Tax cuts are historically justified
Doug Ludlow’s column, “Tax cut inappropriate during
time of war” (April 11), fails to recognize the urgent need
to promote job growth.
When the U.S. Treasury was operating at a deficit at the
beginning of the Vietnam War, President Kennedy called for and got
large-scale tax reductions. Having served as an economist in his
administration, I believe (if Kennedy were president today) he
would call for a tax cut despite the nation’s being at
war.
There is nothing inconsistent or unpatriotic about
simultaneously protecting national security and promoting urgently
needed job growth.
This restructuring of tax relief could result in the upper
income groups taking over a larger share of the total tax burden.
But even if the upper income groups get some relief, it should be
recognized that this group largely consists of small-business
owners. It is reasonable to expect this group to use at least part
of its tax savings to hire more employees.
UCLA graduating seniors are currently finding it very difficult
to secure job offers. Consequently, they should be especially
supportive of a lowering of income-tax rates.
Theodore A. Andersen UCLA Professor of Finance
Soldiers deserve support
I am shocked and insulted by the Undergraduate Students
Association Council’s refusal to approve a resolution in
support of the Operation Iraqi Freedom troops.
Here in Iraq there are tens of thousands of Marines, soldiers,
sailors and airmen who are willing to sacrifice their lives in
order to liberate the Iraqi people.
In their plush offices in Kerckhoff Hall, USAC may not see the
crowds of cheering Iraqis who are waving U.S. flags and giving a
thumbs up, but I see them everyday.
They can pass a resolution supporting the Iraqi people; yet,
they have the nerve to reject a proposal to support the U.S.
troops? Fine, don’t support the war, but take the few minutes
to do what it takes to pass a resolution supporting the troops.
You can miss that movie preview for which you received tickets,
the line will still be waiting for you at Panda Express, and Diddy
Reese is not running out of cookies anytime soon. There are many of
us here in Iraq who do not have the luxury to do any of these
things. Take the time to support us.
We deserve that much.Sgt. Raymond Cheung, USMC Class of
2002