An Open Letter to Indiana’s Legislative Leadership

Gentlemen:

I write this letter because I am highly dissatisfied with the performance of our legislative process. I have rarely corresponded with elected officials but after the vote in the US Senate on June 21, 2016, I feel compelled to voice my strong objection and let you know how I feel about some issues. I do applaud those who have bothered to poll my opinion but am mortified by those who haven’t bothered to affix your name to a piece of paper and share something meaningful. I do want to remind you that I do vote at every opportunity and happen to enjoy a small following in the blogsphere and on social media where this letter will appear.
 First, I am convinced that the Supreme Court’s ruling on Citizens United vs. F.E.C. was hopelessly wrong. I do not believe that within the context of the U.S. Constitution, corporations were meant to pour untold amounts of money and influence into elections. I am not alone in this as President Obama among considerable other scholars and wonks hold the same opinion. Citizen’s United is a reflection of the empty-headed leadership free fall that is occurring in Indiana’s [America’s] legislative branch. If this wasn’t bad enough, members of the U.S. Senate have refused to hold hearings to fill Justice Antonin Scalia’s open seat. This inaction exacerbates national problems that could be solved but the legislative gridlock is a problem and mindset that we must overcome. I want you to know that I am not willing to remain silent. As the old adage goes, “the squeeky wheel gets the oil” unfortunately it appears that the legislators are all running about with oil cans and empty coffers to appeal to their constituencies.
 Second, the current national focus on gun control needs to be attended to post haste. It is unconscionable that people on the “NO FLY” list are able to legally purchase firearms let alone assault weapons designed for military use. This situation gives credence to the stranglehold that the National Rifle Association has as it dangles money in front of decision makers. Our legislature and electorate appears more and more mercenary rather than free. Let me be clear, this form of government works only as we can depend on representatives to make wise judgement calls on voting decisions. Constituents need to know that they are heard. Legislators need to understand that in this time of gridlock, concessions must be made to allow decisions and progress to be made. As it is said: “Sometimes you get the bear and sometimes the bear gets you . .