On government’s role in the economy:

Miller: Government grows, bloats, and makes ineffective bureaucracy. Government jobs and debt are increasing, yielding uncertainty, reducing private-sector risk. People are afraid of the national debt. Government has lost contact with the people. They didn’t even have a budget this year. People have to live via pay-go, so government should, too. They are not true representatives. They don’t get out and feel the pain.

Shuler: A lot can be done. NAFTA defastated the textile in NC. Small businesses need a tax break. Bush tax cuts need to be extended two years. Undo unfair trade agreements that push jobs overseas. The US needs to re-incentivize manufacturing to stay and come back. Tax breaks should not be given to companies that continue to push jobs overseas. Children need education, and employers need support.