[bpodgursky]

What? How did capitalism cause any of this? Politicians promised pensions assuming unrealistic consistent growth in their investments.

These funds stuck trillions of dollars in the stock market, which is exactly how Gates, Buffet, and Koch made their money. The pension funds are still getting massive returns. But that does not stop politicians from promising _even more_ than was possible.

[bazinga888]

Capitalism underlies the push for "unrealistic consistent growth in their investments." where "their" in this context primarily means "people who are ready filthy rich."

Capitalists want their investments to grow. Largely at the expense of others.

We'll put the pedal to the metal so the richest can earn more than is necessary. And poo-poo the notion that public workers should get even a smidgen of the same consideration.

Because it won't drive unreasonable growth if we're padding out health plans for the people that do the work.