Rebate or Welfare?

A rebate, as defined by Dictionary.com, is "a return of part of the original payment for some service or merchandise; partial refund." President Bush and Democratic Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi have negotiated an economic stimulus package designed to stave-off a recession. The economic package has often been cited as a tax "rebate" by politicians and the media, but it is clear that this stimulus does not fit the definition of a rebate.

America's central government has already spent its citizenry's tax dollars. In fact, all of the taxes the government has collected did not meet the government's spending needs. So where does the money for this "rebate" come from? The government will have to borrow, tax, and or print more money to come up with the funds for this stimulus package.

All of these options first hinder the economy before stimulating it, and never mind the fact that it does not come close to the dictionary definition of a rebate. An actual rebate of taxes paid would be fantastic, but because that is impossible this really is just another government spending program. It is in essence welfare for all, except those the government deems to be unworthy. Its referred to as a rebate because many Americans, especially those with any knowledge of the principles of the Constitution, my object otherwise.

Yet virtually everyone will take their government checks and cash them without a second thought. Who can resist a free hand-out; especially cash? Be forewarned, the politicians in Washington (both Republican and Democrat) will in the near future call on you to "sacrifice" and absorb a tax increase to pay for this exercise in true Socialism.