FRANK BERNHEISEL

Let Bush's tax cuts lapse

Dear President Obama

The temporary tax cuts that were enacted during the term of President George W. Bush are due to expire on January 1, 2011. These tax cuts benefited the middle class and the wealthy, as well as lowering the tax on estates.

Extending these tax cuts will not, in my opinion, bring the U.S. economy out of the Great Recession any faster.

The bulk of these tax cuts are resulting in savings, which is commendable in itself, but does not boost the U.S. economy in the short run.

The tax cuts apply only to those people with income and, for the most part, income well above the national average. Extending the tax cuts will do nothing for the millions of Americans who are trying to find employment or are faced with imminent unemployment.

Because money for programs, such as extension of unemployment and assistance for state and local governments, which would help these people, is not being provided, it would add insult to injury to provide tax cuts to those of us who are doing well.

Therefore, I strongly suggest that these tax cuts be allowed to expire as scheduled. Further, that any bill passed by Congress to extend them or make them permanent be vetoed.

Sincerely

Frank Bernheisel