Letters To The Editor
August 24, 2011 - MidWeek
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‘Purity’ problems
Dan Boylan’s column “A Problem With Political Disciples” seems a bit slanted. He describes the “ideological purity” of tea party members as a prescription for gridlock or worse. Yet, he completely ignores the similar “ideological purity” of Democrats who refuse to consider touching Social Security, Medicare and other entitlements that make up 60 percent of our nation’s budget. The stalemate in Congress was not a onesided affair. There are only around 60 members of the tea-party caucus. Where were the other 375 members of Congress while the teaparty “terrorists” ruled? Perhaps, just like Hanabusa Hirono, they are incapable of independent thought and were just blindly following their House leadership (both Republicans and Democrats). Hirono’s comments that she just wants to focus on “jobs, middle class, seniors and kids” is disingenuous populist fluff. She needs to also focus on our nation’s long-term debt and be willing to put entitlements on the table even Obama is coming around to that reality.
Ross M. Rolirad
Kapolei
Over the line
I usually take Patrick Buchanan’s column “From the Right” with a grain of salt, since we have an utterly different set of political ideals. But last week went beyond political talk, and instead was filled with blatant racism and ageism. Buchanan claims that the media refuses to cover the racial makeup of the rioters in Britain. Has he seen the photos or videos shown from the violent protests? It is a multiracial group, mostly young, mostly male, but not exclusively. Leveling all the mayhem on “moral barbarians” who have no loyalty or love is far-fetched.
And then he insinuates non-white non-Christians are the source of all problems in Europe and America. He states that assimilation is the only cure to hold countries together. Ridiculous! Diversity is a strengthening bond.
Buchanan should be ashamed. I would expect the MidWeek editor to be able to tell the difference between his customary syndicated proselytizing and outright hostility.
Kelly McCollum
Wahiawa
Toon says it all
Roy Chang’s editorial cartoon last week was very thought -provoking. At first, I thought the insurance providers should receive a little more blame.
Then I remembered the state approves those annual rate increases to the Islands’ two largest carriers, HMSA and Kaiser they amass large profits each year.
Not only are the public employees feeling this hardship, it is being felt throughout the state.
Shame on HMSA, Kaiser and the state for creating this situation.
John Buker
Ala Moana
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