To the editor:
In response to my good friend Jon Mertz, I maintain that the fear of socialism from the current administration is justified. Two elements of socialism are collectivism (ObamaCare), and government ownership of the means of production (General Motors). These are just two examples that expose the socialistic tendencies of the left. They also illustrate how government has no incentive to operate efficiently or effectively. GM cost the taxpayers billions, and now can't get good design talent due to government imposed wage caps. Health care under ObamaCare will progressively cost more for lower quality care.
Collectivism emphasizes inter-dependence and devalues the individual. I believe that free individuals are the drivers of creativity, excellence, charity and prosperity. They are also the generators of tax revenue for the big government guys and gals to squander on social programs that cripple generations of families and economies.
Big government central planners say they can effectively manage our interdependence. Should we believe this from an administration whose re-election strategy is to divide us?
Jim Gross
Lewistown
