Letter: Waiting to speak with Congressman Blum

It sure is hard to reach my congressman. He says he represents me, but U.S. Rep. Rod Blum has moved his office. I tried calling, but the inbox was full. I've written letters and sent emails. I went to his new upstairs location, but the door was locked. I tried again in the afternoon - still locked.

I'm beginning to think he only represents himself. He wants to end the estate tax. That doesn't help me, but it could save his family money. It's the same with the pass-through deduction, carried interest, corporate tax cuts and alternative minimum tax elimination.

The things that could benefit me - medical cost deduction, mortgage interest deduction, state and local tax deduction - he voted against. Friends of mine who benefit from deductions tied to student loans and child care are on the losing end. And, of course, repeal of the Affordable Care Act will cost some their health insurance.

So, Congressman Blum, we need to talk. Your office has my number. Call me and I'll meet you. Otherwise, I'll have to find someone else to represent me.

Steven Patterson

Marion