CNN

My economic stimulus package would be a dose of common sense to Americans. Don't buy houses and cars you cannot afford. Don't spend more on your credit card than is in your bank account. Live within your means.

The stimulus package should be a strategy to motivate Americans to be producers than consumers. We consume too much and do not produce much!!!That's why China an India's economy is moving ahead. We need to decrease out sourcing to China and else where.
Bern- Florida

No economic stimulus package would be complete without a substantial increase in the corporate income tax rate and increasing taxes (substantially as well) on the top one percent income (earners). In addition, taxes should be substantially lowered for households making under $150k per year. Also, our government should outlaw "no-bid" contracts altogether.

Jack, we don't have the money for the ink and paper to print more money with... The only stimulus I would recommend is to default on our national debt with Europe,China, and the Saudis and hope for an international aid package freebee.

I would start with a full change at the White House. Then I would move to the Capitol. Who is responsible for the 125% loans, loans to people with poor payment records, and first time loans to individuals with no credit history? I have a Banker Uncle who must be turning over in his grave. There is nothing wrong with helping out a friend, but the Bush Administration has gone over board.

Tom, Tampa, FL

How about this for a starter?
The Iraqi Government could do this country good and increase their relationship with the United States.
"We the country of Iraq want to sell you our oil for 50% of cost to say thank you U.S.A. for all your sacrifice and what you are doing for our country."
This will last for 1 year and then we will extend it as needed.
What do you and America think about that?

And Bush if you don't come home with an increase in oil, then don't come home.

Jack, it's simple, move the 2008 elections to Spring, have the oath of office in June and a democrat in the White House by July 4th! The world will be realligned and American pride will be restored and peace will inherit the earth.

Jack
I would include a program that would do away with our dependence on foreign oil.
The program would be a crash program to develop a feasible alternative to current battery technology to provide plug-in vehicles for use by the general public. In addition to scientists, technicians, engineers, and automotive workers becoming fully employed to create a new industry to replace the old, ineficeint, gas burning engines we would finally be able to develop a foregn policy not subject to extortion. The reduction in the cost to consumers for goods and services would provide an economic stimulus to all phases of our economy.

Jack Martin
Boynton Beach FL

Enforce tough employment and harboring laws, it is a matter of National Security.

NO business or landlord would continue to hire or harbor them if they knew they would face a fine of $100,000 per illegal for the first offense and $200,000 per illegal, a mandatory 2 year jail term and loss of business for the second offense. There are others legally waiting their turn outside this country, the illegals here should not be given special treatment.

WE WANT ACTION!

Solution, make it legal for anyone to print money,hell it is almost worthless anyway.

Jack
For starters in order to stimulate the economy why not stop the war and bring the troops home, use the troops to seal the borders and catch the 12 to 20 million illegal immigrants we have running around. This would create job opportunities that are currently being filled by illegals, and American citizens who pay taxes would then fill these positions.

I would give companies incentives to stay in the United
States instead of going overseas. Also, cut these
cheap imports from China and other places. We need
good paying jobs back in the US. Plus, stop the tax cuts for the wealthiest.
They can afford it.

I would include a bill to close down the illegal and unconstitutional FED. The raising and lowering of interest rates are what is causing our economy to collapse. These fools running for office don't know the first thing about economics ( except of Dr. Paul, but he isn't going to be heard ). Our fiat monetary system and lack of basic economic principles are going to ruin this country. My advice : buy gold.

Ask Alan Greenspan what he would do since he has a history of being on target.

First ; we would rollback Bush's taxcuts. Secondly ; we would end the war as it is today. We would want a small (routating troop base in Iraq, small meaning less then 10000 soliders–only helping train and guard the capital). We would put troops in Afghaninstan "where they were orginially ordered , to find Bin – Laden". Third ; we would call a UN meeting to spellout ways for the UN to help inspect (ports/nuclear stations/problem area's). This can be an addtiion to everyones homeland security. Fourth ; we would readdress NAFTA and enforce all treatee's. And lastly ; all of congress would be put on a pay scale freeze until we get the budget under control,then the only way we would allicated for a raise is thur a merit system( tied to the congress's preformance and the budget).
This way we get a congress working more for the people and a budget that will regularlly simuilate the economy.

Jack,there are so many things wrong with economy i.e millions unemployed,50 million Americans with out healthcare,mortgage crisis etc that I don't know where to begin! A few suggestions: rework the trade agreements that sent thousands of our jobs overseas, tax oil company profits,regulate sub-prime lenders so that they can not loan to people not able to pay,create a more equitable tax code,and finally stress to the American people that they have to make some sacrifices too especially regarding our energy policies! Perhaps owning smaller fuel efficient cars would cut our dependence on oil.

I would lower the taxes on the middle income and raise the taxes on the billionaires who are paying less taxes than the secretaries who work for them.

I'd create economic disincentives to exporting jobs. Provide seed money for small businesses creating jobs; low interest loans for small businesses. I'd reverse the Bush action of reducing the student loans. Education is the real key

The economy can be fixed with one simple undertaking. The end of the drug war, along with the complete decriminalization of the harmless plant, marijuana. It's proven to be a safer and healthier recreational drug than alcohol. It grows naturally in the ground, yet those who want it have to pay ridiculous prices to get it from drug dealers, risking getting caught and going to prison which wastes more tax payer dollars, and ultimately supplementing the black market, complete with drug lords and terrorists; yet they could just peacfully grow it in a garden if not our facsist government policies. Additionally, our economy would get a massive shot in the arm from the industrial cultivation of the hemp plant which can be used to make almost anything from paper to rope to clothing. This would ultimately result in a fiscal turnaround somewhere in the BILLIONS of dollars each year, not mention we'd all be a lot healthier and happier!

Nothing – When is America going to learn to take the bad with the good – artificial stimulation costs at one time or another but with intrest actually making situations worse. When America thrives on over inflated vales such as stock / houses all is well when these same things tank we need to fix – It needed to be fixed back when it was over inflated not after reality sets in

Stop taxing my retirement income so I can buy more American made products. Repeal the WEP/GPO, and repeal NAFTA.
Let Year One replace Ford, GM, and Chrysler if they want to build cars overseas then tell them to get the heck over there and stay away from us.
All americans need to drive old cars made from American Iron. The only planned obselescence we need it for our politicians.
Encourage more refineries in the USA, give them incentives to build so gas prices will come down.
Drill ANWAR, etc.

Regardless of whether Newt Gingrich thinks so, there is a role for government to serve the public. Although he was unable to get his wish to dismantle government with his Contract ON America through policy avenues, GW has been able to spend our way out of New Deal and Great Society obligations through war and debt. And there begins the story of how we got to where we are now...

The economic situation is a multi-headed beast – weak dollar; unstable Middle East and soaring gas prices; soaring health insurance and medical costs. Until these issues are dealt with effectively, any infusion will be short-lived. But an economic infusion IS neccessary. But when? where? and, how?

In the long-run, investment and incentives for innovations and better consumer practices regarding energy consumption and reliance will be well spent. Infrastructure and mass transit is a part of that equation. Any infusion must be an investment that has a multiplier effect to push out the economic productivity frontier. A tax giveaway to the middleclass does nothing but provide a political salve.

Healthcare reform and medical costs are important to the individual and small businesses. If we don't help small businesses, recovery will take twice as long.

Our occupation in Iraq serves a vendetta and overextends our ability to combat terror in our own front yard and bleeds us of precious resources. We could be spending on low-paying entry level job training to expand Homeland Security measures and domestic security. Our young men and women would be served better with education loans than risking their lives on the front lines.

We'll see...

first any U.S. company moving jobs overseas to build their product will have an automatic 70% tariff attached when it comes into the U.S. making it noncost effective to move outside the U.S.. second start congress and the senate pay at minimum wage and have a time clock , where they get paid for the hours they have worked.

