The never-ending dysfunction and non-cooperation in our government has the possibility of destroying our great country.

While the constant arguing continues, much needed decisions on vital national concerns are not being made. Immigration, border security, health care, trade agreements and constant war, nation building and world policing are all issues that require immediate attention.

Our leaders need to agree to disagree, then reach across the table, compromise and get something done.

The most important problem that no one is talking about is the national debt. No matter what side our officials are on, it is everyone’s problem. It must be addressed soon before our economy collapses. Politicians make promises that we cannot afford and have no plan to pay for it. Even our current administration has a 10-year plan that adds $1 trillion to our debt before it starts reducing it.

A new administration will be elected and it will change that plan and add even more to our debt. We will have to print more money to make ends meet, which devalues our dollar. That means any savings you have will buy less. And it will require people to work longer to make ends meet and to retire.

Eventually there could be some kind of financial meltdown in our country.

I propose requiring by law a balanced budget with payments on our current debt to have it paid off in 30-50 years. Individuals and businesses cannot continue deficit spending and survive. Neither can our government.

— Brad Farrah

Salisbury