Letcher County Democratic Party

Déjà vu. The House Republicans again drove us toward a government shutdown, this time holding hostage the victims of floods, wildfires, and hurricanes.

Their ransom demand? The gutting of job-creation programs.

After the Senate Democrats declared this DOA, the House GOP split town, and left us to clean up the mess.

I’ve had enough. These Republicans clearly have one interest in their governing. Destroy everything in their path, then blame President Obama and the Democrats for the economic wreckage.

I believe in bipartisanship and compromise. But as the Democrats’ chief vote-counter, I also know that there’s a time for discussion and a time for action. When the rubber meets the road, you’re either an “aye” or a “nay.”

And I’ve seen enough from these Republicans to know where they stand. “Nay” on creating new jobs. “Nay” on rebuilding our roads, bridges, and schools. “Nay” on protecting Medicare and Social Security.

That’s why I say “aye” to supporting the DSCC – the only organization solely devoted to keeping these Republicans and their dangerous gamesmanship far away from the Senate majority.

We’ve seen it over and over again: Republicans talk about working with the president and the need for bipartisanship, only to turn their backs and run away when Americans are in need. Their actions speak volumes.

And so do yours. Believe me, I’m as frustrated as you are that Republicans won’t let us do more to help the middle class. But that frustration only matters if it motivates us to act.

Thank you for standing with Democrats,

Dick Durbin