Journal praises Pearce for just showing up

... The editorial staff praised Rep. Steve Pearce, R-N.M., for the town hall meeting he held with his constituents ... in Ruidoso. That’s a pretty low bar to clear, and it’s is unfortunate that in today’s political climate we praise our elected representatives for merely taking their time to hear our concerns on issues.

At the most fundamental level, Mr. Pearce works for the residents of New Mexico’s Second Congressional District. and he should rightfully be held accountable by them for his performance in office. Listening to constituents at a town hall meeting is one thing. Doing right by constituents when it comes time to vote on legislation is something entirely different — and much more important.

I urge the voters of the 2nd District to follow Mr. Pearce’s actions very closely. If he supports legislation that makes health insurance more difficult and costly to obtain, if he supports legislation that will raise taxes on the average New Mexican while reducing the tax burden on the most wealthy Americans, and if he supports executive branch actions that raise the prices on food, clothing and other basic commodities, then he is not worthy of your support. Should you feel that is the case, remember Mr. Pearce’s actions and vote him out of office in 2018.

Deeds not words, Mr. Pearce. JOSEPH W. MCKINNEY Corrales