Democracy involves differing perspectives

Two readers recently voiced their displeasure with Todd Dorman columns expressing concerns about GOP legislators’ efforts to dictate what books should be banned and what can be taught in schools. One reader shared the fact that more recently, Iowa has elected conservative legislators and the other reader felt that Dorman is “anti-conservative.”

Both writers seem to miss the point that Dorman (and other Iowans) are not obligated to share the viewpoints of conservatives, be they politicians or fellow citizens. The messy part of being a democracy is that it allows for many differing points of view (such is the concept of free speech). As a moderate, I have found Dorman’s articles both interesting to read and well reasoned, whether you agree or not. And I admit, quite often, I agree with Dorman’s insights, especially as Iowa legislators and the governor move closer to the alt-right in an effort to follow the national leanings of the Republican Party leadership.

I, for one, feel much more comfortable with Iowa public education decision-making happening on the local level by parents, teachers, and local school boards, rather than politicians in Des Moines trying to score points with their political bases as well as securing further campaign contributions from conservative groups. I even remember when the Republican Party used to advocate local control as opposed to their current trend of creating new laws when faced with the fact not all Iowans share their conservative agenda.

John Burke

Cedar Rapids