Even though it ususally hurts my head, I subscribe to Rep. Mike Turner's emails (OH-03). I figure its my duty to listen to what my congressman has to say, and hope that at least once in a while, he'll do something in the best interest of our district.
For brevity, I deleted several paragraphs of the email I received from Rep. Turner today:
Reckless Government Spending Threatens America’s Future
The Obama Administration has increased pressure on Congress to pass health care reform before early August with seemingly little regard for the ultimate cost to the taxpayer. As the federal government continues to dive headlong into unprecedented debt with increasing speed, the Administration justifies each deeper plunge as "urgent." What’s becoming clear to more Americans is an urgent need to slow down and consider the effects of too much deficit spending.
For most Americans, federal spending statistics don’t hit home as dramatically as another number that’s in the news of late – the unemployment rate. Just last week, Ohio’s jobless level rose to 11 percent – the highest in 25 years. With jobs being shed at rates not seen in a generation, people are wondering just what all this new government spending is accomplishing for them?
Last October, I voted against the $700 billion bailout of our nation’s financial industry, and, in February, I also opposed the $800 billion economic stimulus. Both bills were ill-considered, did not help those who’ve suffered the most due to job loss and home foreclosures, and lacked details as to how the $1.5 trillion would be spent. I also opposed the Administration’s Cap and Trade energy bill since it fails to address the important energy needs facing Ohio families, would further burden our state’s manufacturing base, and cause additional job losses.
It’s unfortunate that the Administration is attempting to rush through an unaffordable health care reform bill that will likely do little to control health care costs. Americans deserve and demand an Administration that is focused on creating jobs, not higher government spending.
Well, that was enough for me. Maybe if he would have just once in his email mentioned the impact on District 3, which has been devestated by job losses associated with GM, I might not have lost my mind and been compelled to send him the following response:
Dear Congressman Turner,
As usual, you don't have a clue about what your constituents want and need . . . why should health care be any exception. We have THOUSANDS of laid off employees here in District 3, and you think they don't need an affordable public health care option? Exactly where do you think our laid-off GM employees are going to find a job in Dayton that includes medical benefits?
In your email correspondence today, you indicated that "It’s unfortunate that the Administration is attempting to rush through an unaffordable health care reform bill that will likely do little to control health care costs." It's unfortunate that you don't have the ability to listen to our President, who is insisting that the health care bill be deficit neutral. And how do you know that the reform is unaffordable, when the bills aren't complete yet? Maybe you could demonstrate some sensibility and actually read a bill before you pronounce judgment over it.
As your constituent, I would like to recommend that you withhold your opinion until there is actually a bill to evaluate. There will be plenty of time to spread your GOP talking points all over District 3. In the meanwhile, please don't send me any more ignorant emails about health care if you aren't going to suggest a viable alternative.
I wish I could write a more effective letter in support of health care, but I think ALL of us that support health care reform need to take the time to write our representatives in Congress to express our views. I know I won't make much of an impact in my district (short of winning the lottery so I can finance a challenge to Rep. Turner), but I wanted to thank all of the Kossacks that are leading the fight for health care and making a difference. Keep Going!