Waste and the Federal Budget

The topic of waste and the federal budget was discussed. Former Senator William Proxmire (D-WI) retired from the Senate in 1988. Before that time, he was known for campaigns against spending which he called “wasteful.” He awarded a “golden fleece” prize annually to the government program which he believed to be the most wasteful. He discussed how Congress could control the federal budget and the problem of annual deficits in the United States which have led to an enormous national debt. He mentioned that the problem could be solved by cutting spending and that the best way to implement this policy would be by reducing military and health care spending. “In the long run, the strength of our military relies on the strength of our economy,” stated Sen. Proxmire as he discussed the need for economic strength before further military expenditures. He answered questions regarding Social Security and the need for economic reform in the United States. close