Corporations are violating the will of voters

I am alarmed at the reports of chief executives and representatives from multiple huge corporations coming together to “combat” what they interpret as undesirable voting bills being passed or considered in states around the country. This action could create an oligarchy which would devalue votes and take freedom from the rest of us. In our democratic republic, each adult individual is invited to vote for people they believe will work to establish matters of public policy or law. These unelected corporate individuals are violating the boundaries of regular citizens in an attempt to bully and extort states to pass legislation these few people consider desirable.

Further, a concept found in professional codes of ethics, the scope of competence, compels one to work and act only in the specific ways they’ve been trained and for which they are qualified. In this case, these CEOs ought to continue to manufacture beverages, entertain, run airlines, sell or deliver products, etc. without usurping the work and obligation of citizens and the politicians we elect to create laws. Please, CEOs, continue to work what you know and do not seize others’ votes and power. For the rest of us, be aware, speak up and vote.

Kerri Davenport

Cedar Rapids