Dysfunction is alive and well in Congress

To the editor:

Will wonders ever cease? Those elected in 2014 to represent Congress promised to change a dysfunctional Congress. Recent actions within the hallowed halls indicate dysfunction is alive and well.

The trafficking of women, young girls and children is an insidious, serious, money making business. So, when our Senator introduced a bill to address the issue, this old Democrat applauded. Then ideology reared its ugly head. An abortion amendment was added rendering the bill DOA.

Another grave concern is Iran's nuclear capacity. When a new, young Senator, wrote a personal letter to Iran, signed by 47 others, not only did he need a lesson in protocol, but it undermined our president's effort to control Iran's building of nuclear power. What is wrong with trying to communicate with an enemy? How else is change and peace achieved? By useless wars? How easy it is to send someone else's son or daughter to be cannon fodder? Until you have sent a loved one, served on the front line or in other service capacity, I feel understanding the full ramifications of war can be limited. Our sons returned by the Grace of God, not the military, but not unscathed. Both have Agent Orange. Two military giants understood the reason for war, Dwight Eisenhower and Colin Powell. Much can be learned from their wisdom.

Too many politicians are in love with their voices, photo ops, microphones, ideologies, next elections, pensions and benefits. Ridding themselves of these dysfunctions could lead to rational, mutually beneficial decisions being made.

Ione S. Burham

Washington