Letter to the editor: Pandemic fraud is an eye-opener

After rereading the Associated Press article “Fraud overwhelms pandemic- related unemployment programs” (Feb. 28, 2021, TribLIVE) and looking at recent news, the question has to be asked: Are our politicians good stewards of our money?

The February 2021 article reported that over $63 billion in CARES Act money was paid out improperly through fraud or errors; $63 billion (with a B) is larger than the entire budget of Homeland Security! Recent reports have indicated that the fraud is even larger than initially reported. And the state with most reported fraud? Bingo! California.

While the amount of fraud is huge, many people who really do need help have been left in the lurch by our government.

Our politicians are so worried about social justice issues that the basic responsibilities of government have long passed them by. And it’s not only politicians, but the long-employed bureaucrats who no longer do their jobs but love to reap the huge salaries and benefits.

Time for a retooling of our republic and accountability for the criminals.

Richard Bell

Ligonier Township