I live in Texas. My congressional district was carefully redrawn in 2010 to ensure the election of a Republican, and they did with a 2-1 margin. Many congressional districts are that way, and congressional republicans from these districts, are very secure in their chances of re-election. Their primary fear is that they may be challenged by a tea-party advocate in the republican primaries in 2014. So, they tend to tow a harsh right-wing line.
Whether we like it or not, this congress will be here to stay until the next election cycle. So, what to do. I suggest that you write to your congressman or congresswoman about the issues politely.
Even if he/she does not agree with your point of view, at the very least, it will help him/her to tone down the harsh rhetoric that the right wing has adopted in recent years. This is good for all of us.
My letter to my Congressman about the fiscal cliff is below. I am sure, that if he gets a 1000 letters like this, he will think twice about saying something batshit crazy.
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Congressman Olson,
Congratulations on your re-election to represent the people of the US Congressional district TX-22. I am one of your constituents. I am writing this letter to express my concern regarding the upcoming ‘fiscal cliff’.
Without cohesive action from the Republican congress, Democratic Senate, and the President, automatic spending cuts, as well as tax increases will go into effect on Jan 1, 2013. In times of tepid economic recovery, both Republicans and Democrats agree that increasing taxes is not a good thing to do.
The only question appears to be whether we should continue all Bush era tax breaks for all 100% of the population, or continue tax breaks to earnings under 250,000 for 100% of the population.
The issue of letting Bush era tax cuts expire for the top 2% of wage earners was an issue that both sides debated quite vociferously during the recent election. People heard those issues, and still voted for Obama. CBO estimates also project that letting Bush era tax cuts expire for the top 2% will not have an adverse effect on GDP, but letting all Bush era tax cuts expire will plunge the country back in recession.
A deep recession affects all Americans, Republicans and Democrats alike. I know that you would be under tremendous pressure to toe the party line as advocated by a vocal minority within the Republican Party.
As your constituent, I want you to know that I strongly support the idea of compromise and finding common ground.
Sincerely,
xxx
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Kari