Disrespect isn’t a sign of progress

Roberta Newman, Las Vegas

Sunday, Sept. 11, 2011 | 2:01 a.m.

At many political rallies over the years there have been signs that say “I want my country back.”

I know there are times when the past seems better, but I’ve always felt no matter what we have gone through as a country we’ve come out stronger and better.

Now, I have to say “I want my country back” when I read that some Republican members of Congress didn’t attend President Barack Obama’s speech Thursday.

These Republicans — who probably cannot repeat the phrase “Where are the jobs?” often enough and have not offered one plan since they took control of the House last year — didn’t think it was necessary to be present to hear the president’s ideas.

I know they plan to vote no, but I cannot believe the total disrespect of the office. I remember a time when elected officials were trusted to overcome their personal ideologies, respect their positions and do what is best for the country. That is the country I want back.

Those officials who didn’t attend the president’s speech should be ashamed of their behavior. They are getting paid to go to work. Surely listening to a speech by your president should be part of the job requirement.