“Tax and spend … Tax and spend … Tax and spend.”

This is all we hear from Republicans regarding their disdain and defense against Democrats. But when we look at the facts of how the Republicans have dealt with the economic, social, and foreign policies of our country, they have cause to be concerned regarding the 2004 election.

With only 32,000 jobs created in July and 1.1 million jobs deficit from when Bush took office, Congressman Tom Latham and Sen. Charles Grassley have justified their votes for an economic policy that has given billions of dollars to corporations and the wealthy by claiming it would create jobs.

I asked Congressman Latham how many jobs the tax giveaways will create. Latham’s response was not to respond.

The reason for looking like a deer in the headlights is simple. He hasn’t a clue. All Latham knows is that it’s a piece of propaganda that has worked for the Republicans, regardless the cost to people, families, and our society.

Ever notice that when tax cuts and corporate giveaways are offered and passed, those supporting and voting for the measures are the ones who usually gain far more than their constituents? They save the meat for themselves while working tirelessly to convince the rest of us to be grateful for the crumbs thrown our way.

Although Tom Latham states he attended Iowa State University 1967-70, he never received a degree. This may explain why he’s not understanding of what George S. Tolley, professor emeritus in economics, University of Chicago means when he states, “It’s not a tax cut to the taxpayer if government continues to spend.”

With such obvious failures in our economy, outrageous tax giveaways to corporate and wealthy America, a war predicated on lies, unbridled spending, and deficits never before seen in the history of our country, the question is begged, “Why should we trust the Republicans any further?”

Randall Rolph

Nashua