getting serious about the National Debt.

[Barfly]

They didn't run up huge debts in the past because our constitutionally limited federal government prevented them from having the opportunity to do so. The Republic has gradually eroded, by nefarious efforts of unproductive losers who are now running amok like undisciplined rats on a feeding frenzy. No conservative here agrees with any principles that support the above.

[callmeslick]

I'd argue, Barfly, that Brooks has it closer to reality. The ability was always there, legally, at least according to every SCOTUS ruling back to the early 1800's. What restrained was partly moral fiber that carried down from the early Protestants that settled here. No one, conservative or liberal , can fail to take into effect the society-wide breakdown of much of that ethic. Especially, the parts about work and community.......