Erskine’s Grenades
November 11, 2010 - by
In business, government and education, one of Erskine Bowles’ great strengths – and, as a politician, one of his great weaknesses – was a fondness for speaking blunt truths. He relishes telling people what they don’t like to hear.
But now he has truly surpassed himself.
First, he set North Carolina on its ear – especially in higher education circles – by suggesting that state budget cuts might force the closing of one of the UNC campuses.
Then, he roiled the national political waters – along with fellow bomb-thrower Alan Simpson – by spelling out what reducing the national deficit means: a higher retirement age and higher taxes.
When it comes to upsetting people, that’s a good week’s work.
Erskine’s Grenades
November 11, 2010/
In business, government and education, one of Erskine Bowles’ great strengths – and, as a politician, one of his great weaknesses – was a fondness for speaking blunt truths. He relishes telling people what they don’t like to hear.
But now he has truly surpassed himself.
First, he set North Carolina on its ear – especially in higher education circles – by suggesting that state budget cuts might force the closing of one of the UNC campuses.
Then, he roiled the national political waters – along with fellow bomb-thrower Alan Simpson – by spelling out what reducing the national deficit means: a higher retirement age and higher taxes.
When it comes to upsetting people, that’s a good week’s work.