You may recall that during the Republican convention a month ago our national debt passed the $16 trillion mark. This works out to about $51,000 for every U.S. citizen, or about $140,000 for every taxpayer.

This number is unbelievable to me — I think it is atrocious. Reducing this debt should be the number-one priority of every one of our elected officials, starting with the President of the United States and our Senators and Congressmen.

Although the Democrats are often blamed for their spending ways, it is my experience that the Republicans aren’t much different. All I know is that we need to get some people elected who will cut back on spending. While I think it’s a toss-up whether Obama or Romney will actually bring this about, I think we might be better off with someone new.

* * *

We are busy making arrangements for my upcoming trip to Michigan. I am looking forward to attending the University of Michigan homecoming football game, talking with the researchers in the departments we are supporting, and maybe making a visit to Grosse Ile, where I grew up.

* * *

I got out on my boat Solutions this past Friday. It was a warm day on the water and we stopped at Sally’s restaurant for a hamburger and ice cream, which hit the spot.

– Bob


3 Responses to “National Debt, Michigan Trip, San Diego Sailing”

  1. 1 Peter Carpenter

    Dear Dr. Beyster, It’s been a long time since I looked at your blog and this is the first time I’ve posted a comment. I’ve always enjoyed reading what you’ve been doing and your thoughts about SAIC and the world we live in. There are many of us who find our nation’s debt astonishing yet some seem to see this as the new “normal” that we’ll somehow survive. “Hope and change” and “moving forward” in the same direction won’t prevent our country from going to a point of no return and fiscal implosion. I’d love to hear your thoughts as an entrepreneur and experienced CEO, whether raising taxes (to “generate revenue” as some CEOs in Maryland propose) or if lowering taxes (to encourage business to grow and increase the “revenue” base) will help our country get out of debt. Thank you and with warm regards…

  2. 2 14 year SAIC employee

    Hi Dr Beyster
    I agree the national debt is astonishing! It’s disgraceful! The country should live within its means just like a family budget. People are too comfortable with debt, but the bill comes due and it’s not pretty! I hope you are enjoying your retirement, I miss the old days when SAIC was “an employee owned company”. I hope to survive the company split without too much drama and continue to work at SAIC until retirement.
    Fondly,
    Diane

  3. 3 Dr. Beyster

    Diane: I agree with you. I hope Obama and Congress do something soon to start chipping away at our debt. It is difficult for me to believe that our current path is sustainable. — Bob


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