And we should use the remaining forty percent for tax cuts that Republicans and Democrats ought to be able to agree on. We need systemic tax reform. It's hard to defend a system that taxes your salary, your investments, your property, your expenses, your marriage and your death. But if Democrats continue to object to a flatter, fairer tax, then let us first agree to cut taxes for those who need it the most while we argue our case for more sweeping reform. All that is required to save Social Security and to return to hard working people a little of the fruits of their labor is for leaders with character to work together honestly and fairly for the common good.
Character is the difference, and it always has been.
It will take leaders with character to give this country an educational system that befits a great nation. The state of education in this country is far too important to continue using it as a partisan wedge issue. Both parties should stop concentrating on the next election and start focusing on our children. It is important that we have a federal bully pulpit to encourage states and cities to improve local standards. We should insist that at least ninety cents of every federal education dollar is sent to local communities to be used for purposes that local educators are in the best position to prioritize.