Reps, don’t use Alexandria as an excuse to be less accessible
In his weekly newsletter, U.S. Rep. Keith Rothfus, who represents the 12th District, stated that the terrible events in Alexandria, Va., last week remind us of the dangers of dehumanizing and demonizing our political opponents. While this may be true, Americans of all political persuasions become frustrated when the members of Congress who represent them are inaccessible to their constituents.
Those who communicate with their constituents through regular town hall meetings and other forums, who seek out the opinions of constituents who disagree with them, who share information freely and transparently before they vote, tend to be viewed as real people doing their jobs in Congress, even if there is disagreement with their political views. Most people simply want an opportunity to have their voices heard, and they give credit to those legislators who listen.
Rather than using these shootings as an excuse to become even less accessible and to pass laws allowing them to carry their own weapons, the members of Congress need to double down on their communication with constituents — more town halls, more public forums, more communication through social media and other channels. If this means tightening security not only in the halls of Congress but also out in the communities they serve, then so be it. Who among us would object to going through a metal detector or being wanded in order to attend a town hall meeting? We do this all the time at baseball games, hockey games and concerts. Everyone would feel safer, and the channels of communication would remain open. It’s a win-win!
As Mr. Rothfus said, most Americans would never choose to express their political opinions through violence, as did the perpetrator of this heinous act as well as the white supremacist who killed two people in Portland. If our elected officials choose to withdraw even more from those who disagree with them, our country will only become increasingly polarized. Mr. Rothfus states that as our nation begins the healing process, we must be conscious that our words carry consequences. I would add that silence sends a message too. LINDA BISHOP Pine