The concept is novel and far-reaching ("The surplus? Make it a national savings account," Economic Viewpoint, Feb. 19). There is, however, a basic flaw in your premise. The government works for taxpayers, not the taxpayers for government. The surplus belongs to the people who pay taxes, not the people who spend the money.

Retiring debt in good years is generally a sound practice, but the U.S. Congress seems incapable of fiscal restraint. The premise of Ronald Reagan still stands: The only way to control politicians is to cut off the money.

Craig Worman

Santo Domingo

Dominican Republic