The fear of such cliffs discourages low-income families across the country from taking steps that would otherwise help them gradually move out of poverty.

Moving toward a streamlined social welfare system that helps struggling families while better supporting the goal of work and independence, as envisioned in the war on poverty, is grounded in the deeply American principles of work, independence and compassion.

State or national laws addressing campaign finance are made by legislators but are inevitably challenged in court and resolved after a time by judges. Whatever one thinks about the specific resolutions, our nation needs a robust debate about whether that is the best approach. Perhaps elected officials, particularly at the state level, should have more say.

Sutherland Institute announced today that following the completion of a national search, the board of directors has selected Utah state Senator Todd Weiler to be its new president and CEO.

Despite the attention some of the audit expenses have received, the real news is that many of these concerns have already been addressed and rooted out.