Ernst reveals little in statements

Any day now I would like to hear a fuller explanation of what Joni Ernst's much-touted 'Iowa Values” consist of, beyond oft-repeated repeated vague flag-mom-and-apple-pie tributes. So far, her ideas appear to include 'preserving (?) Social Security and Medicare,” to be achieved somehow by partial privatization of the former, and voucherizing the latter. Privately investing any part of Social Security would undermine the program by diverting funds from it, and would expose investors to possible loss. Paying Medicare vouchers directly to profit-driven insurance companies in effect would privatize the program, freeing insurers to increase premiums, resulting in perhaps unaffordable cost to the insured. Further, there is no guarantee that government vouchers would keep up with premiums - a great opportunity for political meddling.

In sum, Ernst's statements show a serious dearth of substance. What little she has revealed sounds suspiciously like quotes from the Republicans' right-wing playbook. Persistent attacks on candidate Bruce Braley cite his alleged absences from a House committee on which he last served as a minority member two years ago. A diversionary smoke bomb to avoid dealing with realities?

Wouldn't it be nice finally to hear straightforward statements from, and about, both candidates? As an 85-year-old white male, I'm waiting and concerned.

James B. Larkin

Cedar Rapids