Politicians should feel free to change opinions

Recently, New York Republican state Sen. Roy McDonald voted pro-gay marriage after long opposition. McDonald has received praise and also much disdain for his change of heart.

When this condemnation for dissent is applied to the masses, and aimed at our politicians, the result is a resistance to change and compromise. This resistance leads to an impasse within our governing bodies as few of our elected officials are willing to appear that they are balking.

When McDonald was asked about his decision and change of mind, he said, “You get to the point where you evolve in your life, where everything isn't black and white, good and bad … I'm tired of Republican-Democrat politics ...” (NYDailyNews.com).

It can be assumed that there are more politicians who also feel pigeonholed by their constituents, not just about same-sex marriage, but about other pressing national issues.

When an opposing opinion is received, the tendency of most is to take it personally. Open discussion and debate should be welcome in our political and personal lives. Changing our minds or admitting to mistakes should be praised when proper reasoning is supplied. Dissent does not mean dislike.

Ashley Lowe

Cedar Rapids