An astute column today about the institutions that have helped push so many Americans into unmanageable debt, from what one might consider an unlikely source: conservative New York Times editorial columnist David Brooks.

The agents of destruction are many. State governments have played a role. They aggressively hawk their lottery products…

Payday lenders have also played a role. They seductively offer fast cash — at absurd interest rates — to 15 million people every month.

Credit card companies have played a role. Instead of targeting the financially astute, who pay off their debts, they’ve found that they can make money off the young and vulnerable…..

Congress and the White House have played a role. The nation’s leaders have always had an incentive to shove costs for current promises onto the backs of future generations. It’s only now become respectable to do so.

A timely reminder that issues involving the indebtedness and financial health of the American taxpayer cut across political boundaries. Consider reading the whole thing.