Lead with Sound Policy
Representatives James Ruchti (D. Pocatello) and Chris Mathias (D. Boise) visited North Idaho this past weekend. Their visit to our area is part of a statewide listening tour. They have followed the news reports about the anti-democratic climate here and were anxious to confirm it for themselves. Their first words to me were a little surprising. They said that the difference between where they live in Southern Idaho and here is “absurd” and “palpable.” The threats we face to nonpartisan local government, to public health, and to peaceful coexistence made them feel they were in a different state altogether.
Nevertheless, the views shared by Representatives Ruchti and Mathias were optimistic and pragmatic. For example, they suggested that voters need to have a clear alternative to the absurdities proffered by the KCGOP. In other words, we need to offer solutions rather than simply opposing their actions. Therefore, Democrats should campaign on our accomplishments with an emphasis on policies and programs that ensure SAFETY, PROSPERITY, and FAIRNESS. It takes little time to realize the truth and the merit of this argument, it fits hand-in-glove with the Democratic Party Platform.
Speaking of accomplishments, consider what President Biden has delivered for American citizens in the first 10 months of his presidency. Although it is seldom mentioned, these accomplishments exceed those of any other president in recent memory. Say it loud:
- 5 million NEW jobs created with an unemployment rate of just 4.8%.
- Eighty percent of American adults are now vaccinated against Covid 19.
- $1.9 Trillion American Rescue Plan passed, including the child tax credit that reduced poverty by 50%.
- A $1.2 Trillion Infrastructure Plan that will repair roads, bridges, and improve internet service.
- A pending $1.75 Trillion package for green energy, universal pre-K, a childcare subsidy, senior care, expanded Obama Care (ACA), Medicare hearing benefit and prescription drug cost reduction.
- Oh, and lest we forget, Biden ended a 20 year-long war.
- And he is repairing our reputation and our relations with allies.
Legislative Town Hall
There will be an opportunity to put this suggestion into practice at a townhall on Saturday, November 13. The Idaho House of Representatives plans to reconvene on Monday, November 15 to consider legislation opposing the federal vaccine mandate. During the townhall, Representatives Jim Addis and Paul Amador will take public input on this important matter. We know that the GOP will argue that simple public health measures are “government over-reach.” The opportunity for Democrats is to share the facts with voters that these public safety measures are necessary and that they are making a difference.
The townhall is at the Coeur d’Alene School District Midtown Meeting Center, 1505 N. 5th Street from 10-11 AM.
You can be sure this event will draw a crowd of angry right-wing protesters. But don’t let that stop you from attending. We need to convey to our representatives that simple public health measures are NOT evidence of government over-reach. These necessary measures ensure public health and safety. Without them, we risk further COVID-19 outbreaks. Until the risk of COVID-19 is abated, Idaho hospitals will continue to ration care and elective surgeries will remain backlogged. Moreover, local businesses continue to suffer. In short, if we don’t take this public health crisis seriously, it will continue to threaten our entire economy.
So do as Reps Mathias and Ruchti suggest, state the argument in positive terms: simple public health measures like vaccines, masks, and social distancing promote SAFETY, PROSPERITY, and FAIRNESS.
Annual Food Drive
Hope to see you at the 4th Annual Holiday Food Drive: Friday 3:30-5:30 at Ramsey Park in CDA; and Saturday 10:00-12:00 at White Pines Park in Post Falls.
Have a great week everyone. Thanks for being a Democrat!
