I had an opportunity to attend a town meeting with U.S. Rep. Susan Wild, D-Lehigh Valley, a few weeks ago. The congresswoman covered several topics including the Second Amendment, baby formula shortage, the abortion issue, gas prices and climate change. The representative took questions from the folks there including me. It was most informative.
Last week, Wild was having another town hall and I was eager to go. I tried to sign up and was refused, with no reason given. I realize that one of my several previous questions allowed Wild to explain her reasoning for supporting abortion on demand. Part of that answer allowed a few conservative news outlets to criticize Wild as extreme. They were not happy about aborting Down Syndrome children.
My question simply dealt with allowing abortion just an hour before birth, which should not be allowed and should not be controversial.
Our elected officials should be as transparent as is reasonably possible. I thought Wild might be that person. Was I wrong!? The number of folks at the town hall I did attend was about 50; there with lots of empty seats. So why exclude me? There was not one hostile encounter during that meeting. In fact, during the meeting much was exchanged and we all benefited.
If our elected officials reject diversity of ideas then I would ask: Should they be representing me? Rep. Wild, please allow open and transparent access, so the folks understand where you stand and whether we should support you or not. Just a thought.
Al Smith
Nazareth