As the presidential election looms, the question to be asked is not "Are you better off?" but "Are you seeing improvement?"
In regard to the GOP, the answer is no: The Republicans in control of the House have implemented policies that stymie economic recovery and destroy the rights gained over the years for large numbers of our people. The Republicans are caught in a downward spiral of extremist tactics that destroy women's rights, voters' rights, minority rights and even children's rights to basic necessities, including health and education. Their rhetoric emphasizes protection and enhancement of tax loopholes for the wealthy and extreme war initiatives. They are the party of no compromise with consistent "no" votes, which give us delay and ultimate suppression of the common good.
In spite of those tactics, President Barack Obama has led the country forward by supporting expansion of rights to protect those still suffering exclusion in their access to medical coverage, to equal pay, to personal choice of spouse, to children who are Americans but lack citizenship papers, and more. We have seen the reduction of threat to our country's safety through sound diplomacy, plus decisive action against terrorist leaders.
Our clearest choice this November lies in the danger of more additions to the Supreme Court by a materialistic Mitt Romney, leading to new decisions elevating corporations and even fetuses to personhood. Our country will be severely weakened and warped in the wrong direction if this comes to pass.
CORNELIA C. MOYNIHAN
Loudonville
