I'm waiting for the controlling party in Washington to declare an economic emergency and reveal its plan to boost SUV sales: Whatever incentive dealers offer, Uncle Sam will double them come tax time. We need those sales for a robust economy, and the gas they guzzle is good for oil companies. Can you say "win-win"?

Tax breaks for SUVs would employ the same principle used by our president in cutting taxes for America's wealthiest regardless of war, natural disaster or soaring federal deficits.

While pushing for more tax cuts and talking budget austerity, the lords of the House have set out to stick it to people who already live lives of austerity, like the average starving college student.

The House Budget Committee passed a budget bill, which among many measures could add $5,000 to $28,000 to the cost of college education. It would do so by increasing interest payments and adding new fees.

You look at legislation like this, and you understand how the gap between the very rich and the middle class has grown exponentially under the Bush years.

That's because, while the times always get better for those at the top, the middle class is in a box relative to energy, health care, home and auto insurance, and extraordinary expenses like college.

Interestingly, and revealingly, the Senate also has a plan to cut $36 billion from the budget. It's just not as hurtful toward those who already are hurting.

Moderate Republicans have steered the Senate toward Medicare and Medicaid cuts focused on fewer dollars to health insurers and drug companies, rather than direct beneficiaries. Farm subsidies also are targeted.

But, said Edwards, "If Congress would ask those making a million dollars a year in dividend income to give up just a part of their $220,000 annual tax cut, it wouldn't be necessary to pass a $14 billion student tax that will hurt high achieving students and harm our nation's future competitiveness."

Tax cuts are good for the economy, the GOP will respond. In the very same way, subsidizing SUVs is good for the economy. More motorized behemoths sold. More gasoline sold. More-more. Win-win.

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