I WOULD PUT THE NATIONAL GUARD ON OUR BORDER, NOT IN IRAQ OR AFGHANISTAN AND NO MORE FUNDING THESE STUPID WARS.
I WOULD ESCORT ALL ILLEGALS FROM THIS COUNTRY AND PRESENT A BILL
TO EACH NATION THAT MISPLACED THEIR CITIZENS FOR OUR SERVICES.
I WOULD HOLD EVERYONE IN THIS ADMINISTRATION ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE CRIMES THEY HAVE COMMITTED STARTING WITH IMPEACHMENT OF THOSE MOST HIGH.

You are asking for financial solutions from a group of citizens who can't even manage their own finances. Why?

Stop spending money on endless war (Iraq).

I would include a Ron Paul presidency. It's too bad the average voter thinks a tired old war hero is more qualified to handle the economy than an economic and monetary policy scholar.

How about a good old fashioned WPA type project which rebuilds our roads, infrastructure and schools, and which hires all those unemployed blue collar workers in Ohio and Michigan whose jobs have been shipped overseas - its success as a stimulus depends, of course, on whether our government can refrain from no-bid contracts that hire illegal aliens. Pay for it with a tax on owners of SUVs that gobble the gas and tear up the roads. - that ought to get our automobile industry working again manufactturing cars that make environmental and economic sense.

Answer to the four o'clock question. I would make sure all of the worthless Senators and Congressmen got a large pay cut, start paying them minimum wages that way they may earn what they are actually worth. I could go down on skid row and pick out people that would do a better job then what we have in Congress now.

Jack, Why not suspend tax's on all citizens earning less than 50K per year? The economy would boom, briefly, and the recipients could purchase food, heat their homes, and not be forced to charge basic needs.

Jack; What would I suggest to stimulate the economy? For starters, let's cut government pay by....say 40% across the board. (Many workers have done this) Next let's do away with all the newly created agency's........if there already is an agency in place, don't create another to duplicate the it! If the first isn't effective, fix it! Or get rid of those NOT doing their job! Next, look at the tax code......WELFARE for the WEALTHY isn't working! Not for the middle-class. If you are earning enough that you don't have to be concerned about "food or paying the rent," or "medical care or gasoline for necessary driving," then PROBABLY it isn't a GREAT SACRIFICE for you to pay a little extra in taxes.
THANKS!.................
Chuck...... OH

To start the resignations of both Bush and Cheney with legislation putting buisnesses on notice that they not the consumer will be held accountable for unethical buisness practices to include sub-prime loans that should never have been written in the first place.

A close look at interest rates being passed on to consumers once again based on credit let to individuals that never should have had credit issued in the first place or in the amounts that they have been awarded. A close look at what is appropriate compensation for Corporate America and a very close look at the pratices of energy companies and the manipulation of oil prices as a commodity.

K street Lobbists, out of buisness, no longer permitted in the halls of Congress. congress represents the people of the United States not buisness interests withthe emphasis on individuals.

Reduce taxes on those making less than $300,000.00 per year, those making more can afford to pay more. Roll back the Bush administration taxes cuts and sorry let those that are in the upper brackets pay more. Hey, don't like it, fine, you want a flat tax, fine across the board no deductions I can live with that.

Incentives for manufacturers to set up shop in America, penalize those that have out sourced jobs overseas.

First I would tax the crap out of those corporations that have been given huge tax breaks in the last seven years along with the wealthy who have gotten a free ride on the backs of the middle class. Then I would reexamine the no-bid contracts for performance and assess huge penalties for failures to perform. That’s only fair since they didn’t have to be competitive and still took advantage of the taxpayer. After that, I would turn all the tax advantages of offshore corporations’ into tax liabilities. After the oil companies, the wealthy and the multinationals begin to pay their fair share we can go on from there. But my guess is that we’d be able to get taxes on the beleaguered middle class more in line with their ability to pay.

Jack, I would first have the Federal Government start regulating the Banks. It's time to stop the Vegas style betting with money!

2. Big Oil gets taxed big! Not the people!

3. Line item veto! No more Pork!

4. One year moratorium on new spending- none!

5. The roads and highways are ultimately the problem of the states! Just as there is Pork in the Federal Government, there is pork in The State Governments.

6. One year moratorium on Business incentives! If your business is managed well then it should make money on it's own.

7. If you can't pay for Iraq without cutting everything else then the terrorists have won! The WAR is OVER!

8. You don't do business in America if your corporate headquarters is a post office address on an Island that does off shore banking!

The more money you make, the bigger piece of the dream you have, the more you pay in taxes, to take care of the, "little people", you trampled on to get that bigger slice of the American dream!

This Republican rule of stealing from the poor to give to the rich has to stop! They also have to stop this insane notion that they are more religious and more saintly than everyone else. They are more stained with the blood of innocents than anyone else.

The Tax money alone from Big oil is enough.

Jack, Five things would jump start the economy today!
1. Impeach Cheney
2. Impeach Bush
3. Repeal the billion dollar tax cut for the super rich
4. End the black hole money pit war in Iraq
5. Tell the American public, pull up your sleeves we have work to do!

Jack,
I would bring all our troops home and put the war budget in job creation programs.

Jack; Until the puppets in charge realize that you cannot have a sustainable robust economy when the majority of consumers do not have disposable income. Wealthy and upper class wage earners tend to spend most of their income on items that do not support our economy. If you want an increase in our economy you must keep the revenue in our markets and make sure that the people participating in our economy have money to spend. American consumers can not spend much if they don't make much!!!

We could solve all our economic woes by nationalizing our oil industry. Energy prices would drop by half, and the windfall for the government would pay off the national debt in a few years.

Just what Gov. Huckabee is sugesting, we get rid of the IRS and replace it with the " Fair Tax" system. This will work and to those who disagree I would just ask if they have even read the "Fair Tax Book".

Very very simple.
Impeachment of Bush, Cheney, and Rice.
Most problems resolved.
Melvin
Colorado

Reduce marginal tax rates by a third for individuals and by a half for corporations. Suspend employee and employer contributions to FICA and Medicare for one year. Offer business tax incentives (accelerated depreciation etc) for USA made products and services. Give amnesty to our Mexican neighbors making a better life for themselves here. Make college tuition fully tax deductible and lastly, three items; reduce all federal expenditures by 10%, change the work week for federal employees from five to four days with a corresponding 20% reduction in pay and benefits, if they don’t like it let then quit, and finally, an absolute prohibition against personal use of federal vehicles. When not being used for business purposes, leave them parked at the office.

Prevention of President Bush to poise our Military ; to conveniently justify an attack on up to 3 countries in the nemae of peace. Did he forget that he stated his desire to receive sparticipation of other Countries "before another terrorist attack (not verbatim)-while we are caught up in an emotional and CRITICAL election process. Don't go further in debt!!!!!

I am intrigued by the idea of people paying a tax or compensation for the damage we personally generate. I am a smoker (I mean scourge of the earth) but I'm willing to own or pay for, somehow, my negative stuff. We can start with any change ( like our air) and build . It seems to get very complicated, very fast; so no matter what, I would begin with WHAT ALREADY WORKED ONCE. President Clinton really did balance a multi-billion-plus red, red leftover. NEXT, Sit Down & LISTEN to advice by Bloomberg, Greenspan and Oprah. Creativity is a bipartisan & an UNDEVISIVE characteristic. We might remember that solutions do not have to be extreme to be effective.
A moretorium on forclosures to allow time for researching a plausible solution, seeems interesting, too.
A multi -solution approach, including, help & sacrifice from all people of America, even immigrants. Oh yes, by the time impeachments will be completed the damage will be done.

Jack, I would include laws which increase the ability of citizens to get jobs. Together with this, I would initiate tax breaks among those with lower income, and a system of medical insurance which provides security in this area for all. We cannot afford to depend on only the rich to guarantee the economy of or country. and if we now share the brunt of taxes, we should all be given the income to afford them.

Ok don't make me go to another News Channel, I'm tired of Obama and Clinton, Obama and Clinton. There are others in this race so let's give fair time to them. We have not heard much on Edwards or the others. Do they have to have a nasty fight to get on the news???

