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To the Editor,
Many are rejoicing at the news our economy is vibrant, as trumpeted by President Joe Biden. And who can dispute Biden's tremendous success?
Let's look at some facts.
The present unemployment rate is stated as 3.5%. This nearly unprecedented number should give cause for peace of mind for everyone. So let's relax, recline and ignore bigots making a fuss as to why matters are so bad.
But wait a minute. How come prices are so high at the gasoline pump and at the grocery store? The last time we viewed the shelves the price of bacon has doubled from a year ago. No one today can check out without paying less than $100 unless they purchase a pound of hamburger, some sliced cheese and maybe some prunes plus a few other staples.
This is no time for undue concern. Karine Jean-Pierre, Biden's press secretary, assures us that inflation is under control and is subsiding. President Biden himself tells us inflation stands at only 2 percent. How then can dour right-wing conservatives gainsay these claims? Where, then, is there any room for cantankerous disagreement?
Let us not forget the countless multitudes crossing our southern border seeking shelter and succor. Who are we to begrudge them? As the liberal commendably states, "Let's build bridges and not walls." Who among us can forget the warm welcome shown by the inhabitants of Martha's Vineyard to the busload of migrants sent them by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis? Happily, their 48-hour stay should warm the cockles of the heart of even the most begrudging conservative. Sadly, there was no room in the vineyard to accommodate the migrants for a lengthier or even a permanent stay.
Never mind that Uncle Sam's coffers may be drained in supplying needs of able-bodied men unwilling to work. Imagine such a man sitting on his front porch enjoying a few brews, smoking cigarettes and listening to loud, ear-piercing music. This should not concern anyone -- who wants to work anyway? Let the industrious ant work even more diligently to supply this man's needs, and may the grasshopper continue to please us with his lively dance.
Despite the lack of room at Martha's Vineyard, I'm betting that benevolent liberals elsewhere would most gladly permit the migrant to reside in his own backyard.
May President Biden continue to bestow his manifold generosities upon all.
Gail A. Wickstrom
Newell