Open letter to Westerman
Dear editor:
Although the article about Representative Westerman’s refusal to admit Democrats to his recent rally appeared earlier this month, I’m still concerned about what I perceive as his lack of representing all his constituents.
Apparently Rep. Bruce Westerman is unaware that he represents not only the people who elected him, but is obligated to represent all of his constituents, all of whom pay taxes. The definition of representative is “a person who represents a constituency or community in a legislative body, especially a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.”
Although his so-called private event, “Biscuits with Bruce,” was advertised in public media and held in an open pavilion in Hot Springs Village, his constituents (the Democrats) were denied entry. Only his supporters who voted for him were allowed. His aide declared that the occasion was paid from campaign funds. Perhaps he’s too busy early fundraising for his next campaign to interact with all citizens of his district.
Perhaps the celebration expenses were not funded by the U.S. government; however, the representative’s salary was not withheld during this fundraising event and his travel expenses from Washington to Arkansas were paid by the taxpayers.
Surprise! Democrats pay at least our share of taxes to the IRS annually. We don’t have license to withhold our taxes from paying representatives who don’t represent us. We don’t have the right to refuse to pay for U.S. representatives’ health care benefits or retirement funds. Instead of consideration for all his constituents, he votes a straight Republican Party line, without consideration for what benefits the most citizens. He is not representing all of us taxpayers! That, to me, exhibits a lack of respect.
Westerman displayed a total lack of consideration and respect for Jackie Harris, of S.A.I.L.S., when she visited him in his Washington, D.C., office. She expressed apprehension that she would not be able to afford health insurance because she works for a small business. His callous response that “she should quit” was out of line. I know that Ms. Harris believes in helping those who need the kind of care and instruction that she provides. I know she enjoys her role as a participant in helping others to have a better life. She should be respected for what she does for the community.
This is an open letter to Westerman. He (and his staff) have never bothered even once to respond to any emails asking for consideration of a vote that would be beneficial to all or many of us. This lady doth protest! Unrepresented, Barbara Thexton Hot Springs