Don’t believe Republican rhetoric

Shirley L. Norman, Las Vegas

Wednesday, May 12, 2010 | 2:04 a.m.

President Barack Obama, elected in 2008 because the majority wanted the changes he proposed, inherited more overwhelming problems than any modern-day president: an economy on the brink of collapse, two wars that were costing American lives and contributing to the huge national deficit and an international reputation so damaged that much of the world viewed us with disapproval and/or hate.

Instead of cooperating to solve these problems, Republicans have united to oppose him in all things and prevent changes. Accordingly, they have consistently voted “no” on all important issues and flooded the media and Internet with misinformation, misrepresentation and outright lies about what is in bills and what their effect would be on the average person.

Although the Republicans claim to be protecting the Constitution and states’ rights, their primary goal is to defeat the Democrats and regain power.

The insurance companies, big business and the wealthy are strongly behind Republicans. Although the housing disaster and broken economy resulted from eight years of Republican control of the White House, they would have us believe that they could quickly fix the problems if they regain power. According to them, few new restrictions should be imposed on Wall Street and big business, insurance companies should be allowed to deny coverage and raise rates at will, and any tax breaks should benefit the wealthy.

Republicans are blocking and delaying action to maintain the status quo. Don’t be misled. Investigate facts. Think for yourselves.