As hundres of thousands of Americans shouted a cry of protest to excessive taxation and government spending in the form of “Tea Parties,” some legislative leaders made it clear how out of touch they really are with average Americans. One leader in particular was House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D – Calif.
While being interviewed by a Fox affiliate in San Francisco, Pelosi belittled the protestors and their cause.
“...What they (the protestors) want is a continuation of the failed economic policies of President George Bush which got us in the situation we are in now,” Pelosi said.
“…We call it astroturf, it’s not really a grassroots movement. It’s astroturf by some of the wealthiest people in America to keep the focus on tax cuts for the rich instead of for the great middle class.”
As a personal eyewitness to the Bossier City-based event, I can assure Ms. Pelosi that there were people from all walks of life protesting — old and young, rich and poor.
The diversity of the protestors was not a Bossier-only phenomenon. Photos and video from across America told the story of this truly grassroots movement. Cities large and small held tea parties, and attendance far surpassed anyone’s expectations.
As someone who has grown somewhat cynical in my “old age,” I was thrilled to see such an outpouring. Americans are not as apathetic as we once thought.
I am also a proponent of healthy debate. To have a different opinion or philosophy is not a bad thing. However, when the debate goes from disagreements about policy and philosophy and becomes an attack on the person, it is a dangerous problem.
Which brings me back to Ms. Pelosi.
Her comments about Tea Party organizers and attendees not only show a lack of connection to the heart of America, it shows a dangerous disregard for it as well.
U.S. Rep. John Fleming, R-La., told the crowd in Bossier City, that Pelosi rules the House with an “iron fist” and that rank-and-file Democrats go along with whatever she says, regardless of their constituency. Herein lies the danger.
If America is to remain a free nation, it will take more than just Tea Parties to protect it. It will take “regular Americans” harassing their elected officials to the place where they stand up to Ms. Pelosi and others like her.
Elections have consequences. However, the power (for now) remains with the electorate. It is time for all Americans to get involved on a daily basis. With email, Facebook, Twitter, letters to the editor, and the like, there is no excuse not to be in contact with the people we are paying to represent us.
1 comment:
Touche!
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