More of the same?

Watching the televised State of the Union speech, I was struck by the behavior of Republicans as they responded to some of President Obama's key comments.

The first response (or non-response) occurred after the President concluded his statement on health care reform by engaging House and Senate members, asking them to "not walk away from reform. Not now. Not when we are so close. Let us find a way to come together and finish the job for the American people." As a group, the Republicans at first remained seated though a few who offered polite applause. Slowly though, as on cue, they stood and gave polite deference to the issue of health care reform.

The next response that caught my eye was when the President addressed our energy needs, with a brief reference to "making tough decisions ... opening new offshore areas for oil and gas development."

The words had not completely left his lips before all Republican members were on their feet, cheerfully and energetically applauding. The mention of other renewable sources of energy brought no reaction. It was only when the black gold was mentioned that the Republicans responded enthusiastically.

Health care reform and securing our energy needs are serious and complicated issues. Although I do not believe that all Republicans want to refuse to deal with these important topics, the Republican response suggests that Republicans want to continue politics as usual.

There was no real enthusiasm for health care reform because if there were, Republicans would have addressed it years back when they controlled the legislature and the executive branch. Clearly they seem to feel that the status quo has served us quite well and are willing to talk about it now only because the Democrats are finally acting on it.

And our energy needs also require some 21st century innovations. New technology in wind and solar power are beginning to increase. Thermal and nuclear also offer us some escape from oil's grasp, especially from countries who seem to promote a contempt of America. We need to remove ourselves from their domains and create our own energy wealth separate from a depleting supply of easily accessible fossil fuels. Not only will extraction be more expensive in the future, but our carbon footprint will remain huge until we convert to more environmentally friendly sources. However, based on the response of the Republicans to the State of the Union address, our dependence on oil is really all they want to focus on.

It's time to make those changes that move us into a new time period and realize that what brought us here may no longer sustain. Change is vitally needed in health care and energy policy. Do we really expect those who represent a dying past to lead us and future generations out of current problems and into a prosperous future?

The only way we can make sure our message is heard is with your help. Times are hard, but do you want more of the same greed, or someone who has your interests at heart? Take a look around our website, and let your voice be heard by contributing to the campaign to return government to the people.