GOP Needs to Debate Bush’s Tax Policies

Re “Deep Debt, Deeper Trouble,” editorial, July 17: I consider myself an independent. Your editorial stated that of the $455 billion deficit this year, $375 billion is from tax cuts. Have we seen any stimulation of the economy lately? Where are the Republicans who look at these figures and feel revulsion? I am beginning to wonder what it is that Republicans pledge their allegiance to if they will allow this administration to continue its economic practices.

There used to be Republicans who felt free to debate their party’s policies. I remember when there were “Eisenhower Republicans” as well as “Taft Republicans.” Where have all the Eisenhower Republicans gone?

L.W. Cohen

Vista

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I must be missing something. The lead article on July 16 is “Fed Chief Foresees Growth.” In a small article on Page A21, your readers learn that the Bush budget deficit is projected to be $455 billion -- $150 billion more than projected five months ago. Now tell me, which story is of more importance to me and to my children? I can only see this placement of stories as further evidence that the press is giving Bush an easy ride. Where is the outrage at this news? The American people need to be aware of the impact on the economy of the ridiculous tax cuts for the rich and the occupation of Iraq, which is costing us $4 billion a month. Which is the bigger “quagmire” -- Iraq or the U.S. economy?

Margery Gould

Los Angeles

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I wonder if Alan Greenspan has any magic pill for my health insurance premiums, which rise in excess of 30% yearly. At this rate they will exceed my mortgage in four years. You may say that I should work for a company. My husband does ... and these obscene premiums just keep getting worse.

Carmel McFayden

Los Angeles