Letters to the editor for June 25

Votes have consequences

There will be no $600 unemployment bonus in the next stimulus package for the 40 million unemployed. The Republicans will make sure this subsidy ends July 31.

The Republicans think this was a big mistake from the start. Paying people not to work, or more when they did work, cuts against their creed. Poor people living above their means, for any while, really chaps their hide. Never mind the ongoing subsidies we give to wealthy corporations. That is different somehow and not socialism — right, big oil and soybean farmers?

Politicians spend more time running for higher office and reelection efforts. Talk about people being overpaid and under worked.

Dems play this game too, but were responsible for the initial $600 extra, and wanted this extended for the year. Over Mitch McConnell’s dead body is the Republican position.

Politicians always have money for what they want to do and zero dollars for what you want.

Republicans think motivating the poor is giving them less while motivating the rich is giving them more.

Republicans want to put the poor and middle-class wannabes in a no-win scenario by taking away “handouts” of food and money. Cut both off and force people back to work.

Getting the economy back is all about Trump’s reelection chances. It is a life or death situation for him and maybe you. Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid cutbacks will come with his second term. Blame it on anything but tax cuts or subsidies for wealthy corporations.

David Cahill, Olympia

My dream for 2020 political candidates

I am weary of politicians attacking each other, promising what is not within any one person’s power to deliver. My ears are bombarded with the repeated blaming of the other party or person or group for whatever isn’t going well. The blame-game is a backward look, an escape from doing the creative work needed for solving our problems.

I want you to speak of what you’ve heard your opponent say that you agree with and to ignore what you do not, to set aside angry confrontation. Build on commonalities, put forth the possibilities for a better future for us all. When attacked for being insensitive to others, I long to hear an expression of gratitude for having it brought to your attention and a willingness to work with those offended on ways to be more consistently respectful in word and deed.

I would love to hear from all those who campaign about:

• Your best dreams for moving forward with everyone’s help, not promises to deliver.
• Your plea for cooperation, not attacks on your opponents or their platform.
• Your willingness to admit to mistakes or faults, not extended apologies.

I want to hear a call for cooperation, a focus on engaging us in your visions for the future. The only promise I want you to deliver on is your own integrity and willingness to work with and show respect for all. You will gain my trust and vote if you do. A dream? I hope not!

Martha Worcester, Olympia