re: Over 156,000 bridges in US need MAJOR repair
The decay of infrastructure is one of those issues that will no doubt be exploited politically. It is essential to the nation, but is not a particularly glamorous item--nobody thinks about it unless a tragedy like this occurs. But this is why we really need government, at local, regional and federal levels. Not only do public works directly benefit the economy, public safety and quality of life, but it provides decent jobs. I can't think of a better way to spend tax dollars than in maintaining the infrastructure.
A case can be made for blaming this tragedy on the war, but you could just as easily say we're spending too much on social programs, farm subsidies, corporate welfare or the space program.