U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham take correct stand on earmarks | Letters
It’s frustrating to watch congressional leaders recklessly spend money we don’t have with hardly any intention to pay it back. Every month, I balance my finances and create a budget, so why can’t our federal government do the same?
Part of the reason we are in this financial mess is because of something known as “earmarking,” in which members of Congress designate federal funds in a budget to go specifically to their district. Sure, on the surface it seems great, but there are 535 members of Congress, each trying to bring federal money back to their specific district, and the cost adds up quickly. About a decade ago, the practice was banned, but recently some members began pushing to bring the practice back.
I am thankful that U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham did not support resurrecting earmarks. Our country is trillions of dollars in debt and the last thing we need is to bring back a practice that would increase wasteful spending even more.
If districts truly need additional funds, then lawmakers can roll up their sleeves and find other ways to procure them. Look at Joe, for example. He worked with the rest of the South Carolina congressional delegation to secure a multi-million-dollar federal grant to build a pedestrian bridge over the Ashley River – without earmarking.
Joe has proven that he can deliver results for us here at home in a financially responsible way. That’s the kind of leadership our district needs.
Carol Lobdell
Bluffton
‘Trumpism’ poses a serious threat to democracy and national security
The Republican Party has fully embraced “Trumpism,” and there is nothing favorable that can happen for the people as long as this party is leading any government branch.
“Trumpism” centers around deception, mistruths, conspiracy-theory peddling, and corruption. These characteristics have become emblematic of the Republican Party and Trump’s many appointees.
Republicans had control of the House, Senate, and presidency for two years and little to nothing was accomplished on pharmaceutical prices, gun legislation, health insurance, infrastructure, education, environment, and election laws and protection. Why? Because they are beholden to special-interest groups providing lower than equitable tax rates and less regulation, even when it’s not in the best interest of the country.
Republican House representatives and senators care only about being elected and staying in power. The oath to office and abiding by laws is irrelevant to them. They do not care that the State Department has been hollowed out or that the Department of Justice is no longer operating independently.
Quite likely, the Republican Party of 40 to 50 years ago would not and cannot believe what it has become today. It is not contributing to the betterment of the country. Furthermore, the party’s leadership lacks integrity and competency to do what is in the best interest of an overwhelming majority of the population.
“Trumpism” poses a serious threat to democracy and the national security of our country. The GOP has to redefine itself, but in the meantime, Democrats must gain and assume control of the House, Senate and presidency.
Mike Bartholomew
Hilton Head Island
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