Lower interest rates are part of the reason the dollar is worth less these days. Not much return on their investment when rates are low. To prop up the dollar they will have to raise interest rates.

I really would like to know what committe has the right to penalize the voting American's because a primary date was changed? Our vote doesn't matter-and this is democracy!!!!

People in Michigan, Nevada, and Florida need to take up their banner and launch a protest. PLEASE GET SOME ACTION GOING ON THIS SUBJECT, JACK~!!!!!

THANKS

I agree with the person who said a tax increase for companies that are moving their jobs to China or India. Then I would raise the taxes for those making $350,000 or more a year.Then I would increase the NTSB's bill to hire Americans, who then will be able to enlarge runways at airports & repair our infrastructure, including bridges & our railway system to make it more secure so illegal immigrants wouldn't have it so easy getting into this country.Then I would continue to BUILD THE FENCE!!!!

WOW Jack, after reading todays comments, I can add nothing, but to say, if all Americans were as enlightened as this bunch, we wouldn't be in the shape we are in. Our incompetent leadership would have been tossed out with their tax cuts for the rich and corporations. Gas would still be $1.50 a gallon and the Middle East would be far more stable then it is now.

Job creation and eliminate outsourcing of jobs to other countries.

Stay above the stupidity, Jack!

I have read a few of these comments and I agree..! Please, Congress, Government quit ripping me off.!
Thank you

Jack
The first item on my list would be to stop comprehensive immigration reform which many candidates support irregardless of the cost to American taxpayers. In fact, do any of the candidates actually mention the cost?? Can we afford to give citizenship to millions of mostly low skilled immigrant aliens when we are close to recession? Entitlements, social services, school districts, prison systems are running out of funds now, so what would happen when millions more burden the system? Is this possibly another reason why many states are finding it difficult to provide for its own citizens?

I'd add a complete freeze on every dollar in foreign aide until the budget was balanced.
b.g., mo.

Jack, first step would be for Bush to stop doing the line dance with the super rich Saudi royals and waving that stupid sword around that they gave him.Then, tell our supposedly good friends that if they want their $20 billion military package from the US, increase oil production and stop funding Muslim militants, Second, come home and cancel the his tax cuts for those making over $200,000 annually. And thirdly, inform the Iraqi government that all US troops will be redeployed back to the US by the end of 2008 come what may, and begin investing the billions we are wasting in Iraq on our own infrastructuce, job retraining, and a Manhatten type project to become energy self sufficient in the next 10 years – if we built the Atomic bomb from scratch in two years in the forties, we surely can develope new energy sources now if we devote the resources to do so – and create many new high paying jobs in the process.

Roy
Glen St. Mary, Florida

I would give an income tax break for those that change their hosehold or office light bulbs to CFL bulbs or Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs and dispose of them properly after 5 or so years when they finally fail. If every household in America would just replace one of their regular bulbs with CFL bulbs we would save enough energy to light 3 million homes a year. That’s more then 600 million in annual energy costs. If you replace all your bulbs with CFL's you could save hundreds of dollars a year and help the environment in the process by helping to eliminate greenhouse gases. Stop waiting for the government to answer all your problems and become part of the solution. Recycle, conserve and save.

The US is evolving into a knowledge and services economy. Manufacturing is never going to be cheap again in this country and any work and money spent to keep it hear is a fools errand.

According to the Cato Institute, the U.S. federal government spent $92 billion on corporate welfare during fiscal year 2006. Recipients included Boeing, Xerox, IBM, Motorola, Dow Chemical, and General Electric.

Imagine if that $92b had instead been spent on teaching and training Americans for work that was valid in the 21st century instead of lining the pockets of our biggest industries as they shipped jobs overseas.

Jack,
Instead of the U.S. sending billions and billions of dollars to unfriendly countries half way around the world to restore thier economies, thier country's inferstruce and aid them militarlly. For once our government should enact a public works program and provide tax rebate checks to all, rich and poor, to boost our economy... We can do it but will they do it, Talk about government fairy tales...

Jack,

You know what I'd add, actually the reverse of that. I'd kick all the unscrupulous lobbyists out of Washington, so that the government could do it job, as elected by the people. Doesn't the constitution say "We The People...", I don't see any mention of corporations or industry associations in any of this sacrosanct document.

Chris

Jack- Don't raise interest rates,
bring down gas pump prices: Why can't the oil company profits or our government fund the building of more oil refining plants, immediately start using our own oil reserves (don't we have them?),
End the Monster War in Iraq...Let Iraqis pay the loans to China or whoever is loaning us the money for the Iraq war
Government help crank up all our types of manufacturing- that we lost to China
We need made in the USA again and convince Walmart to buy USA goods not
Made in China and take less profit margin to do so.
Put money into our infrastructures -thereby employing many

1. Freeze credit card companies penalty interest rates to 2 percent points over current interest being charged to the card account–and eliminate the penalty and return to previous interest calculation on very next pay ment received by due the date–instead of raping the customer for 6 months at "loan-shark" interest rates.

2. Encourage savings–by allowing money earned in savings accounts under $10,000 to not be counted as earned income by the IRS for up to 24 months.

3. Require mortgage companies to offer work-out plans for ALL mortgages to allow for a 90 day "catch-up".

4. Eliminate the "12 month on-time payment policy" to refinance VA and other Government Guaranteed loans to a lower more affordable rate. If the VET is experiencing job change, reduced income–they may not be able to wait a full year to take advantage of the lower rate–and two, the wait may cause them to further default on the loan and we don't need more of that do we? The loans are insured by the FED for heaven's sake.

Across the board, real, serious and substantial tax cut. That would stimulate my economy.

Any stimulus package should include Dr. Ron Paul. Anyone who can stand in front of an Iowa crowd and say "I would take away your farm subsidies" is a brave man who can tackle the economic issues this country faces.

1. Lower the cost of the war by getting a grip on the true cost. Not just the troops, but the shameful waste and cronyism going on right now. Nothing like an audit to put things right again. Put the IRS on it, I'll bet they can shore things up fast . Penalties and Interest. Probably set things right in a few years. . 2. Raise the interest rates, and fine those practicing predatory lending.
3. Remove the celing on Social Security deductions. Why is it no one will broach this subject. All I ever hear is what terrible shape Social Security is in. Well sure, when the president raids the coffers for an ill conceived war, be assured it is a problem. EVERYONE should have to pay for this, not just the middle class.
4. Do away with NAFTA, CAFTA, and any other foreign trade agreements that cost middle class americans their jobs.
There's more, but I fear I'm out of time.

JACK,
Nobody wants to use the "R" word for this economy so let's take a page from FDR's playbook and create a Public Works Project, you know like fixing the bridges, roads, and infrastructure in this country. If we paid legal citizens a living wage and gave them health insurance we might just avd the "D" word.
Robin

Stimulate the economy by bringing our troops home and no longer spending so much money governing other countries. Elect Ron Paul. Get rid of the IRS. Make more products in the US. Employ more Americans. Make quality products people will actually want to purchase.

A Wii for all of us! And an iPod in every pot!

I'd include a mandate to return the country to the Keynesian economic principles that made it great, and a prison sentence for the crooks who practice this kind of cannibalistic capitalism.

After that, I'd redistribute the wealth all of the CEOs and Republican policymakers responsible for the economy's frightening weakness, to all of us who've seen our wages stalled, our cost of living escalate, and our houses tank. Oh, and I'd make this part retroactive to Enron.

Hey Jack! How about getting a refund for all that defective Chinese crap we've been buying for the past few years?

The Federal Government should do nothing - that is not their job!!!

Demand the Business Sector clean-up its own mess and start prosecuting violators that continue to scam and take the people to the cleaners while lining their own pockets and shareholders with exhoribant profits at the expense of the working class, while the Federal Government provides them huge subsities and tax credits.

This is nothing but another government sponsored tax-payer financed bail-out with money this government doesn't have. Where is the money coming from?? Are we going to increase the debt ceiling again and borrow from the Chinese who already own this economy?

