The Real Iraq

Despite some very modest progress in Iraq, the challenges remain very daunting. This article illustrates how many civilians have to live. It's a far cry from what many would have hoped for at this point. Make no mistake, it'll still be a long and costly process, as many still live in fear.

The Paycheck Pinch

The CS Monitor did a nice job explaining the current situation workers face in the United States. Despite modest job growth, the results become far less exciting when you look at real wage growth. In fact, despite so-called stronger economy, workers are actually earning 2.3% less than they did last year after inflation is factored into the equation. What's even more sobering is a spike in interest rates historically signals the end of an economic upturn.

Clearly, inflation has played a large role, and energy prices aren't helping. However, the types of jobs, particularly for those without significant education, are much less lucrative. This causes more of a gap, although the issues aren't exclusive to low wage work. The article points out that the cost of benefits is causing companies to put the breaks on pay raises.

Things aren't going to get any easier in Washington if the so-called economic recovery is at its peak. In the end, Washington must work on tactics to make the U.S. more competitive. Reforming healthcare, providing tax incentives for job creation domestically, and improving education are good places to begin.