Now that the conventions are over.

Here are some things to keep in mind...

1.  The budget is set by Congress and not the president.  While you and your friends are debating, here is the truth about the deficit that may have escaped you.

In the late 1990s, the US had a surplus...meaning more money was coming in than going out.  Today we have a huge deficit.  About 1/3 of this was caused by a Republican-controlled congress...from 2000 to 2006.  1/3 of this was caused by a Democratic-controlled Congress...from 2006 to 2012.  About 1/3 of this is tax revenue lost because of the poor economy. 

2.  The US is part of a global economy.  Much of what can happen in the economy is outside of the control of anyone in the US government.

3.  You and you alone decide if you are going to be happy.  For me, no matter who wins on Election Day, I am going to go on with my life and live it the best that I can.

4.  If the economy grows to 1998 levels, and programs designed to stimulate the economy since 2007 are allowed to be phased out, the federal budget will be balanced with no additional taxes or spending cuts.

Some things to keep in mind.  Share with all of your friends.