Residents miss out when legislators avoid town hall meetings
It sure would have been nice to have a visit from our Congressman Jerry McNerney during his August recess to talk to residents about health care reform, flood control, education and other issues. But, it is understandable why he and other legislators avoided meeting directly with constituents and instead turned to more stringent and controlled phone meetings where questions were screened beforehand.
During various town hall meetings throughout the country, legislators have been verbally assaulted, heckled, called names and in some cases even threatened with violence.
Debates have degenerated into shouting matches
And, while it is our understanding that the Constitution is designed to protect controversial speech, it's sad to see the extremists misusing their constitutional right to free speech by such antics for the sole purpose of disrupting what otherwise could be honest and productive discourse.
It is admirable to get involved because it shows the opposition cares about the issues and are attempting to bring change, but it does nothing to further political discourse in one of the most important issues this administration will face.
Meetings should be centered around discussions based on facts
What should take place is open dialogue that favors transparency and rational, reasonable debate based on facts. The value of the town hall meetings have been severely diluted by those who are vocally violent.
Congressman McNerney has been very visible in South County since his election. Anyone who wants to speak out on the issue should call him.
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