My comments are prompted by Matt Benda’s recent column, but they are directed to all who speak politically these days.

Is it not better when discussing a problem to be part of the solution rather than pointing at the other side’s presumed errors, even to the point of suggesting conspiracy? Many suggest the greatest detriment to effective legislation in these days is the virulent partisan politics so rampant in our political climate. Lots of finger pointing and name calling, but not, it seems, an abundance of constructive debate.

Considering just one of the big political conversations today, would someone be willing to explain why it is wrong to want every citizen in our country to have access to adequate health care, and why we don’t have either the political or humanitarian will to make it a reality?

And if anyone is willing to explain this, make it rational and reasonable; don’t play fear tactics. I for one would like to think I’m smarter than that. But if you don’t think I have any rational capabilities, then don’t waste my time.

Grass-roots politics is still championed as the place where the political “rubber meets the road.” If partisan bad-mouthing and fear tactics can’t be stopped here at the root, how can we ever expect anything different up the stalk?

Jeff Laeger-Hagemeister

Albert Lea