Panelists answered the question: Do you believe the sequestration and resulting service cuts will affect you personally?
Nants Foley: “I love the National Parks. Obviously they were chosen just because they are so spectacular. I say leave them open as much as possible and reduce programs. I can go and see. If i want to learn more, I can search the Internet.”
Marty Richman: “Yes, but only with minor inconveniences. We can’t even start slowing the national debt, currently almost $17 trillion, unless we give up something. We are living way beyond our means.”
Ruth Erickson: “President Obama has made very general remarks about where he will cut federal spending. He hasn’t been specific, so I’ll follow his example and be very general in my comment. All of us could be affected in some way at some time!”
Richard Place: “Yes, because their still spending more than they did last year.”
Julie Morris: “Yes. As a beef producer who uses USDA processors, I may need to wait longer for fewer inspectors to certify our product. This may lead to higher costs that trickle down to consumers who rely upon the federal government to keep our food supply safe. It’s unfortunate that the people we send to Washington are not doing the job they’re paid to do.”
Mary Zanger: “Yes, the sequestration affects me personally. Just as I was planning picnics and hikes with my family and friends in our new Pinnacles National Park, the park will take a hit on its budget. Less staff means less maintenance and service in our beautiful place. On the other hand I am thrilled that sequestration means cuts in the military. As a non-violent and peace studies advocate, I am very happy with less military and hopefully less militaristic thinking.”
