Polarized perspective just not helpful

To The Eagle:

I had to shake my head after reading the article in the Eagle’s 04/21 paper titled “ I wish I was a Democrat.” The sarcasm coming from the writer seems to be fear based (for obvious reasons), and reflecting an inability to see the big picture. I/we increasingly hear this divisive rhetoric as our much needed Republican party self-implodes.

For the record, I am an Independent voter. I’ve voted both sides of the aisle over the years, at the federal as well as state levels, depending on the candidate and the responsibilities at stake. Although I share many similar concerns as the writer, there are a couple of glaring assumptions he makes from his polarized perspective that just aren’t correct.

First, not every Democrat is in favor of abortion or homosexuality, just as not every Republican isn’t. If you don’t believe me, Google the name “Dennis Hastert” (former Republican House Speaker).

Secondly, re: Presidential criminal activities, Google “Richard Nixon”. Better yet, Google “Tom DeLay” (former Republican House Majority leader) and follow where the K St money was going.

Third, regarding federal freebies, Google “George Bush / Federal package stimulus checks” or “Carry Trade tax reduction.” Both political parties are pretty good at giving away our money – it just depends on who’s giving it, and who’s getting it.

Lastly, there have been millions of committed military personal that have served our country well over the years. Don’t you think there might have been/are even just a couple of Democratic leaning service people in that group?

There’s no value in being naïve. Both sides of the aisle often share overlapping views. They just express them differently depending on the constituents they’re reaching out to. For many, carrying a Bible as a crutch, and relying on long held political affiliations for direction is the safe route to go. Not that that’s wrong, but doing so does take a lot of accountability out of being an objective voter in today’s world.

Anyway, the whole world’s rapidly changing in all aspects - not just the US. As educated, informed voters, we need to realize, understand, and accept this. This is factual. Long held religious and moral beliefs need to be evaluated as to how they fit into this new reality. Based on our individual standards, we need to objectively determine who is politically best suited to provide effective, timely leadership for our country, and accordingly, vote for the person/party that can best navigate our country’s route forward.

Given this, the constitution allows us to vote for those we feel best represent our values, beliefs and circumstances. Like it or not, we do live in a democracy, so whether Democrat or Republican, black or white, young or old, no one “should be totally ashamed” of their conscious beliefs and choices. Thinking otherwise is short sighted.

Bill Wainwright

Cathlamet