I am sure that most readers of this page have worked to earn a living. I also am confident that most of the readers were accountable for producing favorable results to ensure continued employment, so why should it be any different for our elected officials?

As 2013 begins, those of us who pay taxes are being held hostage to our political lack of accountability. If any of us produced the kind of results, or lack thereof, that our president and Congress have delivered, or failed to deliver, we would expect to be fired -- for cause, I might add.

Additionally, the kinds of public remarks about political party leadership made by our nation's leaders would have resulted in expulsion from school for bullying. What a great example for our nation's youth.

Our nation has been financially, morally and ethically robbed by our president and Congress. This needs to stop! They need to step up to their responsibilities, be accountable or step down. If you are a politician and you are reading this, take heed; you have kicked the sleeping giant. Please do your job.

Patty Smith

Hilton Head Island