Dangerous rhetoric

Perhaps because I was born into a strongly Republican family, I received a fundraising survey from the RNC. It was clearly meant to rile up those to whom it was being sent. Dangerous rhetoric abounded. Some questions had multiple inaccuracies in their premises. Many of them used trigger words that for decades have been falsely used to vilify Democrats— hardly surprising in these days where politicians regularly demonize their opponents. I am an independent voter whose primary focus is on environmental protection, something never mentioned on the survey. I have not found a Republican worthy of my vote for many years. Win Paul Rockefeller is the last one I remember voting for.

Having a loyal opposition is healthy in politics. Sadly, if anyone disagrees with today’s Republicans’ stances, their opposition must be evil monsters, worthy of being bludgeoned by people who have been led to believe that they are the patriots and we are the enemy, that they are good and we are evil.

Our Arkansas politicians shamelessly use the same trigger words. They crow about their exceedingly rare efforts at bipartisanship and obstruct almost everything. I see their disingenuous posts on social media and am astonished how often they put pure partisanship over democracy.

Our democratic republic is failing. Fundraising pleas masked as surveys, like the one I received, are playing into its demise. If you get one, study its wording. Research carefully whether the premises are even remotely true. If not, speak up to those working to divide us ever further. Consider not rewarding them with your hard-earned dollars. Do the same with politicians’ divisive communiqués.

I am proud to be a citizen of the United States of America. Key word here: united. Let’s value that concept again! The world is watching.

MARY REMMEL WOHLLEB Little Rock