Look to statesmen, not politicians
I am in agreement with Mary James (May 31 letter), but I also understand the frustration many people feel today. While average citizens struggle with the challenges of just getting through the day, we are under constant assault from a variety of mediums that attempt to influence us through sensationalism and divisive commentary full of half-truths.
We must take care, however, not to allow ourselves to be politically neutralized. While analysts paint us blue or red, activists label us pro-life or pro-choice and commentators declare us either liberal or conservative, many people are turning away from both major parties rather than be mischaracterized by association with a particular ideology.
I believe that “unaffiliated” is the fastest growing political demographic because the average person doesn’t feel represented by either party.
This great country is being torn apart by a fierce war between two ideologies that are diametrically opposed to each other. However, if we allow ourselves to become alienated and “unaffiliated,” then we surrender the power to control our own destinies. Now is not the time to stand apart “unaffiliated” and no one can truly be “independent.”
We are all in this together, and together we can resolve the issues facing our country.
There are answers to our problems, including immigration, abortion, the climate and the economy. The answers will not come from politicians who consider their own political agendas first but from statesmen who boldly place the welfare of the country first.
So, to Ms. James’ point, read and listen to opposing viewpoints with an open mind, but always consider the source, evaluate the content, validate any statistics provided.
Get affiliated, get involved. Then work within the party to improve it. It’s critical that we in the grassroots mobilize to replace elected representatives who aren’t representative of us, regardless of party affiliation.
ó Harry Warren
Salisbury
704-650-4227