Bill Gates, the co-creator of tech giant Microsoft had some harsh words on the current level of US government dysfunction.
The second richest man in the world acknowledged that there are “certain things” that only government can do.
How America prioritizes its spending has created a virtually impenetrable ideological divide between Democrats and Republicans, which has worsened since the Tea Party caucus took control of the House in 2010. The ensuing gridlock has led to a downgrading of the US credit rating, and an economy that has had its potential stifled behind the dysfunction.
“You don’t run a business like this,” Gates said. “No matter what you think the budget should be or what you think taxes should be, this is a non-optimal path to get there.”
While spoken in generously diplomatic terms, the frustration behind Gates’ words were clear. Party loyalty is one thing. Using it to wreak havoc on an entire nation is stupid.
Since retiring as Microsoft CEO in 2008, Gates has been devoting his time to philanthropy. Among his goals are efforts to completely eradicate polio from the planet. On MSNBC’s Morning Joe on Thursday, Gates said he’s only got three countries to go before he can claim victory against the crippling disease.
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