Letter: Walz brings thoughtful approach to solving problems

Talk about it

I am so proud of our Congressman, Rep. Tim Walz. I was reminded of this when I read his recent Op-Ed, “Why the U.S. debt matters” (Daily Globe, April 30). It showed the same thoughtfulness I have seen whenever I’ve had a chance to hear him speak. Like other good teachers I know, he is careful to gather his facts and is good at presenting them. Like other American soldiers I’ve known, he approaches a huge task with optimism, determination, loyalty, and a clear focus on the mission.

Anybody remember the 1990s? The U.S. entered that decade with debts and deficits that seemed insurmountable. By 2000, the country was running surpluses. That turnaround had three essential ingredients: reduced government spending, an increase in marginal tax rates for the highest income brackets, and growth in the overall economy. Without all three, we could not have achieved the success we did. It took years of work, dedication and compromise to reach that result.

We are again looking at problems that cannot be overcome with one-dimensional solutions. Anyone going to Washington (or St Paul) thinking they can fix things easily — without careful study, listening, and cooperation — won’t make it.

As Rep. Walz points out: “To be fair, no single political party bears sole blame for this problem. No single action or one program by itself caused the financial imbalance. That’s precisely why solving it will require elected officials from all different political backgrounds — Democrats, Republicans and independents alike — to come together to find common-sense solutions.”

We need people like Tim Walz to continue working on our behalf.

Tags: tim walz, opinion, letters, walz