Misam Abidi on Budget & Economy

Stimulus ok when targeted, temporary, and accountable

A: Support only when targeted, temporary, and accountable. Private enterprise, entrepreneurship, and individual creativity should remain the primary engines of long-term economic growth. Government cannot manufacture lasting prosperity by endlessly spending borrowed money or protecting failing corporations from every consequence. During a genuine crisis, however, temporary public action may be necessary to prevent families, communities, and essential industries from collapsing. Assistance should reach people before politically connected institutions, be tied to measurable public benefit, include repayment or clawbacks where appropriate, and end when the emergency ends. Stimulus should serve as a bridge back to independent economic activity--not become a permanent replacement for it.