LETTER: Morality matters even in the trenches of political warfare

To Ozaukee Press:

The recent discourse in the Ozaukee Press, particularly a letter accusing Democrats of exploiting family suffering for political gain, highlights the persistent tendency to assign blame rather than seek constructive solutions.

There is a common misconception about health care benefits and who receives them. Non-citizens, including illegal immigrants, are not eligible for insurance subsidies or Medicaid benefits in the United States. However, these individuals do remain eligible for emergency services, a humanitarian gesture directed at those escaping from oppressive regimes. 

Presently, the Republican Party holds control over the presidency, the Senate and the House of Representatives. This reality underscores that political power is concentrated within the current administration, rather than being distributed among the people.

Contrary to claims made in published letters, the minority Democratic Party is not actively fighting for Covid benefits. While there is hope that the pandemic is behind us, questions remain about the mindset of the current secretary of health, referencing concerns over diseases such as measles, polio and diphtheria.

Democrats have sought to maintain health care benefits for millions of Americans, rather than supporting legislation that primarily benefits wealthy individuals. Their efforts led to a government shutdown, directly affecting over 300,000 Wisconsin residents who rely on ACA benefits, including many in Ozaukee County. Meanwhile, the approval ratings for the GOP have declined, suggesting waning political power. 

The central question remains: Should power serve the people, or benefit billionaires who do not need health care? Democrats position themselves as advocates for the people, while questioning whether Republicans are primarily serving their own interests. Regardless of political alignment, divisions between groups remain harsh and unyielding.

The plight of residents in war-torn Gaza, who stand in line for food, is mirrored in the current situation in America, where citizens also find themselves waiting in line for basic necessities. This parallel invites reflection on the broader humanitarian implications of political decisions.

Ultimately, these issues prompt the question: What would Jesus do? The answer may lie not in political rhetoric, but in genuine compassion and service to those in need.

Ken Bretl

Fredonia