×

Tom Reed Needs To Go

To The Reader’s Forum:

I believe it’s time for a change in representation for Congress in District 23. Tom Reed has practically done nothing to improve the district. His political strategy has been a barrage of photo-ops and messaging that reveal nothing of substance. For example, he boasts of holding many “town hall” meetings in the district, handing out federal grant money, and membership in a “Problem Solvers Caucus” in Congress. He states the American economy is “booming” and praises the rise in stock market values at the national level.

However, regardless of how much disagreement he confronts at town halls he has yet to compromise on any of his positions. He claims to support improving Social Security and Medicare but voted against older and disabled Americans by supporting legislation (the Republican House budget) to cut earned benefits. He refuses to explain how NY-23 has more jobs, higher incomes and stock assets as a result of his actions. His ads and social media posts address “national” talking points such as the economy and stock market, but you see NO mention of a “boom” occurring in NY-23. Since only 50 percent of all Americans have any asset in stock, perhaps fewer people in the district, the “market” actually reflects a growing divide in wealth, which does not help NY-23.

Reed supports tariffs that have hurt New York farmers and he offers no permanent solutions; simply standing behind government bailouts and minor international trade changes. He refuses to explain how many “problems” he has helped “solve” while in Congress such as farm issues – it’s all talk and no action. He has been a virtual coattail rider since his first election to Congress. He was elected in the 2010 “TEA party” wave, but has recently voted for Republican-led tax and budget legislation that will increase the federal debt by over $7 trillion, yet he, hypocritically, calls himself a fiscal conservative. If there ever was a “swamp” creature he is one of them — taking a federal salary and benefits without having to work — except for votes.

Through his photo-ops and nickel and dime handouts of federal money in the district Reed wants us to believe he is acting in our best interests, but it is merely a facade — smoke and mirrors or sleight of hand. It’s no wonder you see Tom Reed smiling in his pictures and ads — you’d smile too whenever someone (voters) hands you something for nothing.

Paul Demler

Jamestown

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today