Support candidates who protect ordinary people

The first time I ever voted, I chose all Republican candidates. Growing up, I was deeply influenced by my conservative (and loving) grandfather. However, the Republican Party in those years was very different from the party it is today.

The leaders of the Republican Party have evolved into individuals who put self-interests over what is best for our country, starting decades ago with legislation that continuously lowered taxes on the rich. Federal income tax rates for the top earners in 1965 were 70%. Today the top rate is 37%, and the top corporate rate is 21%, a decrease from over 50% in the 1960s.

Furthermore, the vast majority of Republican leaders have shown a complete lack of backbone, refusing to stand up to the most corrupt president our country has ever seen.

Conversely, Democratic candidates offer practical solutions that invest in working families. They protect Social Security and Medicare, defend voting rights and expand access to affordable healthcare and education. Democrats also champion policies that create American jobs through infrastructure projects, clean energy investments and domestic manufacturing growth.

Voting is not just about party labels. It is about choosing leaders who believe the government can work for ordinary people and who are committed to protecting freedoms and opportunities for everyone. I encourage voters to support Democratic candidates who are working to build a fairer, more inclusive and more hopeful future for our country.

Ron Sadler, Barrington