Letter: We need thoughtful solutions for government reform, not reckless cuts
– This letter to the editor responds to issues and questions raised by Ron Cuff in his letter published on March 15, 2025. Mr. Cuff cited examples of U.S. Government employees failing to meet the standards of behavior and performance expected of them. Mr. Cuff observed this misconduct during his service in the U.S. Navy. I thank Mr. Cuff; we are in a better place for his service to our nation.
I served the U.S. as a commissioned officer in the Intelligence Community for 25 years, working in South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe. I and my colleagues were committed to the defense of our nation. We worked long, uncompensated hours in dark, hostile locations away from family and friends, frequently facing physical danger. Why? Because that was the mission – the intelligence we collected protected the United States. Intelligence is our first line of defense. The nation is better secured if you know in advance the plans, intentions, and capabilities of potential adversaries.
In my years of service, not once did I observe a fellow employee or contractor take advantage of government programs or funds the way Mr. Cuff described. In fact, from the first day we entered on duty, we were instructed that we had a responsibility to report instances of waste, fraud, and mismanagement. We took this obligation seriously. If misdeeds were observed, they were reported and not swept under the rug. As I assumed command positions, I made it clear to subordinates the standards of behavior the U.S. Government expected of them. When instances of wrongdoing were brought to my attention, I investigated and adjudicated as appropriate.
I agree with Mr. Cuff that we need to take a hard look at the size and scope of the Federal government. I suggest that this is best done by careful examination of what programs and offices yield the greatest benefit and then engage in risk versus gain assessment. Where can we productively cut back on government spending? That’s a common sense approach, as opposed to the “one size fits all” chainsaw approach. Carefully use a scalpel, not an axe to cut government spending.
Ren Stelloh, Paso Robles.
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Ren:
So interesting not a single comment to your reply to Ron’s “I was in government & the other guy wasn’t doing his job when I was” letter. You can gauge your audience via the response. Good luck & thank you for your service.
Ren:
So interesting not a single comment to your reply to Ron’s “I was in government & the other guy wasn’t doing his job when I was” letter. You can gauge your audience via the response. Good luck & thank you for your service.