Could legislators put aside partisanship?

I am very appreciative of your May 24 "Our View." The statement - "Unacceptable" - is thorough, clearly stated, and right on target.

I welcome the fact that your editorial staff, along with newspapers from around the state, recognize that you must be honest with your opinions about the divided, divisive climate of our state. Please continue to be the excellent example of integrity and articulateness we so desperately need.

However, despite your valiant effort, which I applaud, I often feel depressed with my own powerlessness. Yes, I have written to and spoken with my senator and representative. They seem to be sincere in their wish to stabilize our impossibly shaky and sinking government. But they also seem to be powerlessness. It seems the power demagogues are in total control.

I have lived in Illinois for decades. I am embarrassed and ashamed. What to do? Would it be possible for some senators and representatives from both parties to give up their historic partisanship and form a collaboration of persons who wish to carry out, not what is politically acceptable for their party, but what is truly best for all of us?

I am the board of directors of a not-for-profit retirement center. The state now owes us $625,000. We will, we hope, be able to sustain our commitment to our current residents. We want our senators and representatives to recognize how much they are injuring so many of our families and citizens. What is happening is unacceptable.

Ralph G. McFadden

Elgin