Paul Ryan for Congress
Have the congressman at your next event

Write a letter to the editor

Talking Points And Tips

Fiscal Responsibility Talking Points

  • In 2006 the federal government continued to rack up an annual budget deficit of hundreds of billions of dollars and our debt is expected to surpass the 9 trillion dollar mark.
  • Because of the impending retirement of the baby boom generation, it is imperative we act now to restore fiscal discipline and reduce the deficit and begin paying down the national debt.
  • Paul introduced the line item veto bill last session which passed the house with a good majority of support, as a tool to limit pork-barrel spending projects.
  • Slowing the growth of spending on mandatory programs is essential to reduce the deficit.  Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security have grown from 25% or our budget in 2962 to nearly 60% of our budget today.
  • Encourage a growing economy through tax cuts.  When the economy is strong, the government spends less money on programs such as unemployment insurance and welfare.  In 2005, the strong economy growth led to increased income tax receipts, 14.6% for individuals and 47% for corporate receipts.  It appears 2006 has continued this trend.

Tips for Writing a Letter

  • Be sure to fill in your entire contact information in the spaces provide.  Some of the editors will call you to verify you actually sent in the letter.
  • Choose a topic that matters to you.  The talking points provide you with a good start but the more passion you feel about the issue the better.( to find additional information, you can check out the “Paul on the Issues” tab on this  website.)
  • If responding to a specific letter to the editor, recently published, mention the writer by name.  Address any false assumptions with true information and facts.   Be relevant and current.  The more current the issue the better chance you will have of being published.
  • Finally, keep your letter under 250 words.  A number of the newspaper will send it back if it is over their limit.  Again, you will have a better chance of being printed if your letter is current, brief and to the point.
Paid for by Ryan for Congress, Larry Everhart, Treasurer