The phony, dysfunctional “protests” that are sweeping the nation are getting old. In Chicago, health care is unaffordable, public schools are failing, violent crime is on the rise, and the business climate is hostile. New solutions to combat our problems are not only welcome, they’re vitally essential. (For the record, more revenue is not a solution. It’s how the money is spent that matters.)
What agitators are doing at Republican town hall events across the country is not adding to this dialogue, though. My congressman, Peter Roskam, has always been accessible and approachable, and to suggest otherwise is simply not true. Looks like he’s sensible enough not to put his head into a wood chipper, and I understand why he and other legislators won’t submit themselves to being a photo-op for hostile groups who appear disinterested in advancing an honest discourse.
The rash of obnoxious and rude behavior in our streets and at our town hall meetings is beneath our nation’s dignity. These protests don’t accomplish a single goal other than to throw a collective, organized temper tantrum. The very real problems we face will only get resolved when quality solutions are implemented. Period. The choice is up to you. Do you want to spend your time painting posters and pitching a fit? Or will you offer to engage with our representatives (in all levels of public office) in constructive ways to solve our shared problems?
— Mary Plunkett, Wheaton
