Promise disappearing

Tick, tock! Time is running out for the do-nothing, know-less group currently known as the president and Congress.

It seems he might shut down the government, being of the mindset that it is only a tool for further dividing and reshaping of the electorate for his personal aggrandizement and enrichment. And Republicans, who control Congress, believing that they now have a powerful partisan tool and no actual opposition from him, are using the situation to further their own goals.

Where are the voices demanding that balance be returned to the government? And demanding consideration of—if not a balanced annual budget— at least a plan to address current needs as well as infrastructure maintenance and future augmentation?

Rather than “Making America Great Again,” the current plutocracy is undermining our international position and relations and interfering with many necessary functions of government except when their personal goals are served.

It is evident, given the exhortation by Sen. Ted Cruz for all to come together in the wake of Hurricane Harvey and join in a nonpartisan effort to rescue and rebuild southeast Texas, that government can—and should— serve both urgent and long-term needs of America. It is noteworthy that, in 2013, both Senator Cruz and Sen. John Cornyn of Texas strongly opposed legislation to provide funds for similar efforts in the wake of Superstorm Sandy and its widespread damage along our eastern shores.

The wasteful path that partisan politics has taken us on in recent decades must come to an end. If not, the promise of America, already diluted, will be in danger of disappearing. DENNIS A. BERRY

Bryant