As a liberal voter, I mourn the demise of the Republican Party. We need a vibrant, two-party system to keep America free and strong.
With the state of affairs in this country, the 2012 presidential election should have been an easy win for the Grand Old Party. Instead, they shot themselves in the foot.
Here is a list of what Republicans must do to remain a viable force on the national level:
Become inclusive, not exclusive. There aren't enough white, middle-age men to carry the party forward. Reach out to women and minorities and include their needs in the party platform.
Understand the private sector and the government must form a partnership to solve major issues, such as health care and a living wage. The "us vs. them" mentality must go.
Get honest about capitalism. In today's world, a CEO's goal is to generate profits and increase shareholder return. This does not necessarily translate into job creation.
Help create a livable wage for all Americans. The business owner goes bankrupt when his customer base can no longer afford his product.
Reproductive rights must not be an acid test for membership in any political party. This is a matter of personal conscience and must not be politicized.
Get your heads out of the sand on immigration reform.
Stop listening to right-wing extremists. They don't have the answer any more than left-wing radicals do.
It is in everyone's best interest that the Republican Party return to its compassionate roots and embrace its Lincolnian ideals. If not, let this letter serve as its epitaph.
PETER D. MYER
Albany