Both parties better get their acts together and do it quick or I predict they will all pay for in the general election. Americans are fed with their sound-bites, petty pickering, and total neglect of the working class people.

If they think polls were skewed in the NH primary, wait for what lies ahead.

Change is coming and its going to be like tidal wave taking out all these professional politicians in November.

1) End the war and stop the drain on our great grandchildren's money, 2) fix the tax law to prevent the sort of speculation that got us into this mess and 3) Increase grants for scientific (especially green) R&D and 4) increase the taxes on gasoline to effectively stop our sending all our money overseas.

to boost this economy it's going to take a lot of things. At the top of that list i'd say Impeachment of both the President and his war hungry business partner Cheney. They've made the country look bad and feel even worse with bad decisions. Get them out and watch the booming economy come to life. I'm unwilling to wait 12 months for a change.

I think, people are literally robbed in this country with various types of insurances, medical, automotive insurances, home insurances, etctetc. For an economy to propel forward, it is important you bring in more money spending from middle class and low income groups who compromise the most of this economy. When they do not have enough money left in their pockets, how will they spend. Why is it possible in other countries to not have these insurances and why only in US? I think this is something that should be put up in the economic stimulus package and try dissolving these mindless insurances for atleast an year and see how the economy is going to propel forward...

Raj

Jack – Stimulate the economy? Simple: Quit buying all of our products from China and other countries and get our people back to work. There is simply no way we can support all these other economies. Government handouts are a short term solution to a critical problem facing all of us.

Education, education education. While it may not pay off tomorrow, having an educated workforce is the only way to bring business back to the States. American workers come with a hefty price, why not make it worth it?

If these dolts think they can afford to give me $500 and appease me they've got another thing coming. If there's one thing I despise it's having my hard-earned money taken from me and then handed back to me like I'm on an allowance. Then the clowns in DC act like they're giving me a gift. I'd be happier if they'd just go jump in a lake.

Jack, Any package should include a MAP out of town for most of our Washington legislators, and possibly some "understanding your constituants" 101. Roy , Missouri

I don't want a one-time tax credit or a band-aid that's supposed to fix the huge economic problems our country is facing. The major reason why workers in Michigan are struggling right now is that they can't compete when it costs more to do business in America. What we need is fair trade, and I don't see any of the candidates talking about that, do you?

The stimulate package should cut taxes, create clean renewable resources such as oil and power sources, and stop buying toys from China because China is making a profit off of us, and pay off our national debt.

Use common sense to END outrageous government spending, balance a realistic budget and live within that budget and eliminate the income tax. Let people that earn money KEEP their money.

My package would encourage states to reduce or freeze state sales tax on goods and services for a period of time. That should also include a significant reduction in gas tax. A $500.00 tax rebate, which I understand is being considered, would not necessarily encourage me to hit the retail marketplace. Instead, I am more likely to put that in savings or pay down on existing debt.

I would give a tax cut to the middle class worth 100 million. Lower interest rates. Expand money supply. Jawbone Arabs and Russia to keep/lower oil prices or risk worldwide recession. Fix the mortgage crisis by putting back bank regulations Bush eliminated in 2003. You must fear "disinflaltion" because of dropping home market (disinflation = depression). Draw down the war and tell Bush to shut-up concerning war with Iran because it rises oil prices by scaring markets. I'm an MBA.

Jack:
the U.S. economy needs a stimulus about as much as William Shatner needs a box of Hostess Twinkies.
Instead of pandering to those concerns about a potential recession, we should be demanding some ideas about what to do about our long-term economic problems; funding for Medicare, the Social Security shortfall, inadequate taxes to fix our infrastructure. But serious discussions from political candidates about these kinds of problems are about as likely as a return to the days of a dollar a gallon gas.
So, twinkies all around!

dan
Gulfport, Florida

Give small towns throughout the US, governmental monetary support if they would "Adopt A Mexican Family," if the town would offer jobs and housing to them. Mexican family must be an entire family, including kids and grandparents. Such support would bring in money and give schools more students, which would increase ADA and Immigrant Federal funding for schools that already has been allocated. Can you pronounce, "Eduardo Alonso Nájera Pérez ." Jack? Guess what university he played for?

A Stimulus package for the USA would include a non-Bush White House after a Bush/ Cheney impeachment. End the war in Iraq and stop the money we don't have going down the drain. Be prepared to work hard to pull ourselves personally out of debt as well as a country. Stay away from thieving republican candidates that have more interest in lining their pockets than serving their country.

Nothing will help so long as we have to compete with China and every other country who uses slave labor. The playing field needs to be leveled with tariffs on the goods from these countries and realistic currency evaluation. Secure out borders and penalize employers who hire illegals so our workers have a fair chance to get good paying jobs. Stop this insane war in Iraq and get the national budget under control. You know, do the things that may not be politically correct but will get the job done like right now while there is still something to save.

End the insane tax breaks for corporations and millionaires!
You want to put cash in the hands of Americans who need it. If we're going to spend millions of dollars on tax cuts we might not want to spend it on people that have millions of dollars. I'm tired of waiting for the trickle, we need buckets of help for millions of impoverished and middle-class Americans trying to keep their homes and clothe their kids!!!!!

Thanks Jack
Chris

Jack, I would include following
1. End the war in Iraq
2. Raise interest rates
3. End free trade deals aka shipping good paying manufacturing jobs to China
4. Abolish the IRS
5. Get rid of illegals and keep them out for good
6. Have a sound monetary policy

But none of that will be done so brace yourselves the collapse is coming!!!

I would love to see an extension of the tax reductions. Tax credits for low/middle income households. Hey, maybe a whole new FAIR tax system!
As to the Dems and Reps working together for anything, fat chance! I think they should get down off their pedestals and and listen to the American people. Otherwise many more of us will start voting independant and third party. Enough already, this is not elementary school and I could care less about supporting one party or the other anymore. How about acting 'for the people' [I think I have heard that somewhere before] and quit looking out for your own self-interests..

Our president (small p for a small man)
works for Exxon & BP not America

Remember, with CHENEY as VP we
have 2 DICKS in the whitehouse

Jack,

In regards to how the economy can be stimulated, I think it would be a good start if Congress would give itself a paycut so they can show the American people that they are serious about the situation. Actions speak louder than words.

I totally agree on raising taxes for the rich and cutting taxes for the middle and lower class. What about those of us who are in the EXTREME lower class. Those of us who are on a fixed income. We do not qualify for any type of tax cut because we do not file taxes. What about us??

I would give a 50% rebate on any new startup business under $100,000. And an amnesty on all state and local rules for 1 year, to give them the time to get the business started and try to make a profit.

We need to do two things; help American businesses by reducing their costs and making them more competitive in the international marketplace and stimulate the economy by putting more cash in the hands of consumers.

Firstly, I'd eliminate business income tax. That's just one more item included as a cost for doing business in the U.S. that has already driven many companies out of business or overseas. We consumers end up paying those taxes in the price we pay for goods and services anyway.

Secondly, I'd nationalize health care. Ours is the only nation in the world that burdens its businesses with that expense. The cost of insurance is added to the price that a business must charge for the goods or services it provides and is another reason why our trade deficit continues to grow and our businesses are forced to lay off workers, outsource our jobs, or go out of business. This would not only ensure that health care would be provided for everyone who needs it, it would also put more cash in the hands of consumers which they can use to purchase other goods and services.

Thirdly, I'd reduce the tax burden for those families with net earnings of less than 200,000 per year and eliminate the Bush tax give-away to those earning more. The poorer the person, the more likely they will spend their money on immediate needs like food, housing and transportation.

Lastly, I would provide incentives for those things that invest in our nation's future. Interest-free loans for a college education, public works projects to rebuild our nation's infrastructure, endowments for research and development of new technologies and non-carbon based sources of energy are all good examples.

Let the Senators and Congressmen and women take a pay cut for a change. Maybe even buy their gas and pay for their expenses for a change. It is always easier to spend money when it is not yours. How's that for a "change" in Washington.

