Editorials / Opinion

In his response to Nicholas Kristof’s syndicated column “Are we a nation of takers?” [Opinion, March 29], Wayne Bartz is correct about one thing: the wealthy do need to buy things to grow the economy [“Government assistance: important role for the wealthy,” Northwest Voices, April 2]. To suggest they should only do so with the help of government assistance is anathema to conservative ideals.

If the market of the day isn’t supporting those products, let the manufacturers build products that are in demand, or fold their tents. I personally don’t like to see my taxes being used to supplement the lifestyle of the wealthy. I would much rather see those same taxes being used to upgrade our nation’s infrastructure. That would create jobs, grow the economy, make our country better and our citizens safer.

Money best helps the economy grow when it is put into circulation through spending.

Thomas Wahl, Edmonds