Everyone is talking about the implosion of the Republican Party, except Republicans. Those who don’t know the facts blame Donald Trump for its demise; he is only the creation of years of failure by Republican leadership.
Beginning in 2001 both Democrats and Republicans moved further to the right. The philosophies of politicians on the left side of the aisle mirror those of Republicans during the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s. As recently as the presidency of George H.W. Bush, the similarities are undeniable. One example; both Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush gave amnesty to thousands of undocumented workers.
Conservatism no longer exists in the Republican Party. Extremists are the force responsible for the failure of the GOP. The few proposals offered from those on the right are destructive to the quality of life for most Americans. Obstructionism has become the base of the Republican platform, led by John Boehner and Mitch McConnell. “Doing nothing” is the rule for Republican legislators. Many in the GOP have become “reactionary,” and are so far to the right, they are wrong. Their leader is Rush Limbaugh.
Americans have a choice in today’s political environment; we can be ‘progressive,’ or ‘regressive.’ We can elect men and women who will move our nation forward socially and economically, or backwards into the dark ages of racism and bigotry and force millions of more Americans into the poverty level.
The media has focused most of its attention on Donald Trump, and has supported the Republican Party by failing to discuss the issues important to the great majority of the American people.
I vet each candidate for whom I cast my ballot. If he or she fails to support the domestic issues most important to my quality of life, they will be discarded. Improved healthcare, income inequality, securing social security, women’s rights, sensible gun laws, and comprehensive immigration reform must receive the attention of our next president and congress.
Naturally I am concerned about terrorism, but I refuse to live in fear. I have the right to expect my government to take action which prevents murderous attacks on American soil. I also believe that the number of mass shootings will receive the attention of government, and I will be allowed to feel safe when going to a movie, a sports event, or a restaurant. Although there were more mass shootings than days in the year in 2015, I have hope that this will not reoccur in 2016.
Okay; maybe I’m the ‘eternal optimist,’ but I will vote wisely for those who will move our nation forward, not backwards. I hope to live long enough to see our nation revel in freedom and equality for all, not just a few.
Although I do not believe in organized religion, I hope to see our nation return to its belief in tolerance and understanding for those who practice all faiths. I hope to see the end of the worst of our nation; racism, bigotry, misogyny, homophobia, and xenophobia.
I would once again like to recite the “Pledge of Allegiance,” as I did at the beginning of every school day, and know that the words mean something once again. In case you’ve forgotten:
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
What upsets me is that the last six words have little meaning today.
Op-Ed
By James Turnage
Photo Courtesy of DonkeyHotey
The Truth With No Restrictions 