How can goverment officals justify using taxpayer money to...?

Question

Take vacation trips, and stay in 5 star hotels. Especially when there is such a budjet issue. Michigan is already struggeling enough because of our deficit, I just don't understand how elected officials can use taxpayers money to do something like that, I understand offical buisness, but not to catch a tan. What do you think?

Answer 1

It is not justified at all. However, the people who govern set up such a framework that even in times needing austerity these things get curbed only in name. Some things in the governance systems just dont change esp the perks once given to a legislator or official. Yes, they do change - only to be scaled up to yet more expensive perks!

Answer 2

It's to make up for the out of control spending and meaningless taxes they put on taxpayers. Oh and to make up for all those people who don't work and don't pay taxes. They rely on big business to stimulate the economy so they put the money towards that.

Answer 3

I agree that this practice is a dereliction of duty for members of congress.

But, you have touched merely the tip of the iceberg here. The issue of government waste (and how it is hidden by congress from most of America) should be one of the most hotly debated issues in America.

Thanks for bringing it up.

Answer 4

I think you need to be more specific. If they are taking their vacation, and like you and I, getting paid for it , then I see no problem, however, if they are going to Barbados to investigate cane worm and how it affects Michigan milkweed production, then no, it should not only not be subsidized, but it should be outlawed.

Answer 5

No, they absolutely cannot. The tax dollars should pay their salary (which needs to be lowered dramatically) that's all. I never worked on a job that I got those kind of fringe benefits.

Answer 6

I don't know what you are referring to, but, I can say with certainty that officials, and more generally government employee's, must follow strict guidlines as to the limits and what, can be personally accepted as a "gift", else, they are violating the law.

Answer 7

I agree with you, but this is just the tip of the iceberg regarding wasteful government spending.

Answer 8

Yeah, and that's not to mention the fact that these guys often vote to raise their own salaries, even though many of them are already wealthy. Greedy bastards!

Answer 9

The perks of the job. It comes with the territory. however, if I was in office, that crap woudl stop, no more fancy parties, no more jetsetting and ridiculous perks.

Answer 10

I think you will see this is something everyone will agree with.