I have always looked to fulfill my civic duties as a community member. I donate to charities, volunteer, work as a civil servant (teacher), pay my taxes, and participate in our democracy by voting. I have, however, failed until recently at discourse with our representatives. With the current administration’s agenda, I have felt a lot of uneasiness as I’m sure most do.
As such, I reached out to our U.S. Rep. Mark Amodei to not only share my concerns but to ask what actions he was taking to hold people accountable to their constitutional obligations. My communication outlined four main concerns: the dismantling of crucial government agencies, deportation without due process, plans to annex sovereign nations, and the “reciprocal tariffs.” I expected that the person my family and I gave our vote to last November would at least address my concerns. I understand Amodei is a busy man, but his staffers should be capable of handling such matters for him.
To say his reply was disappointing is a gross understatement. Instead of addressing my concerns, I was met with a patronizing (pre-written/generic) explanation of what a tariff was and what gave Trump the authority to issue them. This is a blatant insult to his constituent’s trust and his duties as a civil servant. The point of this letter is not to be political but to encourage others to reach out to their representative and share their viewpoint and take note of the ones that listen! Amodei has failed as our representative.
Josh Barham
Dayton