Dear Senator Grassley,
When I moved to Iowa in September 2008 I was aware that from a political policy standpoint we did not see eye to eye. Fact is, my philosophies are closer in line with Senator Harkin or more accurately reflected by soon to be former Senator Feingold of Wisconsin.
I watched how you conducted yourself during your most recent re-election campaign. It was impressive. I respected you for running a campaign that was without distortions, half-truths, accusations, and unflattering photos of your opponent. It was a campaign that was befitting the high office you hold. You simply stated your accomplishments and humbly asked for votes.
The campaign was something for others to aspire to and should be held up as a positive example for every Political Science class. Congratulations on a job well done.
All the good feelings and respect I had for you vanished in one vote yesterday. You and so many other politicians stand ready at every opportunity to wrap yourself in the flag, standing before the cameras with your flag lapel pin and singing the songs of patriotism. I would never presume to question your patriotism. I do not know you and have every reason to believe that you love the country you have honorably served.
Yet yesterday this patriotism took a back seat to old fashion politics. You should be ashamed of yourself for voting no on the 9/11 First Responders bill. A no vote by Republican Senators as a statement. A statement of what, sir? A statement that you will not do the business of the country until such time as you stomp your feet, hold you breathe, have a temper tantrum and get your way. Your way, of course, means keeping tax cuts in place for your fellow millionaires.
On September 11 of next year this country will mark the 10th anniversary of the worst terrorist attack ever on American soil. Senator when you appear, as you will, at one or more of the memorial services, standing under old glory, wearing your flag lapel pin, don’t you dare insult us by uttering the phrase, “We will never forget” because on December 10, 2010 you forgot or set aside 9/11 for the purposes of political gain and in doing so you surely disgraced the memory of those lost and the honor of the heroes of that horrible day. Your hypocrisy is astonishing.
No comments:
Post a Comment