Letters: What happened to the GOP?; Letter raises immigration questions
What happened to the GOP?
I am devastated to watch the party of Lincoln – my Republican party – become increasingly untethered from reality and sworn service to Americans.
MAGA acolytes now call January 6 insurrectionists “hostages.” They insult true hostages, and deny that rioters were convicted by juries of ordinary citizens of both parties and judges upholding the Constitution. Republicans recognized the truth at the time, condemning the attack on the Capitol, and praising the law enforcement officials they now dishonor. Their acknowledgment of the horror of that day is now subservient to the lies of their cult leader.
MAGA acolytes have clearly stated that they will not accept the results of the 2024 election unless they win, undermining a bedrock principle of our democracy. Most also continue to deny the results of the 2020 presidential election. Every court has upheld the 2020 results, and all reputable election officials – nonpartisan and bipartisan – emphasize that our elections are unequivocally fair and honest.
MAGA acolytes claim to want border security, but their actions indicate otherwise. Instead of providing funds to assist border agents, they will use taxpayer money to impeach Homeland Secretary Mayorkas. Texas Representative Nehls actually bragged that he values politics over actual legislation to ensure border security, saying “I’m not willing to do too damn much ... to help a Democrat and ... Biden’s approval rating.”
Sadly, GOP no longer stands for “Grand Old Party.” It now means “Grand Opposition Party” focused on “Gutting Our Principles.”
Letter raises immigration questions
William Rothwell’s letter to the editor (Jan. 4), “Immigration Policies Have Consequences,” deserves a response.
Of course, Rothwell, an obvious Biden supporter, opened the letter by likening Trump to Hitler and labeling Trump’s followers as mindless cult members. Although nonsensical, it’s become the mantra of the left in its failing effort to stop Trump.
Rothwell then defended Biden’s open border policy by claiming that “undocumented” immigrants are needed to 1) fill jobs Americans won’t take and 2) reduce wages (cut “the cost of doing business”).
Before I sign on, I have a few questions.
First, if the 10 million who crossed into the USA over the last three years were granted work permits today, are there a sufficient number of job openings for all? If yes, can the economy continue to provide jobs for an ever-growing population of unskilled/low-skilled laborers?
Second, suppose we have a $7.25/hour minimum wage and an employer who pays his recently hired U.S. citizen maid $12/hour. Next, assume that, due to the flood of undocumented migrants, the employer is able to find all the help he needs for $7.25/hour. If the goal of an employer is to reduce the “cost of doing business,” is it acceptable for the employer, who isn’t limited by an employment contract, to cut the $12/hour maid down to the minimum wage?
Third, should Biden supporters be forced to provide housing and financial support for the undocumented who are unemployed or work for low wages and need financial assistance?