Republicans seemed to be on the road to a relatively easy victory in this year’s elections, based on both obvious and perceived failings and disabilities of the current administration in Washington. But the GOP can’t get out of its own way.
They have made two major errors that can be very costly in November. The most egregious is that they refuse to let go of their stance to make the right to an abortion as difficult as possible. This alone will cost the party millions of votes, especially among younger voters whom Republicans are trying to attract. Instead, they are repelling not only the young but those of other ages who feel that government has no business deciding that a woman has to bear a child that she does not want.
The second error is that Republicans are introducing bills to restrict access to porn sites on the internet (by requiring age verification). Putting aside personal issues and values of both abortion and viewing pornography, this is the party that claims it wants to limit government interference in people’s lives. This is hypocrisy. If Democrats find appropriate ways to manage these issues with voters, they might actually hold on to power even though their odds were looking poor. Let the public see through what’s happening, and draw the correct conclusions.
Jay Becker, Delray Beach
I am Jewish. Since Oct. 7, I have been dumbfounded at how unabashedly Gov. Ron DeSantis and other government officials have made grand gestures of inclusion, protection and privilege to Jewish people. Am I the only one who sees this as a ploy to get the Jewish vote rather than genuine compassion and humanity? He’s now proposing that Jewish students be admitted to state universities with waivers of fees and tuition, credit requirements and transfer deadlines.
Let’s say this is not political but a sincere altruistic gesture. Why then is no such altruism, compassion, and respect given to our LGBT students, drag queens, Black students and every other minority group that does not fit into DeSantis’ narrow Republican vision?
Ellen Isaacs, Pompano Beach
Politicians generally fall into three categories: Honest patriots who walk the walk; self-centered people who talk the talk but do not walk the walk; and the marginally intelligent or easily persuaded, supported by corrupt influencers and special interests. Republican and Democratic parties contain all three. Voters are aware of this, but too often surrender to the election of corrupted politicians by not voting. Many express the view: “Why vote? It’s already rigged!”
Our Founders studied all great nations to determine what would be best for our Constitutional Republic. Unfortunately, one thing they did not account for was politicians who want to hold office permanently. Honest citizens get involved with the desire to make a positive difference for their constituents, then leave office and return home to resume their careers. Others continue to run, thinking: “Why should I miss out on all the bennies?”
Term limits for all elected positions should be universal. But even term limits won’t stop the election of the second and third groups of politicians, so it’s incumbent upon the electorate to evaluate candidates with eyes wide open. Please research and vote in 2024. Our future depends on it.
Richard C. Russell, Port Charlotte
This latest legislative Republican attempt to suppress the Democratic vote by abolishing mail-in voting is an outrage (Senate Bill 1752).
Since Democrats in Florida more heavily vote by mail than Republicans, this is a transparent maneuver to reduce the Democratic vote. Please oppose this unfair, undemocratic and unnecessary change by writing your state representative and state senator to vote against this radical bill. There is no voter fraud in Florida to justify this legislation.
Michael Hittleman, Sunrise
