http://www.townhall.com/columnists
/ThomasSowell/2006/10/03/socialism_for_the_rich
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The rich have learned to adapt socialist policies to their own benefit. For example, the city of Riviera Beach, Florida, is planning to demolish a working class neighborhood under its power of eminent domain, in order to prepare the way for a marina for yachts, luxury condominiums and an upscale shopping district.
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Economist Sowell makes the interesting point that the gubamint’s decision to take property operates differently on the poor than on the rich. The rich can fight the “wrong” kind of eminent domain (i.e., that which takes what they want) and reward the politicians who propose “open space” (i.e., make my stuff worth more) or “redevelopment” (i.e., build me a marina or golf course at the expense of others). The poor have to just fold their tent and move along, unless they can interest a champion.
So much for the Fifth Amendment and its requirement for “just compensation” for “public use”.
Arghhh!
Reinke Faces Life 