Politicians need to find another way

I have noticed that in political leanings many people tend to define themselves as either conservatives or liberals, depending along which party’s view they most closely align. I prescribe to a third alternative — a moderate. We moderates are loathed and called fence-straddlers by those at both ends of the political spectrum. Those with extreme views tend to take an allor-nothing approach and exert a lot of time and energy categorizing anyone who does not fully agree with them as an moronic imbecile.

While it would be presumptuous of me to speak on behalf of all moderates, allow me to share the opinion of this moderate on a few issues.

I believe that everyone should be entitled proper health care. I believe that the medical industry, and pharmaceutical companies in particular, are taking advantage of the American consumer and that many physicians are authorizing unnecessary procedures as a source of income simply because they are covered by insurance or Medicare.

I believe that everyone who can work should. Programs such as welfare and disability were created to assist those who were not physically able to withstand the rigors of a job. Our government has allowed these programs to become fraught with abuse and fraud.

I believe that all workers should be paid an adequate wage by which they could support themselves and family. Not only would this boost their self-esteem and restore pride, it would allow them to contribute to the financial health and well-being of their community.

I believe that politics should not be a career option. That was not the intention of our Founding Fathers. Corruption runs rampant through all levels of government by elected officials who are more intent on their self-interest than the wishes of their constituents or the good of our country.

Don’t expect to read frequent emails, tweets or Facebook posts from moderates beating themselves on the chest and extolling how right they are. As a general rule, we are open to hearing a variety of ideas and gathering as much information as possible before coming to an informed opinion. While we may not always agree, we respect the rights of others to express their views and hope that they will be tolerant of ours. RUSSELL GAYER

Goshen