I have a dream that will not require new taxes. It is a bit of common sense directed toward putting government on a diet.
As an action of solidarity with other government workers, all D.C. politicians and aides take a 5 percent pay cut for one year. Who will lead this initiative - Republi-can'ts or De-more-crats?
Reduce the number of politicians in Washington: rezone, redistrict, repurpose, reboot. I believe our government can still run with a few less congresspeople.
Create a 40-hour work week for the postal system by closing on Saturdays or opening only for a half-day on Wednesdays.
Cut back on military spending either in weapons, recruitment or foreign military presence. Just a few percent in changes will save millions.
Laws keep piling up as politicians think it is their job to create new ones. Try a "one for one" policy. If a new law is being considered, the lawmaker must find at least one other law that is obsolete and present it for replacement.
To me, the question is not just if lawmakers are listening but if they are willing to take a risk and get out of their trenches. Can they rise above the cult of party lines and envision a healthy America? Let's see if we can dream, take action and help our country lose a little excess baggage.
Monica R. Morakis
Kahului
