Overall, do you think Congress’ pandemic-era spending was worth it?

👍 Yes (36%) – "I believe that the spending helped keep struggling members of society a float and avoided them having to fight back for years following. The government prosecuting those who illegal took and used relief money would be a good way to offset some of that spending."

• "I feel like no matter what, people will find a way to take advantage of government programs, especially those that have to do with money. Even so, I think keeping 11.7 MILLION Americans above the poverty line during such a turbulent time is worth it. We shouldn't stop helping people because some people do the wrong thing."

👎 No (51%) – "I think perhaps the first bill was warranted and helpful, but in the end, we overdid it by a long shot. There was a ton of waste and we’re paying for it now with inflation, and we’ll be paying for it for a long time as it seems our government just keeps on printing and spending. I’m truly concerned for our economy in the near future."

• "It was very poorly executed. Many, many people who were not in need of assistance got it anyway (Tom Brady). Billions of “pork dollars” were given to entities that already have huge endowments (Kennedy Center, The MET, Harvard University). Our children’s grandchildren will be paying for this. It has also made people more dependent on government and the expectation is that more assistance is owed to people whenever they fall on hard times."
• "While it can't be denied that the massive spending bills kept many families afloat, the aid was provided too long and too broadly. My own family received aid that we didn't ask for and didn't need. People have had little incentive to return to the workforce and this drains the economy. Most significant in my mind, not only will I be paying for this for the rest of my life, but so will my children. It's a travesty and disservice to all who seek the American dream."

🤷‍♀️ Unsure/other (13%) – "We won’t see the long term effects for some time. So it’s hard to say if the benefits outweighed the risks at this stage of the game. The federal deficit is troubling. And the impact of adding $5 trillion dollars to that ever growing number will be felt for generations."