To the editor:
This letter is a general commentary with reference to an earlier writer’s letter to the editor regarding “balancing the state budget” (02/16/11). That writer was concerned that the state checkbook is being balanced on the backs of state employees.
It is true that many state government employees serve well. Many do not. In reality however, the budget is being balanced on everyone’s “back” except, it seems, the state and federal senators, representatives, and White House staffers.
I certainly can appreciate the personal effects of state cutbacks as it pertains to inflicting financial stresses to state employees. I once was a Maine state employee who was subjected to reduced workweeks and shut-down days, etc. It is also pertinent to add that I recently lost a job with K-12 education after 10 years of employment due to reduction in workforce cuts, thereby wholly experiencing the effects of government cuts.
I wish to remind the reader that economic cuts and problems extend beyond the state employee and also touch the lives of the private sector worker who contributes greatly to our economy (and who usually have lower pay in comparison to government jobs). They too have suffered a significant loss during these times.
Now, my main thought about this is the nature and depth of our problem in the United States of America. I am confident that those folks who pay attention to world news (beyond the stifle of ABC and NBC) are aware of the financial seriousness that embraces the majority of our states as well as that which encompasses the bastion of our federal, state and local bureaucracies and intricacies. My question challenges the citizens of any “great state” including Maine who will not abandon greed and will personally sacrifice nothing but yet will help hold open the politically correct doors of illegal immigration, etc., etc., etc. that ultimately add to our state of disarray. There will come a time when the vices of this worldly and self-centered living will lose the true American way that was established by our forefathers.
Is anybody (state employees included) in the state of Maine concerned about federal deficits at astronomical levels (that probably can only be forgiven by God Himself but likely relevant to our fate)? Does anyone feel a sense of responsibility to do their share of helping the economy of the state of Maine? I too am entitled (to things that extend beyond taking care of those who can also help themselves). What will happen when your own pensions are no longer funded?
Pay attention to the very representatives and Congress people that you are supporting. Are their pensions at risk? Are they worried about personal financial woes due to budgetary reductions? I do not personally know Governor LePage, but I am refreshed by his straight talk and thinking. He may turn out to be your friend after all.
The budget fiasco should affect us all. And no, I am not a socialist.
Lynne LeVasseur Lunsford
Farmville, Va.
