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To: elmatador who wrote (10425)	9/28/2001 11:34:09 AM
From: Moominoid	Respond to of 74559

I figiure that the size of government in the US and Australia is nearer the optimum than is the size of government in Europe. However, there are plenty of areas I could think to improve with less regulation or less spending. The tax system also still needs improvement here to even out the tax burden. It's also very convoluted. Just did my tax return last weekend - should get a big refund. I understand the rules most end up paying accountants. Of course I think Australia at the Federal level has the best system of government :) Like the US we probably have too many local governments. Well I'm still paid by the government for the next 13 days :) David

To: elmatador who wrote (10425)	9/28/2001 12:00:18 PM
From: Don Lloyd	Respond to of 74559

elmatador - ...Now if you are too American and think that the system of government is wonderful, the fat cats bureaucrats have field day. I suspect that your view of the US is tainted by your experience in Europe. The US Federal government is entirely out of control, and in utter violation of the US Constitution, but it typically doesn't have fat cat bureaucrats. The fat cats in Washington are the Senators and Representatives (although not all) elected to Congress and then re-elected at a 98% or greater rate who can effectively extort enormous campaign contributions that they don't need and keep the remainder for themselves when they retire with major pension and other benefits besides. The lobbyists who deliver the contributions do pretty well themselves. The major bureaucrats are appointed by the President, and thus are not dug in through succeeding administrations. In most cases these people are so well known that they are making a financial sacrifice to be 'public servants' and to satisfy their taste for power. The middle and lower level bureaucrats and regulators are also not outrageously compensated, but are again motivated by power and influence. To find fat cats in the US, you have to look at the non-profit foundations and charities, as well as at the union executives. Of course corporate CEOs often fit the description, but that is a matter for the stockholders to correct if they so desire. Regards, Don