Public Safety and Consumer Protection IS the Job of Our Government

One way to reduce the government is through deregulation, but when regulation is about ensuring the public safety and consumer protection, then it's necessary. All liberal democracies try to balance equality with freedom. Maximum freedom is desirable unless it's damaging to others and the commonwealth.

When we talk about equality in this country, we usually mean equality of opportunity not outcome. Also, equality under the rule of law. Having the opportunity to be fleeced by this bank or that bank isn't much of a choice. Credit cards are absolutely necessary in our society. For years I was using only my debit card and paid cash for my transactions, but, guess what, when I began the process of applying for a mortgage I was told that my score had suffered! Never mind that I didn't have any debts. I wasn't using credit! So, now I use my credit card a lot more frequently, and paying the whole balance at the end of my billing period. 

I was disgusted by the practice of banks that could charge any rate for interest and change at will at any time, apply unreasonable fees, have universal fault clause, and have bill due dates on days without mail delivery.  I was fed up. Of course, I welcome regulation that prevents consumer abuse by the banks.

There are attempts at reforming the banking system but the industry is lobbying against it and the Republicans are, well, shills for it. Please follow what long-time consumer advocate, Elizabeth Warren, has been saying on this subject of consumer protection.

The main difference between the progressives and the reactionaries is that the former want to use government, when necessary, to protect and empower the people. The tea baggers are angry folks who may be justified in certain criticisms of the government but totally wrong as to the solution. The solution is not to get rid of our government but to reclaim it.