I thought that since the election was over, I could relax a while.

But no, the reactionary right has not learned a thing and is not willing to vote in favor of even the most nonpartisan, non-threatening, globally positive, veteran-friendly, child-friendly, morally correct measure.

On Tuesday, the Senate rejected a United Nations treaty on the rights of the disabled, modeled after the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act.

This is not the first time they have retreated to their entrenched position on the far right, but it might be their most odious move so far. I don't know who is driving their bus, but apparently he or she is willing to drive not only off the fiscal cliff, but also is prepared to take their disabled passengers from around the world with them, as well as to refuse action that would protect disabled Americans who wish to visit or study in other countries.

As usual, their arguments are specious and distorted. Their opposition comes from another "pledge" they've signed in advance of taking their place at the table: they will sign no treaties during the "lame duck" session. Just like their pledge to an unelected person promising not to approve any tax increases, regardless of who or what may be affected. The only advantage I can see to this type of "thinking" is that they have no big decisions to make; they only have to say "no." Business as usual. It's really not about serving the people after all, is it?

Cheryl Kanuck

Sun City Hilton Head