Midterm elections are really important. They can, and often do, produce very serious consequences.

In 2010, our country elected a large number of rigid Republican extremists to the U.S. House of Representatives. Soon thereafter, formerly “moderate” Republicans, like Fred Upton, became increasingly rigid and increasingly extreme. In the 2012 election the Republicans lost a few seats in the House, but continued to be in control.

As a result, we have experienced four years of the most ineffective, dysfunctional congress in the history of our nation.

Michigan voters in 2010 elected a Republican governor and a Republican-controlled legislature. The consequences of that election include a huge tax increase that disproportionately affects middle and lower-income individuals and families, an economic assault on senior citizens, and greatly reduced funding for public education.

This year’s midterm election on Nov. 4 will also have serious consequences. Let’s not repeat the mistakes of 2010. This time, let’s elect Democrats Gary Peters (U.S. Senator), Paul Clements (U.S. Representative), Mark Schauer (Governor), Bette Pierman (State Senator), and Dr. Eric Lester (State Representative). These individuals will work hard to undo the damage caused by their Republican predecessors. They will help move our state and our country forward.  All of us will be the beneficiaries.

 

Larry Feldman

Lakeside