1. Start by working towards a trade surplus instead of a trade deficit (hint... don't let China sell cars here).

2. Refute NAFTA and the path to a North American Union

3. Stop using Ethanol... food prices have increased because of our use of Ethanol. Hemp is great alternative and can be Procured domestically.

4. Rethink Globalization.... it is a threat to national sovereignty (See item 2)

Jack, I would release x-number of barrels of oil to lower gasoline prices and heating oils down to normalcy, give tax rebates to lower and middle class families, huge rebates in energy friendly products such as lightbulbs, air conditioners and heaters. You know it would just be easier if we the people could understand what Ron Paul is saying about the Federal Reserve and stop printing money with nothing to back it up we wouldnt be in this situation.

Cum'on Jack, read this on the air it would make my day

Of course, I would like a $500 rebate just as anyone else would. But I wonder if this is just a band aid to pacify people during an election year. The fix is this: stop giving incentives to big businesses to outsource American jobs; take away big businesses entitlements of $70 billion a year. Give more tax breaks to small businesses; start prosecuting CEO’s of companies who are raping America and stock holder; Immediately stop the billions in pork, or earmarks, which ever you want to call them, and give it to projects that will benefit all of America instead of a few special friends.

Oh! I forgot. We can’t do that; if we did, then all our elected politicians wouldn’t have anything to do and they would all go home, and God knows, that would be a disaster.

Glen Bush
Orange, Texas

A healthy start for promoting an economic stimulus package would be dialing down extravagent taxes on some of our most used products.....fuel tax, for instance. Or how about an idea similar to not filling our damn gas tanks with $3.25/gal gasoline excreted from $100 oil barrels. Have we, the United States, forgotten that even a small percentage of the 300 million can start and demand a change by simply saying ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. I'd like to do it, but wait, you can't...because you can't survive any other way but in the biased and rigged game we're forced to play in.

Jack-
When you mention the lack of cooperation between the two parties in Congress it is only fair to remember how the Democrates have been shut out by the Republican Majority in Congress since Bush took office. Now Republican Sari gouts are talking about the horrible grid lock in Washington D.C. Funny, they are wanting to play nice now because they know whats coming this November. Whats really sad is the Democrats will be inclusive and when something is actually accomplished in Congress, the Republicans will take the Credit. Poor spineless Democrats! (including me)!

With all due respect to those who may think that the bus has not left the station I have to sad task of telling y'all it is too little too late. Listen to your own producers and please take time to read the warning from previous reports. Over 10 Trillion in debt and over 63% of Americans do not believe anything will change with a new President. Jack, you were had when y'all gave up your rights many brave Americans fought for over a 200 years falling for Winds of War against an unkown ememy. You had nothing to fear than fear itself, and yet have allowed your fears to cloud the wisdom of many who told you better. America is burning while the greedy still find way to take every last cent the middle class has!

TRICKLE DOWN = G.O.Pee

Just look what BUSHY BOY has done
to the middle class

If you want the average consumer back in to purchasing, the economic stimulus package should include a revisit to the Credid card issuers blank check as to the assessment of late fees, to penalty payments, and to the exorbitant fees they charge. It simply makes no sense to charge a penalty on top of a late fee. the consumer ends up paying all this and not being able to buy . Reduce the APRs also.

I would make our president, his administration, our representatives and sentators work for minimum wage, or as a volunteer. If our government officials are really concerned about the people of our country they would look at being president or a representative or a senator as a privilage, and give up their big paychecks, give that money back to the people and live more like the rest of us. Save this country lots of money!
Lori
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

The only way to fix our economy is to get rid of all the Republican enablers of Bush/Cheney – they destroyed the economy that Pres. Clinton was able to restore after Reagan and Bush 41 – A $500 tax break is not going to help anyone – we need a permanent fix – we need a leader with a brain who knows how to use it!

A one time $500.00 incentive. Is a power bill for one month. Forget the oil companies, and big corporations. Get rid of Bush

As a poor man I would say ,The status quo has got to go!!!! I have downloaded the intire HR25 Fair tTax bill and beleave it would not only save our economy, but also send a huge message to the political phoneys who are stuffin their pockets rather than serving their people..( No more Washington-No more)

Jack,

We don't have any money to boost the economy! With the federal debt nearly exceeding 5 trillion dollars, to inject an economic stimulus package would be simply irresponsible. Sure we want to continue to buy homes we can't afford and bail out the wall street executives, but why not stimulate the economy by making an investment in the economy. How about starting out with our education system whose world ranking seems to drop every year?

Any economic stimulus paskage must involve job growth. Side agreements including worker and environmental protection requirements must be put on free trade agreements to encourage American industries to keep jobs in America. The country also needs to get more control of the illegal immigrant situation as they are stealing jobs and lowering overall wages. More people with jobs equals more people to spend money.

I would think that if you wanted to stimulate the economy, you might want the people that move the economy to be able to earn enough money to do that. That means providing the good paying jobs that would enable the people that spend thier good wages on everything to do just that . No GOOD PAYING JOBS NO BUYING doesnt take an expert to figure that out does it .

Until we get a president to quit giving away taxpayeer dollars to support the entire world, anything done will carry no impact. Very recently...30 billion to Israel who does absolutely nothing for the US, then 30 Billion to Saudi Arabia who sells us skyhigh priced oil. In talks with the hand holding Saudi Prince, the very least Bush could have done is negotiate a discount on oil. Instead he hands out billions to a country where the 9/11 terrorists originated.. But what do I know, Bush is the Harvard Grad. Whatever happened to his tirade on axis of evil nations,and those countries who support it. Did I mention the 10 billion to Pakistan where Osama bin laden roams freely and doesn't even need a passport?

How would I stimulate the economy? I’d double the taxes on everyone who voted for Bush. And I’d triple the taxes on everyone who voted for him twice.

Jack,

The first thing I'd do is stop the war in Iraq. What's the latest figures on how much that travesty is costing us and our future generations?

Jack,

My stimulus package would order American automotive conglomerates to reopen several production plants closed to the outsourcing of production. These plants would then produce the armored vehicles like the cougar that our soldiers need in Iraq. Considering this would affect Michigan in a profound way I offer this plan to any of the current Presidential candidates to copy and call their own. Create jobs and save the lives of troops fighting an unpopular war. Why haven't THEY thought of this yet??

Someone actually suggested amnesty would solve the economic situation. Oh absolutely, bring in more illegals so we can depress wages even further and increase corporate profits. The second benefit of amnesty and more illegals that I would especially like.... increased tax dollars to pay for more social services so that I can subsidize more profits for the corporations. Yippee! I can see the tax dollars in my pocket right now.

This person wants the govt to pay for college tuition. My family does not have a large screen tv. That money is in a college account. We did not go on a fancy vacation in 2000. That money is in a college account. 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 again, in a college account. We do not pay interest on credit card debt as we do not overindulge on crap we choose not to afford. That money is in a college account. We choose to have a smaller house. The extra money goes in a college account. Fancy cars? No, we chose to put that money goes in a college account. Can't park my car in the garage because it's filled with crap? Nope, in a college account. Get off YOUR backside and support your own family and stop trying to make me responsible for your POOR CHOICES.

Well jack that simple,
First some law must be enacted to curb ceo profits,any excess must be invested by law,in development of the us economy,such as new programs for the poor and middle class,and/or higher wages.

Fyi jack i am a black man from virginia,voting for barack,although i also support,sen.edwards and sen clinton,we need a fresh face from those of the past.

Responding to your question concerning the economic stimulus package, a rebate of $500 would certainly be a short term stimulus however it it would not solve the real problem of lost jobs, lower paying jobs and the depression caused by our ill conceived venture to compete in a global economy that is severely biased against american labor. It's been great for american businesses who chose to manufacture overseas, but these companies have not proven to be good citizens by sacrificing a bit of their profit to get our own people back to work. When people have jobs and see a future then things will get better. Our government needs to level the global playing field.

