There is a growing trend in the United States. More and more Americans now want the government pay for programs that meet our daily needs. Does this surprise you? It sure isn’t what I expected to find.
For years, the rallying cry has been for smaller government. In fact, this recent shift marks the first time in 8 years that a majority of Americans now favor an increase in government participation. A report from the Pew Research Center found that most Americans think the government is doing too little to help young people, the elderly, the middle class and the poor.
This new trend was also reported by William A. Galston’s article (WSJ, “Americans Want Big Government“):
“In the NBC/Wall Street Journal poll last month, 58% of Americans—the highest share ever recorded—agreed that ‘government should do more to solve problems and help meet the needs of people,’ compared to only 38% who thought that ‘government is doing too many things better left to businesses and individuals.”
Galston also cited a Kaiser survey that reports an interest in increased spending on defense and education.
As early as 2017, a separate Pew survey found broad support across both Republicans and Democrats for increased spending on veterans’ benefits, infrastructure, scientific research, environmental protection and assistance to the needy.
Can the Government Pay for Programs?
Not this government. Not today. “The federal deficit is big and getting bigger… Its balance sheet reveals that the public debt will reach $15.7 trillion by October.” And these numbers don’t include “unfunded liabilities, reported by the Social Security and Medicare Trustees, that are four times the current public debt.” (John F. Cogan, WSJ, “Why America is Going Broke.“)
So, if you’re counting on Medicaid…
I’ve written a number of articles urging you to become more self-reliant when planning for your future. Our nation’s financial uncertainty does not have to limit your access to quality care. You just need to do a little planning today.
The first step is to click here to receive your personal quote for Long Term Care Insurance.
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