My name is ----- -----. I live in Old Town Alexandria Virginia. It has become abundantly clear that my government no longer respects the effect their legislature has and will have on the average American citizen. Right now, I am referencing Waxman-Markley (Cap and Trade) bill which you will soon be, if not already, debating. Let me first say I have lost my confidence in our government a few years ago. I am an Air Force veteran of ten years and am currently employed as a Department of Homeland Security contractor. My hypocrisy lies in the fact that I distrust the very hand that feeds me; I am fully aware of that fact. My distaste stems from far more than this one particular bill though.
That said, I can no longer quietly stand by and watch this egregious attempt to fleece Americans into believing this bill is not just another mandatory tax. Please do not attempt to explain otherwise. While I applaud the enthusiasm our administration is showing for the need to change our views on environmental issues, certainly, this is not the answer. Taxing the people is not and will not be a solution for environmental reform. I understand the nature of the bill. I am fully aware that the tax is directed at the energy corporations. If you, or any legislator for that matter, believe this will not result in increased costs to the customer, you are sadly disillusioned. Furthermore, if you believe these same corporations will not use this bill as an excuse to charge even more than necessary to boost profits above and beyond the tax, you are now in another world entirely.
I believe, we (the regular American citizens), are once again caught in the crossfire between the never ending Republican v. Democrat battle. The outcome of your legislation is no longer for the betterment of the American people but for your respective party. It is that sad nature of American politics. I think every government employee could stand to read President Washington’s farewell speech once in a while just to remind ourselves where we ought to be and where we are not. I also believe this letter will not find its way to your desk, but if it does, it will probably not make a difference. I am neither Republican nor Democrat so you lose nothing from voting for this bill. I also know your salary and can therefore assume another tax (or charge on your energy bill) will not affect you or your family. Let me be totally honest and say that overall, it will not affect me month to month either. But for my brother and his young family it may. For the family down the block with three young children, it may as well. For me, it is the principle of yet another indirect, but mandatory tax, of which I have little or no control.
You on the other hand do have control. I know what I believe, which is you will maintain status quo, vote as your team votes because that is what you all do. I would not have taken the time to write this letter though, if there wasn’t one part of me that hopes you would do what’s right for your people instead.
Vote NO for the Waxman-Markley bill!
Sincerely-
