Obamas should pay tab

The Fed is buying U.S. debt and said it would take a relatively small amount of money, $10 billion a month. Capitol Hill has no concept what a “small amount” of money is. I guess that is why we pay for the Obamas’ vacation to Spain. Why not travel in the U.S. and explore our beautiful country and beaches?

In 2007, Obama and his wife made $4,238,165, according to his 2007 tax returns; $4 million came from his book royalties. They paid $1,059,826 (25 percent) in taxes, knocking it down to a mere $3,080,139. Allowing generous living expenses, they would have $2,464,111 left.

President Obama’s 2009 salary is $400,000, plus a $50,000 tax-free expense account, a $100,000 tax-free travel account and a $19,000 tax-free entertainment account. Meals for the president and his family and official state dinners are provided at taxpayer expense and not counted as taxable income.

On April 15, the White House released the Obamas’ 2009 tax returns. Based on that release and other financial information, Barack Obama’s net worth is around $10,111,249, yet we pay for his wife’s and kid’s vacation. Camp David is much cheaper.

Lloyd Zimmerman

Spokane