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Since I have been in elective office, I have worked hard to ensure that whatever the controversial issue of the day, I remained open to opposing points of view, and committed to civil discourse that focuses on bringing relevant facts to bear to solve our pressing challenges. Over the last several months, I have become increasingly concerned about a number of developments, where the voices of a few threaten to drown out the legitimate concerns of many thoughtful Virginians and Americans searching for answers to the problems facing this country. First, it was the so-called "death panels" in the health care reform package that were seized upon by Sarah Palin and others. Do people really believe that citizens should not consult with their physicians about end-of-life care? Or that physicians should not be compensated for the advice that they provide? If there are concerns about certain language in the bill that may open up the possibilities for abuse, remove the language. That is part of the legislative process. But twisting the facts merely fuels fear and prevents reasonable exchanges that can bring real solutions. Next, we have the controversy about whether Barack Obama is a citizen of the United States. This concern, advanced by so-called "birthers," is so out-of-place that it is almost laughable. What is especially troubling however is that so many elected officials who ought to know better, are either too afraid to label this as the craziness that it is or wish to use the sentiment in the most cynical and opportunistic way to fire up their base for future electoral advantage. Finally, we have the issue of whether the duly-elected President of the United States should be permitted to address school children in a national address. The head of the Florida Republican party, for example, took the position that school divisions should not air the speech, since the President's purpose is to indoctrinate America's children to his "socialist ideology." Wow! It is hard to believe how any parent would object to our President, either this Democrat or a future Republican, attempting to inspire our youngsters to work hard, do their homework, respect their teachers, and stay in school. I remember clearly George Bush's address to the naturalization ceremony at Monticello in 2008. Although I disagreed with President Bush on most issues, I respected his role as the President and thought it perfectly appropriate for him to address new citizens. I was dismayed at some of tactics of the opponents who suggested that President Bush had no business making the speech. We should be encouraging our youngsters to engage our society. And this Presidential address is part of that process. I reaffirm to you that I will continue my efforts to encourage civil discourse and hope that you will join me in opposing efforts to sow fear and mistrust among our electorate. Benjamin Franklin was asked at the close of our Constitutional Convention of 1787, what kind of government we had created. His response, clearly evidencing a concern about the fragile nature of the American experiment, was, "A Republic, if you can keep it." Civil discourse remains key to the success of our Republic. As your Delegate, I remain committed to the concept. Contact Info
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