WHEN DOES THE PRIVATE SECTOR GIVE WAY TO THE PUBLIC?
How prevalent is this…even for countries as powerful as the U.S. How much do we rely on the private sector to operate the infrastructure of the nation? Make no mistake, the ability to use satellites is absolutely necessary in any war situation. For that matter, in any day-to-day situation.
Is the vaunted concept of private/public partnerships practical for the U.S. under any circumstances when it comes to infrastructure? I don’t know the answer to the question, but I know as a nation we can’t allow any private company or person to dictate our ability to defend ourselves and our allies.
If we are not dependent on a multi-national or even domestic company, then how do we make sure our allies aren’t either. Isn’t Ukraine, if not a formal ally, then a proxy for us and the rest of NATO?
Elon Musk certainly has the right to his beliefs just as any American does. But can we allow any individual to thwart U.S. policy if he/she disapproves? The free market doesn’t mean you sacrifice your beliefs for that of the government. Yet, there are some select sectors of the economy that cannot be beyond government’s ability to control.
During World War II the American government could count on the support of private manufacturers to change their production mix to a wartime footing. I don’t know if that will happen today. Ukraine is finding out that Mr. Musk is not willing to align his interests with any government’s.
He is not a Ukrainian citizen, but he is an American one by choice since he was born in South Africa. Would he allow his company to assist America in an operation even if he believed the policy was wrong? I just hope the U.S. won’t have to find out.
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Friends and Neighbors of Martin County is your eyes and ears so that you know what is going on in Martin County’s municipal and county governments. I attempt to be informative and timely so that you may understand how your tax money is being spent. Though I go to the meetings and report back, I am no substitute for your attending meetings. Your elected officials should know what is on your mind.
Tom Campenni 772-341-7455 (c) Email: thomasfcampenni@gmail.com
