So many formerly thoughtful, caring members of congress seem to have lost their way. There was a time not so long ago when constituents were heard and members of congress recognized the harm being done by the actions of a few thoughtless men. People can’t afford basic necessities, and families are hungry. In this “land of plenty” no one should be faced with rising prices of groceries, rent, fuel, medicines. According to predictions, this is the beginning of a real crisis. When cold weather sets in, all the critical elements will be multiplied by added needs of the population who are already struggling. How have we come to this? 

Because of tariffs, other countries, many of them former allies, are experiencing the same problems. France is in crisis because of financial troubles. Others are there or headed there because they depend on trade with us. The rising prices on exported goods exacerbate the problems. People who see this happening are mostly powerless to do anything to counteract it. We’re in the first year of this nightmare. People in many places in this country are rebelling by making their dissatisfaction heard.

Meanwhile cuts in aid here and abroad are affecting the lives of those who have always been helped. Rural hospitals are closing. Many factory, farm, care facilities and hospitals are short-staffed. Minimum wage earners have been deported at the whims of our leaders. Citizens are arrested and incarcerated or sent to a country they do not know and where they are not welcome. I am frightened.

Most of my life the people in charge were aware, compassionate, looking for solutions to problems anticipated. Members of congress listened and responded with appropriate action. I trusted the Supreme Court to interpret the Constitution with wisdom. Lately their decisions have reflected suggestions by the administration, and in opposition to thoughtful interpretations of that sacred document to which they have sworn allegiance. Congress and the Court are to be safeguards. They need to recognize their responsibilities before we are lost.