2200...

Conservatively...Twenty Two Hundred Dollars. If the Bush proposal moves forward as planned, my part, Jeff Price's part, is $2200.00. So is Laura Price's. And my three year old Olivia's. And Jackson who is now a little over 15 months old. As the head of my household, I could be responsible for nearly $10,000.00 of Wall Street's debt.

I'm a part of a small family business, the same type of business that has been struggling or going under for the past eight years. These are the same types of business that I would consider the backbone of America. When we've struggled, or have been in fear of going under, where has the government support been? It's like this, when our business goes under or we don't perform, we have to lay off employees, we close up shop, we repay debt, and often not only the business owner's family/home life suffers (many times irrevocably), but their employees, vendors, and other do as well. But we have to bear down and deal with this on our own. We don't get millions in compensation and then watch the company crash and burn.

I'm not an expert on the economy (sound familiar), but I like to think I have a little common sense. I'm not going to say we shouldn't bail them out. If the country can not be saved without a bailout, I'm willing to do my part. However, as a young man and small guy in rural america, I can't just cut a check for 10,000.00 without having some assurances, and knowing exactly where my money is going.

Now, there is a controversy over whether or not there will be a Presidential debate. Now, there is no denying who I am voting for in this election. My business literally can not afford more of the same. But, the American people deserve the opportunity to see both candidates on the same stage debating THIS issue. Both Senators Obama and McCain can spend Friday morning on the Senate floor, and they can get right back there on Saturday morning. But Friday night, we deserve to hear and see these men debate.

To our Representatives and Senators I must say: TAKE YOUR TIME. Ten Thousand Dollars (or even 2200) is real money to me. Be deliberate and represent our interests. That's what you are there for.