Citizens need to take a more proactive role

In a little less than two years, Americans will elect a new president. After suffering through 16 years of inept leadership, it's time we get it right. We need someone to come forward with real leadership qualities and solutions to the many problems facing us.

We need better choices, not just those forced upon us by the two major political parties. It just got a little harder, thanks to the Supreme Court, who said it was all right for big money to buy loyalty. Thanks to the two major parties, big money and the media, independents and third parties have no chance at all.

Let me offer a radical thought. Maybe it's time for American citizens to take their country back. Abraham Lincoln said, "A government of the people, by the people and for the people." not, "A government of the powerful, by the politicians, for special interest." Politicians are elected to serve the citizenry, not their donors and political careers.

In order for anything to change, citizens must show they care. A 50 percent average election turnout sends a message loud and clear that they don't. We must take a more proactive role in who gets elected and why. We must pay attention to what is going on and not by just listening to conservative and liberal rants on radio and TV. We must ensure our opinions are heard. Stop allowing the Republican and Democratic Party faithful telling us what to do. The time to do that is now.

Ron Flowers

Elk Grove Village