Republicans’ agenda

The federal budget, tax reform and health care are huge items on the legislative agenda as members of Congress return to Washington. Under the Trump administration, Republican values have been on vivid display. Not since the early 1900s has our nation’s great wealth been concentrated in the hands of so few. And yet, programs that assist the needy, the poor and the middle class are being slashed in order to fund more tax cuts for wealthy individuals and corporations. I believe the recent attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act was a naked, reprehensible demonstration of this core value of class warfare. It’s almost as if Republicans want to eliminate poverty by getting rid of the poor.

Government is not a business. It is big, messy and inherently inefficient. I, for one, am happy to see my tax dollars fund programs that benefit the needy, the general public, as well as enhancing quality of life for all citizens, knowing that a small proportion of these funds will be “wasted” by individuals who take advantage of the system. This is preferable to more wealth being transferred to those who already have far in excess of their basic needs, at the expense of daily suffering and hardship of the masses.

A message to members of Congress: I understand being faithful to one’s party, but do not forget that you are ultimately accountable to your constituents—the general public, not the moneyed few and corporations. Legislate accordingly; you will hear us at the polls.

GARY KAHANAK

Fayetteville