Mixed messages

Americans have just elected a bunch of politicians who don’t want to do what they want.

Americans overwhelmingly want the $7.25 federal hourly minimum wage raised, thinking it unfair that fast food workers in Denmark get $20 an hour. Voters in Alaska, Arkansas, Nebraska and South Dakota overwhelmingly supported increases, something their state legislatures would never do.

Americans are frightened of gun violence, particularly around schools. But they just elected a bunch of Republicans who, in fear of the National Rifle Association, will do nothing to tighten universal background checks on gun sales. However, Washington voters just did.

Americans are worried about climate change; making weather more extreme. But they just chose a herd of Republicans who deny climate science and want environmental restrictions eased. Americans believe the immigration system is broken but just voted for a Congress that refuses to work for reform.

While the election has been portrayed as a “landslide” for Republicans, only one-third of registered voters cast ballots. There is much that needs to be done, and there is plenty for Democrats to feel optimistic about in 2016.

James Ramsey

Sandpoint