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Despite my disappointment with a lack of significant financial reform and a very watered down health care reform, I was a huge supporter of President Obama because I felt that we, as Americans, expected far too much of him and had unrealistic expectations of what he could accomplish in such a short time.

However, this tax cut deal is an utter betrayal of those who put him in office and those middle-class Americans he always says he's fighting for. It's not just the bad deal he made with Republicans that angers me, but giving them a pass on their hypocrisy, since the first thing they do post-midterm elections is pass tax cuts for the rich that won't create jobs and only adds to our debt. He failed to hold them accountable for their campaign rhetoric and in the process, undermined his fellow Democrats who needed his support to help move this country forward.

Thank goodness for our congressional representatives. At least they have some courage and conviction.

posted 2 years, 5 months ago
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First, Ted Ferrioli needs to learn to listen. He spent most of the show interrupting people and spouting words without any consideration of whether they were factual or logical. He even made up statements and tried to attribute them to the host, Emily! If he were my Rep, I would vote him out ASAP. Clearly, he's not concerned with what anyone else thinks.

Second, I'm so tired of this false argument that tax breaks for businesses and a lax regulatory environment are what are foster job growth. I am a small business owner, and while I would absolutely love for my business tax burden to be minimized, the only thing that will lead to us hiring more employees is an increase in demand. Pure and simple.

Would less regulation and fewer taxes be good for my business overall? You bet. But that would only affect my bottom line and my profits, not my need for additional employees.

posted 2 years, 7 months ago
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As an Oregonian "of color" I am enormously proud of the people of John Day and Grant County for standing firm against hate and intolerance. For reminding us that a White, rural, conservative America does not equal racism. I'll be honest, I've wanted to see more of beautiful Eastern Oregon but have been hesitant because of a vague, uneasy feeling that I might not be welcome there.

Yes, this community is walking a thin line in trying to communicate that the AN is not welcome there without being outright discriminatory, but the message they're sending by taking a stand speaks to the core of our American values of equality and tolerance. Their message rings loud and clear and I have heard it and I am proud.

~ Paula G. - Gresham, OR

posted 3 years, 2 months ago
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