Free Republic

This year, Washington will spend an eye-popping $22,039 per household. That is the inflation-adjusted highest since World War II, and $5,000 per household more than spent just four years ago. With difficult decisions ahead, government waste should be the easiest place to start controlling spending. So it isn't surprising the federal government costs 33 percent more than in 2001.

<p>Both of the major party candidates for governor have committed themselves to a civil discourse on the issues between now and November. It will be interesting to see how long they can keep that pledge -- and whether they can keep their troops in line, too. Early signs are not encouraging.</p>