Time-tested sayings apply to election

“United we stand, divided we fall.” In the worst period since the Great Depression, it appears no one is willing to cross the aisle to work together to restore stability for their constituents.

“If you tell a lie often enough, people will believe it.” The viciousness of campaign ads is stunning. Possibly the only civil campaign I've seen was between David Loebsack and Jim Leach. The idea that one can win through intentional lies is reprehensible.

“Respect your elders” doesn't include scaring them to death by misleading them with threats of death panels and pulling the plug on Grandma.

“If you want a job done, give it to a woman.” Roxanne Conlin should be that woman. She's stood up for the little guy all her career. She's conducted a civil, intelligent campaign. Her voice in the Senate would be a breath of fresh air.

“The sky is falling.” This appears to be the former governor's theme. He talks about Iowa's high unemployment rate. Despite 2008's historic flood, the national unemployment rate is 9.5 percent. Iowa's is 6.8 percent.

“Nothing is so admirable in politics as a short memory.” Some want to bring back those who got us in this mess in the first place!

I couldn't think of anything to describe the Tea Party. They seem to be a rudderless ship with a crew mindlessly following a former Alaska governor who quit halfway through her term.

I grew up Republican. Looks like either they've changed or I have.

Nancylee Ziese

Cedar Rapids