The current defense budget still includes tens of billions of dollars for Cold War weapons systems and for an inflated base structure. The selective problems of pay and readiness should be met by reallocating funds from the budget for procurement and installations, not by increasing the total defense budget. If Clinton wished to put an end to the crisis-generating system his administration has so far supported in the international economy, he would call for governments around the world to end interventions that have created perverse incentives for investors and politicians alike. That also means finally getting the IMF out of the way of the market. While new trade negotiations are welcome, the accompanying mercantilist baggage should be rejected.
Parents attest that high-quality child care is both available and affordable.
But the best way to give parents more money is to let them keep more of what they earn in the first place. Never mind black markets, regressive taxes, personal responsibility or individual liberty. Whenever Clinton needs money, he calls for Philip Morris. And if the Republicans in Congress resist his pleas for yet higher taxes on smokers, no problem. Anything to replenish depleted Medicare coffers.