Debt police: That's right, if debt is going to have a ceiling, it is up to the citizenry

They have done it again. Not that they had any choice if this country was going to continue to operate.

On Thursday afternoon, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a measure that would allow the government to go even further in debt.

Now, before you get all huffy and puffy if you are a conservative, take note -- there really wasn't any other choice, not at this point.

That die was cast when the leadership changed -- and, some say, a little before that, too.

But increasing the debt ceiling is something that should concern all Americans, especially those who are wondering how much longer this country can continue to spend money.

Because, like it or not, all of these government programs and stimulus plans cost money.

The only way to stop needing to raise the debt ceiling is to stop spending money. And even though there has been a lot of mouth music in Washington suggesting that there is a need to move in that direction, there has been little evidence that anyone is actually going to do something about it.

So Congress votes to raise another debt ceiling -- and those who are charged with policing such matters and analyzing their impact are left wondering what future generations are going to use for money -- and credit.

So it is up to us to send another message -- before it is time to raise another debt ceiling.

Voters who care about quality of life for their children and grandchildren need to make it clear that the debt ceiling is there for a reason. If it is nothing but a moving target, it should be removed -- or those who ignore it should be returned to private life.

Everyone who runs a family budget knows that you cannot continue to spend money you do not have.

It is time someone taught that lesson to Congress.

Published in Editorials on February 5, 2010 10:09 AM