To the editor:
It is very frustrating to observe the state of our leadership in government. I find it frustrating not because our leaders may hold different opinions on issues than I do, but because they so often refuse to even listen to their opposition - let alone compromise with them. Our officials are elected to represent all of their constituents, not just the ones who voted for them. Howard Marklein is a perfect example of what is wrong with our elected officials. He has been nothing more than a rubber stamp for his party. While Dale Schultz listened to his constituents (many of whom he shares with Mr. Marklein) and sided with those who wanted responsible mining in Wisconsin, Howard Marklein listened to his party and voted to approve a bill written by the mining industry - a bill that would put our health and environment at risk. I do not expect any representative to abandon their political persuasion once elected, but I do expect them to listen to the people they represent and adjust their positions when necessary. I have no confidence in Howard Marklein's willingness or ability to this. It is time for more listening and more compromise and that requires new leadership in Wisconsin's 51st Assembly District.
It is very frustrating to observe the state of our leadership in government. I find it frustrating not because our leaders may hold different opinions on issues than I do, but because they so often refuse to even listen to their opposition - let alone compromise with them. Our officials are elected to represent all of their constituents, not just the ones who voted for them. Howard Marklein is a perfect example of what is wrong with our elected officials. He has been nothing more than a rubber stamp for his party. While Dale Schultz listened to his constituents (many of whom he shares with Mr. Marklein) and sided with those who wanted responsible mining in Wisconsin, Howard Marklein listened to his party and voted to approve a bill written by the mining industry - a bill that would put our health and environment at risk. I do not expect any representative to abandon their political persuasion once elected, but I do expect them to listen to the people they represent and adjust their positions when necessary. I have no confidence in Howard Marklein's willingness or ability to this. It is time for more listening and more compromise and that requires new leadership in Wisconsin's 51st Assembly District.
