Remember the Patriot Act? Today we have “Repealing the Job Killing Health Care Act”, “Middle Class Success Act”, only to be out done by the “Family Economic Success Act. “ How can you vote against any of these.. So mister congressman you voted against middle class and family success did you? Was that before or after you supported killing jobs?
I have noticed that the naming of an issue is likely the most important step in the process of getting supporters. Naming issues seems to be as important anymore as naming your child. Get it wrong and you are ridiculed.
Today we are hearing the cries of “Food vs Fuel”. Surly food is more important than filling up your SUV. So how can you argue with the Food vs Fuel debate? If you are pro ethanol you have lost before you begin your argument only because someone named the issue before you.
Then add some apparent facts that are hard for the average person to dispute and you have an unbeatable combo. High priced and tight supplies of corn, increased corn for ethanol usage… must be ethanol’s fault.
Many “experts” fail to mention that the second largest exporter of corn, China, is now importing corn, could their unexpected need for corn have affected world corn prices?
It takes fuel to raise corn, diesel to plant, natural gas to pump water, diesel to haul corn to town, electricity to grind it to a feed, and gas to haul feed to the cattle. The butcher needs fuel, the guy hauling the meat to your grocer needs fuel, and how are you getting to the store? You need fuel for that and you still don’t have a hamburger do you? Fuel cost is a big part of your food bill.
My point, our debate should be Fuel and Food. How do we create policies that insure a supply of both at reasonable prices? I agree with those that kick against ethanol subsidies, especially since some of this US taxpayer supported ethanol is exported. I agree that subsidies distort the market with unintended consequences.
We have these subsidies because in 2004 the issue was named “The American Jobs Creation Act” contained ethanol subsidy legislation. Who could vote no? I bet some that voted for this didn’t get past the title when reading the bill. Truth in labeling laws likely should be extended to include Congressional Acts.
Just a couple of questions… What is the Permanent Marriage Penalty Relief Act of 2011? And if it obtains congressional approval, will my mother-in -law be required treat me any nicer?
David