Jack

Impose the same tax on religious organizatioins as on any other group.
Hell, they're the only expansion going on in this country; one cannot drive
down a street anywhere without finding new churches going up.
What is going on? The religfious fanatics are the cause of us having
bush, Cheney and the Iraq war, so it would figure they would benefit from any
down turn in our way of life. They are the responsible group so they should
be the ones to sacrafice to correct this bush mess.

Jack, To boost the economy, you have to deport all of these Illegal
Immigrants with their families. This would dramatically reduce the
cost of Health premiums, and make them affordable to Middle
Class Americans.

What's important is what I wouldn't include. I would stop financing those republican black holes like Halliburton and the rest of those ethical toxic waste dumps. I'd stop subsidizing the oil companies tax them at the rate that they choke the public. I'd end the war in Iraq that has depleted our true wealth-our soldiers, sailors, and marines. I'd end the other wellfare state-the bloated salaries, medical benefits, and pensions wasted on people who work only part time if at all. They can pay their own way like the rest of us poor slobs do. And I would strip the president and vice president of their booty. They get a place to live in for free and that's it. Let them pay for their own office help like we would have to do in the public sector. There's hundreds of ways to cut spending but noone has the big brass ones to actually do it.

Jack:

I would pass Tariffs on imports. This would help American business compete abroad Our Founding Fathers all believed in Tariffs. All other nations use Tariffs to protect domestic production.

500 dollars to each american will stimulate the economy as far as spending, but this will not help everyone in depth because $500 is easy to spend and will be spent quickly.

The gas prices and a lot of issues will still remain after the government will issue $500 for a credit.

What happened since a year ago when President Bush spoke about coal, nuclear energy and other sources? How about if people expected a progress report when politicians speak. Gas has gone up 50% since President Bush's speech last January. Didn't congress know about the mortgage problem? I believe they did as most economists know.

Is it ONLY ME THAT UNDERSTANDS THAT MRS. CLINTON, OBAMA, OR
MC CAIN, ARE . WHAT HAVE THEY OR ARE THEY DOING TODAY TO HELP PEOPLE AS SENATORS WITH THEIR MORTGAGES? WHAT ARE ALL OF THEM DOING TO PUT SOMETHING TOGETHER TO HELP PEOPLE WHO NEED ASSISTANCE THIS YEAR.

Does everyone get that none of the canidates for president can act on their promises until 2009 February? So electing someone on the basis their going to help when your mortgage is resetting in June 08 won't help you today.

Obama thinks he is going to use President Bush's plan to charge $5000 to each person that is an illegal immigrant. I live in California and I will assure you that someone who is here illegally, works for less than $9 dollars an hour is, and has not bank account won't have saved $5000 or have an interest to pay taxes to make less money. The immigrants have their own network of many things that they need in their community.

Let's all challenge canidates, and congress to spell out a plan in detail.

Jack, your question gets to the heart of the matter. The only way to stimulate the economy is to pay people a decent wage and give them decent raises. The reality is that most people start a job with a low wage and get annual "raises" of 2 or 3 percent, tops. This guarantees a lower middle-income freeze for life, which is the situation my wife and I have been in for decades. Meanwhile, executive salaries continue increasing astronomically, even though these same people have driven the American economy into the ground and disenfranchised the entire middle class. Now Congress wants to stimulate the economy by giving us peasants $500. Please! That wouldn't even buy groceries for a month. But then, what are the chances any of them have been to the supermarket lately?

ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE:

1. IMMEDIATELY BEGIN BRINGING OUR TROOPS HOME FROM FOREIGN SOIL. This gives the oil producing countries a wake up call. They have allowed the prices to become so high that our country's economy sinks into the ocean.

WE SHOULD CONTINUE THE TROOP WITHDRAWAL PLAN until we are able to protect our own country's economy. As our troops home, the money that was being spent to sustain their presence abroad should be allocated toward:

(a) Give a gasoline tax deduction to all Americans earning less than $100,000 per year income as well as all disabled Americans.

(b) Use part of the funds to promote more efficient forms of transportation as well as alternatives to fossil fuels.

(c) Finance the Universal Health Care program proposed by Hillary Clinton. When the withdrawal is finished, the U.S. Economy will be secure and the health of our citizens will be protected. Hint: You cannot protect your country or invest in it's future IF YOU'RE SICK!

2. Establish a U.S. Farm Distribution Program where farmers receive money or tax credits for allowing their surplus food items to be received by government approved programs that distribute food to the needy. We must STOP GIVING MONEY TO FARMERS. They must earn their money!!

The first thing our government should do is reverse the massive amount of outsourcing of the industrial and service jobs to India, China, and elsewhere. The new President and Congress should pass legislation that would reward organizations that maintain jobs in the USA and penalize those that outsource. Secondly, the new President and Congress should withdraw the troops from Iraq and pay off the massive deficit left by this administration. Last, these parties should prioritize initiatives for the use of alternate fuels for our autos and other energy needs and wane us off oil to stabilize energy costs. The tax breaks for the rich and corporations should be abolished if not increased.

Stimulate the economy? Easy. Just get rid of Bush and Cheney. Seriously Jack, is there any way we can add a line item in the package that demands for the early departure of Bush and Cheney. I promise to go out and do my part i.e spend, spend, spend....
Marjorie
New York

Your basic GDP growth formula is investment plus consumption plus government spending plus (exports- imports). Obviously government spending is not the problem and neither is the export portion considering the weak dollar. The question is how to stimulate investment and consumption, two very complicated and somewhat paradoxical parts of the formula. Stimulation of investment requires an increase in savings in other words savings equals investment. Consumption however is the opposite of saving. Thus a plan that gives tax incentives to businesses that allows for an increase in employment and thus an increase in both savings and spending by those new employed must be present. The Federal Reserve (independent of political manipulation) could lower rates increasing the lure to borrow or in other words invest, however, this is a balancing act with inflationary concerns from the same action. If the plan does include tax rebates they must be targeted at those that’s spending has been most affected, the lower and middle class (mostly by an increase in oil prices). The rich basically consume what they will consume and putting more money in their pockets is negligible when it comes to the formula and reality. However, as most economists understand there really is no magic bullet and factors such as the sub prime catastrophe and the bust of the housing bubble has no effective quick fix- since a true bail out of both is really a moral hazard problem and a true bail out will just convince those involved that if this happens again than the government will intervene again providing no incentive to tighten mortgage lending practices in the long run.

If we want to help save the economy it will go a long way by first implementing gianormous pay cuts for politicians. The whole lot should get no more than minimum wage, which would match their minimum performances.

Going on the theory every little bit helps, we are all suffering from oil hikes be it for driving, flying, going on vacation by boat, etc. In terms of energy, I don't feel that everything is look at beyond transportation. This time of year we get reports how poorly department stores have faired economically during Christmas. It's reported that Sears is economically down for the 3rd year in a row.

When anyone walks into any department store or even the locall 7-11, have you ever counted (not during rush hours) the amount of customers are in the store?
I know many of us are two persons in the household working and need time to shop, but do we need 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday thru Saturday and 10 to 6 on Sunday? Think of all the energy in heat and light that is consumed during these long hours where hour by hour whatever the number of customers each hour can justify just the cost of heat and light. Perhaps they should change their hours to 10 to 7 Monday and Thursday, 10 to 5 Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9 to 9 Saturday and 11-6 on Sundays.

This change in hours saves about 27 hours every week in heat, light, housekeeping, etc. 27 x 52 is 1400 hours per year for every store in the US. It will cuts costs in energy for all of us and perhaps level out energy costs for all of us.

Will consumers be angry? Hell Yes! Will they be inconvenienced? Hell Yes for a short period of time until they get used to it.

Something like this generalizes to other areas like less travel to the mall thus less gas consumed, less mileage and wear and tear on the car and the roads.
Nothing in this world operates in isolation. THis is a start. The pluses could be more family time, more knowing where your kids are, more relaxing time, money spent in a more purposeful and smart way. I am not an economist, but clearly matching hours to cost vs profits could be an eye opener.

