I want to preserve a basic safety net for the poor in the future, and I realize that to do so we can't continue our deficit spending. I particularly want to preserve Medicaid and disability checks. I think that we need to pay off the national debt without eliminating Medicare, Medicaid or social security (which is in a different fund). I would certainly be open to ideas of privatization, however. One of the things that I need to figure this problem out is some kind of debt calculator. I would add that some welfare programs, such as unemployment insurance, are unnecessary or even counterproductive, in my opinion. From meeting transients and beggars, what they need are social security disability checks and Medicaid, and I am sure that the elderly need Medicare. Can anyone propose any solutions? I appreciate it.