Here are this week’s letters to the editor of the Oshkosh Northwestern. See our letters policy below for details about how to share your views.
Nov. 4 election proves ‘voters are fed up’
The Nov. 4 election spoke volumes about the mood of this nation. The pundits can spin it any way they like, but the truth is simple: voters are fed up. The American people just sent a clear message that Congress has been listening to the wrong voice for too long.
Donald Trump’s promises have not materialized. The economy is strained, working families are being squeezed, unemployment is increasing and the political showmanship in Washington is wearing thin. If Congress now chooses to eliminate the filibuster just to give Trump a freer hand to push his agenda, they will discover next November what accountability looks like. The voters will replace them.
How can we send $40 billion to Argentina and hand billions more in tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans, yet balk at giving 43 million of our own citizens a fair break on health insurance? That isn’t fiscal prudence, it’s moral blindness.
It’s time for Congress to stop behaving like frightened staffers and start acting like the representatives they were elected to be. Stop pandering to a former president who thrives on division. Do what’s right for the country, not what’s politically convenient, not what pleases one man’s ego.
America is watching. The people have spoken. The question is whether Congress has the courage to listen. It’s time to put on your big pants, Congress!
Peter Stueber
Oshkosh
Leaders prioritize ‘authority over compassion’
Dear elected leaders,
The Supreme Court’s decision to obstruct the extension of SNAP benefits amid a government shutdown represents not merely a policy misjudgment but also a moral failure.
In Wisconsin, families, children and seniors are left contemplating how they will secure their basic nutritional needs. Political leaders and justices have prioritized authority over compassion, and the consequences are being borne by our community members.
As Christians, we are obliged to acknowledge this matter. Scripture explicitly instructs us: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:8–9).
To remain silent while the vulnerable suffer constitutes a deviation from God’s divine call.
I urge the citizens of Wisconsin — particularly individuals of faith — to voice their concerns. It is imperative to hold Republican leaders and the Supreme Court accountable, as they have neglected their responsibilities to safeguard the populace. Immediate action is required against hunger, which cannot be deferred for political expedience. Silence amid suffering constitutes complicity.
This is our moment to embody our values. Let us act with courage, conviction and compassion, ensuring that justice and mercy guide our state and nation.
Russell S. Hershberger-Beier
Oshkosh
Withholding SNAP benefits ‘appalling’
Thanks go to the editorial writers this week who provided solid information regarding food shortages and the serious problems that will follow this shameful federal government act.
“We have always … provided for the welfare.” In a country as great as ours, we are shackled by the present administration. Children need to be fed and allowed to grow strong and healthy. The idea that this is an extra is appalling!
Kathy Chapman
Oshkosh
Our letters policy
Letters to the editor are published in the order in which they are received and letter-writers are limited to having one letter published per month. Letters can be emailed to oshkoshnews@thenorthwestern.com and Editor Brandon Reid at breid@usatodayco.com. Letters must meet specific guidelines, including being no more than 250 words and be from local authors or on topics of local interest. All submissions must include the name of the person who wrote the letter, their city of residence and a contact phone number. Letters are edited as needed for style, grammar, length, fairness, accuracy and libel.
This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: Oshkosh letter-writers — ‘voters are fed up’ as leaders pick ‘authority over compassion’
Reporting by Oshkosh Northwestern / Oshkosh Northwestern
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