OBAMA: In this together

“It’s you, the American people who give me hope!” President Obama exclaimed in his acceptance speech to run for a second term. PROGRESS has been a theme at the Democratic convention; giving respect to the hard-work and self-responsibility that characterize the American people. Also understanding that we are in this together and when the middle class advances we are all better off.

When the top 1-2 percent become wealthier, in part due to the lowest tax rate on millionaires in decades, this means the middle class shoulders an undue tax burden. This doesn’t seem to bother Mitt Romney who plans to extend the reduced tax rate and thus lose billions of dollars that could be used for infrastructure, education, etc.

Creating opportunity to give a “fair shot” at a good life is a core goal of Democratic policies. My parents are retired Baptist missionaries who served in India for 30 years; they proudly voted for Obama in 2008. “Unto you have been given much, much will be expected” and “I am my brother’s/sister’s keeper” are biblical references that have been used at this convention to promote the vision of a society that lifts up everyone. I join my mother to enthusiastically vote for President Obama again.

MAJ STORMOGIPSON, M.D.

Coeur d’Alene