U.S. needs compromise, not political divisions

I have felt for a while now that the problem with neoconservatism since 2001 is that it really hasn't been all that conservative. We have been spending like crazy, torturing people, invading countries and cutting taxes for the wealthiest 2 percent.

We had to do something about the recession to not have another Great Depression. And the way the Tea Party and GOP helped feed their base on fear, partisanship, religious extremism and cultural welfare is amazing, if not pretty scary.

I'm glad to see new groups such as “No Labels” forming that include people from all political stripes who are looking to compromise and to find solutions.

It's time to call out those who look to divide our country, like Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh. Did they add to the debate on how to handle the recession? Did they present any ideas on health care? Did they have any good plans on taxes and spending for the long-term health of our nation?

No. They just want to whine and point at the devil Barack Obama.

We are a nation founded on compromise and working together, Democrats and Republicans.

It will be interesting to see how the new group in Congress will handle spending on entitlements and defense. Will they be willing to meet the president part way? I hope they realize that their future now relies not on demonizing Obama but reaching out to him.

The voters clearly want cooperation and compromise. Let's ask for that as our Christmas gift.

Symon R. Sanborn

Cedar Rapids