Originally posted by zucchiniHow does the 30 percent tariff on steel products imported into the US imposed in March 2002 and lifted on Nov 2003 when the World Trade Organisation ruled it an illegal tariff show his commitment to free trade?
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He is a strong supporter of capitalism and free-markets. This is a very big issue. During Bush's tenure, the U.S. is pulling out of a recession based in the excesses of the late 90s and deepened by 9/11. Trade is expanding. This is good for the U.S and for the rest of the world.
Originally posted by steerpikeI was unfamiliar with this issue until reading about it in response to your post. If tariffs are protective due to legitimate need, and are temporary, then I think they fit into free-market management. In this case, it is unclear to me whether they met this criteria.
How does the 30 percent tariff on steel products ... show his commitment to free trade?
It seems that this tariff had two causes: (1) a belief that the steel industry needed some extra time to become more efficient, and (2) political motivation to curry favor in Pennsylvania and West Virginia (steel states).
It is important to the U.S. to have a healthy steel industry. So the question is when should the government step in to help a large industry that produces an essential product? [There are government subsidies commonly applied to farming and the dairy industry, as well as production limits. There are no subsidies or support for my business.]
Steel prices have risen since the tariffs were lifted, making most of the issues irrelevant.
Originally posted by zucchiniFor someone who believes in "free markets", the answer is never. Remember that these steel producers are selling a lot of their product to U.S. companies such as Ford and GM. The tarriffs essentially forced these companies to pay higher prices for steel than they could have otherwise negotiated in a free market.
It is important to the U.S. to have a healthy steel industry. So the question is when should the government step in to help a large industry that produces an essential product?
Originally posted by steerpikethis american is absolutely bitter. managed to save up enough to travel twice within the last year (england and germany). lost my appetite after paying $14USD to grab a meal for two in McDonalds. maybe instead of american tourists you'll start getting some american workers on your shores. i'm an engineer and wouldn't mind getting paid in pounds or euros.
So how do Americans feel about the value of the dollar and the economic management of your current president?
1. Because he's not Kerry. Thats all I need is the biggest Liberal in the Senate wanting more of my tax money. In fact I'm more of a Libertarian when it comes to my tax dollars. I would cut out Medicaid, Social Security, FEMA, and all the other social services such as welfare and food stamps. Where does it say in the Constitution that the government has to take care of people because of their bad decisions. Why should my tax money be used to fix somebodys home that was washed away in a flood because the idiot built his home on the flood plain, or the person that built his home on a hill and it was washed away during a rain storm. Thats what insurance is for. Social Security is a joke. It's just used by both parties to placate the elderly because they have a big voter block. To hell with the next generation who has to pay for it. I would also cut out foreign aid. If this country cut out welfare and made everybody work then that would probably alleviate the illegal alien problem because then they would not be able to get a job here in the US. Why should my tax dollars be used to care for somebody's else's child because of their bad decision. I have a question for all you Liberals out there. Wouldn't you like to keep more of your hard earned money? If not then when you get a refund on your taxes send the money back so the government can spend it on more social services. I bet the farm I wouldn't get any takers.ðŸ˜
Originally posted by howardgeeHere you go again trying to put words in my mouth. I said I would dissolve FEMA and the rest of the social orgs. in question. Kerry would have given the money also if he was president. I know you detest Bush but to tell you the truth it isn't none of your business what goes on in the US. Worry about your own country.
Why should people in Florida be given $1.6 billion dollars in aid just because a wind destroyed their home?
That's what Bush has just done.
Presumably you won't be voting for him either?
PS - This state handout is not a bribe to the electorate in a marginal constituency. Obviously.
Originally posted by slimjimShould he have paid the aid?
Here you go again trying to put words in my mouth. I said I would dissolve FEMA and the rest of the social orgs. in question. Kerry would have given the money also if he was president. I know you detest Bush but to tell you the truth it isn't none of your business what goes on in the US. Worry about your own country.
Originally posted by rapalla7Not back yet. We are in Ulaambaatar until thursday. We fly out to Bejing on Air China and then on to Japan for three days. Then recoup for a week or so at Lahaina, Maui.
That is streching it a bit even for you SVW.
Are you back from your trip? if so, how was it?
Which part is a stretch? About not having a decent candidate to vote for?
Originally posted by slimjimOff topic...
...In fact I'm more of a Libertarian when it comes to my tax dollars. I would cut out Medicaid, Social Security, FEMA, and all the other social services such as welfare and food stamps. Where does it say in the Constitution that the government has to take care of people because of their bad decisions...
What are your thoughts on cutting spending to the military? Is the current military an example of 'big government'? Maybe increase the number of contractor-soldiers and let the market dictate a lower cost?
Same question in regards to education. I'm just thinking about how I'm going to save up money to send my kids to private school. I'm convinced that public education is a neglected and under funded joke. As a member of the middle class this won't be easy.