While I agree with much of your sentiment, I think your economic logic is flawed and only works in the short term. Long term, the out of control spending and deficits will do far more harm than not extending the joblessness benefits. I have come to embrace the philosophy that says absolutely no more spending unless you can cut an equal amount from another program. When both sides are willing to compromise and balance new spending with equal budget cuts, that is when we will gain long term economic growth.

While I sympathize with those who are unemployed, the long term economics of the country must trump the short term economic pain. We need to get back to the concept of communities banding together to help each other, rather than the recently (and progressive) sentiment that says “let the government take care of all our needs”.

Your reaction to this is appreciated – the more we dialog the more we can grow in our thinking.

Thanks for listening to a counter point.