People will have to become more organized and make less trips for anything.
Kate

Provide massive tax incentives to move factories back to the U.S. Let's start producing something vice simply consuming ourselves into the next depression.

Oh, and here's an idea – let's focus our spending on national defense and national infrastructure (you know, what we're supposed to be spending on). Then, cut EVERYTHING else.

True leader don't have money to run for presidential because the care more for people than money that’s why hard to find one!

Yes, the court should be involved to include Kucinich in the debate. Duncan Hunter was also excluded from the debate last week. This is not fair to the American voter, and if it takes the court to make it right, so be it. The media controls too much in our elections already.

As long as the media thinks that this Democracy is their perogative to pick and choose who we the voters should see, then I think that the Courts must be involved.

Take a look at the trucking industry for the biggest consumer of oil. If the 5 mpg tractor trailers could get a litlle hybrid or other tech help to 10 mpg, we would save about 200 million gallons of the most expensive fuel at the pumps, diesel. There are over 800,000 big rigs running the interstate highways everyday, paying the only federal sales tax of 12% to buy a new truck, now equipped with a new particle seperator that loses every truck a 1/2 mpg and cost $4000 per truck. Then trucker pay $550 a year to the IRS on Form 2290 for a ?? heavy use tax, then pay a tax for every mile driven in every state, empty or loaded. Tolls are about 4 times a car, then 21.4 cents per gallon at the pumps, $1500 each year for a license plate. Trucks move America and the trucking industry is in a RECESSION, we are always the first to know and the hardest hit. The truckers need better fuel economy and a lot less tax for the industry to keep the country running, and by the way the Mwxican truckers now crossing the borders do not have the taxes the US truckers do....help us CNN put this in the news.

You know what really iritates me Jack is STUPID Ameicans who think they know who pays taxes. I work for the IRS and I'm a Democrat here's how it breaks down...
Top 1% of the wealthy pay 33.7% of all taxes
Top 5% of the wealthy pay 53.8% of all taxes
The Bottom 50% of all taxpayers pay 3.6% of taxes
Before people start shooting their mouth off they should at least check the facts from the GAO. It's the Corporations that don't pay!
Jeffrey

What would help the economy? How about the feds paying their Bills!
I have a small business in Colorado. we shipped to the USAF last August a large expensive machine. I paid for all the parts, and the 100's of hours of labor, and shipping ( it weighs 900 lbs.). I verified it was working on arrival so if service was needed we could take care of it. To date, not a dime has been paid, now I must consider this week how to keep highly skilled workers and how to keep the doors open. OK if you are a large Corporation, but a small company it kills them. Separate reports tell of phones disconnected for non-payment, and other horror stories. Answer I get is, "get an attorney" they want 70%-80% plus expenses and an hourly contract, what would be left for me or the business. This has cost us double digit interest since September. Now how do I heat my house, and make sure my employees can as well?
Dave
Dewey AZ
(928)632-7001

If the network doesn't have the wisdom to have all points of view heard, then the court should be involved. I'm only 14 years old and very intrested in Kucinich's points of views and the things that he stands for.

What the citizens need is things like being able to take interest on charge cards, bank loans, car loans, etc. off our taxes. I don't know how the hell things spiraled out of concern for the average citizen and in favor of big business, but it has.

I am a Senior Citizen on Social Security. Every month, I have to decide what groceries I can buy so I have money for medication. I have county transportation, but that is $3.00 each way and if you go to the bank, they can't wait, and you have to literally sit on the curb waiting for the van to return in about 90-120 minutes. I highly value this opportunity, but when your are in chronic pain, it gets tough. I live in an apartment and have to go to the rental office to fill the card we use in the washers and dryers filled with cash to do the laundry. Again back to the 2 hour wait. When I retired a few years ago I was told that at 65 they could not take taxes out of your social security. Since I can't make ends meet on Social Security, I work part-time, less than $100.00 a week. Guess what? Now my social security is taxed because I earn this money. I had planned to work until I was 85 as I loved what I did for a living, but my health declined and I could no longer work.

To everyone not of retirement age, I say, save, save, save because if there is social security for any of you, you can't live on it. People don't realize that we pay for medicare, madigap, prescription coverage, co-pays for prescriptions. For me it is over $250.00 a month. Every month, when my check comes, I fear opening it because it may be less than what I am getting now. They make drugs to keep us living longer and have a ?? better quality of life, but if you can't buy food and get reasonable housing, there is not quality, only fear.

Jack, I don't understand the $500. Isn't that the reason we are in this mess? Millions of people lived on credit for fancy homes and cars. I have no pity for the Wall Street idiots who loaned them the money when they knew they couldn't afford it . What did they expect ? Now Foreign countries are lending or buying parts of our institutions. Soon we will be a debtor nation owned by foreign nationals.
The $500 stimulus will go for energy related items such as gas and heating oil. Guess what countries that will end up in.

I'd like to use part if not all of my 401k to pay off my mortgage, this way I'd have more money to pump into the economy and even more to put back into my 401k by not having to give it to banks in the form of interest

I agree with those who mentioned that Americans need to live within their means, stop overspending. Shame on the banks that lent money to people who were not financially solvent and shame on those who bought homes they could not afford! Americans are in trouble, they have used their homes as "cash machines" and have spent themselves into bankruptcy. Why do we expect the government to fix things, if they are doing just the same?! How do you think we get the money for Iraq? WE BORROW from China! What a mess!

Just a suggestion on how to stimulate the economy.

An immediate impeachment of Bush/Cheney and the filing of criminal and civil lawsuits against all those involved in the illegal war that they instigated. Knowing that these lying, greedy, war mongers were behind bars, with Bubba eyeballing them, would immediately lift the spirits of the American people and they would start spending again. The civil lawsuits would happily bankrupt the Bush/Cheney/Rove/Rumsfield/Rice etc. families and that money would help aid the returning veterans and their families. This would also send a message to these idiots running for President and maybe we could elect and get some results from a serious leader. This country would be elated and surprised if we had a legitimate and responsible government...that would stimulate the economy and deter the corporate greed machine from ripping off this country any further.
TD

If we used this opportnity to fix all the infrastructure problems we would have a severe shortage of workers. Do the most threatening. Fair prices paid by governments would mean contractors' employees would buy more and that would stimulate the economy .

DO NOT CUT TAXES. The governments would have to layoff their workers. They'd buy less, and their suppliers would have to lay off. A downward spiral,

And please don't tell me to borrow more from China, etc.!

Everyonethat is against this war should be more than happy to include Dennis Kucinnich in the debate. Especially if they want to hear from someone who was against the Iraq war from its inception. He has remained resolute even in nthe face of the rdiculous Bush tactics! I watched him call on congress day after day to stop this war! Hooray for the courts!!! At least we know where he stands! It is time to stop repressing free speech. This is what the courts are for. Hold on Dennis!

Jack,

The election process has become a farce in this country. Russia has more honest elections than we do!!!

Yes, the courts are our only protection from the ultimate and endless corruption of the media and the political system.

George Bush and Dick Cheneny should be impeached and sent off to the Hague to be tried for the war criminals that they are. Until the rule of law and OUR CONSTITUTION are back in place, we are no different than Kenya, Cuba, Iran or any other corrupt dictatorship.

To show our discuss wit this Bush administration. During the up coming State of the Union, the Democrats need to stand up and walk out. this could help their rating.

Laugh out loud, economic stimulus packages and theft of our resources thru inflation to maintain an empire is what got us in this mess, 500.00 a person is only to drop the dollar further and raise prices further, its spending, cut the foolish empire designed to protect the elite and restore the republic. Cut government spending 10 percent across the board and end the wars. Otherwise its over.

