When reading and discussing politics recently my conservative breatheren have consistantly voiced their displeasure and concern with his policies. Most of this discussion seems to revolve around expansion of government and deficit spending and the impending catatstrophe each will generate. However upon reflection and analysis is it possible that the policies of George W. actually did more to expand the physical size and scope of governmental control and intrusion in to private lives than Obama has.
Consider:
Big Government: It is said that Obama is in support of Big Government but have his actions really done anymore to alter the size or scope of government than those of W? To me it would seem that the creation of the Department of Homeland Security and passing of No Child Left Behind and Patriot Act increased the size and scope of Government far more than any Obama policy has. Obamacare that everyone is so afriad of has taken place yet so that expansion can not be counted, and even if it is does not require a creation of any new federal agency to oversee. The plan simply states that americans must have insurance and companies larger than 50 people must provide insurance. To me this would be a benefit to the insurance industry and lead to a need for more agents and competition within the insurance industry.
Deficit Spending: George W inherited a budget surplus and in short order created a substantial deficit that was a hallmark of his presidency. With a fair amount of money being spent to create agencies, support new legislation, and pursue 2 wars. In contrast it would seem that much of Obama’s spending has not been on government programs/agencies but to fortify capitalism. Government Buyouts and loans, a process and precedent started by the Bush presidency, went to corporations that were in dire need of assistance in order to stay afloat. While much of the ARRA money was paid to civilian contractors to repair, replace, or improve infastructure across the nation. Also a great deal of increase in spending is tied to increased spending within medicare and unemployment due to the economic recession a reality that Obama did not create.
