GOP debt stance not in country’s best interest

I wish the Grand Old Party would get over its tantrum and stop holding us hostage over raising the debt ceiling. I speak on behalf of soldiers, vets, seniors, the disabled and many others who will not be able to pay their bills if they don't get over their “my way or the highway” attitude. They have the knife to our throats, threatening to slash if they don't get their way.

Their argument against asking a little more of the rich to help alleviate the debt is that they are the job providers. They've had their tax cuts for 10 years and have raked in record profits, but where are the jobs?

Their solution to the deficit problem is to take it from those of us who need it the most and can't do anything about it. Oh, we can vote, you say? Well, that doesn't pay the rent or put food on the table next month.

No matter how far President Barack Obama bends in their direction, they won't give. Every time Obama favors one of their ideas, all of a sudden they're against it.

This is all about one thing, and Sen. Mitch McConnell stated the GOP's top priority very well right after the election - namely to make Obama a one-term president. Tying his hands so nothing gets done could do that.

I thought the people elected politicians to serve the country's best interests, but all we've got is a political bridge to nowhere.

Margaret Bartlett

Cedar Rapids