American Fiscal History, 2009-2011

Congressman Paul Ryan offers a very succinct review of the last two years, from Democrats’ bad policies (e.g., raising taxes during a recession) to their refusal to follow the rules (not passing a budget when required by law to do so, abusing the reconciliation process to pass Obamacare).  I recommend it, especially if you’re not already familiar with some of this recent history.  Even if you are, it’s important to keep the current debt-limit fight (including President Obama’s breathtaking attempts to paint himself as the responsible one) in perspective.

Hat tip to the Foxhole.

Santorum: Fiscal Conservative

Appearing in three Fourth of July parades in Iowa last week, Rick Santorum said, “What we need is an Independence Day candidate that believes in the independence of the American people, not its dependence on government and government programs.”

I think Rick Santorum may be that candidate.  Any number of the current contenders might make an excellent president, but as Santorum points out, he already has a record of doing the work that needed to be done, even when it was unpopular—even when it cost him his senate seat.  We could do with more principled politicians like him.