Partisanship divides

The problem with politics is politics. We have gotten so used to political parties concentrating on a few “key” issues that many voters no longer notice Washington is ignoring the true purposes of government. The constitutional mandates to “insure domestic tranquility” and “promote the general welfare” are being trampled in Washington’s rush to pursue economic issues which further enrich greedy politicians, the super-rich and corporate interests.

The most horrendous aspects of current politics are the rampant divisiveness of government leaders and their use of skillful framing of dialogue to convince many Americans to cast votes which are not in their best interests. Tactics of constant insults and playing fast and loose with truth are being employed by both state and national elected officials. They have diverted attention from actual problems of poverty, infrastructure deficiencies, health care and environmental degradation. Seizing on and exploiting bigotry and dishonest portrayal of others, they have been successful at power-grabbing and further realization of partisan goals.

The exploitation of Mexican and Central American immigrants and their children is particularly odious. Immigrants have long been allowed into many states north of the border, including Arkansas. For years, they have come and accepted low wages, worked hard in many different occupations here, often being cheated by unscrupulous employers, and have contributed much to American life. Why did they come to America? Often to escape corruption in their own country, or to escape dangerous criminals who were engaged in supplying drugs to dealers and users in our country. They are now being threatened with expulsion of their children who are trying to improve their lives through education. The immorality of this process is unbelievable, given that this is America, which historically has been a country of immigrants. DENNIS A. BERRY Bryant