One thing I think that most of us have noticed is the decided differences between those on the progressive left, and conservatives on the right. What is most striking is how all in one group stick together, no matter what because, in my opinion, it’s party first, individual? Well, we’ll get to you. Conservatives on the other hand are like a clowder of cats and very difficult to hed, not only i the same direction, but to the same sandbox. We see this behavior with our elected officials. One party votes like a bloc (99.99% of the time) whereas the other has to beg its members to hold together for a majority vote. These actions translate downstream to we the constituency.where one ideology is firm in their beliefs, in general, and the other group of ideologues can’t seem to decide who belongs at the table. Guess which is which.

So who do we believe These are our elected officials. Elected by us. Are we complicit or complacent? I’ve heard certain pundits and yes, even members of the media (!) refer to what we have in Washington D.C. is basically a Uniparty. That is, they mostly agree with one another on everything and that th times they don’t (like this current government shutdown) is just for sow to the vters in each party. Look at the last shutdown. Weeks went by, people went without paychecks and food stamp benefits (yes, there are some that really need this benefit) and what was accomplished in the end? Nothing. The “opposition party” gained absolutely nothing. Americans felt pain so our overlords (not really, but just to make a point) would be able to say , on both sides, that they fought for us.

I wonder what it would be like to have a government that’s actually responsible and responsive to its citizenry? The great thing about this country is that I can criticize it freely and even though I know my words will fall of deaf ears, I can still stand on my soapbox and ring the bell to any that would want to listen. Try doing that in Europe, or Asia, Even other countries within our own hemisphere. I digress.

When we mark our ballots for those we would send to Washington D.C. to represent us, let’s remember that the people we vote for should do just that, represent us. Consider the responsiveness of your representative toward you, then take a look at who has contributed to their campaign. That by itself will tell you who that person really represents. If they’re an incumbent, check their voting record on those issues that are closest to you and your neighbors.

Maybe it’s time for a change.