In order to win elections, Democrats and Republicans have wooed voters by promising them lavish gifts out of the public treasury. The total of these promises is not the $17 trillion that represents the national debt. This is merely what is currently owed. The total unfunded debt for the promises made in exchange for votes over the years exceeds $100 trillion.

It all started innocently enough with Social Security. This program made some economic sense, because it essentially forced people to save for their own retirement. As time went on, however, politicians eager to win or hold seats in government promised more and more programs. Johnson’s Great Society added a few trillion, Bush’s prescription drug for seniors (Medicare Part D) added a few trillion and Obama and company are adding still more trillions. There is no way this debt can ever be paid. We have traded our freedom and the freedom of future generations for the right to stand in line and receive dole from our government like docile slaves.

That politicians would make this pact with the devil is a disgrace but for the populace to vote on the basis of which candidate promises the most freebies is even worse. The majority of the voters of our nation have consistently voted irresponsibly and in so doing have destroyed the legacy owed to their progeny. In addition they have betrayed preceding generations that strove mightily and sacrificed greatly to preserve freedom for posterity.

Can the cycle of government deceit, scandal, greed, waste, patronage and corruption be arrested at this point or has it passed the point of no return? I believe the government juggernaut has gone unchecked far too long to be stopped or even slowed at this point, but I fervently hope I am proved wrong. 

Payne is a resident of Libby