide is the export of "American style" eating and foods. I would like to see all junk food—chips, cookies, sodas, candy, and so forth taxed. This is not a sin tax; it's a means of getting money to deal with the health problems caused by this toxic food. The purpose is to have the products causing all the problems contribute to the solution. We do it with cigarettes, why not with our toxic so-called food?

Comment by Lisa P. of CA

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If Obama wants to create jobs then he has to start chipping away at the uncertainty his administration has created ["Patience Wearing Thin as Obama Turns to Jobs," usnews.com]. Businesses accelerated the unemployment rate when it looked like Obama was going to win the election because of the fear of tax increases, more regulation, and higher health cost burdens. Sure enough, every single one of these fears has come to light. As a result the only profits over the past year have been gained by squeezing efficiency and lowering overhead by firing hard-working Americans. In order to get businesses to hire, Obama has to more clearly articulate his tax, pollution (carbon credit), and health costs over the next 3 to 7 years. Otherwise, businesses and consumers will continue to sideline any future spending plans.

Comment by Chris of FL

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