Victor from Torrance asks…….What is your opinion about Obama’s Tax Incentives, i.e., solar panels, washing machines, and other so-called green energy saving products.  Should American tax payers take advantage of these products and receive a tax rebate?

I think we need to stop the “social engineering” of the tax code.  In the last year we have had cash for clunkers, cash for washers and dryers, solar panels, windows, doors, etc.  Where we should be good stewards of our environment, having the government (the money comes from the people) pay the citizens to purchase whatever they think is important at the time is just plain wrong.  Right now if it is “green” the government wants you to buy it.  The whole “climate change” suggestion notwithstanding, what if the government decides tomorrow that some other issue is important?  Should they then give incentives to buy those products?  I would say no.  I am a proponent of a flat tax without any tax deductions. Let the people keep more of their income. Which will increase economic activity and let them choose what is best for their families.  If it is to buy a new car, or solar panels, then so be it.  It is not the role of government to pay us to buy the goods or services they desire us to have.  As for should Americans take advantage of these “opportunities”, it would be hypocritical for me to say yes when I think the incentives shouldn’t be there in the first place.