According to several articles in The Marietta Times, the unions are credited with the recent defeat of Issue 2 in Ohio. But I think that oversimplifies. In my opinion, Kasich's resounding defeat on Issue 2 represents voter backlash at Kasich's naked power grab in dealing with workers and unions. A similar reaction to the Republican governor's power grab in Wisconsin led to recall elections there.
Politics used to be a civilized business. But it was obvious that Kasich was out to destroy the unions and take all power from the workers. We're not used to winner-take-all politics like this. And we don't like it. We're used to compromise and live-and-let-live.
When Reagan was President, he was able to work with Tip O'Neill, the Democratic leader of the House. They disagreed, but they got things done through compromise. They weren't out to destroy each other.
Now there's no compromise. For the Republicans, it's "All or nothing; Obama must fail."
The Republicans in the House of Representatives won't budge an inch. It's no new taxes, not even on those who can well afford them. For example, the top one percent of Americans have a yearly income over 1.2 million dollars per year.
And for the Republicans, Social Security and Medicare must be privatized. They tell us that the reason is we need to cut spending, but it's obvious that this is another power grab.
Social Security and Medicare keep seniors safely beyond the reach of the politicians. If we give up Social Security and Medicare - God forbid - we let ourselves fall firmly into their hands.
Can you imagine that? It will be a last-man-standing, winner-take-all world where politicians make any rules they please, any way that pleases them.
L. P. McGovern
Williamstown
