Reply #32: There is such a disconnection with public officials on where their money originates, madfloridian. [View All]

I have a sister who worked her entire adult life as a public school teacher. Her husband was a municipal employee his entire career. Both are retired in their mid-50's, thanks to PERS and STERS. Both rail about Obama's "socialist" agenda 24/7. After one too many of these tirades, I had to cut in and remind them that they made their living off the taxpayer's dime and they are now enjoying retirement at a young age off the taxpayers. To which they replied that THEY paid the employee contribution to their retirement programs.

Where did this money originate? And what about the employer's contribution to their retirements?

In addition, the BIL is drawing his PERS while working his new job for the county engineer. So, he's drawing a salary and retirement off the taxpayers and building a second taxpayer-funded retirement with his county job.

And yet, they'll rant about Obama and his socialism all the time.

Regarding the Philadelphia school case you referred to, I agree that the public has every right to know the criteria for awarding the bonuses. It's paid by taxpayer dollars.