Let’s Do Something Right That Would Be Shameful Not To Do

A New York Times editorial this morning begins: “The United States allows more than 10 million American children to live in poverty, bereft of resources and opportunity.” This is a shocking indictment of our society. Cheers for the Times editorial board for endorsing Mitt Romney’s plan to come as close as we can to eliminating child poverty by having the Social Security Administration distribute adequate cash to impoverished families without requiring them to file income tax returns as a condition of eligibility.

Wouldn’t it be great if the present Congress could bring off such a shining accomplishment? Cost is not a problem. Rich people in this country are overflowing with money. It will barely dent their bank accounts to raise tax rates on them enough to pay for it. Those among them who have any sense of decency and care for the common good will welcome it.