[Boomer One]

It's absurd that a pension like this is available to begin with from the government. Government workers are now generally paid more than the private sector and have far better benefits. With the number of government pensions available at a relatively young age, increased life spans, and growing number of federal employees, is it any wonder we're heading for (1)national bankruptcy or (2) a prolonged period of high taxation and job contraction? Add to this the fact that government employees are represented in collective bargaining and already have relative job security and you have a major financial disaster in the future. Congress needs to stop buying votes with other people's money and become good stewards of limited resources. Same goes for all state and local governments.

[Poundstone]

Couldn’t disagree more. Federal pensions are modest and well deserved by those who have devoted themselves to public service.