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May 1, 2023 Editor, the News-Gazette: In steering us towards defaulting on our debt and sinking our nation’s economy, Rep. Ben Cline and his colleagues are attempting to hold hostage funding for crucial programs. How many of his constituents really want to see deep cuts to services our most vulnerable children and seniors depend on? Is this really the time to drastically reduce opioid addiction treatments? Or railroad safety inspections?
Ironically, Cline claims he is doing this in the name of fiscal responsibility. This is especially misguided when considering how the GOP bill decimates the funding allocated to address climate change. We are all aware of the increasing level of devastation brought on by climate related weather disasters. Not even considering the human toll of death and suffering, the price tag for damages in the U.S. in 2022 was $165 billion, and that number rises every year. Since 1980, the cumulative cost has been nearly $2.5 trillion. Yes, it may seem like a lot to spend about $1 trillion over the next 10 years to mitigate climate change, but wouldn’t that be the most fiscally responsible course in the long run? (And, this cost can be covered by having the wealthiest Americans pay their fair share - but that is another letter for another day.)
Don’t be fooled by disingenuous claims of fiscal responsibility. Ben Cline and his colleagues did not blink an eye when Trump wanted to raise the debt ceiling (three times!). This is a dangerous, political game that threatens to cause massive damage to our economy, our wellbeing and our environment. ANNETTE GREEN Rockbridge County
