Why we are broke

Most Americans now know that we have a huge debt and that it's problem, but I'm not sure enough Americans understand why we're broke. Everyone most likely has their private idea of what should be cut and what's a waste, but I suspect very few Americans have thought deeply about our welfare/warfare state, entitlements, the expense of miltarism or possible alternatives to the welfare/warfare state.

Surely, more and more citizens are becoming concerned and looking into the issue, but politicians are working against understanding by telling constituents such lies as yes we have a debt problem, but in an economic downturn with historically low interest rates, we should borrow and stimulate, build infrastructure, then get responsible later when the economy improves. Of course, this is what people want to hear. No one wants to hear we have to stop the crazy spending, sacrifice and make a transtition from the welfare state to private assistance, so, no politician says these things.

We desperately need leaders in DC to tell the truth, to explain why we're broke. There's enough blame to go around, and blame is only useful in understanding what has to change. Either leaders in DC will get honest and confess to the American people that statism has failed and we're broke, or reality from outside will break through the national denial and force us to adjust to a different, much harsher world.