Look beyond labels

The 4th Congressional District is noted for being conservative, but I find it unfortunate that voters often support a label rather than actually look at a candidate’s platform. Have Bruce Westerman’s past supporters read any of Hayden Shamel’s platforms, or listened as she travels the district to talk about health care for Arkansans, strong public education and work-force training for a new job market, preserving Medicare and Social Security, strengthening working-class families, attracting new industries to Arkansas, and protecting Arkansas’ most vulnerable citizens?

Westerman’s voting record hasn’t helped vulnerable Arkansans. He supported the dismantling of the Affordable Care Act. Cuts to Medicaid endanger small hospitals throughout our largely rural district. He supported tax reform that provided incentives for his corporate backers but will do little to help the citizens of the 4th District. Hayden has taken no corporate monies and is waging a true grass-roots campaign with individual donations coming from Arkansas’ citizens. Westerman, on the other hand, has amassed a million-dollar war chest from corporate PACs.

Westerman voted to repeal guidance meant to protect borrowers from discriminatory markups on auto loans. He voted to eliminate the independent board that was tasked with keeping Medicare costs below limits. He voted to delay the implementation of ozone standards. Westerman voted to dismantle those financial regulations imposed by Dodd-Frank. Westerman voted to repeal the FCC rule barring Internet providers from sharing data. Westerman voted to repeal a rule requiring energy companies to reduce waste and emissions.

Rather than vote for a label, I would hope voters look at actual platforms that reflects the people’s interests and vote for Hayden Shamel. She is our tomorrow. SANDRA McGUIRE Arkadelphia