Steady flow of those who want to serve

Health care reform is dead, and the Democrats have only themselves to blame. They had a year to get it done. They had the votes to push it through, even against a solid wall of Republican opposition.

Their goal should have been to pass a bill, however imperfect, and get it to the president's desk for signing. Then they and the other side could tweak it, fine tune it and amend it for the next decade, or until a truly fair and workable program evolved.

One lost seat means nothing will come out of this Congress. The Republicans acknowledge that something needs to be done, but if they regain power in the next election, don't look for any meaningful changes. The issue is too hot a potato.

Any reforms in the near term will be Band-Aid efforts. The cost of health care will continue upward for those of our children and grandchildren who can afford it. The number of those without insurance will continue to spiral, increasing the overall cost for everyone and denying care to the most needy among us.

Shame on all of you, Democrats and Republicans alike, for making this an issue of political rivalry rather than a matter of urgent concern for all Americans.

I consider myself an Independent, but for half a century I have voted most often for Democrats. I side mostly with the Democrats because they are more inclined to look out for working stiffs like me, whereas the Republicans still cling to that fairy tale philosophy of trickle-down economics.

I may adopt a policy of voting only for non-incumbents. It may be the only way we can achieve responsible leadership in Washington: eliminate career politicians and maintain a steady flow of people who are truly there to serve.

Dan McGuire

Bensenville