Wednesday, March 12, 2008

How Much Do Bombs Cost You?

A recent Iraq cost analysis reveals the extent to which the American people are being fleeced to continue a war most of them aren't interested in pursuing. One of the compiled statistics brings the financial effects of the war right into the family living room:

The bill so far: $526 billion
Cost per day: $275 million
Cost per household: $4,100

What could your family do with $4100 in one year?
  • Start or contribute to an IRA and plan for your retirement
  • Save for your children's college education
  • Take a family vacation
  • Give the money to a worthwhile nonprofit organization
  • Repair your home
  • Fill in the blank--after all, it's your money
What could we have done with this money as a nation for one year?
What $526 billion could have paid for in the U.S. in one year:
Children with health care: 223 million or
Scholarships for university students: 86 million or
Head Start places for children: 72 million
Who still thinks it's a good idea to stay in Iraq? Not most Iraqis or Americans:
79% of Iraqis oppose the presence of Coalition Forces.
78% of Iraqis believe things are going badly in Iraq overall.
64% of Americans oppose the war in Iraq.

If we built one less bomb, we'd be nearly $2 million closer to promoting help instead of hurt. Build one less!