Letter: Without good jobs, pleasures are few

The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of austerity: Enforced or extreme economy. Having few pleasures. Simple and harsh.

The three 'principles” that the conservative establishment espouse are fierce opposition to labor unions, unfettered free trade and drastically reduced government spending. Let's take a look at what these principles have done.

From the Reagan years onward, the labor unions have been on the run and they no longer have the power to demand higher wages and hence lift all boats in the labor pool (even the boats of those who were not members).

The Republicans also wholeheartedly supported free trade. The net result of throwing our doors open to this trade was to eliminate the good-paying manufacturing jobs here at home. It made it way too easy to ship them offshore.

The final piece was to reduce government spending which had the effect of reducing any 'help” in your time of need (note the 'need” created by implementing the two principles above).

The Republican base is feeling duped and is angry that they have swallowed the establishment's principles. Unfortunately, they no longer can see the American dream for either they do not have jobs or they have jobs that pay pennies. Without good jobs, pleasures are few and life is harsh.

Austerity anyone?

Tim O'Brien

Fayette