why don't Americans consider tax paid to the government their money?

Question

Americans seem to care very little about what the government does with their tax money. The money that has been spent on Iraq war for instance can be put to better use like fixing the healthcare system , education, public housing or social security etc. Despite spending over 400 billions dollar in Iraq, Americans don't necessarily feel safer and gas price going lower. What is the purpose of this war. Doesn't America need to take care of its own people before taking care of foreigners? Besides the people in most countries including majority of Iraqis think Iraq was better off before than now. I for one feel that ensuring security of America is not a one shot deal like Iraq war but on going concern that has to be addressed and planned and implemented in legitimate manner. FYI, I am neither Democrat nor Republican nor French.

Answer 1

That is what voting is for. If you are unhappy, write to your congressmen and complain. If they don't follow up, then don't vote for them. The fact is that the power is in our hands as it is. Ultimately, people DO consider taxes paid to be their money. The problem is that too many people don't want to put in the effort to change things, even many people that agree with you. The government won't fix it unless we tell them to. It is as simple as that.

Answer 2

Like the person above said, that is what voting is for...

America voted for a Republican so their tax dollars wouldn't end up in some dumb democratic government program keeps the homeless people homeless.

I agree with you that we need to be more concerned, but America does care where its tax dollars go. That is why we are in Iraq: To free people from suppressive tyranny that they had when Saddam ruled. I am glad our tax dollars are going towards the defeat of terrorism. I think it is a very good thing to stop another 9/11.

Answer 3

the government is, we the people.