To stimulate the economy we must do the following:
a) Mortgage melts down:
The Federal, State and City government should join forces with the lenders in order to identify homes that have been foreclosed but still available.
The lenders should offer the previous owners to take ownership of their houses under conditions outlined as follows:
1) The owner will have to pay only 50% of its monthly payment for a period of 5 years.
2) The owner will have to pay insurance for five years that will guarantee payment in case of death sickness divorce or lost of jobs during those five years.
3) All bad debts created by late payments or foreclosures will be disregarded
4) If the owner decides to sell the property within the five year period the bank will have the opportunity to recoup full payoff of the loan.
5) After 5 years the banks will refinance the loan with a fixed term that will be based on the market rate.
6) The 50% monthly payment that will be waived for the first 5 years will be attached to the balance of the loan at refinancing.
7) The owner will have the flexibility to negotiate a term up to 50 year in order to keep its monthly payment affordable and manageable.

The lenders should offer the owners a new proposal that will be as follow:
1) The owner will have to pay only 50% of its monthly payment for a period of 5 years.
2) The owner will have to pay insurance for five years that will guarantee payment in case of death sickness divorce or lost of jobs during those five years.
3) All bad debts created by late payments will be disregarded
4) If the owner decides to sell the property within the five year period the bank will have the opportunity to recoup full payoff of the loan.
5) After 5 years the banks will refinance the loan with a fixed term that will be based on the market rate.
6) The 50% monthly payment that will be waived for the first 5 years will be attached to the balance of the loan at refinancing.
7) The owner will have the flexibility to negotiate a term up to 50 year in order to keep its monthly payment affordable and manageable.

b) Job creation:
Public works
The Federal and State Government should joint forces to repair and replace all roads and bridges that are in danger of collapsing.

c) Tax Break:
The federal and state government should offer tax incentive for companies that return and keep their manufacturing and industrial bases in America.

With the State of Mitchigan in the political arena, fix its job woes and Americas spending on Saudi Dictatorship gasoline ,diesel and jet fuel we inport by the million barrel loads a day– get the BIG OIL COMPANIES to stop running Saudi Rastanoura (biggest refinery in the world) and build one on Lake Mitchigan. Jobs and true indipendance from Saudi. Our Goverment spreds the false information that we need to drill for more oil at home, truth we have more than enough Black Gold we just can NOT REFINE it to meet our ever increasing NEEDS!!

Jack,
Bring all the troops home and close down every foreign military base. Deploy these troops to military bases in border States and in and around our costal ports and cities. The United States military would be better utilized here in our own Country. The National Guard and the other branches of the service could also be used to stop illegal imigration and assist in the round up and deportation of illegals. We may have to build some more bases closer to the Southern border to patrol economically. The Navy and Marines could search every cargo vessel. The Army and Air Force could patrol the Northern and Southern borders. Donald Rumsfeld should have done this when he was doing the base re-allignment and closures. Next, no tax breaks for any American Company that moves its manufacturing facility to another Country. And if they do, a sur charge or import tax will be imposed on their goods coming into the U.S. Next, down size the Federal Government. With the money we save start a public works project rebuilding Americas infrastructure, national parks etc. We need to re-industrialize this Country and become Self Sufficient. This does'nt mean isolation and protectionism. It means being PATRIOTIC and surviving. We have to take care of our own. By doing all of these things we could reduce taxes and still pay for National Health Care. The time has come. If you do not want to do business in the United States, You will not benefit.

If you don't have a job you don't pay taxes so there's nothing to rebate is there?

Establish a Port Security fee. This not only helps the US economy by increasing the cost of foregin goods (from unfair trade) but also improvs Homeland Security. The fee should be applied to shipping originating in foregin ports( this is the source of the threat). If should be paid by importers. WE might allow xemption for imports up to the amount of our exports, to the country of orgin, the previous year. Posibble exemption for allies. Fee high enough to covr allports scurity costs including 100% inspection of container. Would probably create employment for 2 or 3 thousand inspectors.

This is not duplicate

We can all talk about the past, but what about now and the future ? Presently the CNP Council for National Policy is planning your future. This secretive organisation of several hundred of the richest men in the USA put Bush & Cheney in office to accomplish their global agenda. In September 2007 they met again in Salt Lake City. Cheney & Mitt Romney were keynote speakers. Romney wants their backing. The CNP wants to continue their agenda in global market control for BIG OIL & allied industry in the next election. National media outlets are owned by their members. Who will expose them? Who will stop their insanity and destruction of constitutional freedom ? Who will stop their misuse of the military to promote their global agenda? Paul Wolfowitz,Don Rumsfeld, Scooter Libby, George Bush, Richard Cheney, Eliot Cohen. Zalmay Khalilzad, Steve Forbes, Donald Kagan, Pete Rodman, Henry S Rowen, Dan Quale, William J.Bennett, Jeb Bush, they are all members of the PNAC Project for a New American Century.

Wanted to know if anyone has heard of and watched the movie ZEITGEIST? A friend of mine shared this with me last night and, I must say that we are merely puppets on a string in this society. The views that are expressed are real and the country is headed down a well traveled path as history is repeating itself. Watch the movie at http://www.zeitgeistmovie.com

So you want the Gov't to save the good jobs, make sure everyone has healthcare, insure your pensions, stay out of wars and keep out illegal immigrants? Maybe the French aren't so crazy after all? Maybe a dose of socialism tempered with free enterprise is what is needed now? Oh yes, they get eight weeks of vacation a year as well!

I have a few thoughts on how to help the economy:

1) stop spending a trillions dollars a year on a war that no one in America wants and use that money to help out the other programs within our country and build our economy

2) stop providing welfare, food stamps, free health care, etc to illegal immigrants in our country; we have poor and low income Americans here that need these programs to help raise their families and deport illegal immigrants in our justice system so we don't pay taxes on them.

3) stop providing loans for housing to people who don't have the money to pay them back

4) take legal action against credit card companies for giving a credit card to anyone who wants one and then giving them the highest interest possible. We need to help our fellow Americans; not put them in more debt. lower the interest rates for people who are in credit card debt to help eliminate their debt.

5) Provide as much free financial education and debt repayment education to low-income to middle-income families as possible and provide tax bonuses for people who are working on saving money for themselves and their families. people don't save money anymore.

6) our country needs to go back to producing goods for it's own country rather than outsourcing and importing from other countries

1. Bring back our MANUFACTURING_ INDUSTRY_ JOBS .

2. CUT SPENDING: Get rid of Corporate welfare, ease out of Iraq.............

3. REPEAL ALL FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS . Or at the very very least make them fair.

"Free trade does to a nation what alcohol does to a man: saps him first of his vitality, then his energy, then his independence, then his life."

"From 1994 to 2007, net manufacturing employment has declined by 3,654,000, and during this period several other free trade agreements have been concluded or expanded."

"MADE IN USA" remember that???
" Look for the union label" remember that???

Remember the ILGWU label that use to be sewn into all our clothes. Well now the only place you'll find them is on Ebay under vintage clothes.

4. ELECT JOHN EDWARDS , George H. W. Bush and the Clinton's gave us NAFTA. GWB et. al. all the rest

Take the long view for once. ...the consequences of todays actions on our children and their children.

"stimulus package" Sounds like a couple of lines of crank. Artifical, temporary.

Jack; Ihave a simple equitable solution to the sub prime mortgage crisis that would save American tax payers already under stress themselves many billions of dollars and would keep the bank and lending institutions from posting huge losses..

All we need do is Peg these Mortgages at 2% above Prime and forgive all penalties to date 1/2 of which are illegal as is record and the rest very suspect and unethical..

Then if we do this these families many of them easily the majority could be saved from foreclosure and the trauma of eviction and also the already inflated rental market saved from serious downward pressure which would adversely effect those who can even less afford this huge hit..

Peg the sub prime mortgages at 2% above Prime and forgive all penalties to date..

Problem solved..

This may take a commission or Congressional legislation but this is in the best interest of our nation and saves the tax payers from paying to bail out these institutions and paying interest on top of it when the Federal Reserve, bankers write a check to themselves through the government which tax payers and mortgage and renters will have to pay..a perfect loop more corporate welfare..

Peg these Mortgages at 2% above Prime and forgive all penalties to date..!

Please put this solution before the American people..!

TJ..